This tale began in 1923, when Walt Disney arrived in Hollywood.  Over the next four decades, this one-of-a-kind storyteller introduced the world to unforgettable characters, created enchanting tales both old and new, and reimagined outdoor amusement into themed entertainment.Almost fifty years after the fledgling Disney Studios gave life to a mouse named Mickey, Walt’s brother Roy established the Walt Disney Archives at the studio lot in Burbank.  Its mission—to collect, preserve, and make available the history of the man and his company, so that it can continue to inspire artists, audiences, dreamers and doers of all ages.

With more than 13,000 boxes of documents and merchandise items, a library of twenty million photographs, more than 12,000 catalogued books and several thousand historic props and costume pieces—from the first “Mickey Mouse Club”series to the latest feature films and park attractions — the Walt Disney Archives documents Disney history as it happens daily. 

Although it is not open to the public, Disney Cast Members, Employees, Imagineers and outside researchers working on official projects can visit the Archives to study and understand the past to help them create the Disney magic of today—and tomorrow!

Now in celebration of its founding fifty years ago, it is your turn to get a glimpse into Disney’s storied history as you walk through this special recreation of the Archives. We have included for your enjoyment treasures representing the vast scope of our various collections, and invite you, our honored guests, to join us “Inside the Walt Disney Archives.”

Inside the Walt Disney Archives: 50 Years of Preserving the Magic is curated by the Walt Disney Archives in conjunction with the Bowers Museum.