The Walt Disney Archives Staff Reveals Favorite Treasures from the Collection

By Walt Disney Archives Staff

Founded in 1970, the Walt Disney Archives has collected, preserved, and shared the history of Walt Disney and the Company he founded. In the decades since, the collections of the Archives have grown in size and scope—not unlike The Walt Disney Company itself—and its staff remains committed to safeguarding the priceless artifacts, stories, and treasures for future generations to study, learn from, and delight in.

In celebration of American Archives Month this past October, the staff of the Walt Disney Archives revealed via Instagram some of their favorite props, costumes, artwork, merchandise, and other historical objects from their department’s vast collection. Join us as we highlight these treasures for D23 Members and show how each item has made profound emotional connections with your fellow Disney fans on the Archives staff.

Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, wearing a patterned shawl and white gloves, poses confidently while holding the “Excalibur,” a decorative prop sword from the 2004 film King Arthur, with shelves filled with books in the background.

“My very favorite assets are all on exhibition right now! But I am very fond of ‘Excalibur’ from King Arthur (2004), because not only is it very cool, but it was the very first feature film prop I acquired for the Archives when I was promoted to Collections Manager and began our 'Collections Department' at the Walt Disney Archives.” – Becky Cline, Director, Walt Disney Archives

Joanna Pratt, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a dark shirt and gloves, stands next to a large plush aardvark character that is dressed in a colorful Hawaiian shirt and glasses, leaning against a set of gray storage drawers in a well-lit space.

“One of the amazing things about our collection is how diverse it is, with representation across the many worlds of Disney history—from film to television and beyond. My daughters grew up watching Disney Channel, and I used to love coming home to tell them what new TV assets we acquired in the Walt Disney Archives. One of these being ‘Bizzy,’ the aardvark plush from the series Bizaardvark (2016–2019). It’s one of my favorite props in the collection; whenever I see it, I think of my daughters and the joy the show brought our family.” – Joanna Pratt, Director, Operations and Business Strategy, Walt Archives

Kevin Kern, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a short-sleeved blue shirt, a pair of glasses, a wristwatch, and white archival gloves, carefully positions a brown and gold-colored undersea rifle prop from the 1954 film 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea in an open display case. Also displayed are a rusted dive helmet, prop sea foliage, and a descriptive text panel of the items on display.

“‘Diving deep’ into the Walt Disney Archives collection, some of my favorite historical objects are the prop and costume elements preserved from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954). Currently on display within the Walt Disney Presents gallery attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort, you might be able to catch a glimpse of an original Nautilus crew dive helmet, dive boots, and undersea rifle. These pieces represent a treasure trove of material that helped create one of the most memorable films in not only the Disney canon—but all of Hollywood history.” – Kevin M. Kern, Research

Francesca Scrimgeour, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a blue dress with pink and black floral patterns and white archival gloves, holds each side of a cart on which a white cap and a pair of boots used by actress Cindy Morgan in the 1982 film Tron are displayed. The cap is positioned on a head form and features black-colored striped detailing.

“As a woman in computer science and a tactical warrior in the digital realm of the Grid, Yori/Lora(Cindy Morgan) has always inspired me. Tron was groundbreaking for its use of CG imagery to create a unique three-dimensional world, and the artistic design of the costumes played a vital role in that effect. For these reasons, I chose to showcase Yori’s iconic cap and boots from the 1982 film. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is connecting with legendary items and feeling the creativity, craftsmanship, and inspiration they represent – all while preserving them for future generations to enjoy!” – Francesca Scrimgeour, Research

Darlene Fogg, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing glasses, a gold-colored bracelet, and a tan blouse, poses with her hand on an archival filing cabinet on which are placed three small stop-motion puppets used in the 1961 film The Parent Trap. One puppet, depicting the “mother” character, is wearing a blue dress and appears in a seated position; some of the puppet’s orange hair is missing. The “father” puppet wears a grey suit, black tie, and white shirt, smiling with his arms crossed. In the middle, the “daughter” puppet stands, arms outstretched, with a patterned tan shirt, blue jeans, and golden-colored pigtails.

“These puppets used in 1961’s The Parent Trap [designed and animated by T. Hee and Disney Legends X Atencio and Bill Justice] are some of my favorite items in the Walt Disney Archives collection. The creative display of stop motion animation in the film’s opening titles established the story in such a charming, inventive way. This movie holds a special place in my heart—not just for the amazing script, but also because it stars my favorite actress, Disney Legend Hayley Mills. I was so amazed when I found out we have these precious puppets within our collection after all these years!” – Darlene Fogg, Operations

Steven Vagnini, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a blue sports coat, blue-checkered long-sleeved shirt, and white archival gloves in a warm museum-like setting, smiles at the camera while holding a small handcar toy that is pulled by a miniature Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

“Early in my Disney career, I had the joy of touring youth groups through what is now the Walt Disney Presents gallery at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where, since 2001, artifacts from the Walt Disney Archives have helped trace Walt's life and career. Students always seemed inspired by the story we told of the Mickey Mouse Hand Car, manufactured by Lionel Trains around the time that company filed for bankruptcy. A runaway success during the 1934 holiday season, the toy famously saved the day for Lionel—a reminder of the impact Mickey and Minnie have made on the world at large. Every piece in our collection really does tell a story!” – Steven Vagnini, Research

Lindsey Gregory, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a knitted, tan-colored sweater, a dark striped long-sleeved shirt, and white archival gloves, faces the viewer and holds in her right hand a prop horn from the 2005 film The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. The carved prop features the head of a lion, with its open mouth serving as the bell of the horn.

“Queen Susan’s horn, used by actress Anna Popplewell in The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005), reminds me of my childhood, whether it was reading the 'Narnia' books or sitting at home clicking ‘replay’ on my DVD. The films made me believe in magic, and I still feel connected to Susan’s character today. What I love most about this prop are the design details of the single mother of pearl inlaid daffodil head at the mouthpiece, which is akin to Susan’s crown, and the complex, fluid mane of a carved lion (presumably representing Aslan) wrapping around the horn.” – Lindsey Gregory, Research

Rick Lorentz, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a blue and pink patterned short-sleeved shirt, brown pants, and white archival gloves, stands within a row of archival shelving, holding open with his left hand a prop book from the 2007 film National Treasure: Book of Secrets. Rick’s holds a red-colored flashlight in his right hand, pointing the illuminated device toward the book, as he looks toward the viewer in surprise.

“Most prop books are filled with blank pages. There may be a few pages with images or text that the camera will slowly scan. But the Book of Secrets used in National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007) is filled with beautifully written pages of calligraphy, photos of historical events, and recreated news clippings and documents. The book is truly a work of art, with incredible details of information supposedly provided by U.S. presidents throughout history. Bravo to the film’s prop crew!” – Rick Lorentz, Acquisitions

Laura Sanchez, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a red-and-black patterned blouse and white archival gloves, has her hands placed on Walt Disney’s piano, which has been opened to reveal the keyboard. Displayed on top of the piano are a Mousecar award statue (in the shape of Mickey Mouse), a row of sheet music, and a small statue of the Little Mermaid from Europe’s Tivoli Gardens. The warm office setting, featuring wood paneling, also includes an upholstered piano bench, a glass table, and a light-colored couch.

“From Disney movies to park attractions, everything is enhanced, and fully complete, with music. The fact Walt Disney’s piano had so much iconic music played on it makes this piece so magical. As part of my role, I’m grateful to organize tours which allow some of Disney’s biggest fans to see this instrument up-close inside Walt’s formal office. It’s here where Walt would periodically call in the wonderful Sherman brothers to play one of his favorite songs, 'Feed the Birds' from Mary Poppins (1964), which warms my heart and fills me with joy.” – Laura Sanchez, Operations

Patrick, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a blue shirt with rolled-up sleeves and gray pants, sits in front of a shelf of brown archival binders. Also featured on the shelf is a crystalline glass slipper from the 2015 live-action film Cinderella.

“This glass slipper from Kenneth Branagh’s 2015 adaptation of Cinderella represents hard-fought kindness and impossible hopes made real. I love that the film ends with Ella proudly adopting the cruel name weaponized against her and, in doing so, taking back her life. Working so closely with artifacts that tell such stories is an absolute dream come true.” – Patrick Letrondo Markulis, Digitization

Katie, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a black turtleneck, blue jeans, and white archival gloves, holds a silver-colored lightsaber hilt prop from the 2019 film Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

“One of my favorite assets in our collection is a double-ended lightsaber hilt belonging to the vision of a Dark Side Rey in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019). I am in awe of the propmakers who create detailed, interactive versions of these mythical objects that function for a real-world set. Preserving and caring for items such as these is a responsibility that I do not take lightly!” – Katie Strobel, Collections

Christina Pappous, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a green dress and white archival gloves, poses with a white mannequin sporting the iconic red dress worn by actress Kate Winslet in Titanic (1997). The dress’s bodice is covered with beads, with pleated layers at the bottom of the skirt from which the tip of a red shoe is seen. Behind Christina is a series of gray and wood crates.

“Of all the wonderful assets in our collection, this costume worn by Kate Winslet as Rose DeWitt Bukater in Titanic (1997) stands out as a testament to the incredible skill and craftsmanship of Academy Award®-winning costume designer Deborah Lynn Scott and her team of artists. Having grown up watching the film, what a privilege it is to be part of a team that ensures these works of art will be preserved and enjoyed for years to come!” – Christina Pappous, Digitization

Julia Vargas, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a tan sweater, faces a model head of Shere Khan, the tiger from the 2016 film The Jungle Book, and makes a “ferocious” expression mimicking that of the model. Behind them is a series of stacked brown boxes and crates.

“This Shere Khan model is one of my favorite assets in the Archives because my master’s thesis compared The Jungle Book films from 1967 and 2016. Several larger-than-life models were made and puppeteered by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop for the 2016 live-action film so that actor Neel Sethi (who plays Mowgli) could have authentic interactions with his animal ‘co-stars.’ To me, this model showcases one of the creative ways director and Disney Legend Jon Favreau approached the reimagining of the iconic animated film.” – Julia Vargas, Research

Jessica Amezcua, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a white blouse, green sweater, and white archival gloves, holds a gold-colored frame containing a piece of red signage that features gold-colored words reading “ARCHIVES – ENTER RM 3.” Behind her is an archival rolling shelf, open to a row of shelving storing dozens of gray archival boxes across a series of columns.

“Getting to work with this cherished collection is a privilege and honor that I never take for granted. When considering my favorite piece from the collection, I wanted to honor our department’s legacy and the hard work of those before me, like Disney Legend Dave Smith, who established the Walt Disney Archives. This sign was made during the Archives’ early years, when Dave moved the small department from the offices of Walt Disney into its second location, in the Casting Building at The Walt Disney Studios. Now, some five decades later, it’s remarkable to think how much our department—and collections—have grown.” – Jessica Amezcua, Collections

Emily, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a red long-sleeved blouse and white archival gloves, holds background concept artwork from Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (1966). The artwork, depicting the inside of Pooh’s house, with bed, chair with pink back rest and cushion, pink curtains, and a round framed image of a honey pot, is matted and protected in a rectangular black frame. Behind Emily is a Disney Animation Department desk, with the top shelf lined by animator’s models of a centaur, Ben Ali Gator, and Hyacinth Hippo from Fantasia (1940) and Lampwick and Stromboli from Pinocchio (1940). A one-sheet movie poster for Pinocchio is partially seen in the background.

“This background concept from Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (1966) is one of my favorite artifacts because it is a reminder of the creative ingenuity and technical mastery of Disney animation artists, and the ability of their pieces to exist as standalone works of art that could be displayed in a gallery or someone’s home. This painting allows you to see the care and attention that would ultimately be applied to every frame of this featurette. Growing up, 'Pooh Bear' was one of my best friends, so it is a joy and an honor to help care for items like this in the collection." – Emily Cooper, Collections

Jeff Golden, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a gray long-sleeved shirt, black pants, green tennis shoes, and white archival gloves, holds a Philadelphia Eagles prop football helmet and stands next to a green jersey, featuring the number “83,” worn by actor Mark Wahlberg as Vince Papale in the 2006 film Invincible. Behind Jeff is a series of gray lockers.

"The story of the Philadelphia Eagles (life-long fan here) reminds us that life has its challenges, but family, friends, and community can raise our spirits—and together, we are stronger. This is a message explored in Disney’s 2006 film Invincible and symbolized here by the helmet and jersey worn by actor Mark Wahlberg as Vince Papale. Pursue your dreams, because even though you may have doubts or fears, the reward can be something you will cherish forever. Overcoming obstacles, as Vince did (ultimately playing for the Eagles), makes our heroes invincible!” – Jeff Golden, Digitization

Kelsey Williams, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a pink blouse and white archival gloves, has her hands placed on a shelf, where a miniature deer with white spots is positioned next to a couple pages of production artwork featuring Bambi (from the 1942 animated feature).

“Every time I step into Walt Disney’s offices, I can’t help but feel a mix of awe, honor, and inspiration. The spaces brim with fascinating treasures, each one with its own unique story. My absolute favorite object is this tiny deer—not just because it’s incredibly cute, but because Walt made it himself by hand. Like Walt, I have a deep appreciation for miniatures, and its place behind his working desk, next to his prestigious Irving Thalberg Award, shows how much it meant to him.” – Kelsey Williams, Exhibitions

Mike Buckhoff, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a teal-and-green plaid shirt, holds a puppet depicting a woman from the 1991 movie What About Bob?. Behind him, three other puppets from the film—depicting a boy, a young woman, and a man—are positioned on a rack. Behind them are several brown archival crates.

“Ever since I first saw What About Bob? (1991) as a teenager, my father and I have laughingly recited our favorite lines every chance we get. In the film, a psychiatrist, Dr. Leo Marvin, uses puppet versions of his family to act out their problems, much to the chagrin of the children. It was only fitting that director and Disney Legend Frank Oz, who had brought to life characters such as Miss Piggy and Yoda, would incorporate puppets in the Touchstone Pictures film. They remain some of my favorite props in the Walt Disney Archives collection.” – Mike Buckhoff, Research

Ty Popko, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a grey buttoned-down shirt and white gloves, stands posing with Tom Morrow 2.0, a small yellow-and-black Audio-Animatronics® robot figure. Behind Ty are bright lighting sheets and other digitization equipment.

“Disney Channel’s ‘Imagineer That!’ series, hosted by Tom Morrow 2.0, was a frenetic and fun behind-the-scenes tour of Walt Disney Imagineering, where us early 2000s kids could get our burning Parks questions answered. It felt like it was created to hit me specifically. I have always been obsessed with Audio-Animatronics® figures, especially the ones based on robots where you can see their inner workings. This made Tom Morrow 2.0 the perfect host and visual analogy for these interstitials, as well as for the former Innoventions pavilion at EPCOT. When I saw this figure in the Walt Disney Archives some 20 years later, the unexpected flood of nostalgia I experienced seeing this admittedly niche celebrity among the collection was a fun moment!” – Ty Popko, Digitization

Nicole Carroll, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a dark blouse, jeans, and white archival gloves, stands in front of a Disney Animation Department desk holding colorful production artwork from the 1967 film The Happiest Millionaire. The painting depicts a horse-drawn ice cart moving up a tree-lined Philadelphia street. Behind Nicole, above the desk, is a bulletin-style board with a variety of animation-related drawings pinned on.

“Growing up, The Happiest Millionaire (1967) was a family favorite. We knew all the songs—and admittedly some of the dances—by heart. The film begins with a series of beautiful paintings, ending with this one featuring a 1916 Philadelphia street. The painting dissolves into live-action and Tommy Steele jumps off the ice cart, beginning the Sherman brothers’ catchy opening number ‘Fortuosity.’ As a kid I was in awe of this magical transformation! Being able to see the level of detail that goes into artwork that might only be onscreen for a moment and help preserve it for future generations is the most rewarding part of working at the Walt Disney Archives!” – Nicole Carroll, Research

Haley, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a green patterned blouse and jeans, stands by a costume worn by actor Adam Sanderson in the 1998 movie The Waterboy, which is displayed on a clothing stand. The costume consists of a long-sleeved orange and black plaid shirt, with a rust-colored canvas zip-up vest featuring multiple clear pockets that hold accessories like paper cups, a can of cooking fuel, measuring spoons, and a cooking timer. Behind her, file drawers and a row of other costumes, protected by garment covers, give a glimpse into an archival facility.

“While there are several nostalgic favorites in our collection that hold a special place in my heart, it’s sometimes most exciting to come across items from films I never expected to be there. Finding Bobby Boucher’s signature look from Touchstone Pictures’ The Waterboy (1998) was surprising and brought up so many memories of watching this Adam Sandler classic with my family.” – Haley Smith, Exhibitions

Taylor Larsen, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a burnt red sweater and white archival gloves, stands by a flat file which has been opened to reveal a vibrant poster for the Peter Pan’s Flight attraction at Disneyland. The screen-printed poster features a golden-colored pirate galleon with a pink-and-white sail, transporting guests over the London sky with a blue-outlined Big Ben underneath. The poster reads, “Peter Pan / Enjoy the exciting adventures of Snow White, Peter Pan, Mr. Toad” (in light blue) and “Fantasyland” (in large pink letters at the bottom).

“Coming from a visual art background, I greatly admire the two-dimensional, original artwork preserved in the Archives collection, especially the iconic attraction posters from Disneyland. Peter Pan’s Flight has always been my favorite Fantasyland dark ride, and the actual screen-printed poster has such a delicious pop of color and beautiful illustrations that fill me with the same wonder I felt as a child—and still feel today whenever I go to the park and take a ride to Never Land.” – Taylor Larsen, Acquisitions

Edward Ovalle, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a tie and black cardigan, stands confidently in Walt Disney’s working office, which is decorated with a large map of a Disneyland. Behind him, a beige couch and a lamp provide a cozy atmosphere, while Walt Disney’s desk, featuring a variety of items, and a door leading outside the office complete the scene.

“I’m often asked, ‘Who’s your favorite Disney character?’ I always reply confidently, ‘Walt Disney.’ So it’s no wonder that my favorite piece of the Walt Disney Archives’ vast collection is not a single asset, but two rooms filled with an assortment of unique items that constitute Walt Disney’s office suite. From this unpretentious corner office, Walt dreamt up all my childhood memories, from animated features to Disney Park attractions. A testament to Walt’s enduring legacy, the offices were restored in 2015 by the staff of the Walt Disney Archives and studio craftsmen to serve as a place of inspiration for all who visit.” – Edward Ovalle, Research

Devorah Burgess, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a jean jacket, brown pants, and white archival gloves, stands with her arms crossed next to a light-colored buttoned-up coat and skirt, which are presented on a mannequin stand. Behind each side of her are clothing racks featuring several costumes, protected by garment covers.

“My favorite asset in our collection is this iconic outfit worn by Annie James and Hallie Parker (Lindsay Lohan) in The Parent Trap (1998)—one of my favorite Disney films since I was a child. The button-up coat and skirt represent new beginnings for the twins: Annie wears it when she arrives at Camp Walden, and Hallie dons the outfit when meeting her mother, grandfather, and butler Martin for the first time. From fun hijinks, star-crossed lovers, witty jokes, and secret twins, this film is five out of five peanut-butter-dipped Oreos.” – Devorah Burgess, Research

: Brian Ball, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a black vest, light shirt with rolled-up sleeves, black-and-white sneakers, and white archival gloves, presents a white katana used in Marvel’s Daredevil. Surrounding him are rows featuring a variety of storage boxes in a dimly lit archival setting.

“Stick’s white katana from the streaming series Marvel’s Daredevil (2015–2018) and Marvel’s The Defenders (2017) is one of many props in the Walt Disney Archives collection that I hold as my favorite. I just love the detail and beauty that went into crafting this piece, from the white woven hilt to the small hidden dagger on the scabbard. Just holding the katana makes me feel like I’m ready to take on a secret organization of ninjas and save New York!” – Brian Ball, Acquisitions

Heather Hoffman, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a black blouse, necklace with a green-colored pendant, and white archival gloves, stands behind a pair of gold-colored slippers, which feature iridescent silk taffeta, a plexiglass heel, silver threads and embroidered designs, and sparkling silver crystals, used in the 1998 film Ever After: A Cinderella Story. Behind her are rows of grey-colored archival boxes.

“Who doesn’t love a beautiful shoe and a little bit of movie magic? Designed by Salvatore Ferragamo, Danielle de Barbarac’s slipper from 20th Century Fox’s Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998) is a brilliant spin on the traditional glass slipper from the classic Cinderella story. The material elements used, the iridescent silk taffeta, the plexiglass heel, the silver threads and embroidered designs, and the sparkling silver crystals give the slipper its magical glass-like essence. As Prince Henry says, it really is a ‘rather remarkable shoe,’ indeed.” – Heather Hoffman, Research

Cesar Gallegos, a member of the Walt Disney Archives staff, wearing a green suit, blue tie, white shirt, a pair of glasses, and white archival gloves, holds a prop spellbook from the 1993 film Hocus Pocus. The brown-brown book, made with intricate detailing, also features an eyeball. Behind Cesar are stacks of archival boxes.

“I’m excited to highlight one of my favorite assets from our collection: the spellbook from Disney’s 1993 classic Hocus Pocus. This enchanting book perfectly embodies our mission at the Walt Disney Archives: to preserve the magic. But it’s not just the magic crafted by Disney that we preserve; it’s also the special magic that you—our fans and guests—bring to these assets. With countless incredible pieces in our archives, we are honored to protect this shared legacy. Together, we celebrate and preserve a truly magical history." – Cesar Gallegos, Collections

Michael Vargo, the head of D23 and the Walt Disney Archives,

“Growing up in Anaheim, Disneyland always had a special place in my heart. I loved riding my favorite attraction over and over again—the Matterhorn Bobsleds—and never thought that my Disney career would begin at this magical place. I love the history and nostalgia of the park, so seeing all the incredible treasures from the vaults of the Walt Disney Archives, like the very first ticket to Disneyland, acquired by Roy O. Disney on July 18, 1955, makes me feel like a kid again!” – Michael Vargo, Senior Vice President, Walt Disney Archives and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club

Three staff members of the Walt Disney Archives, Ty Popko (wearing a light blue shirt and wristwatch), Patrick Letrondo Markulis (wearing a dark blue shirt and watch), and Amaris Ma (wearing a light purple blouse, blue sweater, and necklace), pose outside in front of a depiction of Sleeping Beauty Castle at The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California.

Thank you to the team that worked behind the scenes to help the Walt Disney Archives celebrate American Archives Month: Cesar Gallegos (Collections), Amaris Ma (Operations, right), Patrick Letrondo Markulis (Digitization, center), Ty Popko (Digitization, left), and Steven Vagnini (Research), as well as Steven Diaz and Matt Stroshane.