Disney Legend Fess Parker passed away yesterday at the age of 85, but he will live forever through his portrayal of Davy Crockett (above image ©Disney, from a terrific article on Parker at the D23 site). A generation grew up wearing coonskin caps as they watched the adventures of Crockett and Russell (Buddy Ebsen) on television. This weekend, I'll be breaking out my Walt Disney Treasures DVD collection of Davy Crockett episodes to share with my children.
The Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes plied the Rivers of America at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994 (the attraction still operates seasonally at Disneyland). The canoes boarded from a low dock near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Frontierland, taking their twenty Guests on a scenic trip around Tom Sawyer Island. This was no free ride, though. Aside from the "C" ticket required in the early years, the canoes also made their passengers work for the trip, paddling the whole way. The Cast Member at the front of the canoe coached the Guests in their efforts and narrated a bit of the journey, while the fella in back was responsible for steering the craft in the right direction.
The photo above offers a glimpse not only of a former attraction, but also the original Frontierland shoreline. In the 1990s, to help alleviate congestion during parade times, the Frontierland Riverwalk was established. Today, a peaceful stroll along this series of docks and piers at the water's edge makes it difficult to imagine Frontierland without it.
In the coming week, we'll be exploring Frontierland at the Magic Kingdom, looking at the many stories and details to be found out on the wild frontier. To prepare, maybe you too will put on an episode of Davy Crockett. When you do, send a fond "Thank You" to our lost friend Fess Parker, a true King and Legend.
No comments:
Post a Comment