The likeness of Abraham Lincoln was
the first fully functioning audio animatronic human figure designed by Disney
Imagineers for the 1964 World's Fair. In this presentation, he stands, speaks
and gestures realistically. In the original show, his speech was actually a
composite of several speeches he gave during his presidency. Great Moments with
Mr. Lincoln made it's debut at the Illinois Pavilion at the 1964 World's Fair,
appearing with other Disney attractions such as
The Carousel
of Progress,
It's a
Small World, and The Ford Pavilion's Magic Skyway (this would later become
The Primeval World, visible from the Disneyland Railroad). You can listen to the
previous version of the attraction below, along with the Golden Dream
underscore and Finale.
The Foyer, which has recently undergone a major refurbishment, features a
tribute to Walt Disney, featuring photos and a short film. There are also
various exhibits and displays featuring Walt Disney memorabilia.
Upon entering the theater, you are seated and are given wireless stereo
headphones through which the show audio is played. Some mild in-house special
effects during the introduction, and a completely redone presentation make this
a memorable attraction and a tribute to both Walt Disney and Abraham Lincoln.
Frequent park visitors may notice the absence of the Paul Frees narration and
the "Two Brothers" sequence. (You can hear these original recordings below)
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