1950's Stagecoach
Here's a fantastic view of the load area for the short-lived Stagecoach attraction, probably from around 1957 (and taken from the Mark Twain). This was yet another magenta slide that needed some TLC, which explains the slightly odd (but not unpleasant) colors! I like the stormy sky juxtaposed with the bright sunshine in the foreground. You can juuust see the small ticket booth for the Mine Train here; it's too the extreme right, there's a lady with a white skirt standing in front of it. Check out the appropriately rustic queue area!
Here's a closer look at the Stagecoach, with the Pack Mules nearby. I wonder how they prevented that dirt corral from turning into a muddy mess when it rained? Maybe they didn't. But I have to admit that anything other than dirt would have just felt wrong.
Looks like our photographer turned around to snap a shot of Fort Wilderness over on Tom Sawyer island. The front gates are wide open, indicating that we are in the middle of a truce with the local Indians. For now!
13 comments:
WOW! That's gotta be the most unique shot of Rainbow Ridge I've ever seen, not to mention the bonus of the inclusion of the Stagecoach and Mule Pack. Awesome color and mood. Perfect!
As I recall, the surface wasn't dirt, but the same crushed-composite material used on Tom Sawyer Island. The reason I remember is that for every trip to Disneyland in the 50's and early 60's we kids got dressed up, which included shining our shoes... and I can't recall mud being a problem.
Once again, a lovely shot of Rainbow Ridge. It makes you really believe you're in the Old West. The level of detail and realism is amazing - right down to the authentic Western castle in the background.
Mud shouldn't have been a problem at the old stagecoach corral. Just ask Albert Hammond.
Dig the young lady in the left center frame with the dark braid, white sweater and shoes, and poofy skirt. I really wish these styles and traditions would come back - they added a touch of class to a day at Disneyland.
Mr Wiggins, it sure looks like dirt! What magical substance could it have been? I think it was audio animatronic dirt. Shining your shoes before you go to Disneyland - do you think that ever happens anymore?
Chuck, finally a music reference I actually get. When I was a kid, they played Mr. Hammond's song (without fail) on the radio when it DID rain!
I actually shined my shoes before going to Disneyland in 1995. Of course, I was in uniform, so maybe that's not so remarkable (or anachronistic) after all.
Wow that's a fantastic picture! Very unique perspective and mood.
Nice full stairway complete with rails along the left of Rainbow Ridge, beside the Hardware & Rainbow Ridge Hotel, complete with handrails. Who ever used it?
DAMN! These are great shots! I couldn't stop staring at them. I wish I had built in magnification in my eyeballs!
After reading eveyone's comments, I have to back and look at them some more!
Chiana - I think those stairways were part of the ride evacuation system in case the Mule Pack ever broke down or caught fire.
Truly stunning photos.
I believe Mr. Wiggins (whose opinions are always welcome) is right. It was probably what is today called "decomposed granite" and is widely used in xeroscape gardening.
It is basically very finely ground granite, having the mechanical qualities of sand, but looking like dirt. It does not form mud or raise clouds of dust. When applied properly, it will self drain, preventing puddles in wet weather. It also provides good footing.
We used it extensively when I was in construction in Palm Springs.
Extremely unique shot of the stagecoach. It's extra fun seeing Sleeping Beauty Castle looking like a part of Rainbow Ridge.
Keeblers used the stairs.
Decomposed granite? I think it is depleted uranium!
Glad you guys liked this photo!
RARE Mine Train ticket booth sighting - WOW!!!
Major, KG is right, the material is called decomposed granite, which is what it is, granite stone which has aged and decayed into a sort of sand or aggregate. It is quarried in numerous places on the West Coast, as well as other places.
It doesn't form mud, and can be compacted to form a sturdy walkway. it can also be blended with cement to enable it to hold a slope.
Also, the pictures are wonderful. Sorry for showing off.
JG
Rainbow Ridge...priceless!
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