Haunted Mansions from Space

Thanks to Google maps, I was able to find, and compare the overhead views of the 4 Disney haunted mansion attractions.

These satellite shots clearly show the various layouts of the show buildings, and the relatively small mansion facades (circled in yellow). You will also notice the similarities between Tokyo's haunted mansion, and Liberty Square in Disney World, which are nearly identical. 

Magic Kingdom 1977

I liked this mini map found in a 1977 Disney World brochure. I especially like the representation of the Liberty Square Haunted Mansion!

And, of course, in 1977 we were still dealing with flash bulbs!

I love the factoid that a camera would require 100,000 flash bulbs to illuminate the castle!

When Worlds Collide

Did you know that the Liberty Square Haunted Mansion at Disney World is directly next to It's a Small World?The ingenious layout of the park makes it seem like the two attractions are worlds apart, but this satellite view from Google proves otherwise.

So the next time you are riding through the cemetery in your doombuggie, and watching the singing busts, take a moment to realize that true horror, and insanity are just a few yards behind you!

And pray that your doombuggie doesn't make an unexpected left turn, taking you into "a 

of laughter, and a world of tears"!

Prototype #1 Complete!

Well, it is a bit wobbly, and skewed, but the first prototype of my

New Orleans Square paper model is finished!

I discovered a few problems which I hope are minor.

The pillars were about 4 mm too short.

The third storey is about 1 cm too short, causing the pediments to

partially cover the third floor windows.

The verandah roof seems to have some conflicting angles.

But it sure looks like it is supposed too!

There are a couple more photos of the final prototype on the construction page, including a side by side comparison of my Liberty Square model and this one (link below). 

The full process is recorded here.