Graham Kislingbury

Dec. 15, 1966, was a sad day for millions of us who grew up watching Disney movies and “The Wonderful World of Color” on Sunday nights. Walt Disney died that morning at age 65, and the news quickly spread at my school.

That night it seemed fitting that my entire family went to the Fox Theater in Burlingame, Calif., and saw “Follow Me, Boys,” a Disney movie that just came out starring Fred MacMurray.

I thought about that day last Friday as I looked at the exhibits in 10th and final gallery of The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. One wall features editorial cartoons, including one of Mickey Mouse in tears, from around the country in the days following Disney’s death.

The museum is outstanding. We were there for about 2 and a half hours and didn’t want to leave.

It chronicles Disney’s life and legacy with collections from his family and studio archives. There are dozens of photos, videos and exhibits, including a huge model of Disneyland. The 10 galleries add up to one central theme: Walt Disney was a creative genius and visionary who never forgot what it was like to be a kid.

The museum is located in the Presidio of San Francisco in a beautifully renovated building facing the former Army post’s parade grounds. One hallway on the second floor offers a spectacular view of the nearby Golden Gate Bridge.

Put The Walt Disney Family Museum on the list of places you must see on your next trip to San Francisco.

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