Sam McKim Autograph on Index Card

Disney Legend Sam McKim had a fascinating life. He started out as a child actor in Hollywood films, working alongside stars like Jane Withers. After his service in World War II, he decided to pursue a career as an artist and, after a short stint at Fox Studios, he found a job with Disney where he arrived just as the company was beginning the work for Disneyland. Sam's work can be seen all through the Disney theme parks. One of the first Imagineers, Sam did much of the design for "Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln", drew some concept art for popular attractions like The Columbia sailing ship in The Rivers of America, and the fascade for The Haunted Mansion. Disney collectors know his work as the creator of the first Disneyland souvenir map in 1958 - the big one, not the little handout. He drew many such maps for Disneyland and Walt Disney World over the years. We got to meet him several times at conventions and always found him to be cheerful and charming. Sadly, Sam passed away in 2004.