Recently, an auction was held featuring over 800 pieces of iconic rare Disneyland memorabilia from over the past 60 years of the park’s history. The exhibition and auction titled “Remembering Disneyland”, was held by Eaton Galleries in Sherman Oaks, California on December 16, 2017. The gallery says the exhibition, “tells the story of Disneyland through the memories and experiences of former Cast Members, performers, and individuals who have had a role in the legacy of the park.”
This large and varied collection of items included items like original wardrobe, concept art, props, vintage souvenirs, rare attraction posters, and even a 1954 Disneyland prospectus (it sold for $9,250). A lot of the items came from former cast members who worked at the park many years ago but held onto items like ID Badges, hats, patches and other items from uniforms of all kinds.
The collection also included items from Walt Disney World, EPCOT, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris. Since its opening in 1955, an estimated 650 million guests have visited Disneyland–almost double the size of the current U.S. population. As a result, generations of enthusiasts have created a thriving marketplace for any memorabilia that helps them recapture the magic of a visit to the park.
While the auction may have ended, Eaton Galleries still features a lot of comparatively inexpensive items you can purchase directly from their website now if you’re so inclined. Here are some of the items still available for sale online.
1961 Disneyland Gate Flyer
The 1961 Disneyland Gate Flyer represents cherished Disneyland memorabilia. These rare paper keepsakes greeted guests at the park’s entrance. They offered a glimpse into the magical day ahead. Collectors highly prize these vintage flyers today. Their unique design showcases early park attractions. Furthermore, the flyers capture a moment in Disneyland history. Finding one in pristine condition is truly a challenge. Yet, the pursuit of such unique Disneyland memorabilia proves rewarding. Consequently, each flyer tells a story. Indeed, they connect us directly to 1961’s park experience. Therefore, these flyers are vital to any serious collection. Moreover, they highlight the enduring appeal of vintage items.
1980 Disneyland Cast New Hire Packet
A 1980 Disneyland Cast New Hire Packet is truly unique Disneyland memorabilia. These packets welcomed new cast members. They contained essential park information. Each item reflects Disneyland’s operational standards. Furthermore, the packet reveals glimpses into cast life. Finding a complete packet is quite rare. Therefore, collectors highly value these sets.
Fall 1971 copy of BACKSTAGE magazine – a publication for cast members – Check Out This Rare Disneyland Memorabilia
A Fall 1971 copy of BACKSTAGE magazine makes fantastic Disneyland memorabilia. This publication was exclusively for cast members. It provided internal park news. Consequently, it offers a rare historical perspective. Their limited distribution adds to their rarity. They reveal much about park operations and showcase the behind-the-scenes magic.
Goodyear PeopleMover Cloth Embroidered Cast Member Patch
The Goodyear PeopleMover patch is superb Disneyland memorabilia. Cast members proudly wore these patches. They represented the beloved PeopleMover attraction. Its intricate embroidery showcases quality craftsmanship. Thus, it becomes a testament to past cast dedication. This specific patch holds special historical value. It connects directly to the PeopleMover’s legacy. Moreover, it evokes fond memories of Tomorrowland.
1982 Matterhorn Poster
This poster, a truly unique piece of Disneyland memorabilia, commemorated the Matterhorn’s 1982 refurbishment. Created exclusively for employees, it represents a special cast member connection. Its artwork captures the Matterhorn’s majestic presence. It is indeed a cherished item among collectors. This poster truly enhances any collection of Disneyland memorabilia.
1978 Big Thunder Night Poster – Check Out This Rare Disneyland Memorabilia
This rare 1978 poster, unique Disneyland memorabilia, advertised a special employee event. It was posted backstage and truly captures the excitement of Big Thunder Mountain.
Carnation Ice Cream Parlor Menu appears to be in the process of being revised by an employee who has cut and pasted typed copy over the original menu
A Carnation Ice Cream Parlor menu is delightful Disneyland memorabilia. This specific menu shows employee revisions. Such unique pieces offer rare insights. They reveal the park’s operational evolution.
Hand-Silkscreened “It’s a Small World” Poster
This hand-silkscreened “It’s a Small World” poster is exquisite Disneyland memorabilia. Imagineer Paul Hartley designed it. Its artistic quality is exceptional, connects us to Disney’s creative process, and celebrates an iconic attraction.
1960s Disneyland Castle Uniform Patch
The “Disneyland Castle uniform patch” represents a truly distinctive piece of the park’s past. This beautiful cloth embroidered patch prominently features the iconic Disneyland logo and castle. Cast members proudly wore these patches during the 1960s, a foundational era for the park. This association with the early decades of Disneyland significantly contributes to its vintage appeal and historical value.
Physically, the patch measures 2.5 inches by 4.5 inches. Its excellent condition, as noted in collector listings, is a crucial factor for its desirability among collectors. The fact that this patch was part of an actual Cast Member uniform, rather than a general souvenir, elevates its status considerably. This direct connection to the park’s operational history imbues the item with an authenticity that collectors highly value. Items with verifiable historical provenance often command greater attention and perceived worth. The 1960s period, moreover, evokes a strong sense of nostalgia, further enhancing its appeal as a piece of authentic Disneyland memorabilia.
It is important to distinguish this specific uniform patch from the multitude of commercial Disneyland patches available. Numerous patches featuring the Sleeping Beauty Castle, the Disneyland Marquee, or various characters are widely accessible. However, the “uniform” designation for the Disneyland Castle patch indicates it was an official component of a Cast Member’s costume. This differentiation is vital for serious collectors. An official uniform piece typically possesses greater rarity and historical significance compared to mass-produced souvenir patches, making it a more sought-after form of Disneyland memorabilia.
1958 Disneyland Guidebook – Check Out This Rare Disneyland Memorabilia Collected by Former Cast Members
1960s Disneyland Hotel Menu
Cloth embroidered patch worn by It’s A Small World attraction cast members
1967 Monsanto Adventure Through Inner Space information booklet
Adventure Thru Inner Space attraction, in the style that was worn after Monsanto no longer sponsored the attraction.
1965 Disneyland Board Game
TWA Rocket to the Moon Certificate
This was an early giveaway from the TWA Rocket to the Moon attraction at Disneyland. It was designed in 1956 for the opening of the attraction. The document certified that the holder had “rocketed round trip to the moon from the Disneyland Spaceport via TWA Rocket Ship.” This particular copy was never filled out but the owner.
Disneyland Club 33 cloth embroidered sleeve patch worn by cast members
Easter Week Handouts, Guidebook and Ticket Set from 1987
Ticket sets and other materials from Easter week in 1987. Included is a membership promotion to the Magic Kingdom club. Benefits to the club included a 10% discount at the Disneyland Hotel and “great savings” from PSA Airlines–the official airlines of Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom Club.”
If you look closely, you’ll see the nighttime entertainment includes the wholesome, Disneyland-friendly comedian George Carlin!
Gate Flyer from 1966 that promoted 3 new park attractions: It’s a Small World, The Primeval World, and New Orleans Square
1964 Realtor Nite At Disneyland – Check Out This Rare Disneyland Memorabilia Collected by Former Cast Members
A promotion for a closed park, somewhat private event for participating companies. These flyers would be provided by Disneyland for distribution at several participating employers workplaces. Employees would then reserve their tickets ahead of time and the park attractions would be available to them on an unlimited basis.
1955 Disneyland Guidebook
Your pictorial guide to Disneyland and the exotic and fascinating worlds that await.
Donald Duck Ice Cream poster printed in the 1960s or 70s
Rocket Jets attraction poster
1961 Disneyland Hotel Menu/mask from the Disneyland Restaurant featuring Chucko the clown.
Insert to the 1960 Disneyland Guidebook
This flyer was also available as a handout at various souvenir kiosks throughout the park in the summer of 1958. The flyer was used to promote the coming attractions of Nature’s Wonderland and America the Beautiful in Tomorrowland sponsored by Bell Telephone.
