October 2, 1971, the Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat debuts operations at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.  Do you know the back story of Admiral Joe Fowler, a Disney Legend? 

Disney Legend, Joe the “Can do” guy Fowler (July 9, 1894 – December 6, 1993) attended the United States Naval Academy and was a graduate from M.I.T. with a master’s degree in naval architecture. He was a rear admiral of the United States Navy, who after his retirement had an important role in overseeing the construction of Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Joe Fowler was hired as a construction boss for Disneyland. After Disneyland was completed, Fowler stayed on as General Manager of the park for its first 10 years, and assisted with the construction of Walt Disney World. He retired from The Walt Disney Company in 1978 though he continued on as a consultant.

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The dock for the two large ships in Disneyland’s Rivers of America, located across from The Haunted Mansion is named Fowler’s Harbor. One of the buildings is called “Fowler’s Inn”. In 1999, one of the ferries that crosses the Seven Seas Lagoon taking guests from the Ticket and Transportation Center to the Magic Kingdom was renamed Admiral Joe Fowler in his honor; it was originally known as the Magic Kingdom I.

June 14, 1958, The dock in Frontierland and the southwest side of the Rivers of America were named Fowler’s Harbor.

Admiral Joe Fowler was without question, one of the most productive and knowledgeable men in Disney History.

Admiral Fowler, thank you for your service, thank you for the magic, and rest in peace.