Q: My distant relative was Robert Jerome Washo, aka Bud Washo. At one time his window on Main Street was mistakenly changed to Robert Wisky. It has since been restored to the proper name at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. I have been growing more curious about his involvement with the early formation of the two parks. What information do you have in the Archives about him? I understand he was involved in a lot of the concrete and masonry work, the dinosaurs and animals at Disneyland, and as a buyer agent for much of the land assembled in Florida.
Jason, Gilbert, Arizona
A: Bud Washo (1923-1999) originally served in the staff (manufacture of interior and exterior ornamentation in fiberglass, etc.) and plaster shops at Fox, Columbia, Universal, and Paramount Studios. He joined Disneyland in 1954 as supervisor of the staff/plaster shop, and later moved to Walt Disney World to hold the same position. He was not involved in the purchase of the land in Florida.
Dave Smith