This Disneyland Fan Was The First Customer To Set Foot In The Park

Disneyland’s joyful atmosphere attracts people of all ages, not just children. So when a college student from Long Beach heard that the park was opening, he was sure to be the first in line. He showed up in the middle of the night to do this. In the summer of 1955, a long trail followed in his wake as the first Disneyland opened its gates. The park’s first customer is still a loyal fan today, returning to the park annually. Read on to discover why this man has been so devoted to the famous amusement park.

Television Influenced Disneyland’s Grand Premier

Though television stations have existed since the 1920s, it wasn’t until the 1950s that they became the primary source through which the public formed their opinions. The impact of the television helped Disney spread the world and create excitement around the theme park that would be coming to Anaheim, California.

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Earl Leaf/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Earl Leaf/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

In order to get the public excited, they filmed celebrities at the park before it was opened to the public. When 21-year-old Dave MacPherson saw the opening festivities on television, he decided he wanted to be the first regular customer to enter the park.