By Nicole Nalty
Earlier this year, D23 took a closer look at the efforts to restore the Disney Family home in Chicago. Roy Oliver, Walter Elias, and Ruth Disney were born (in 1893, 1901, and 1903, respectively) in this very special house before the family moved to Marceline, Missouri in 1906. D23 Gold Members were the first group ever to tour the historic location during its restoration effort. Roy P. Disney—son of Roy E. Disney—even stopped by for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony.
We’re excited to share photos of the progress made since this event in March, including a new fence and finished exterior. Check back here for more updates from this exciting project.
Update – 12/21
On the evening of Monday, December 5, the 115th anniversary of Walt Disney’s birth, friends and fans gathered at Walt Disney’s birthplace. The house glittered with holiday decorations as local children sang Christmas carols and special guest Rahm Emanuel, the Mayor of Chicago, declared December 5 to be “Walt Disney Day.” Tripp Avenue, the street on which the historic home resides, was officially re-dedicated as “Honorary Disney Family Avenue,” and new street signs were unveiled.
