Sam McKim, one of Walts original imagineers passed away late last week

[WDWHound]

Sam McKim was involved in many projects at Disneyland and Disney World, included The Haunted Mansion, Its a Small World, The Carousel of Progress and The Hall Of Presidents. He used to tell a story of how Walt once complemented him for his concept artwork for the Hall of Presidents (which was originally planned for Disneyland). Complements from Walt were extremely rare and he rightfully proud of that achievement. I have seen copies of that concept art and the attraction you see now at Liberty Square is almost exactly the same as Sam McKim invisioned it over 40 years ago. He retired in 1987 and was named a Disney legend in 1996.

I had the honor of briefly talking with Mr McKim a few years ago at Disneyland. He was one of the speakers on an Imagineering tour I took and I was able to speak to him for a few minutes after his presentation. Sam was well known for his souvenir wall maps that he drew during the early days of Disneyland. I have an original wall map from Disneyland's first year and I mentioned to him how much I enjoyed owning it. He told me to bring the map back to the park and he would be happy to sign it for me. Sadly, that wasn't possible, but I really appreciated the offer. He seemed like a genuinely nice man.

Farewell Mr McKim, and thank you for all the wonderful attractions you helped to create.

Jim Hill has written a great piece on Mr McKim. Here is a link:
http://www.disboards.com/editpost.php?s=&action=editpost&postid=5981591

 

[EsmeraldaX]

Although he is gone now, I am sure glad he lived.

He will be missed and my heart goes out to his family.