On a recent tour of the Disney studios in Burbank, California, Jessica Long, artifact collections curator for the Sisters of Providence, did one of the most important things that artifact collectors do – verify a piece of history.
Jessica visited a restored version of Walt Disney’s office, set up to look like it did in1966.
Adorning one of the walls is a certificate of appreciation from St. Joseph Hospital which is across the street from the studios and is still part of the Sisters of Providence health ministry just as it was in the 1960s.
The certificate is in the secretary’s office. Jessica says that the certificate is in every photo she has seen from that period. The provenance of some of the other items is questionable, however, says an eagle-eyed Jessica.
Walt Disney had a significant involvement with St. Joseph Hospital, primarily driven by his personal experiences. He had health issues that required medical attention, and he became a patient at the hospital.
He was reportedly grateful for the care he received. In appreciation, Disney decided to make a substantial contribution to the hospital. He funded the construction of a new wing, which was intended to enhance the hospital’s capacity to serve the community and improve its facilities.