APP Vault

In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Disneyland Records, the APP vault opens it's music collection for a peak at some rare album covers. Join Davy, Walt, and Annette for a look back at 50 magical years of Disney music. view
The Vault Collection

Come back to Marceline, MO to take a trip through Walt's hometown and family home... more

We open the vault with a special photo series on DLRR #106. From it's early years through the recent restoration - including some exclusive photos taken during restoration - celebrate with APP the Grand Lady of the Disneyland Railroad. See the full Story

The character costumes at Disneyland have come a long way since the early days -- the first were downright scary! more

Before the Monorail, the Viewliner was the first transportation system of 'Tomorrow'. ....view

APP Vault Permanent Collection


	Exclusive video taken by Mell Kilpatrick from Disneyland's construction till 1956. Includes the construction of Main Street, the Mark Twain and views of the Monsanto House of the Future...view	Just discovered recently, and published for the first time in the new edition of 'Homecoming: Destination Disneyland', Walt Disney's official biography as handed out to the press on opening day in 1955. View it online exclusively in the APP Vault...view

The Ape Pen Publishing Story

Ape Pen Publishing has been providing vintage Disneyland photography and memorabilia since 2000 when founder Carlene Thie published the first of five books featuring the spectacular, historic photography of her grandfather, Mell Kilpatrick.

During the 1950’s, Mell was the chief photographer for the Santa Ana Register and was blessed with the opportunity to capture Walt Disney’s dream on film. Mell Kilpatrick had a special friendship with Walt Disney – Walt admired Mell’s work and Mell respected Walt and his dreams. Walt granted him unlimited access to photograph Disneyland construction and early days, often calling Mell to photograph special events.

In addition to Mell’s vintage photos of Disneyland, Ape Pen's published books offer narrative tributes and brief recollections from people involved with Walt Disney and the Disneyland Park during its early years, including Diane Disney, David Pacheco, Rolly Crump, Jack Lindquist, Alice Davis, Blaine Gibson, Ollie Johnston (one of Walt Disney’s nine old men), and exclusive artwork by legendary Disney artist Sam McKim.

Thanks to Mell and Carlene, these historic images of the early days of Main Street USA, Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Frontierland will last for generations.

carlene@apepenpublishing.com • ©2006 Ape Pen Publishing • website by Lost Boys Design Studio
Ape Pen Publishing is not associated in any manner whatsoever with the Walt Disney Company, its subsidiaries and / or its affiliates.