Did You Know?

As Disneyland celebrated its 48th anniversary, The Walt Disney Company commemorated the anniversary by auctioning the famous Disneyland sign that greeted park guests at the park's Harbor Boulevard entrance from 1989 -1999. The sign was dismantled into its main components and was auctioned in three lots: the Disneyland marquee letters, approximately 13 1/2 foot white letters comprising the Disneyland logo; "The Happiest Place on Earth" sign that served as the sign's subtitle; and the approximately 18 foot tall gold castle detail that topped the marquee.

In the then 48-year history of the Disneyland Resort, three different signs have stood at the Harbor Boulevard entrance. The sign up for auction was the most recent sign and was taken down due to the construction of Disney's California Adventure in 1999.

This was only the second sign to greet guests as they entered Disneyland in the park's 44 year history. The original marquee, erected in 1958, had letters that had to be changed by hand. This sign was updated in the mid-60s and removed completely on October 2nd and 3rd, 1989. The computer controlled marquee welcomed guests to Disneyland in a number of languages and let them know the park's hours, entertainment and special events.

Also available for auction as part of Disneyland's anniversary celebration were six vehicles from the renowned Disneyland Parade, as well as vehicles from the Dumbo the Flying Elephant ride, the Snow White's Scary Adventures ride and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.

The lettering and some of the ride items were purchased by Richard Kraft, who is the agent for a lot of top musicians.  He collects lots of Disney items.  You can see a bunch of pictures of his various collections, including his collection of Disneyland ride vehicles and pieces of the Disneyland sign (displayed above at his home) on his website: http://findingkraftland.com/gallery.

Actor John Stamos purchased the reverse side of the marquee letters with a closing bid of $30,700.

Above is the current signage on Harbor Boulevard.  With the new expansion of California Adventure this could also be changed.  One thing about Disneyland is that things are always changing.