“Freedomland U.S.A.: The Definitive History” June 2020 Book Giveaway
Thanks to author Michael R. Virgintino and Theme Park Press, The History Girl is offering a chance to win a copy of Freedomland U.S.A.: The Definitive History in honor of what would have been Freedomland U.S.A.'s 60th birthday. In order to be in the running, submit your name and e-mail address below!
This contest has ended. Thanks for all who participated! Purchase a copy here.
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About the Book
Freedomland U.S.A.: The Definitive History is a new book that documents the entire story from conception to bankruptcy of one of the most innovative and beloved theme parks in America. The park was conceived and built by C.V. Wood. Known to many as Woody, he was Disneyland’s first employee and he brought Walt Disney’s imagination to life by leading the team that built Walt’s park. He then created Marco Engineering to build theme parks and other venues across the country. Located in New York City, Freedomland U.S.A. was celebrated as the “Disneyland of the East.” While it survived only five seasons (1960-1964), to this day the park generates fond memories among baby boomers who enjoyed its American history-themed attractions. The 300+-page tale includes first-time interviews with park employees and never before published photographs.
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I was only 10 years old when Freedomland opened. I happened to be at an age where all of life's opportunities beckoned at an time of American optimism (the early 1960's) when everything seemed possible. Fast forward a few decades, and I was working at the World's Greatest Resort and Theme Park in Florida. As part of my role as an Orientation Leader, I learned of a man named Van France, who was instrumental in developing the employee training program at Freedomland, which he based on his work creating the Disney Traditions Program at Disneyland in California.
ReplyDeleteMemories of Freedomland include the Great Chicago Fire, a ride thru the Old West with bullets splashing in the water all around us, moving sidewalks taking us through the world of the future, and a spaceship adventure that I recognized years later at the Magic Kingdom in Florida. Speaking of that spaceship, I remember that it was the setting for a dance show with Clay Cole.