Front Description
This pin commemorates the 50th anniversary of the "steam up" of the first Disneyland train, the E. P. Ripley. The event was for members of the Carolwood Pacific Historical Society which was started to keep the steam train tradition of Walt Disney alive. Twelve year old Michael Broggie, son of legendary Roger (head of the machine shop at Walt Disney Studios and in charge of building the first 2 trains for the park), rode along with "Engineer" Walt on that historic first run in 1955 as the "Fireman". In train talk, a "Fireman" manages the output of steam by feeding coal to the fire box and water to the boiler. After the anniversary ride around the park, attendees received this commemorative pin along with a certificate.
On front is a black and white picture of young Michael and Walt aboard the E.P. Ripley cab in 1955. Above the pic is a tan banner reading "ENGINEER WALT DISNEY". Below the pic is another tan banner reading "FIREMAN MICHAEL BROGGIE JUNE 18, 1955".
Back Description
Silver waffle-weave pattern. Single pin post with two nubs. FIRST RUN DISNEYLAND RAILROAD, DISNEYLAND 50TH ANNIVERSARY, LIMITED EDITION 1955, ©Disney Family Foundation, China.
