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Richard Nixon Walt Disney World Grand Opening Archive.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Disneyana Start Price:2,000.00 USD Estimated At:3,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
Richard Nixon Walt Disney World Grand Opening Archive.
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All items are sold as is. Contact Van Eaton Galleries for condition reports and shipping information. 21% Buyer's Premium for all lots.
(Walt Disney World, 1971) A collection of ephemera relating to President Richard Nixon's proposed visit to Walt Disney World ahead of the Opening Spectacular and Dedication in October of 1971. The collection comes from the personal collection of Nixon's White House advance man Jon A. Foust. The archive provides a unique window into the early days of Walt Disney World and the incredible diligence, planning, and politics that go into anything a sitting president does in public. Highlights include a sample invitation for a special showing of The Hall of Presidents for President Richard Nixon; a copy script of the Hall of Presidents presentation for approval by the White House; an original typed memorandum on White House letterhead stationery proposing the president visit the resort as it "would make a terrific color story which would have broad appeal to all ages," and, "It would show the President in an active, fun, and youthful setting which people would enjoy, especially the young;" a 3-page proposed schedule that would have Nixon visiting the park, presenting a White House flown flag to Roy Disney, visiting It's a Small World, and riding the monorail; a theme park site plan blueprint marked with the president's route through the park; (2) color photographs of Town Square in Main Street USA under construction; and a photograph back stamped "Official Photograph The White House" depicting Nixon shaking hands with dignitaries on an airport tarmac with Air Force One. The balance consists of copy White House memoranda, Walt Disney World event itineraries, White House Communications and Walt Disney Co. rosters and contact sheets, maps of the park and surrounding area, and a restrike photograph of Walt Disney. Items range in size from 7"x5.25" to 18"x24" and are generally in very good condition. Exhibiting some creasing, oxidized staples, edge wear, and handling.