The Ghost Relations Department

The Mystery Project - Now Open

2009-03-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fan!

The Mystery Project is finally open. Feel free to go take a look. Its a work in progress so please bear with me. New and exciting things will come soon.

http://www.ghostrelationsdept.com/

Greetings Ghost Fans

2009-02-06T14:20:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans!

A bit of news! The Ghost Relations Dept will be shutting down in Mid-March. However, do not fear this is not bad news! The Mystery Project is almost complete and the blog will remain available for anyone who wants to read the archives. I will still be on hand to answer any and all questions about the Mansion but I will mainly be updating the Mystery Project as new material arises.

Once I see how the Mystery Project takes off, other sections may open about other favorite Attractions in the Disney Parks worldwide.

I will have a new contact address when the new mystery project opens so when it does, feel free to let me know what you think. I've spent a few months collecting material for the site and I think it will be wonderful.

You've come a long way baby...

2009-01-12T09:44:00.002-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

There was always one concept piece in the thousands for the Haunted Mansion that intrigued me. Marc Davis created an early rendition of the Corridor of Doors, not as we know it today, but as a large dark void filled with many doors in different stages of openness. Doorways to somewhere unknown. Of course, today its a regular hallway filled with doors that knock, clack and bend to the point of breaking.

On a related note, when the creators of the Haunted Mansion movie were researching for their scenes, they apparently came across this concept as well.

However, the scene was never shot, and the idea of the Corridor of Doors was saved until later in the movie when Sara Evers is running from Gracey. The door knockers in the hallway to her room all start clacking in unison as she runs. Which of course is interesting, as none of the doors even featured knockers.

We'll take care of the outside...

2009-01-04T09:07:00.000-08:00

Hi Ghost Fans,

Back in the late 50's when the idea of a Haunted Mansion was being established, Walt expressed to Sam McKim and Ken Anderson that he wanted a pristine mansion facade in his park, not something terribly run down. He explained that Disneyland would take care of the outside, and the ghostly inhabitants of the Mansion could do whatever they wanted inside.

This statement, until the mid-90's held true not only for Disneyland, but also Walt Disney World. The Mansion's grounds used to house many tree and beautiful foliage, unlike today where there are broken and toppled fountains, overgrown foliage and a worn paint job on the facade.

One Maid who has been at the Mansion for decades recounts that back then, it really did look like an estate, with trees everywhere, also without the current canopy it gave the full illusion of a residence.

I would like to take a moment and give a big thanks to my friend Mike at WidenYourWorld for the material for this post. Thanks Mike! Hope to see you at the studio soon!

Phantasy in the Sky

2009-01-01T08:47:00.001-08:00

Hi Ghost Fans,

Being in such close proximity every day with The Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, I have seen quite a number of their night time spectaculars in the sky. More recently, as in, last night, I was able to watch Fantasy in the Sky, the New Years Eve countdown fireworks. This was my first time viewing and hearing the show. There are references to nearly all the lands of the Magic Kingdom. The choice for Liberty Square? The Haunted Mansion of course. Giant Green and Purple fireworks blazed across the sky. Projections of ghosts flew across the castle, then up into the smoke clouds in the sky. Quite a performance.

Here for you, I have posted an excerpt of the Grim Grinning Ghosts performance from the show. Enjoy!

Back to the Basics...

2008-12-17T10:26:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

When the Disneyland Mansion was being finalized and they realized that the stretch rooms would be a nessecary part of the house, they installed a front door area into the foyer but it wasn't in the center of the house, but off to the side. This served two purposes: it allowed them not to have to use a small antechamber that ran along side of the stretch room from the center of the house, and it also allowed one front door to be placed in the center of the house for aestetic and design purposes. Instead, they installed the double doors which at one point would allow many more guests into the room in a shorter amount of time.

Over 20 years later at Phantom Manor, Imagineers went back to the original layout of the Disneyland Mansion and thought about why people couldn't enter the front door of the Mansion. Disneyland didn't exactly do it, Disney World and Tokyo Disney had you entering into a lower level side door, so what about Phantom Manor? Imagineers assumed what could be done about the antechamber and installed it anyway. And while the Manor show building matches up fairly close to Disneylands, the Facade layout is nearly identical in measurement and layout.

Below is a photoshopped layout of the blueprints of the Disneyland Facade and also Phantom Manor. Entrance doors, exit areas and even the Cast Member break areas are in the same locations. The Disneyland blueprint is outlined in red, Phantom Manor in black.

Where is the owl?

2008-11-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At the Haunted Mansion, there are several Raven's throughout the Mansion. Some speculate that they are all different, others say that it is the same one that comes from room to room to oversee us.

In the Graveyard over the band, there are two owls that are occasionally startled by the blast of a horn. But did you know that an owl makes another appearance so to speak? In the newly revised Stretch Room audio, within 20 seconds of the foyer door opening, an owl can be heard hooting, then fluttering away.

Click here to hear a sample of the owl.

The Dropping of Hints...

2008-11-24T09:24:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

For quite a while now, I have been talking about my little mystery project that has sometimes delayed my blog postings. This week I am giving a small sample of the imagery that is slowly shaping the mystery project into something that I feel will truly be a fan favorite. I am hoping to unveil the project by January.

Ghostly Games

2008-11-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

First off, as a note to my readers, I have not forgotten you. I have gotten so many e-mails here recently as to why I had not posted anything. First and foremost, I have been researching a few old items dealing with the Mansion which I feel will make great blog posts, and secondly, I have a small side project I am working on that will be of great interest to Ghost Relations Dept. Readers. I am simply refining my materials for that project.

Anyway, without further delay, this weeks post:

Back in the 1970's, Walt Disney World had a few different coin arcades that went along with the attractions. There was an arcade for Pirates of the Caribbean (Link to Widen Your World Caribbean Arcade Page) with several old non-video games. Now, I know what you're thinking; How awesome would it be if the Haunted Mansion had an arcade? Well, it appears that at one point, it was planned! Yes, in the area which now hold the Pet Cemetery and the Yankee Trader store, there was originally to be an arcade, as evident by this early blueprint. Feel free to click on the blueprint for a larger, more legible version.

Beautifiul, Breakable and Dishwasher Safe!

2008-09-29T19:09:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

A question I have been asked for quite a while now is about some of the manufacturers of the Mansion's more common details, such as where to purchase the Stretch Room wallpaper, or maybe even where a certain lighting fixture may be found outside of the Mansion. One that I have gotten more than any other is who crafts the beautiful Ballroom plates for both Disneyland at Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion's.

Well, with some research from both Mansions, I have found an answer. Both the Blue Disneyland plates and the Red Walt Disney World plates come from the same manufacturer. The pattern is from J & G Meakin of England, it is titled Romantic England Blue (Disneyland) and Romantic England Red (Walt Disney World). The plates, as well as the red cups and flatware are the same at both Mansion's. It appears that when the Disney Decorating department was equipping the Mansion with its dinner service sets, they purchased them at the same time, just a different color.

On a special side note, I would like to thank all of my readers for something that occured the other day. The Ghost Relations Dept. installed a counter a few months after opening to track demographics as to how to better display my blog. Since that installation in May of 2007, there have been over 100,000 hits to the blog. I thank you for reading and your continued support!

File It Under G; For Gus

2008-09-21T07:24:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At the end of the Graveyard scene, guests enter a large crypt where they encounter 3 happy haunts. We have Phineas, Ezra and Gus. While the pasts of Phineas and Ezra are trivial, it appears that Gus was a prisoner who really wanted to find his way out. Attached to his leg is his ball and chain, but what is it in his other hand? Why, his only instrument of freedom, a metal file.

A Sense of Character

2008-09-14T19:14:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

In my recent trips to the Mansion, I have discussed some of the various aspects of the storyline with some Maids and Butlers, some of which train all of the new staff that come to the Mansion. They have told me some interesting stories regarding Constance's husbands, as per the official operating guide for the attraction. A few interesting aspects:

Ambrose is the son of successful farmers, and not being accustomed to formal wear, has an ill-fitting suit.

Frank is a Banker from the East Coast. His marriage ended when he broke her heart, literally. A heart shaped box is fractured on a shelf near his portrait.

The Marquis is a foreign diplomat (no real shocker here.)

Reginald is a Railroad tycoon. Using his earnings, he turned to gambling where he increased his fortune. Following the stereotype of wealthy Americans, he is also a fan of fine dining and eating in general. He was not one to hide his wealth as apparent by the amount of jewelry on his possession.

George was one of the final owners of the Mansion prior to it becoming Haunted. He is indeed the husband who is later featured on the tombstone in the Stretch Room. Much of the items around his portrait are imported from afar, possibly from trips to different countries during his lifetime.

Who took my T?

2008-09-08T15:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

During the planning of The Haunted Mansion, the Imagineers who designed the attraction got credit in a small family plot adjoining the Mansion itself. X. Atencio came up with some witty rememberances which Vic Green then drew out into blueprints. Though, it appears that ol' X should have done a little spellchecking before submitting the words for his own tombstone.

The original blueprint reads Requiesca.

The current tombstone reads Requiescat.

The correct spelling of the word includes the T at the end. It means a prayer in repose for the dead.

Now you hear it... Now you don't...

2008-09-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

I apologize for the irregular posting here lately, but The Ghost Relations Dept. has a few tricks up its sleeves in preperation for something amazing that will work in conjunction with the blog for your enjoyment of all things delightfully ghoulish.

Without further ado, I bring you this weeks post.

A few years ago when Haunted Mansion Holiday was first getting its bearings and several creative types in Disney were hoping that all of their hard work was not in vain, a composer by the name of Gordon Goodwin (who has done an interview with the Ghost Relations Dept. in the past) wrote an elaborate score moving away from the film score to be something new and unique but also be similar to what is heard in the Haunted Mansion in the non-holiday season.

After a few years after many had found what a success Haunted Mansion Holiday was, the film's visionaries decided to get a little more involved. Danny Elfman was one of them. He created an entirely new score which replaced that of Goodwin's. However, when you enjoy the attraction today, a piece of Goodwin's score remains, The Stretch Room.

So, whatever happened to Elfman's Stretch Room score? Well, it was there for perhaps a week or two, but then disappeared. So where is it now you ask? Why, it's included on the new Nightmare Before Christmas 2-Disk DVD. Several have written reviews of the DVD but none have really touched that the score was the original Stretch Room.

Without further delay, HERE is a clip of the score from the recent DVD. The original of course did not include corridor laughter or thunder, but I believe you get the point.

The DVD is quite nice unto itself. It has a great featurette for Haunted Mansion Holiday fans featuring a tour of the Mansion as well as a Making-Of segment, well worth the cost of the movie. If you would like to order a copy (and I highly suggest it), click HERE. A clip of the Mansion tour can be found in the Videos Section.

What a Relief!

2008-08-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Just days after the Disneyland Haunted Mansion's 39th Anniversary, I bring you a fresh Disneyland Mansion post!

In the Corridor of Doors at Disneyland, there are all of the framed ghoul portraits and the Ghost Host painting. These were original even in 1969. In the 1990's there was a rehab, restoring the Ghost Host painting, adding a few new ghouls, including a pen drawing of a new ghoul drawn by Steve Fink, and then two other new faces.

On the right wall near the Ghost Host painting are two relief sculptures, also created by Steve Fink. One is of a pleasant smiling beast creature, while the other is of a similar creature, snarling in anger.

How to Hang Paintings

2008-08-03T21:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Nearly a week ago, a new painting appeared in the Corridor of Doors at the Walt Disney World Mansion. All of the Ghoul photos had appeared as they do in Disneyland with a few new faces, but one thing lacking from the Corridor was the painting of the Ghost Host who had freed himself with the help of an axe.

Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion recently got this painting, but a much larger rendition of it. Being hand painted, a few artistic liberties were taken and a very interesting difference takes place in this version. Behind our host, we see his shadow in a threatening manner, looming over him with his axe raised. Could this be the Mansion's "Portrait of things to Come"?

Rest in Peace - Harriet Burns

2008-07-28T08:12:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

It is deepest sadness and sympathy that I must report this week that on Friday, WDI's first female Imagineer, Harriet Burns passed away.

Harriet worked many years within WDI, being a pioneer to lead the way for several women working behind her. She had shown that just because of her gender, she could work just as hard and diligently along side other Model Shop Imagineers such as Fred Joerger and Rolly Crump to name a few. Crump later recounted in a letter to the Ghost Relations Dept., "Harriet was one of the kindest and most genuine persons I had known at WED. We had spent several years together in the model shop. She had this wonderful sense of humor and was a real hoot."

In terms of the Haunted Mansion, Harriet designed many of the original models that were later constructed into the show scenes we know and love today.

While riding through the Walt Disney World Mansion just yesterday, I had noticed that a very kind and wonderful haunt payed his respects to her tribute tombstone in the Graveyard Finale.

Rest in Peace, Harriet.

-The Ghost Relations Dept.

An Axe to Grind

2008-07-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

Greeting Ghost Fans,

In previous weeks I had mentioned about several props from the attic being reused in the Mansion after the rehab as well as other props from the mansion being placed in the attic. Well, it looks like Constance liked to hide more than her riches in the attic. Lets take a look shall we...

Here we see the attic near where Constance is currently standing. Notice anything interesting?

How about now?

Thats right. In addition to Constance hiding her marraige gifts and the secret of her husband's deaths, she is also hiding the murder weapon! And though its near impossible to see in the darkness of the attraction, it's just one more amazing detail provided by Imagineering.

Hush Hush... Sweet Widow

2008-07-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Coming from the departmental drawer of speculation, I bring you this: In 1964, 20th Century Fox came out with a film entitled: Hush Hush, Sweet Charlotte. The film featured an old woman in a Mansion to herself. She refused to leave the house on the basis of fear that if the Mansion was destroyed, the axe-murder of her husband would be discovered.

Now... with a plot like that, it sounds quite similar to our favorite axe-wielding widow, Constance. But, now the plot thickens. For you see, Marc Davis painted the Stretch Portraits in early 1965. The movie started releasing press photos in 1964. One early press photo features Joan Crawford and Bette Davis in a graveyard, both sitting atop tombstones, but what is most interesting is how Ms. Crawford is sitting atop hers.

Again, just speculation on my part, but I'll let you be the judge as to wether Marc Davis may have used this as partial inspiration for his Widow on the Tombstone.

Re-Gifting

2008-07-06T20:01:00.001-07:00

Greeting Ghost Fans,

When Disneyland and Walt Disney World Mansion's refurbished their attic scenes to incorporate Constance and her husbands, a lot of the junk around the attic was removed and replaced with more wedding style gift items. However, items within the attic that held the theme of wedding gifts were kept.

In the instances of Walt Disney World:

A table that was once on the left-hand side of the track that held the sheet music book "On my Way to Mandalay!" (Seen under the table is actually a Sally plush doll as part of the hidden references to The Nightmare Before Christmas.)

A tall curio cabinet that was once empty features various brick-a-brack. Beneath the vignette is a red carpet that used to be at the feet of the old bride.

In the area of Frank's gifts, a set of plates (which now form a Hidden Mickey), a carpet, an old wicker screen and the candleabra that used to sit atop the Music Room piano.

Across the Doombuggy path from Constance is the old lamp that once hung above Leota when she was in her stationary phase on the table.

A Chair, the painting by L. Mason of a woman grooming her daughter and various other small paintings that once resided near the old bride. Also, a small carpet bag that was once near a hiding place for one of the old pop-up groomsmen.

Of course, these are but to name a few of the interesting props now found within the scene, but it's only with time and more discovery that we can uncover some of the other artifacts.

The Mystery Project

2008-06-29T09:48:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week will be a slightly different style of posting. Joe (Datamiester of Disneyland3D blog) has been working diligently over the past 2 months to create something really amazing. Considering that I only contributed files and a few constructive criticisms, I can't really take credit for any of these. So, I will now hand you over to someone who can, Joe himself.

"I’m sure that building what is there at DL sometimes gets a little boring. So have you ever considered modeling some concepts of what never made it?...Honestly, if you did that with Mansion, I’d totally help you out if you give me dibs on being the first to post about it on my blog."

Brandon, the owner of this blog, wrote these words to me in an email on May 2^nd. He was referring an old, unused design for Disneyland's Haunted Mansion, a design that Sam McKim had put on paper over forty years ago. This was before Walt made his famed remark about only granting the ghosts jurisdiction over the inside, so McKim's concept offers a ramshackle, more traditionally creepy look for the attraction. The idea of modeling this vastly different version appealed to me more than I would have expected. And thus began what would become known as my "mystery project." Completing it would take nearly two months, with sporadic breaks to work on other, more conventional parts of my Disneyland model. I'm very happy to finally be able to share it now.

In re-creating this haunt that never happened, I've tried to be as accurate as possible. Whenever McKim's artwork gave me information about a part of the facility, I attempted to reproduce it faithfully. However, some parts of the concept simply aren't visible in any of the artwork I've seen. The backside of the show building isn't visible, for instance, and both sides of the mansion were problematic—the left side because of the difficulty in discerning what McKim drew there, and the right side because the house blocks the view of it altogether in the aerial illustration. In cases like these, I had to invent reasonable, realistic, consistent detail, as you'll see. I also took certain artistic license in places where it seemed really appropriate. For example, I decided to add backstage details to the side walls of the show building, though McKim's aerial view clearly shows none on that left side. The way I figure it, he was designing the onstage look, not the utilitarian behind-the-scenes elements. Given my experience in the last few years replicating real-world backstage areas, I felt like I could come up with a fairly realistic layout.

Here's an overview of the whole model. You can see the onstage facade at the near end of the structure, with the show building located behind it. Notice that the facade and show building are visibly connected aboveground, unlike the design that WED Enterprises ended up going with, which features a large berm over the underground passage between the facade and show building. Additionally, the show building in McKim's design is much smaller than the one that was later built, a fact that may be explained by original intent for this attraction to be a walkthrough. The buildings to the right and left are other parts of this version of New Orleans Square that was never built. The water off to the left is the elephant bathing pool in the Jungle Cruise.

This render shows what you'd see as you walked around the grounds. Notice the wrought iron fences and gates, quite similar to what today's New Orleans Square mansion is surrounded by. In keeping with the dilapidated visual aesthetic, though, I've ripped and twisted the iron in several spots as if something were trying to get in...or out. You can also see the guardhouse next to the main gate; guests would apparently have entered through the guardhouse, not the gate, and their tickets (or FastPasses) would be collected at that point.

Sitting on the upper veranda of a nearby building, you'd be treated to this view of the mansion. That's the exit of the attraction winding its way directly toward us, right out of those cellar doors. Guests would walk up steps out of the attraction (which would largely occur below ground level), returning to the outdoors after passing through that bulkhead. The queue is off to the left. Yes, you can see some of the ventilators on the show building roof, though those'd likely be obscured by foliage on the nearby hill.

This gives a pretty good feel for the way the facade interfaces with the show building. The much of the backstage detail you'll see is, again, from my own imagination, not McKim's, though he was kind enough to provide locations for the green ventilators on the roof. =D

I added a gate in the side yard of the mansion that leads down this backstage walkway to a service road at the back of the show building. (That service road already existed, in some form, in the early 60s.) Notice how the theming stops as it reaches areas that are no longer visible from onstage, at least not in any appreciable way.

This is a wider view of the service road behind the show building. That berm on the far right slopes down to the Jungle Cruise's elephant pool, though in real life, that scene would later be moved further south (to the left in this render). Also visible are the railroad tracks off to the left; the service road crosses the tracks just before the tracks enter New Orleans Square. The angle of the service road prevents passengers from seeing too much of the industrial-looking show building.

This is what you, as a cast member, would see after climbing the caged ladder at the back of the show building. That large, cream-colored block in the background is a placeholder for the chicken plantation restaurant, which existed in real life and was originally going to be included in New Orleans Square.

The Jungle Cruise does a pretty good job of secluding itself from the rest of the park, but it's not perfect. Much like the attraction currently allows brief, partially-obstructed views of the first Pirates show building, the catwalk above the bamboo canyon of the Indy queue, and the backside of Main Street, this version of the Haunted Mansion would have been visible from the elephant bathing pool. This is the most you'd be able to see, and that's only if you turned around as you were leaving the scene—and keep in mind that there'd be a lot of foliage to help hide this half-onstage, half-backstage view.

Here's a closer look at the attraction entrance. You would not enter through the front door on the porch, which is boarded up. Instead, you'd pass below this wrought iron arch into a very small courtyard next to the house. In there, you'd find a doorway into the house that you can't quite see in this render. What'd happen from there? Your guess is as good as mine, unless you happen to be a veteran Imagineer, in which case I'd REALLY like to hear from you! All I do know is that you'd somehow end up a good six or seven feet below ground level at least—since there are steps leading up to the exit, the show building evidently had a basement that allowed for more vertical space. It's not a very tall show building, after all.

And finally, as a reward for reading through all of this, enjoy this wallpaper image free of charge. =D It started out as a normal daytime render, but I used a variety of digital painting techniques to put the sun to sleep, create the foliage on the berms, light the lamps, age the house itself, and add a few more goodies to it.
(Note: Click the image to view the full wallpaper.)
Thanks for reading! I hope the couple of months I spent working on this will be worth it to y'all, and if not, don't worry—I'm already hard at work on the main model again. ;D (You will want to check http://www.disneyland3d.blogspot.com my blog tomorrow, however, since I'll be posting renders that show my process of creating this model, starting with just a couple of gray walls and pushing it all the way to what you've just seen. Furthermore, I'll be posting all the renders of this project on http://www.flickr.com/datameister my Flickr photostream, where you'll be able to see them with descriptive notes that hover over the images.)

So at this point, I would like to thank Joe for all of his hard work and making something SO awesome that gives both our viewers a better insight to the Disneyland that never was. - The Ghost Relations Dept.

Fresh Off The Grille

2008-06-22T22:27:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Recently when I took a stroll through one of my favorite attractions, I noticed a detail that has been discussed by other blogs reporting the recent refurbishment to the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion but it is often hard to see until later in the evening.

At the base of the stretch room walls are 16 ornate grilles, some of which hide the room's new subwoofers that really pack a punch. Like the transoms over the doors in the Corridor, this ornate grille features a menacing face that is a mix between what is seen in the Corridor and also the transom over the cemetery entrance gates.

The Wonderful World of Color

2008-06-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week I am going to attempt something a little different. A lot of times, people see old Black and White television shows or photos and never realize that there was indeed color in the environment, it was just that the color in the photos could not be processed.

One great black and white photo regarding the Mansion is the original Ghost Relations Dept. sign written by Marty Sklar that hung outside of the mansion for nearly a decade. Using this photo from Daveland as initial reference, I have made a somewhat decent looking representation of what someone might have actually seen back in those days.

Also of noteworthy interest: I have done a little partnering with the Disneyland 3D project. Joe C (aka DataMeister) is recreating Disneyland bit by bit. Within a few weeks, a collabarative mystery project will be posted perhaps in a week or two. It will definatly be interesting!

The Sinking Room

2008-05-31T22:32:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Over the many years that the Disneyland Haunted Mansion has been open, there were several problems with maintenance that accumulated over the decades. When Haunted Mansion Holiday first debuted in 2001, many of the problems were looked over and fixed.

One such problem was a leaky gasket underneath the Stretch Rooms. Over the night, the Stretch Room would slowly stretch as it lost hydraulic pressure. By the time the morning came, the Stretch Room would either have to be raised or lowered depending on its starting position. This problem had been in existance since at least 1995 when this photo of the room being retouched was taken. The wall behind the Stretch Room ledge is clearly visible from the slow sinking due to periods of non-use during the rehab.

However, since the installation of Haunted Mansion Holiday the Stretch Room has been fixed and quietly awaits for unsuspecting mortals before it makes it descent.

The Corpse Bride

2008-05-25T14:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

When creating the Haunted Mansion, Marc Davis did a lot of whimsical drawings and concepts to be used in his debate of Light versus Fright. However, some of his works weren't all that hilarious and may have actually supported the Coates campaign for Scary rather than funny.

In this concept we see one of the many bride concepts created by Davis. In this rendition we see a somewhat sad looking bride transforming into a skeletal corpse. Wether this was for an effect or a changing portrait concept, it is unknown.

He's Making a List... Again...

2008-05-18T09:04:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Quite a while ago, I had posted about a few of the names found on the Disneyland Haunted Mansion Holiday attic list. Well, this time we're going to The Land of the Rising Sun for Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare.

Chris Crump - Oversaw the installation of the Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare show and son of Rolly Crump.

Larry Nikolai - Designed the concept artwork and final attraction artwork seen within Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare for scenes not already in Disneyland.

Jason Badger - Lighting Designer for Haunted Mansion Holiday Nightmare.

Also on the list is Leota and Stevie, already mentioned on the original List post.

Neglected Details - Master Gracey

2008-05-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At the Ghost Relations Dept., there is quite a number of different bits of media to surf through to construct each weeks postings. One thing I have come across are the Walt Disney Imagineering photos taken of each stage of the Master Gracey portrait. The painting is projected and sometimes the crisp clear details cannot be seen in the same way if you were looking at an actual print itself. All of the stages in the painting have amazing little touches that just show how much Imagineering pays attention to even the smallest details, such as the flesh still rotting off of his skull.

The Ever Changing Changing Portraits

2008-05-03T21:39:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At current of the four mansions there are three incarnations of portrait hallways with changing portraits. The first and original, Disneyland, secondly, Phantom Manor (though it is missing the April December portrait) and now Walt Disney World taking place of the Sinister 11.

Marc Davis created quite a few concepts for changing portraits. However, in the model building phase, several of the concepts were tried out in the miniature model hallway to see what might work best. In the Osmonds Special and in early model photos, one set included The Black Knight, The Burning Man, The Witch of Walpugis and The Wilting Roses.

What's Cookin' Doc?

2008-04-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

With recent additions of rooms that show that the Haunted Mansion is quite possibly a Boundless Realm, it makes one wonder what other rooms really are in the mansion that we just aren't seeing. One possible option would be this Ghostly Kitchen designed by Marc Davis.

The description of the scene is as follows:

"Invisible Ghost cooks meal. Footprints move around floor. Handle on teakettle raises up to position. Teakettle pours into pot, -----. Steam rises. Spoon stirs pot. Oven opens. Lid on roaster raises. Steam comes from roaster, ----- etc. Voice of ghost happily hums and recites recipe!"

Mind your Manor's

2008-04-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans!

First off, I would like to thank everyone who commented and gave me such wonderful feedback on the types of posts you would like to see. They are all appreciated and I am taking them all into consideration. So, without further delay, this weeks post.

For some time now, some websites about Phantom Manor have claimed that one great detail about the ballroom is that in the center is a rotten wedding cake where a birthday cake is located in the Haunted Mansion's. This detail is that while the cake itself features a groom standing there, the bride's position is taken by a tombstone.

However, when looking through photos, it has been discovered that there is no tombstone, nor bride on the cake, but actually a broken archway decoration.

Talking Pictures destroyed Vaudeville

2008-04-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

One staple of any Haunted Mansion, House, Castle, Shack or Shantee is the nicely framed portrait or painting. The Haunted Mansion's are no exception to having posessed portraits that age, stretch, stare, buldge, decapitate or duel. However, one early concept for portraits within the Haunted Mansion were to have them whisper and talk to guests. Marc Davis, whose concepts became the majority of the portraits within the Mansions, designed talking portraits based upon some Victorian and Literary baddies of the times. Two instances below, Guy Fawkes and Ivan the Terrible.

As a side note this week, I have a slight favor to ask. While I see that my counter hits keep growing, over 61,000 so far, I really don't get many comments about my posts. So I am asking you, the reader, to please give me some feedback. What would you like to see more posts about? I have a large media collection here and I usually surf around for something to post about. But what would you, the reader like to see? More Disneyland posts? More Disney World posts? More Phantom Manor? More Movie posts? More Haunted Mansion Holiday? More downloadable items (desktops, etc), more contests? Let me know what you guys would like to see! You can either leave a comment on this post (you can be anonymous if you wish) or please send me an e-mail, the link is in my profile. Thanks a lot dear readers!

The Grass WAS always greener...

2008-04-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Last week I had posted about the overall dilapidated state of the Haunted Mansions around the world, except for Disneyland. At current, three mansions in this world are a bit worn down and creepy on their exterior. However, at one point, the two American mansions had nicely maincured lawns and topiaries with little messy foliage at all. In fact, other than its gothic architecture, the Walt Disney World mansion did not look scary at all.

And the Ghosts Will Take Care of the Inside...

2008-03-29T10:41:00.001-07:00

Grettings Ghost Fans,

Nearly 45 years ago, Walt Disney told Ken Anderson that he wanted everything in his parks to be clean and upkept. While his vision of the Haunted Mansion was close, he didn't want it looking dirty or dilapidated. This addage continued with Walt Disney World for many years until it transformed into what we see today. However, the two Non-Western parks break Walt's tradition entirely. While it does interfere with Walt's original vision, it helps the overall theme that the house is indeed haunted.

In Tokyo, there are many great areas seldom seen given the park capacity. Most of the time you can walk right up to the entrance to enter the Mansion. When the park is full though, you must travel back through a highly developed queue area which reveals a lot more:

One area features a fountain, still in somewhat working order. Close to this area is a pet cemetery as well.

Something that differs from the Walt Disney World Mansion is the addition of a side wing that helps hide the facade. Also visible in this photo is a second copy of the tombstones seen at the entrance area.

A large courtyard behind a tall iron gate features some broken down and nearly destroyed crypts. One even appears to be broken into... perhaps...

It appears that whoever was blocking this corpse in got quite a surprise. No one was breaking in, but rather something breaking out as evident by the skeletal footprints in the mortar.

And Now For Something Completely Different...

2008-03-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This past week a researcher of all things Disneyland stumbled upon some excellent information. The original House that Ken Anderson lifted his originaly sketch of the Disneyland Mansion from was based in Baltimore. For many years, all that existed was a photo of the house. Now, by excellent research from this excellent blog, much of the information about the house has been brought forward. It's this kind of sleuthing that brings much credibility to the fanbase of the Haunted Mansion.

Click Here to go to the Blog

-The Ghost Relations Dept.

Happy Blogiversary!

2008-03-14T14:35:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

The Ghost Relations Department has been online now for over 2 years! I'm proud to say that it has been a lot of fun digging through the archives and educating the masses about the world's greatest dark ride, The Haunted Mansion. To date, there have been over 55,000 hits to the blog and still going strong.

As a special treat, I have uploaded a short preview video to YouTube for the newest enhancements at Walt Disney World featuring Imagineer Kathy Rogers. I hope you enjoy!

Whiskers the Kitten

2008-03-08T20:56:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

For many years now across the internet on websites, postings and FAQ's, there has always been a decent list of all of the Disneyland pet cemetery tombstones. However, not much attention is paid to Walt Disney World's, most likely to it being overlooked and not something you pass in the queue itself. However, the characters have names different of their Disneyland cousins. Here is just one instance of a great detail that is missed.

1855 - Bad Catnip
1856 - A Shoe at Two
1857 - Sour Milk
1858 - Hairball
1859 - One Bad Year
1859 - Same Year
1860 - Local Dog
1861 - Fell Off Limb
1862 - Nine Lives Always Go So Fast, Poor Whiskers Couldn't Make Them Last

Three Bodies - One Grave

2008-03-03T14:20:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion, and quite possibly Disneyland (information pending), there is a tombstone in the rides graveyard finale that honors three Imagineers. Some of the other stones feature some artists, designers and technicians involved with the production of Mansion. This tombstone features three of the model builders mostly involved with Mansion; Judi Gray, Fred Joerger and Harriet Burns. Later on, the exterior tombstone once at Disneyland for Phineas Pock was renamed when replanted in Walt Disney World to "Good Old Fred", also named for Mr. Joerger.

The Name Game

2008-02-23T21:24:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans!

This week I am very excited to give some information not yet posted anywhere on the internet! This week we learn the full identities of all of the attic husbands and the bride herself!

Strewn about the newly refurbished Haunted Mansion Attic at Walt Disney World are framed marriage certificates from each of Constance's husbands. They are hidden but easily within view of guests riding through if you know where to look. Each certificate, while identical in design, has a different photo of each husband, different location of where they were from and a different wedding date. The following are the names of all of the attic inhabitants as seen on their certificates.

Constance Hatchaway of Money County, California

Ambrose Harper of Secret County, California (Married 1869)

Frank Banks of Bulfors Isle (illegible), California (Married 1872)

The Marquis de Doom of Peking, China (Married 1874)

Reginald Caine of (illegible) County, California (Married 1875)

George Hightower of Newport Beach, California (Married 1877)

You'll flip when you meet Madame Leota

2008-02-17T15:19:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

One of the many changes made in the design phase of the Haunted Mansion was the augmentation of the Seance Room. The original idea for the scene was to turn from the clock hall and see Leota directly from the front at that point and slowly move around her table, behind her chair and then up to the ballroom.

The projection for her face was to come from her spirit cabinet, something practical of most seance rooms at that time.

However, installing a projector at eye level with guests would most likely ruin the effect as it would be noticed quite easily. Also, one of the great effects of Mansion is to come into the seance with guests facing the back of the chair and hearing Leota's incantations. When coming around we see that she is not in the chair, but in the ball itself. Though the effect was updated to make her ball float, you still do not see her until 1/4th of the way into the room. Though the scene was flipped, the cabinet is still behind her in Disneyland.

The Widow(er)s Walk

2008-02-10T07:37:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

I know I don't often delve into the Haunted Mansion movie, but I have found some pictures in the archives that would support a post I have been meaning to make for a while now.

In the Haunted Mansion movie, the facade is a great mish-mash of the facades of the Haunted Mansion's around the world. Though I know that not many have probably studied the facade as much as I have, or have had the patience to sit through the movie, I have found this neat little detail.

High above the conservatory set is a widows walk. In the movie it is mostly ignored but now if you watch, you will know where to look. I am told that the door was even accessible from inside of the facade itself.

Eyes in the Wallpaper

2008-02-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Everyone may be looking at this title and automatically be thinking of the Corridor of Doors. While it is true that there are abstract faces in the wallpaper there, that is not the only intentional eye motif seen in a Mansion.

Many of the wallpapers in the Mansions are Damask patterns. Some naturally appear to have hidden faces or eyes in them when in reality, it is not intentional. However, this week we hop across the pond to Disneyland Paris' Phantom Manor.

The bride has aged horribly in all of our encounters and continues to do so as we progress through the Manor. Her last living appearance before we travel to the Underworld is in her private boudior. The entire room has a lilly theme, on the gramophone, the lamps, the wallpaper, all signifying her closeness to death. However, hidden in the wallpaper border at the top of the room made of entangled Lillys are menacing eyes.

Disneyland Mansion Reopened and Creepy Collectables

2008-01-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week I am going to show you some great photos taken by LeotasChild for the reopening of the Disneyland Haunted Mansion. Though not a lot has changed during the rehab (at least, not the rumored changes of upgrades like the WDW Mansion), it has received a few small upgrades, including the new stenciling on the Load, Unload and Upramp belts to resemble and endlessly moving carpet runner.

Also, this week, LeotasChild has featured me on her Haunted Mansion Collectables blog. There are some great pictures of peoples collections. As I have sent a lot of photos in, not all will be featured this week, so check back next week for even more! LINK TO BLOG

Creepy Creeps with Eerie Eyes

2008-01-21T14:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

With the new rehab at Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion, the original Sinister 11 portraits have been placed elsewhere in the mansion. The Hatchet Man himself has been placed in the Doombuggy load area. Here I show you the original paint job and now the newly refinished paintwork.

One other thing of interest about this portrait. Since opening day the Hatchet Man (Ghost Host) portrait was the only Sinister 11 portrait to not feature realistic eyes with iris'. Instead, they were two menacing black spots from behind the portrait. Now that the portrait no longer watches, his eyes have been painted in as well.

The Bird of Paradise is an Elegant Bird

2008-01-13T12:23:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

New Orleans Square is full of ironwork. No matter where you look, you find it. The Haunted Mansion facade in itself is made up mostly of ornate ironwork. All ironwork seen on the exterior of the mansion and its grounds came from an ironwork fabrication company based in Tennessee. The pattern name: Bird of Paradise.

I'm On My Way to Mandalay!

2008-01-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Sorry for the non-existant post last week and the late post this week.

My last post discussed something within Disneylands Attic, so I decided to put something up about something hidden in the Walt Disney World attic.

I am not certain if the book is still hidden within the attic, only time and good eyes will tell. On a table that used to be fairly close to the entrance to the attic was a book of sheet music. Found here are images of the book and scans of the pages themselves.

Reginald's OTHER Throne

2007-12-25T15:16:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

First off, Seasons Screamings!

This week, we take a gander at a hidden throne located in the Disneyland Haunted Mansion's Attic. However, I am not too sure how many people want to be seen upon this one.

Yep, hidden within the attics junk, and in this case, what appears to be a chest of drawers is a hidden chamber pot style toilet.

And here we thought that the only toilet style humor you'd find associated with the Haunted Mansion was from Eddie Murphy.

Explorer and Imagineer

2007-12-15T10:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we reveal another attic husband!

Reginald, known for his sour face but also his collection of spoils from around the globe is Walt Disney Imagineer, Jim Crouch. Crouch, a "Themed Paint" art director for Disneyland painted this impressive piece which I believe is in an open edition as a print at Disneyland's Disneyana store on Main Street. Go get a copy, the details alone are amazing!

The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire

2007-12-09T17:56:00.001-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Walt Disney always liked to use his Wonderful World of Disney shows to help promote the parks. In the Disneyland Tencennial special where Julie Rheim was shown around Imagineering, Walt mentioned that the Imagineers were out searching the globe, inviting ghosts from all over the world to come and stay at the Haunted Mansion and thats exactly what they got.

Two notable figures from the Roman empire, Emporers Caesar and Nero. Well, in concept anyway...

Caesar, first seen in this concept rendering by Marc Davis for the Ballroom, was used for the final version of the scene as Caesar appears there even today opposite the Birthday girl.

However, one ghost, Nero has not been featured yet. Marc always had some sort of recoginition for him. In an early concept predating 1969, Marc created a grimacing statue of the Emporer with his fiddle. Later in the 1980's, Marc revisited the idea of featuring Nero in his concept of the Tokyo Disneyland unload area that was not used.

A Show of Hands...

2007-12-02T14:29:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

In each mansion just after the Corridor of Doors and before Madame Leota's Seance is the Clock Hall. This area has drawn inspiration from many Imagineers such as Marc Davis' ghost clock, Ken Andersons clock concepts featuring Grim Reapers, or Rolly Crumps Coffin clock. Though each clock features the same head, body, tail and dimensions, each clock face is slightly different. Excluding the face colors, some clocks feature 12 markings with 13 in place of the 12, and others actually feature 13 different markings. Also, each clock has different hands.

Disneylands clock features wavy looking hands.

Walt Disney Worlds clock features bony fingers.

Tokyo Disneyland appears to just have ornamental pieces, but an abstract face seems present in the hand pointing to 13.

Lastly, Phantom Manor, keeping with its Frontier theme features a half moon and rattlesnake set of hands.

Famous Monsters of... Disney

2007-11-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

One interesting thing about the concept art for some of the ghosts that Marc Davis created is that, some of them were apparently not to be humanoid spirits, but that of Monsters. Three in particular, as seen in these concepts, are the Hatbox Ghost, Gus the Hitch-hiker and the Executioner.

Where in the World is... that demon face...

2007-11-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

One interesting detail that is famous of the mansion is the Corridor of Doors demon faced damask designed wallpaper. However, there are currently 3 incarnations of this wallpaper.

First there is the original design which featured a mottled blue background with various asymetrical faces.

Phantom Manor has its own version of the wallpaper featuring a fully symetrical design.

Lastly, recently added to the refurbished WDW Haunted Mansion is a printed out design with a flat blue background.

The Tower of Terror

2007-11-11T08:33:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

No, this weeks post isn't about another amazing Disney Attraction, so fear not, its about Mansion!

While browsing through my usual favorites on the internet, I came across a posting on BoingBoing for a blog that features animation backgrounds. This blog featured some pretty neat stuff. One set of backgrounds was from the 1937 Disney short, The Lonesome Ghosts. As some know, the Lonesome ghosts have been known to be connected in ways of the Mansion, such as certain sound effects from their short and also being featured in merchandise.

One thing I found interesting about one background featuring their favorite haunt was an architectural detail that looked somewhat fammiliar... Was this detail something later used in the 1971 incarnation of the Mansion? I don't know. You be the judge.

To see more animation backgrounds, please visit this amazing blog.

Faces Faces Everywhere

2007-11-04T12:14:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

I must apoligize for my lack of posts here recently. I just returned from my trip to see the new Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion. I must say, I had seen the mansion prior to rehab, and now. It's a world of difference. The effects are working, the audio is clear and everything shines as though new. If you haven't seen the new mansion yet, I urge you to go take a look if possible. You won't be disappointed.

This week's post is about the new portraits hanging in the Corridor of Doors. These portraits aren't new to Disneyland, in fact, they have been hanging there since opening day. Walt Disney World's corridor has been barren for decades. As mentioned in an earlier post, one corridor portrait was stashed away in the attic, and while a smaller duplicate portrait is now in the corridor, I am not sure of the originals whereabouts. However, in this new collection of photos are a few never before seen.

I must say, I am glad that the Walt Disney World corridor has these. It has always seemed a little empty and adding these great photographs was a simple addition that made the experience more magical.

A Portion of Things To Come

2007-10-21T12:14:00.000-07:00

Grettings Ghost Fans,

I apologize for not posting something last week. I'm on the verge of finding out some really awesome information regarding the new bride, Constance and her husbands. Stay Tuned!

This week however, is a post about Walt Disney Worlds new Music Room scene. The music room once only held the piano, but nothing more in terms of musical instruments. It now contains a piano, violin and chello. But also in this mix of musical instruments is a sheet music stand with what appears to be a reference to what will soon be coming in the graveyard. The stand contains a sheet of music named "Vocal Concert in the Open Air."

If Looks Could Kill

2007-10-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we look at the Mansions newest resident, Constance. There are a few things interesting about each portrait that she is in in the Attic. There are some subtle differences in the portraits, leading up to the last one which is the most dramatic of all, featuring a rose and stance similar that of the Stretch Portrait of the Widow. However, there are a few creative elements to each portrait that should not go overlooked.

First and foremost, Constance gains another pearl necklace with each husband she has. But secondly and possibly my favorite aspect is that with each husband that is wealthier than the last her face goes from a sour grimmace, to a pleased smile.

Jack Has Invaded the Florida Mansion! (Updated)

2007-09-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week I have a slightly different way of reporting a post. This post includes a Spoiler Warning.

At the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion, the Imagineers/Property Asset Managers/Set Decorators (or whomever it may have been), has installed a few references to Jack Skellington and the Tim Burton story, The Nightmare Before Christmas. While I am certain that the ones pictured below aren't the only ones in the mansion, they are a few of them. So if you want to go on your very own Jack Skellington scavenger hunt, then read no further. The following Spoiler contains both descriptions and photos of where they are found.

Alright, you've been warned...
NOTE: All photos in my blog can be clicked on for a larger version. I am making these small as to not spoil it for people passing by to other posts.

One of the first encounters with a Jack reference is in the Library. Below the table with the lamp there is a red book on the floor with a white drawing of Jack on the cover.

Also in the library on the same table is a copy of The Nightmare Before Christmas.

In the attic there is a tiered shelf that contains two champagne flutes and a set of porceline figures (one with the head broken off of course). On the floor to the left of this shelf is another book, similar to the one in the library but with a different drawing of Jack.

Also in the attic is a Jack Snowglobe on a shelf, and where the old bride once stood is a Jack plushie.

These are the ones that have been found so far, but try your hand at finding more!

Haunted Mansion Re-Haunted Photos

2007-09-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

BPGStudios took a fieldtrip to the park today. He came back with some excellent photos of the Haunted Mansion, reopened.

So, for your viewing pleasure, take a gander! If you don't want anything spoiled, read no further.

Things change faster than they should...

2007-09-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Back when the Mansion was in its development stages, the changing portraits had multiple concepts in terms of how they would change. Video loops, multiple slides, etc. For the Disneyland Mansion, the concept eventually went to a simply two stage projection. One lamp would come on and the other extinguished. However, this only allowed for 2 stages. Marc Davis, who created much of the changing portrait concepts, often had many different stages, more than two in most cases. When Walt Disney World opened, its Mansion had the first 6 stage portrait, The Aging Man, or, as he is more widely known now, Master Gracey. One concept was of the Flying Dutchman portrait still seen in Disneyland's Mansion. Many of the stages were released in a 1999, Haunted Mansion 30th Anniversary lenticular. Now, seen here are all of the stages.

In addition, Dan Olson has examined the artwork and, with his vast knowledge, adds the following:

"Did you notice the depiction of "St. Elmo's Fire" in those paintings? An eerie electrical phenomenon. Glowing balls on the ends of masts and yardarms. Even in the last painting there are little white balls on the tips of a couple of them."

For more information on St. Elmo's fire, please refer to the following Wikipedia article: St. Elmo's Fire.

The Mysterious Mismatched Roofline of Doom

2007-09-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

At the Ghost Relations Dept, I sift through thousands of photos and artwork each week to support my blog posts. However, there is something I have noticed for a long time but never really brought up.

In 1957, Ken Anderson did a preliminary sketch of a house which pretty much became the design plan for the Disneyland Mansion facade we know today. He based this sketch off of a house in Baltimore, MD.

However, there was one slight flaw in his original sketch. The 2nd floor balcony roofline matches greatly one on side of the columns, but on the other side has gone it has gone off kilter. Considering that his sketch was pretty much a copy of the photo of the house, it makes one wonder what was happening here.

Artist Sam McKim took Andersons original sketch and turned it into a concept painting. However, McKim did not change the roofline either. So today, one of the most famous Mansion illustrations has a flaw that has gone mostly unnoticed for over 5 decades.

A Chilling Challenge: Knock Down the Zombies

2007-08-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week, we take a look at what appears to be a continuity error from The Haunted Mansion film. What is now an error was originally from a small part of the plot, deemed to... corny to be released with the final film.

When Jim and Megan are down in the Crypt searching for the key, they unknowingly wake the dead and then struggle to escape. At one point, Megan backs up against a wall and is then helped up by Jim. But whats this? The zombies are up on the platform as well, even some are blocking the bridge that they are standing on. After a quick shot of their feet running, the zombies have disappeared. Where did they go?

The answer is this: In an earlier version of the movie, once Jim helped Megan onto the platform, they were surrounded by zombies with no way of escape. By Megans suggestion, Jim could twirl her around, like he used to when she was a baby. By using her body as an old style slingshot, they knocked the zombies down and some off of the platform entirely allowing them to escape. This part of the film was shot entirely and was even shown to early test audiences, but it was felt that it ruined the scene altogether.

A Happy Haunted Anniversary

2007-08-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

As a little treat for the 38th anniversary of Disneyland's Haunted Mansion, I have created a few wallpapers for your downloading pleasure. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Click each of the wallpapers for a larger version.

Haunted Elegance: The Foyer

2007-07-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

For the Haunted Mansion Movie, there was a great concept created for many of the set pieces seen. For some sets, The Ballroom, The Library and the Foyer, there were two versions of the same set. There was the normal version, and then the Haunted version. Even the exterior had some plans of being less haunted than what we saw in the movie. In example here, there are two photos of the Foyer set. The before features brighter colors and more decoration, it also features the normal versions of the changing portraits (later to be put into a new set). One of the key features of this set are the two statues that adorn the clock over the entrance of the Armory. The normal versions, which were rented from a Hollywood prop house feature two women with their candleabras held high. The after versions (created by the studio), feature the women as shrouded figures, no longer holding their lights high. These styles of hooded/shrouded figures are found in many places in the movie.

Going his way?

2007-07-22T20:35:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

It appears that one of the Hitch-Hikers finally got out of the mansion and has gone abroad. Ezra has made himself a nice living as a ticket seller for the Ghost Train of Phantom Canyon in Phantom Manor. What is he selling? One way tickets, essentially to the Thunder Mesa from Hell. The cost? 20 dollars. Its ok though, its just pretend money.

Cousin Victor

2007-07-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Back in the late 1960's when Disneyland still had its original queue graveyard, one of the tombstones not later transplanted to Walt Disney World was for Cousin Victor.

Cousin Victor is actually a play on the name of Imaginere Vic Greene. Vic Greene oversaw many architectural projects in the parks as a land planner and also a draftsman for many key locations within the park. Vic was also the Art Director for Disneyland's Jungle Cruise. His main contribution for The Haunted Mansion, both at Disneyland and Disney World was the overseeing of architectural elements both outside and in.

(NOTE: In keeping on the mouse's good side, I have blurred out the measurements for this tombstone.)

Do You Hear Something?

2007-07-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we take a look, and listen to something that has been playing at the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion for decades while many people have never noticed. The US Mansion Graveyards are nearly idenical in terms of effects, character placement and the like. However, Walt Disney World has had one audio track that Disneyland hasn't.

At the Hearse Tea Party, three ghostly guests enjoy some tea while another ghost sits atop a rock nearby. These three, are the monotonous singers normally heard while riding by. But there is one more singing that most have never heard. His technical name is the Hearse Background Vocal, but I have come to name him the La La singer. This character was voiced by Alan Davies, the same vocalist who voiced the Mummy only a few feet away.

Click HERE to listen to a sampling of the La La singer.

How much is that Ghostie in the window?

2007-07-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we look at Phantom Manor. Yeah, I know I haven't done too much on the subject of the Manor, but I haven't visited it... yet.

Phantom Manor was a very different mansion than what we had already seen in the United States and in Japan. Being the most recent mansion, some of the Imagineer's artists styles are a little different than what we knew in the past. Dan Goozee created an amazing concept of the Manor's facade with many spooky details. In fact, this small portion of a concept actually came to fruition. In some of the windows of the Manor, you can spot the shadowy figure of the Bride and the Phantom. Seen in this concept we have a ghostly form standin in the 2nd floor window. It's sad, these great details mostly go unnoticed.

My Glass Is Run...

2007-06-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Ever wonder what some of the non-anagram sayings on the graveyard tombstones say? Some are just old sayings like Memento Mori (Remember Death), but then there is also My Glass Is Run. The message is simple enough but where did it come from?

The line comes from a poem called Tichborne's Elegy. It was written by Chidiock Tichborne shortly before his death for practicing Catholicism in a time when doing which in England was a punishable offence.

Ticheborne's Elegy

My prime of youth is but a frost of cares,
My feast of joy is but a dish of pain,
My crop of corn is but a field of tares,
And all my good is but vain hope of gain;
The day is past, and yet I saw no sun,
And now I live, and now my life is done.

My tale was heard and yet it was not told,
My fruit is fallen, and yet my leaves are green,
My youth is spent and yet I am not old,
I saw the world and yet I was not seen;
My thread is cut and yet it is not spun,
And now I live, and now my life is done.

I sought my death and found it in my womb,
I looked for life and saw it was a shade,
I trod the earth and knew it was my tomb,
And now I die, and now I was but made;
My glass is full, and now my glass is run,
And now I live, and now my life is done.

I want to give GREAT THANKS this week to Dan Olson for doing the research of this topic, pretty much all of the hard work.

In Memory of our Patriarch...

2007-06-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

In celebration of Fathers Day, we look at a few pieces of artwork created by our Patriarch, Dear Departed Grandpa Marc. These are a few select pieces that he did for mansion. Davis' concepts for mansion alone reach into the hundereds, if not thousands.

A Picture Is Worth 999 Words

2007-06-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

I know I have been focusing on Walt Disney World's Haunted Mansion here lately quite a bit. Since I came back, I have a lot of brand new information about it and with its rehab, I am posting on a few things that most likely won't be there when it returns in September. However, new information about the Disneyland Haunted Mansion is arising and I will be making more posts along those lines eventually.

This week, we take a gander at the Sinister 11. It is said that the portraits have been removed and a new scene, which is similar is taking its place during this rehab. All of the portraits feature something interesting. Many characters were leftover changing portrait concepts that were unused. One painting featured our Ghost Host, another the Mariner from an old sub-plot, and others just feature characters inspired by concept art of ghosts.

One portrait, which features a woman standing behind her seated husband was to be a changing portrait featuring the wife choking her husband. While this is interesting, there appears to be something MUCH MORE interesting lurking in the background of their Victorian setting. There is a vase with a plant but also a painting on the wall. What is this painting you ask?

Its a landscape of a fammiliar old house. The Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion. There is some speculation as to what is being seen, wether it truly is the WDW Haunted Mansion, but if you look closely, the tower is defined, the dome on the top is very similar, you can even see the concrete railing outside of the conservatory with urns on top. Some even speculate that Tom Sawyers Island is visible on the left side of the painting with the river. What is also interesting is that it is VERY similar in style of Sam McKim's painting of a Ken Anderson concept of the Disneyland Haunted Mansion from 1958.

"Stop reading and get in your doombuggy!"

2007-06-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we have yet another wondeful post about.. BOOKS! Yes, indeed, books. The mansion is full of them. Books in the library, books in the ballroom and books in the attic. However, there are even a few more books sitting around the mansion. One book in particular that many know of is the one on the table in the Walt Disney World load area. Many have said that the book, a dictionary, is on the page of Death and Ghost and other spooky words. Well, indeed, the book is placed on a page full of spooky words. This page features the words Ghost through Ghoulish. I guess sometimes that even Ghost Writers need help spelling.

Tickets Please...

2007-05-27T12:25:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Today when you purchase your tickets for Disney Theme Parks, you pay one fee and can visit any attraction as many times as you would like. Prior to the early 1980's, you actually paid an entrance fee and bought Ticket Books. These tickets marked A through E, allowed you into attractions with an A through E rating. Haunted Mansion was an E ticket due to its high popularity.

At Disneyland, guests were prompted about the attraction using one E-Ticket to enter via a sign. At Walt Disney World however, in addition to a sign, guests were also told via an unseen voice that they would need to remove their E-Ticket from their booklet for entrance.

This mysterious voice eminated above the heads of those about to enter the stone colonade in front of the house. This was, of course, long before the addition of the front gates, the toppled fountain and hearse. Why, even the green canopy was not there at the time.

This speaker is still in its original location where it isn't seen well from the queue area. If you stand near the hearse you can see it slightly, but the best viewing is from the Liberty Belle Riverboat.

An Interesting Read...

2007-05-20T19:26:00.001-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

I am back from a fun filled trip to Walt Disney World. I rode mansion about... I would say 75 times. I was glad to be able to see it before it goes down for rehab, but I am also aware that it needs the help.

Anyway, onto this weeks topic.

Due to the Mansion's dim lighting, many pieces of woodwork in the sets are actually flat faced and do not jut out into the rooms. For instance, the back wall of the ballroom is entirely flat, but using special painting techniques, it gives the illusion of depth. The Walt Disney World library scene also uses this effect for the most part. About 15 - 20 books in the library shelves are real, all of the other books and shelves are painted on, but given the dim lighting, it appears that hundereds of volumes line the shelves. One other thing that they do is scribble on a few lines to appear that the books have titles, but in reality they don't... well... most don't.

Since the library walls were created in California over 35 years ago, they held two books with actual titles. Side by side, possibly a two volume set: "The Art of Deception" by Claude Coates. These books are located to the right of the male bust with the beard on the lower shelves of the library.

Kat Cressida

2007-05-13T06:45:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Before I make my first trip ever to Walt Disney World later today, I felt I should leave you with quite a blog posting. Kat Cressida, Voice of Constance, the axe-wielding bride in Disneyland Haunted Mansion’s Attic has provided the Ghost Relations Department with an interview. It was truly an honor to interview this famous Voice Actress and without further delay, the interview!

GRD: About how many years have you worked in the field of Voice Over acting?

KAT: I started working in it while still working in OnCamera, Around 1998. I was mostly doing sitcoms and 1-hour TV drams and felt like I wanted to be more creative. In OnCamera you mostly get typecast based on looks. Since I was a cute, petite blonde, I mostly played ditsy girlfriends or upbeat, quirky characters. It felt like time for something that drew upon more of my training (Shakespeare Major at UC-Berkeley and Grade of A.C.T. in SF)

GRD: How many years of which have been working for Disney?

KAT: Well, technically speaking, I don’t really “work for Disney”. I’m not am employee; Voice Over Artists are on a contract to contract basis, freelance repped by their agents. But if you mean, how long I have been fortunate enough to be doing VO gigs for the Mouse, I think my first one was in 1999, on “TARZAN” (the animated feature). Around that time I also did narration for Walt Disney Records, and after that, I did a lot of “TOY STORY 2” projects (as “Jessie the Cowgirl”) and recording for “CHICKEN LITTLE” and (the previous incarnation of) “TOY STORY 3”. I’d also done various recordings for the Disneyland Park and Walt Disney World. And I have also done a lot of announcer work for ESPN (owned by Disney) and Disney Online and Disney Cruises. I did animation VO for “THE CAT RETURNS” for Miyazaki, released through Disney. Currently I’m incredibly lucky to be recording for “THE TINKERBELL MOVIE” for Disney Animation. I also did a couple of small parts for “UNDERDOG”, (coming out this Summer), I am also grateful for all of it.

GRD: What other roles have you played in Disney Theme Parks?

KAT: I’m the little girl lost in the 4th dimension in the TOWER OF TERROR boiler room at DISNEY’S CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE. I’ve also voiced “Jessie” (TOY STORY 2) for various shows inside the Park, “WOODY’S ROUNDUP” at the GOLDEN HORSESHOE and last year, at their PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, and another incarnation of “WOODY’S ROUNDUP”.

GRD: How did the opportunity arise to audition for the part of the Black Widow Bride?

KAT: They had been seeing gals for a couple of months. I was fortunate that the casting director had worked with me before and brought me straight into callbacks. My phone rang and when I heard what it was for, I think I stopped breathing for a moment. I was raised going to the Parks, and that attraction, it seemed surreal to even audition for something as classic and timeless as the Mansion.

GRD: How many other people were auditioning do you know of?

KAT: I honestly don’t know. They’re always very thorough and go through a few rounds; just to be sure they’ve brought in all the possible actors who fit a particular role. But only the executive producers and the casting folk would know exactly how many gals were considered.

GRD: Could you tell us what it was like to go in and audition? What were they looking for originally?

KAT: Well, as anyone fortunate enough to work for Disney can share, we’re not really allowed to discuss anything that happens within the walls of Imagineering... Part of the Magic. I can say personally that we were given only a vague notion of what exactly the project was, again part of how Disney handles keeping secrets... secret. And I can share that, as I expressed earlier, I was almost in a state of disbelieve that I might actually be reading to do something akin to the incomparable Eleanor Audley or Leota Toombs… I don’t think I entirely believed any of it, but I did come as prepared as was viable given the information provided, and, if you’ll pardon the bad bride pun, put my whole heart into the process. I think I figured, I might never get to be a part of the final project, but at least for those few seconds, I could feel a part of Disney history.

GRD: Including your role as the Black Widow Bride, what would you consider to be your most favorite of Disney Voice Over works?

KAT: It’s kind of hard to top the Bride… But working on “The Tinkerbell Movie” has been just incredible. There’s no other word really: Magic.

GRD: Which Imagineers were involved on the project that you got to work
with for the Black Widow Bride?

KAT: As you can imagine, not really something I am in a position to share. Public knowledge: The Senior Head of Casting for the Disney Theme Parks worldwide is a fantastically talented gentleman by the name of Brian Nefsky. He of course would have been involved at the earlier stages, in finding folk to bring before the producers and Imagineers.

GRD: In an interview at Doombuggies.com, you mentioned your father worked for Disney. Would you say that your enjoyment of Disney was for some part his inspiration for you?

KAT: I actually have clarified on a few of these interviews: He did not work for Disney directly. He was a freelance graphic artist involved with Marketing/P.R., and had the opportunity to meet some of the very special folk originally involved with the Parks and their classic attractions.

GRD: If you were given the opportunity to be a character in any one other Disneyland ride (that you aren’t in already), which would it be and what would you do?

KAT: There’s so many incredible attractions and dimensions to the Disney Theme Parks – I could never narrow my wishes! I would say my absolute favorite part of Disneyland – because it’s so strongly entrenched in my memory of the Park as a child – is Tom Sawyer’s Island… To a youngster, it’s enchanting to have been given “free reign” among the rock castles, barrel bridges, forts and tree houses and haunted caverns on those sandy shores… I think it would be... just amazing to lend a voice somewhere upon that Isle.

GRD: I want to thank you Kat for your time and also being gracious enough to afford this little Mansion fan an excellent interview. Not only do I get to see the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion in only hours, but I have learned a great deal from someone who is now part of Haunted Mansion History.

KAT: Thank you. It’s an honor that you and your readers care so much about one VO Gal’s thoughts.

To learn more about Kat’s Career with Disney and otherwise, you can visit her website, Kat Cressida.com or you can hear her other interview on Doombuggies.com. I also highly recommend listening to her compelling tale “Nuptial Doom”, also available from Doombuggies.com

The Ever-Changing Hatchetman

2007-05-06T21:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week, we take a look at a mysterious resident of the Haunted Mansion.

For many years, the painting of the Hatchet Man has resided in the Corridor of Doors at Disneyland. In fact, the painting has been there since opening day in 1969. A variation of the painting resides in the Sinister 11 of Walt Disney World and Tokyo Disneyland as well. What is interesting is that numerous incarnations of this painting have resided in the Disneyland mansion.

While I do not have photos of every version, this will give you a slight sampling of the different art styles seen through the years.

Also, to settle a long debate: These paintings ARE the Ghost Hosts visual incarnation. The Ghost Host is NOT Master Gracey. Master Gracey is the formal portrait hanging above the Foyer Fireplace at Walt Disney World and now in the Portrait Hall of Disneyland. A piece of concept art has named this portrait (seen above) as the Ghost Host as drawn out by Marc Davis himself.

A Portrait of Screams To Come

2007-04-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

The Disneyland and Walt Disney World Haunted Mansions have several notable differences in terms of scenes, props, etc. One other thing is that small details in the ride also change from mansion to mansion. For instance, Disneyland has a series of photos lining their Corridor of Doors. These "family photos" are of dressed up popup ghosts later to be seen in the graveyard. Walt Disney World's Haunted Mansion does not feature these great photos, or does it?

Riding through the attic, there is a large amount of antiques from all over the world. But wait! Is that a Main Street Horse Hitching Post?! It is! Oh wait, we already talked about that... But what is that on the other side of the photo amid some empty frames?

Why, it appears to be one of the family photos from the Corridor of Doors at Disneyland!

Yes, indeed it is! This begins a new mystery. Are there more hidden portraits in the attic? If so, were these to go into the Corridor? Why aren't they there now? Only time will tell!

Reginald Pirates from Jack

2007-04-22T07:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

continuing a topic from last week, we move onto Reginald, Constance's 4th husband. Reginald was an explorer. Many of his spoils are seen around his portrait in the attic. In his portrait he is seated in a very nice chair. This chair is the same as the ones featured in the Haunted Mansion Movie Ballroom.

What is more interesting is that, The Haunted Mansion is not the only attraction in New Olreans Square with this chair. Captain Jack in the Treasure Room at the end of Pirates of the Caribbean is lounging in one as well!

With my own bit of added speculation, Haunted Mansion is a present day affair. Pirates of the Caribbean happened in the past. Perhaps on one of his many adventures, Reginald stumbled upon an old ornate chair in a Spanish treasure room and decided to bring it home.

I want to give credit for the second photo to the amazing photographer Jack (a.k.a. Hollywood1939 from the MiceChat message board). Be sure to check out his other photos, they are amazing!

George the Imagineer and his Movie Style Wedding

2007-04-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Many people who disliked the Haunted Mansion movie feared that all movie tie-ins to the actual mansion would be disasterous. Many people know my stance on the film, everything but the acting and story were massivly enjoyable. But it appears that one or more movie tie-ins slipped into the mansion without many people noticing.

In the new Disneyland Attic, Constance has displayed for us, the haunted portraits of her previous husbands. Her most recent husband George actually has a secret identity (like the other portrait characters). George's real name is Rick Rothschild. Rick is a Walt Disney Imagineer who has helped on such projects as Disney's Animal Kingdom and Stitch's Great Escape.

Click the image for a larger size.

It appears that his wedding to Constance was given quite the movie treatment as well. For their wedding photo was taken in the Ballroom of the Haunted Mansion movie. While its only a sketch, this artwork was the concept created by production designer Nathan Schroeder. His concepts alone for the movie were amazing and awe-inspiring.

Stay tuned for next week when we take another small look at something that has snuck into the mansion from its Hollywood counterpart.

Special Thanks to Daveland for the use of his attic photo. View his many photos at his blog, listed in our links section.

- Ghost Relations Dept.

Priceless Works of Art...

2007-04-08T19:19:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

this week we take a look at an aspect of the Haunted Mansion film. While many people dislike the movie because of the story and the acting, I feel it is a shame that people do not accept it on the merit of its sets, score, makeup, visual effects and costumes. These alone made me love the movie.

Some time ago, I posted about the Portrait, The Armageddon, which was never displayed in the film. However, all before stages of the changing portraits were based on real works of art.

First is Medusa. The original concept of the painting was "Portrait of a Roman Lady" done by Sir Fredrick Leighton. The image for the actual Medusa head was from a sheild painted by Carvaggio.

Next is the Horseman painting. This painting was entitled "Napoleon at St. Bernard", by artist Jacques Louis-David. This is possibly the most recognized painting of Napoleon to date.

The Armageddon. While the images don't perfectly match when they change, they are still similar. The original painting was entitled "Carnival Scene", by artist Giovanni Tiepolo.

Lastly is a mystery... I have done research but I cannot seem to find who created this painting. I assumed that it was Louis-David as well and perhaps it was a painting of Josephine Bonapart. In all of my searches, I have only found one painting, however, it is not this one. The painting in question actually features a man standing (possibly Napoleon), with this painting hanging in the background. However, this painting was part of a photoshop contest on the amazing website, Worth1000. The photoshopped version of the painting can be found here. I contacted the artist to find out more and I will update as soon as I know. If anyone out there knows, I would be grateful for any information.

NOTE! ManorRecluse has come forth with information about the painting. It is titled "Portrait Of Juliette Recamier" by Gérard, François-Pascal-Simon. A Million thanks goes out to you ManorRecluse for solving this mystery!

Until next time...

-Ghost Relations Dept.

No Strings Attached

2007-04-01T15:44:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

When the Haunted Mansion first opened at Disneyland, there were a few small enhancement props not there today.

One small enhancement to the attic were randomly placed black strings. In the shows low lighting conditions, the black strings were virtually invisible. As the doombuggies crept through the attic, the black strings would hit the guests giving the feeling of spiderwebs brushing against the skin.

According to X. Atencio, it was an impressive effect, but the more that guests would go through, they would soon figure out where the strings were and within hours, all of the strings would be gone.

NOTE: Thanks to the posters at MiceChat for giving a great idea for a topic!

Shhhhh Listen! - Happy Blogiversary!

2007-03-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Today marks a special occasion. The Ghost Relations Dept blog has been online for one year today! That being said, today's post is a big one!

Today we look at something that wasn't, then was, and now isn't again.

Back in the planning stages of the Haunted Mansion, elements from one part of the show could have been used elsewhere first, and transferred later.

As the Doombuggies travel to the second floor of the mansion, the Ghost Host exclaims, "Every room has wall to wall creeps, and hot and cold running chills.... Shhhh.... Listen...." At this point we are at the endless hall where candles slowly float back and forth. In 1995, the added lines about the Conservatory and Madame Leota were added back into the ride dialog. Some people thought that these lines were out of place, afterall, the Ghost Host just told us to be quiet so that we could hear the conservatory and the corridor screams... or did he? In the early planning stages of the Endless Hall, the candles were not even there. The main effect with the endless hall was to be the sound of ghostly footsteps clanking closer and closer to the entrance of the hall, even coming as far as a few feet in front of the doombuggies. With each step, the sheer force of the sound would rattle the nearby suit of armor. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE FOOTSTEPS

In fact, with the placement of the speakers, it appears that this effect would have been an early type of surround sound as the audio would move from speaker to speaker as it came closer.

As the planning for Disneyland continued, Walt Disney World was also being planned. The Mansion at Disney World has a few more show scenes than Disneyland. Its first scene once on the ride is a small staircase and balcony with floating candles. Why would the Haunted Mansion have one set of candles on a staircase, then another set later? It would be redundant. Documentation shows that the only prop even near the endless hall was to be the suit of armor.

One area of interest for Disneyland Mansion was that instead of the floating candles to appear in the endless hall, they were to be floating with all of the other floating objects, the Seance. While the blueprint here only shows candles, an alternate blueprint set with the effects labeled clearly reads Floating Candleabra on the right hand side of the room near the Floating Drum.

Reasoning as to why the effect never came to be, was possibly because of the speed of the doombuggies. The slow clanking wouldn't be moving fast enough to really give the feeling that something was walking forward. This in turn makes the Ghost Host line about "Shhhh.... Listen" a little out of place.

NOTE: Thanks to Dan Olsen for bringing the missing candles to my attention!

As a last reminder: this is the final week of voting for the Disney Dream Job contest from CareerBuilder.com I need all of the votes I can get. I appreciate all of them!

http://www.careerbuilder.com/disneydreamjobs/dream-job-applicant.asp?jtid=3&ytid=CuWI2eLknds

Thanks again, and Happy Blogiversary!

-- The Ghost Relations Dept.

Re-wallpapering on a Stretched Budget

2007-03-18T08:08:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

For years now there has been some debate as to various aspects of the Osmonds 1970 TV special featuring the Haunted Mansion. Much of the ride portion of the special was from a Super 8 reel featuring scenes from the ride. This was interspliced with film of the Osmonds on their tour. One common question however is to what mansion they are really in when they are in the stretch room. In the special, the stretch room appears to have Grey and White stripes, the style seen in the Walt Disney World mansion, whereas the current Disneyland Mansion has an assortment of red's and green's. Could it be that the Osmonds were taken to Florida to film this scene? Not likely. The Mansion itself wasn't fully finished yet.

After more study of the other details of the room, the portrait frames, the ceiling molding, it is apparent that at some point or another, the Disneyland Mansion had similar, if not the same wallpaper as currently seen in Walt Disney World.

And just a reminder from last weeks post: I am still running for one of the top 5 spots for the Haunted Mansion Butler contest. Please visit the following link and vote for me. There is no signing up to vote, simply click "This one gets my vote!" a popup window will appear and you can vote there. It takes 10 seconds tops. So please, help me get my dream job as a Haunted Mansion Butler.

http://www.careerbuilder.com/disneydreamjobs/dream-job-applicant.asp?jtid=3&ytid=CuWI2eLknds

NOTE: I want to thank BPGStudios for the images from the Osmond Special and also for the information.

I need to Axe you a favor...

2007-03-11T20:12:00.000-07:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week, we look to the past for answers to things we see in the present. Currently at Disneyland, the attic is now home to Constance, and the haunted portraits of her 5 suitors. Many feel that this character is way out of place. Perhaps that the original Imagineers would NEVER want something like this.

However, in 1968, Marc Davis created a concept for a changing portrait of a bride that murders her husband with an axe...

But Wait! There's More!

Readers, I don't feel I ask of anything other than you enjoy reading my posts. Well, I have a favor to ask of you. CareerBuilder.com and Disney Destinations have created a Disney Dream Job contest. With this contest, 25 winners will get to be Parade Performers, Princesses, Pirates, Jungle Cruise Skippers and lastly, Haunted Mansion Maids and Butlers. I have made it to the finals and I am now competing with 18 other finalists for 1 of 5 spots to be a Haunted Mansion Cast Member. I ask only that you visit the following link and vote for me. You can vote as many times as you want, and I would be grateful for anything.

http://www.careerbuilder.com/disneydreamjobs/dream-job-applicant.asp?jtid=3&ytid=CuWI2eLknds

Thank you,

The Ghost Relations Dept.

Only REAL Ghost Stories, Of Course...

2007-03-04T06:42:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

The first order of business this week is an apology. I am sorry about not posting a new blog topic last Sunday. Unfortunately for me, I was stuck in O'Hare Airport! But, I digress. The coming weeks blog entries will surely be interesting enough!

So... on to this weeks blog topic!

When doing research for the Haunted Mansion, Imagineers read books and books on Ghosts, Hauntings, Demons, etc. Sometimes they would draw off of ancient lore about ghosts in order to create new characters. One such case, The Phantom Drummer of Tedworth.

"An early Poltergeist case around 1666, that was recorded by the Reverend Joseph Glanvill, who lived in a house at the present site of the Zouch Manor in Wiltshire. Two girls were occupying a bedroom from which they could hear a "strange drumming". It was thought that the sound was coming from "behind the bolster", though some believed the girls themselves were the cause. They were later cleared of speculation however, and the Reverend noted that he could find no "trick, contrivance or common cause" to explain it."*

*http://www.unexplained-mysteries.com/viewarticle.php?id=53

They say what?

2007-02-20T16:09:00.000-08:00

Greetings Mortals,

In the Graveyard, there are many tombstones letting us know that there are indeed 999 Happy Haunts within the mansion. Sadly, it is too dark to get a glimpse as to who might be buried there.

In the family plots outside of the mansion, there are names of the creators of the mansions. However, the tombstones inside are a little more... cryptic...

The tombstones in the Graveyard have anagrams in many cases, celebrating the Imagineers who had parts in the mansion, but not larger tombstones. For instance,

Harriet Burns
Ron Stevens
Ken Forsee

These are ones that can be made out so far. However, there are others such as TREBOP LLEWE.

NOTE - It has been reported that TREBOP LLEWE is actually an anagram for Robert Sewell. It appears that the tombstones can be missing letters as well for the anagrams.

Other tombstones feature Latin sayings such as Memento Mori, some have Hourglass patterns with "My Glass is Run." In one case, in the Disneyland Mansion, one is pretty obvious, Jay, the man who bought his own tombstone within the mansion. Below is a small collection of a few of the graveyard tombstones.

More Multi-purpose heads

2007-02-11T20:24:00.000-08:00

Greetings Mortals!

As stated in an earlier post, many heads in the parks are re-used from one character in one attraction, to a character in another, and sometimes, the same head is used many times in an attraction and is never noticed to be the same.

In these photos, heads can be see not only for Piratical counterparts, but for mansion ghosts. In these photos we see heads for, the man next to the birthday girl in the ballroom (also the pooped pirate), the ballroom king (also someone in line to be dunked and a jail cell pirate), the Caretaker (also one of the people in lined to be dunked), and others.

Censoring what we never saw

2007-02-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

Greetings Mortals!

In the 2003 film version of The Haunted Mansion, one of the nicer aspects of the film were the paintings created (and recreated) by Gunnar Ahmer. While most of the paintings emulated what we see in the mansion, one painting did not. This painting was entitled The Armageddon.

The original area for the paintings themselves was not in a portrait hall like what we see at Disneyland, but rather in the foyer above the grand staircase. If you look closely, you can still see the paintings there.

The Armageddon painting was very graphic. As Ramsley shown the Evers to their rooms, they would walk past the painting and he would tell about the fall of man. The original painting of the after stage had to be repainted however. Disney felt that, while the painting as a whole was graphic, one area seemed to be a little too lewd for their standards. So, the final version, which never really got screen time in the film, was altered to what we see below.

Pushing Castmembers Buttons

2007-01-28T08:24:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

The Mansions across the world are abound with tiny details, most of which people will never see. This is part of Imagineering Magic.

However, there is one close detail that people see every day at the Mansion but few may recognize it. The buttons on the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion Butler's vests have the Walt Disney World castle on them. Other incarnations of the button feature the castle, the old Disney World Logo and text, and some feature other icons of Walt Disney World past.

The Horseman's True Identity

2007-01-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

With all of the lore surrounding the Haunted Mansion, both official and fan based, characters get named and renamed. Some get renamed out of fan enjoyment, others get named because thus far, they have no name. Many characters in the Ghostly Gallery series were the first time characters have ever been given a name.

However, what about characters that were missing? The best way to describe them is by what we see. For instance, the man on horseback who gets stuck by lightning may be called The Horseman or The Knight. However, he has an official name.

Thats right, the man on the horse's official name is: The Black Prince.

WEEKLY NOTE: All images in the blog can be viewed at a larger size by clicking on them. I also encourage you to comment or send me an e-mail if you wish.

Pounding the Keys and Ramming the Organ

2007-01-14T11:14:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

This week we will take a gander at a small detail overlooked by many.

Everyone knows that the Ballroom organ from the Disneyland Mansion was from the movie 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. It was from this organ which molds were taken to create organs for the more current mansions. However, did you know that there is more to the organ than meets the eye? The side supports to the left and right of the center of the organ feature a not-so-nautical animal, a ram!

Lightning Up

2007-01-09T14:11:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans,

Perhaps one of the most disappointing scenes in the Walt Disney World Haunted Mansion is the Music Room. Guests have complained for years as to the cheesiness of the cutout of a ghost that slams down on the keys of the piano. However, this is not how the scene originally worked.

Many years ago, the only way that you saw the Phantom Pianist wasn't from the moonlight, but rather lightning from outside the window which would show his shadow temporarily. With the removal of many bright strobe flashes in the attraction, this scene was soon changed as well to not feature lightning.

Madame Leota Meets The Hitch-hiker

2007-01-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

In 1960, The Twilight Zone was just getting started. During its run, it has over five seasons and is still popular today. Another staple of the series was that it featured many famous actors and actresses, large parts and cameos. In the episode, The Hitch-hiker, a girl traveling from New York to California is haunted by a ghostly Hitch-hiker. She finally stops at a payphone to call home to hear her mothers voice. What she gets instead is a shock. The woman who answers tells her that her mother is in shock as her daughter died in an automobile accident. The woman delivering this news is none other than Eleanor Audley, the voice of Madame Leota.

Haunted Holidays!

2006-12-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

Scary Christmas Everyone!

Please enjoy this Ghost Relations Dept. Holiday Wallpaper!

The Stretch Room goes Down(load)

2006-12-17T10:37:00.000-08:00

Greetings Mortals,

For months now I have posted information about the Haunted Mansions. This week, I am going to do something a little different. I now plan to offer downloads. While this won't happen every week, I am sure it will be to your likings.

This week, I offer a set of four wallpapers. I hope you enjoy.

Simply click on the wallpaper then right click and save it as your backround.

Mister West's Best Friend

2006-12-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

At Tokyo Disneyland, a few of the exterior mansion gravestones have had the names augmented from their original counterparts. For instance, Master Gracey is now Mister West.

Tokyo Disneyland also has a pet cemetery like the American counterparts. However, we seem to find that perhaps one pet in particular was the favorite of Mister West. Afterall, Digger is right next to his owners grave and even chained to it.

The Portrait Artist of New Orleans Square

2006-12-03T06:39:00.000-08:00

In 1964, Herb Ryman did an amazing view of New Orleans Square featuring Pirates of the Caribbean, The Sisters of Charity and a lone painter doing what he did best. However, the Haunted Mansion is nowhere in sight... Or is it?

It appears that the painter has been doing paintings of various scenes around New Orleans Square, including, The Haunted Mansion.

Here Lies our Good friend Gordon...

2006-11-19T08:58:00.000-08:00

Greetings Ghost Fans!

This week we have an extra special treat for you, an interview with the composer of the Haunted Mansion Holiday 2001 score, Gordon Goodwin!

It was a great privilege to interview such a musical genius, and I hope you enjoy.

GRD: You have done many scores for movies such as "National Treasure," and "Remember the Titans." How did you get the opportunity to do the score for the original Haunted Mansion Holiday? When were you first approached about doing the score for Haunted Mansion Holiday?

GG: I've worked for the Walt Disney Company for many years. Right out of college I got a job playing in a band on the Coke Terrace in Tomorrowland, then in a variety of other groups, like The Kids of the Kingdom, Dixieland bands, rock 'n roll bands, saxophone quintets, and even The Disneyland Band. My first writing gig for the company was a Mouseketeer Reunion Show, (with Cubby, Tommy, Sharon, et al) and it grew from there. I've worked on live shows and parades for pretty much every Disney park, from Florida to Tokyo to China. So, I was kind of in the system, and knew everybody in the entertainment division when the Haunted Mansion Holiday opportunity came up. I was asked to do the gig by Bruce Healey, the director of music for Disneyland, and I was truly excited to be able to work on such a classic attraction.

GRD: When creating the music for Haunted Mansion Holiday, where did you draw your inspiration for the individual tracks? Was there ever consideration to reference Danny Elfman's score for "The Nightmare Before Christmas?"

GG: That was the very first question I asked at the very first meeting I attended on the project. Do we use songs or themes from the movie? The concept at that time was to reference Danny's score in the mood and compositional language, but we would not be using any actual themes from the film. Of course, they would end up reversing their position on that matter a year later!

GRD: Did you write the lyrics to the Graveyard Christmas Party and did you oversee the recording sessions of the individual singers?

GG: All of the lyrics were written by the project director Steve Davidson, who was the guiding light throughout the entire project. Steve had a clear, organized vision of what he wanted, which is a great help for a composer. Part of my job was to write the vocal arrangements and I did help in the recording of the vocals, working with Bruce and Steve. The singers we had were picked from the best session people in Los Angeles, and we greatly relied on their talents to flesh out the individual characters.

GRD: How long did it take to create the full score for Haunted Mansion Holiday?

GG: It's been a few years since we did the project, but I think I composed and did demos for a few weeks, then played them for Steve. He approved much of it right away, but a few pieces took some tweaking. I remember working to make the Graveyard segment a little wackier, and taking another look at the Attic segment before we got something Steve would buy off on. The orchestration phase, where you flesh the music out for the full orchestra, took a couple of weeks. Then a few days to transfer the synth parts from the demos that we wanted to use in the final mix stuff like the pipe organ and the quirky sounds from the Attic segment. Then, it took a day to record the orchestra, which was done on Stage M on the Paramount Studio Lot, a couple days to record the vocals, then a couple days to mix it.

GRD: Did you create the "Scarols" for the exterior queue area?

GG: The "Scarols" were not created until a year later when they did the infamous revision of the soundtrack, so I was not involved in that.

GRD: In the Disneyland Haunted Mansion's history, X. Atencio used many instruments actually found within the scenes to play the attractions score. Were there ever plans to create music for any internal attraction instruments, such as the Seance instruments or the Attic Piano?

GG: Not really, except for in the Grand Ballroom where that guy plays the pipe organ. I used about 4 different pipe organ samples to get the organ sound on that track. The music I did in the Attic was almost techno in nature and I didn't think a rickety old piano would sit very well in that track. In the Senace room we used a string group with a cool violin solo (played by the great Endre Granat, one of LA's legendary studio musicians) and I didn't want to diffuse the sound with a trumpet or whatever else is hanging from the ceiling in that room. Although I think I stuck in some chimes ("ringing the bell") and maybe a tambourine.

GRD: Why did they change the soundtrack after the first year?

GG: I have learned a great deal from working for Disney over the years. One of my lessons has been the influence of business and politics on art. You learn that sometimes decisions are made that are beyond your sphere of influence, and they may not make sense to you, but there is usually a reason for them. In this case, the story I heard was that some principals from the film decided that, after initially declining to be involved in the project, they did indeed want to participate. These people created these characters and felt they were entitled to have the soundtrack reflect their own values. I can't really blame them. So, just like that, my score was out and a new one was in. They did subsequently restore some of my music after some guest comments (thanks to whoever those folks were!). I had a great experience working on the Haunted Mansion Holiday. Like many of your readers, I have been geeked out about this company since I was a kid, and to get a chance to contribute to the legacy of that classic attraction was an unforgettable experience. I know some guys who are pretty cavalier about working in the theme parks. Not me. I am well aware of the impact the Walt Disney Company has had on our culture, and am only to happy make my small contribution.

Again, I would like to thank Mr. Goodwin for his interview and we wish him the best of luck in his future musical endeavors. You can learn more about Mr. Goodwin by visiting his website at www.gordongoodwin.com/

A long long way from Dixie

2006-11-12T14:43:00.000-08:00

Greetings Mortals,

As many know, the Haunted Mansions have gained some inspiration from real homes across the country. Walt Disney World and Tokyo Disneyland Mansions have some inspiration from the Harry Packer Mansion in Pennsylvania. Disneyland Paris' Phantom Manor draws some inspiration from the 4th Ward Schoolhouse (and possibly the Edward Hopper painting, House by the Railroad). Disneyland's Haunted Mansion has been know to have been inspired by the Evergreen House, which is now part of John Hopkins University. However, there was one photo in the WDI archives that proves to be more of an inspiration than the Evergreen House.

While this post is not intending to discredit the Evergreen house as an inspiration to the Disneyland Haunted Mansion, it is geared more towards what it inspired. The inside of the Evergreen House holds great similarity to the style of architecture found in the Disneyland Haunted Mansion. In one case, a griffin even stands guard at the newell post of a stairwell...

If you are in the Baltimore area, you can tour the Evergreen House for yourself. Visit their website for more details.

A Boy's Best Friend

2006-11-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

In the 1960's when Rolly Crump and Yale Gracey were designing illusions for the Haunted Mansion, they sometimes looked into their personal book collections for ideas. One book that was popular within WED (now WDI) was Popular Mechanics "The Boy Mechanic."

Possibly one of the greatest illusions from this book was Peppers Ghost, which is on a grand scale in the Haunted Mansion Ballroom scene.

This week, I bring you the pages from The Boy Mechanic that inspired the Imagineers to create one of the most jaw-dropping scenes we know in the Haunted Mansion today.

These pages were taken from Project Gutenberg, a website dedicated to displaying older books, now in public domain.

He's Making a List...

2006-10-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sandy Claws has made quite a list, but that snake in the attic just keeps chomping away!

While some names on the list may be random, there are a few which were intentional:

Stevie - Steve Davison, creator of Haunted Mansion Holiday
Gordon - Gordon Goodwin, composer of the 2001 Haunted Mansion Holiday score
Leota - Leota Toombs Thomas - The face of Madame Leota, and the voice and face of Little Leota
Tim - Tim Wollweber - Concept and finalization artist of many things in Haunted Mansion Holiday, including the stretch portraits, changing portraits and seance tarot cards.
Garner & Holt - Garner Holt created the Jack and Oogie Audio-Animatronic figures for Haunted Mansion Holiday.
Paul - Paul Frees - The Ghost Host

There are many more names on the list. Many correspond to someone who was affiliated with either the original Haunted Mansion or with Haunted Mansion Holiday.

But whatever Stevie did, he must have been a REALLY bad boy...

A Galleon of Ghostly Gardeners

2006-10-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Greetings Mortals!

When the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World first opened, many things were different than they are today. The exterior had no gate, no pet cemetery, it didn't even have a hearse, toppled fountain or queue canopy to stay out of the hot weather.

However, one thing existed on the mansion front lawn that doesn't exist there today.

When the Haunted Mansion first opened, there was a large ornate design on the front lawn. It wasn't anything particularly spooky, but more of an intricate design.

Over the years, the design changed into something else, another intricate design, before it vanished into the grassy lawn we know today.