A Treasure Island Preview 1939

No, it's not New York City - it's San Francisco! The Golden Gate International Exposition held on Treasure Island. The island was man made, and meant to be the future home of the San Francisco airport. That never happened. But the fair did!

Though not as grand as the New York World's Fair of 1939, the San Francisco Exposition had its share of spectacular buildings and memorable wonders.

You may remember that we shared some photos with you from this fair a while back. Perhaps this preview brochure should have come first!

Just a very informative brochure. You can still visit the site, though most of the structures are gone. The crescent shaped building in the lower right of the map still remains and was featured in one of the Indiana Jones films.

Let's Visit Hotei Again!

Often times, some of the very best theme park information comes from the employee newsletters. Upcoming attractions and new entertainment are commonly highlighted to give employees a 'heads up' on what's to come. With that in mind, let's pull out another copy of Magic Mountain's Viewpoint newsletter to take a glimpse at September 1975.

It's been over two years now since we last looked at the Magic Pagoda - a different sort of little fun house that was gone too soon. Who can forget bouncing off the walls (and complete strangers) in that final strobe light room? Many a black eye was earned in that elbow swinging ruckus. But we won't be naming any names. Good times.

And for an additional treat; below you'll find employee humor at its 1975 best.

Some Really Obscure Paul Von Klieben Art

But first a little update in case you've been wondering...

Yes, folks, it's time to begin clearing an honored spot on your coffee table! Chris Merritt's much anticipated book on Knott's Berry Farm is just months away now. If you enjoyed the 'E Ticket' and books like Disneyland 'The Nickel Tour' expect something pretty darn special with 'Knott's Preserved'.

Okay, now to help get in the mood for this coming treat, how about we share some very old Paul Von Klieben work?

One of the oldest Paul Von Klieben pieces we've found to date is this 1928 woodcut art print of the Onstott Cooper Shop in New Salem Ill. It was here that a young Abraham Lincoln studied by the light of burning wood shavings (but you all knew that from history class, no doubt). Von Klieben would go on to become a popular Hollywood artist and, under Walter Knott's supervision, serve as one of the principal designers of Knott's ghost town. Thank goodness these two great men met.

All the fine and fascinating details involving Von Klieben's amazing work with Walter Knott will be represented in the upcoming book. And like Hench and Ryman's legendary connection to the success of the Disney parks, a new name will become familiar to every Knott's loving fan. Deservedly so!

Have a great weekend, folks!

--- Ken

A View From Main Street Station - Then and Now

Disneyland's Main Street Station - Gate 'A' in 1957. Though it's very dark, that's what the little hanging sign says; 'Gate A'.

The shot below was taken near the same spot today. Curiously, it appears that somewhere along the way a wise bureaucrat designated this as Gate 'B' instead. There must have been some massive confusion that caused such a vital switch. Thankfully, and because of such foresight, guests no longer need claw and push each other to get to their proper departure gate. Let's just enjoy the comparison, shall we?