June 24, 2013 marks what would be the 120th birthday for Roy O. Disney, older brother and business partner to Walt Disney. Roy always handled the “business” side of their venture and was often credited for keeping Walt financially grounded.
After the land had been purchased for Walt Disney World® Resort and plans were in place for its development, Roy had already begun preparing for his retirement. But with the death of Walt in December of 1966, he knew that he would have to postpone his retirement to ensure that his brother’s biggest dream would come to life. Roy saw the project through completion and the opening of the Magic Kingdom® Park on October 1, 1971. To honor his brother, Roy changed the name of the project from “Disney World” to “Walt Disney World®” to ensure Walt would never be forgotten. He also dedicated the park to his brother during a special ceremony.
Walt Disney World® is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney…and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World® bring joy and inspiration and new knowledge to all who come to this happy place…a Magic Kingdom® where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn — together.” – Roy O. Disney
In 1999, a statue titled “Sharing the Magic” was created by Blaine Gibson and installed at Magic Kingdom® Park to honor Roy and his dedication to the company. The statue is of him and Minnie Mouse sitting on a park bench. Roy is supporting Minnie’s hand from below, signifying how Roy always supported Walt throughout their business venture. The dedication plaque for statue reads:
In 1923, Walt Disney and his brother, Roy O. Disney, pooled their resources – Walt’s creative vision and Roy’s business sense – to form their own cartoon studio. Together, they successfully pioneered many new avenues in family entertainment. Roy O. Disney completed his brother’s last and greatest dream, the creation of Walt Disney World® Resort, and dedicated the Magic Kingdom® on this site on October 25, 1971.”
Without Roy’s guidance, it’s hard to say how things would be different. Could the placement of Roy’s statue at the front of Magic Kingdom® Park even be a tribute – that without him, everything beyond him would not have been possible?
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