On the blog this week, I'm featuring segments from articles on the new DisneyShawn.com, currently showcasing the attractions of early Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland. Be sure to follow the link for more.
The plywood fence at the northeast corner of Town Square was really only intended to be a temporary screen to hide construction activity. It hung on for years, though, teasing Disneyland Guests with the promise of all sorts of attractions which would never come to pass. The first sign on the fence advertised “International Street Grand Opening 1956”. There were even holes in the fence, through which you could see realistic 3-D images of the International Street model, with its facades representing Italy, Japan, France, and other romantic places. After a couple years of construction delays (and having to change the date on that sign), the International Street idea was finally retired.
A new sign soon took its place, however, touting “Liberty Street Grand Opening 1959.” Once again there were peep holes revealing artist sketches of the new attractions to come. And once again, the sign was removed and work on the project cancelled. The site may have gone undeveloped, but the ideas lived on. International Street was ultimately realized in the form of World Showcase at Epcot, while Liberty Street moved to Walt Disney World in the form of Liberty Square, along with its marquee show, The Hall of Presidents.
As for that fence? It's still there 55 years later...
Top photo courtesy of Davelandweb.com, used with permission.
Liberty Street photo from "Disneyland: The Nickel Tour" - ©Disney.
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