Disney at 50: Nixon and the Hall of Presidents
Local News Staff 
Now on display at the Magic Kingdom for visitors to witness: a piece of American history in the form of a folded US flag.
The special flag, now shown in the Hall of Presidents at the Liberty Square area of Magic Kingdom, flew over the park on Oct. 25, 1971, its dedication day.
The flag was gifted to Roy O. Disney, brother of Walt, by President Richard Nixon.
“While he couldn’t be there for the dedication ceremony, he made sure that he shared some token of appreciation with Roy on behalf of the White House,” Kevin Kern, manager of research for Walt Disney Archives, told Destination D23 attendees in a prerecorded message last month.
“The other equally remarkable thing about this flag we found is that it was flown over the White House on October 1 — main opening day [of Disney World] — came down from Washington, D.C., was bestowed or given to Roy and then was flown above Main Street on October 25,” said Kern, co-author of “A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of The Most Magical Place on Earth.”
“So it was used in the White House ... and then it’s flown over Main Street, connecting the two places forever. It showcases, as well, the importance of Walt Disney World as a global and cultural setting.”
Roy O. Disney’s thank-you letter to Nixon, signed Nov. 1, 1971 with "kindest personal regards," is also showcased at the park's Hall of Presidents to complement the exhibit.
