State Historical Society of Missouri
605 Elm St.
Columbia
Dive into the heartwarming story of Walt Disney’s early years in his hometown of Marceline, Missouri. Learn how those formative days helped shape the figure he became and inspired his films and theme parks that continue to touch hearts worldwide. In this special presentation by the founder and the operations manager of Walt Disney Hometown Museum, we'll explore the special ways Walt honored his hometown, and see how Marceline celebrates his legacy today.
About the Speakers:
Kaye Malins (Executive Director): Kaye's Disney journey began at the age of 8, when Walt Disney himself stayed as a guest in her family's home. It was 1956, and Walt was in Marceline to celebrate the dedication of the Walt Disney Swimming Pool & Park. Over the next decade, Kaye and her family grew to be dear friends with Walt and his family. This special bond led Ruth Disney, Walt’s beloved sister, to request that her family's artifacts be gifted to Marceline, ensuring their story would be shared in the town they held close to their hearts. Embracing this promise, Kaye co-founded the Walt Disney Hometown Museum, which opened its doors in 2001, just in time for Walt Disney’s 100th birthday celebration.
Sumner Nesbitt (Operations Manager): When Sumner was just 5 years old, he was given the first edition of Disney A to Z: The Official Disney Encyclopedia, and that sparked a lifelong passion for Disney history and research. His Disney adventure began in Walt Disney World, where he worked as a cast member on Main Street, USA. One of his favorite duties was guiding new cast members and sharing the magical history behind the park's famous street inspired by Marceline's own Main Street. This experience planted the seed of curiosity about the real-life town that influenced Walt, leading him to Marceline. What began as a vacation to explore the town’s charm soon became a new home, and Sumner has since journeyed from one Main Street to another.