In a move that highlights the complexities of Disney enthusiasts, a devoted fan has started a GoFundMe campaign to save the iconic Rivers of America attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. The beloved waterway, a staple of Disney’s classic park experience, is set to be demolished to make way for a new Cars-themed land, sparking a wave of nostalgia and concern among longtime visitors.
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Mock-Gofundme Rings True for Some Fans
In a move that surprised many, one Disney fan and influencer has taken to the internet to ask for money. The GoFundMe campaign, which aims to raise $100,000 to preserve the Rivers of America, was created by X user @ShawnNOrlando. Shawn does not hide the motive behind his campaign, sharing:
“If you are really sad about Rivers Of America and Tom Sawyer Island, prove it with my gofundme. All proceeds goes directly to me and will help your frustrations at the loss of an attraction. The buck stops here (literally)”
https://twitter.com/ShawnNOrlando/status/1823364146898883009
Fans Protest Removal of Historic Disney Attraction
Rivers of America, which debuted in 1971 with the opening of Magic Kingdom Park, offers guests a serene boat ride through a picturesque landscape featuring lush greenery and classic landmarks. It has long been a symbol of the park’s nostalgic charm and storytelling excellence.
The planned Cars-themed land, inspired by the popular Pixar film series, is part of Disney’s ongoing effort to refresh and modernize its attractions. While the new land promises to bring innovative experiences and beloved characters to life, many fans argue that the removal of Rivers of America represents a loss of Disney’s traditional magic.
Shawn’s motives for making the GoFundMe are mostly comical; in comments, Shawn references others who made money off of similar “Save Splash Mountain” campaigns. However, the campaign message, which Shawn says he wrote using ChatGBT, rang true for many guests. The mission says:
“Attention, fellow Disney enthusiasts and preservationists!
As you may have heard, changes are afoot in the magical world of Disney. While progress and innovation are important, there’s something truly special about the classic attractions that have delighted generations. Today, I’m reaching out to rally support to **Save Tom Sawyer Island** – a hidden gem of Magic Kingdom that embodies the spirit of adventure, exploration, and timeless storytelling.
Tom Sawyer Island is not just an attraction; it’s an immersive experience that transports guests to a simpler time, where imagination reigns supreme. From the moment you step onto the raft and cross the Rivers of America, you are whisked away to a world inspired by the literary masterpiece of Mark Twain. The island is a place where both young and old can escape the hustle and bustle of the parks, explore secret caves, cross swaying bridges, and discover hidden treasures.
For many of us, Tom Sawyer Island is more than just a theme park experience; it’s a piece of our childhood, a memory of family vacations, and a reminder of the simple joys of exploration. It’s where countless guests, over the decades, have experienced the magic of wandering through Injun Joe’s Cave, the thrill of Fort Langhorn, and the peaceful serenity of Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn. This island is a place where kids can still be kids, free to roam and imagine, in a way that’s increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world.
We understand that the parks must evolve, but not every piece of history should be sacrificed for the sake of the new. Tom Sawyer Island represents a link to Walt Disney’s vision of a place where the stories of the past are brought to life and where imagination knows no bounds. It’s an authentic piece of Americana that pays homage to the literary and cultural heritage that shaped the very fabric of Disneyland and Walt Disney World.
In a time when so much is changing, let’s stand together to ensure that Tom Sawyer Island remains a place where future generations can find adventure, curiosity, and a connection to the stories that have stood the test of time. Let’s make our voices heard – not just for ourselves, but for the future Disney fans who deserve to experience the timeless charm of this classic attraction.
Join us in our mission to preserve the magic. Share your memories, spread the word, and let Disney know how much Tom Sawyer Island means to you. Because some treasures are too valuable to lose.
#SaveTomSawyerIsland #PreserveTheMagic #DisneyHeritage”
Disney has not officially responded to any of the negative feedback regarding this change. However, the growing momentum of fans online reflects the strong emotional connection that many visitors have with Disney’s traditional attractions. What do you think about this situation?
Liberty Square and Frontierland have always been my favorite areas of the MK for over 50 years. I never thought I would see the Rivers of America and the classic riverboat disappear. Disney seems bent on everything having to be an E-ticket, high throughput, high stimulating attraction these days. They’re taking the “Frontier” out of Frontierland and destroying an iconic scenic and integral design element of the MK!!