What in the World? How Walt Created Disney World

When Walt Disney realized cheap tourist traps were enveloping Disneyland, he began a nationwide search for enough land to hold every dream he could imagine. What happened next would require a heightened degree of CIA-level secrecy for Disney’s undercover team, who launched a misinformation campaign that included dummy corporations and secret transaction. However, when a keen-eyed reporter cracked the code, Disney was forced to show his hand. Audiences will be amazed to learn of not only subterfuge, but also the monumental innovations and engineering feats required creating a whole new world. This virtual program is free to attend, but registration is required.

Native Floridian Gary McKechnie is a two-time National Geographic author, author of America’s best-selling motorcycle guidebook, and two-time winner of the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Award. On stage, he has honed his skills as a motivational storyteller, a stand-up comedian, and improve actor. He is also a guest speaker aboard the ships of Cunard, Seabourn, and the Silversea lines. His travel features on Florida have appeared in newspapers, magazines, and through VisitFlorida.

This Florida Talks program is a partnership between Florida Humanities and the Marco Island Historical Society. Funding for this program was provided by Florida Humanities and sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.