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When I think about which past versions of lands that I’d love to visit in Disneyland, early Tomorrowland is near the top of that list. Despite lacking the high-tech headliners, the mix of weirdness and ambitious visions of the future in the ’50s and ’60s are fascinating. One attraction that fits this mold is the Monsanto House of the Future. Dave Bossert recently published the book The House of the Future: Walt Disney, MIT, and Monsanto’s Vision of the Future. He does an excellent job presenting the history of this cool attraction.
Dave returns to the Tomorrow Society Podcast to talk about the House of the Future and his book. We dive into the history of this fun attraction that inspired millions of guests. Dave also talks about the research that went into uncovering background and photos of this attraction. It opened in 1957 and was a key part of Tomorrowland for 10 years. Dave explains how much testing went into the House of the Future and how difficult it was to tear it down in 1967.
During this episode, we also talk about how the public perception of plastics has changed in the past 67 years. The optimistic views of this new technology at that time have disappeared today. Our views of corporations have also become less positive, so they don’t work so well as sponsors. Even so, I’m still intrigued by the House of the Future after reading Dave’s book. He describes the advances that it predicted, including flat-screen TVs and door cameras. I really enjoyed talking again with Dave and learning more about what went into his awesome book.
Show Notes: Dave Bossert
If you’re interested in a copy of this book signed by Dave Bossert, go to the Old Mill Press site and use the code “SAVE20” to save 20% at checkout.
Listen to Episode 152 of the Tomorrow Society Podcast where Dave Bossert talked about his book Claude Coats: Walt Disney’s Imagineer. You can also read my review of Dave’s latest book.
Learn more about Dave Bossert and check out all his books at his official website.
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