It all started with a mouse… and maybe a burger or two…
A very cool piece of history was recently uncovered on Twitter by Brice Croskey after reportedly searching through Heritage Auction listings. What he found was correspondence between Walt Disney himself and the new CEO of McDonald’s, Ray Kroc. What is so interesting about this find is that Walt and Ray shared a mutual past in World War I that earned warm salutations between the two men. Thought his may not have been the inspiration for It’s a Small World, it certainly is validation for the ride’s ethos.
Was scrolling through the Heritage Auction listings last night… These letters between Walt Disney and Ray Kroc are pretty remarkable to see. pic.twitter.com/YuTMztEX0V
— Brice Croskey (@Progressland) May 15, 2022
Of course, The Walt Disney Company and McDonald’s fast food restaurants would go on to have many partnerships over the following decades. From Happy Meal tie-ins to a presence in the parks, the two companies have often intertwined and likely will more in the future. Who knew there was early evidence of friendship between Ronald and The Mouse?
Special thanks to Brice Croskey for bringing this piece of history to attention.
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