Ever wonder why it’s Walt Disney World, and not simply just Disney World? The answer is more heartfelt than corporate, and it all started with a promise between brothers.
Roy O. Disney, Walt’s older brother and lifelong business partner, made one thing clear: it would officially be Walt Disney World. Why? Roy wanted everyone to remember who started the dream.
After Walt’s death in 1966, the Florida Project –the ambitious East Coast follow-up to Disneyland– was still just central Florida swampland and blueprints. Many thought the dream might die with him. But Roy had other plans.
Determined to see Walt’s vision come to life, Roy delayed his retirement and stepped in to finish what his brother started. And he made one big change along the way: the name.
Originally, the company had referred to it as simply “Disney World.” But Roy insisted it be officially named Walt Disney World.
Roy even said at Magic Kingdom‘s dedication, “Everyone has heard of Ford cars. But have they all heard of Henry Ford, who started it all?”
— Walt Disney World’s opening day fanfare on October 1st, 1971
Just weeks after the park opened on October 1, 1971, Roy passed away on December 20, 1971, having fulfilled his promise to see his brother’s dream realized.
Calling it Walt Disney World made sure Walt’s name —and legacy— would always be front and center.
Besides the Partners statue just in front of Cinderella Castle, there are several ways you can find Walt in Walt Disney World today. To name a few, be sure to visit One Man’s Dream at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, his statue in EPCOT‘s World Celebration, or catch a quick glimpse of one of his TV specials at Sci-Fi Dine-In.
