The History of Disney World's Own Telephone Company

Walt Disney World was a massive undertaking. It required Disney to tackle many of the logistical elements of the resort itself, and that included the telephone system. So Walt Disney Productions formed and ran their own high-tech cutting edge telecom, Vista-United Telecommunications.
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0:00 Intro
0:46 The Vista-Florida Telephone System
3:50 The History of 9-1-1
8:30 Vista-United Telecommunications
11:32 The Sale of Vista-United
12:40 Outro

[@MidwaytoMainStreet]

Thanks for watching everyone! Some folks have asked where I've been these past few months, so I figured I'd put the answer here for anyone curious: Long story short, I decided back in August to stop working on the channel full-time and to treat it like a hobby again. I love making videos and I love learning new things about Disney and theme parks, but the constant grind of feeding the KZbin algorithm every week was souring it. I found myself working on topics I wasn't interested in, or finishing videos before they felt finished, all in service of getting a video out the door. Since the channel was no longer a full-time thing, I also shut down the Patreon campaign back in August as well. So Midway to Main Street will continue, just at a much slower pace. As a hobby, I'll be working on it whenever I'm in the mood, and without having to worry about numbers, I'll be giving each video as much time as it needs to be researched, written, and edited. So while I can't say I know what I'm covering next, I'm hopeful that it'll be a video worth watching!

[@StevenKoehl]

I was just rewatching the 1984 Saul takeover videos like two days ago wondering what had happened to your videos! Welcome back and I hope you’re able to find the fun in making videos again

[@maddog7365]

Just glad to have you back!

[@hebablo]

Does this mean you have to go back to your old day job? I’m sorry TOBBY

[@d_dave7200]

Sad to get less content, but this makes perfect sense. I've been in a similar position before with photography and other things, so I get it. Thanks for the videos you do make -- they're always wonderful :)

[@vincentmusic09]

Glad to have you back, Merry Christmas!

[@DistoryDan]

HES BACK!

[@heatherfigueroa5144]

Merry Christmas Disney Dan

[@vincentmusic09]

Merry Christmas Dan!

[@Palidor19]

Where’s he been? I’ve been missing him

[@parkhopper9671]

Just thinking 🤔. I miss Rob. Hope your doing good. Thanks for all you have given ❤

[@Rdparrottbsu]

Did I just watch a 13 min video about the history of phone in a theme park? YUP and I loved every min of it! Thanks Rob! Have a GBBT! And Merry Christmas

[@DSNYNewscast]

Midway to Main Street... more like Midway to my SUBS FEED!!! Nice to see you back Rob!

[@blanchfield137]

I miss your videos. Hope you are doing well.

[@Kiranoir]

thank goodness you finally uploaded something, happy holidays to you

[@BrewCityGillz]

Quality over quantity… well done once again! Looking forward to the next one (at your own pace). 😁💫🏰

[@LegendaryShots]

Dying for another video, hope to see you back here soon!

[@averyeml]

In general, this video was absolutely crazy, but seeing that 911 is a relatively recent thing in the span of time since the invention of the phone is nuts and seeing that Disney was the first place in the state to do so was even CRAZIER! I’m glad Rob’s found the spark again and chosen to do it the way he’ll be happiest and the most proud of his work- I may not get videos as often, but I’ve always felt he’s like the Game Theorist of ThemeParkTube and I want to keep that vibe. This is awesome. 💙

[@00M_undercover]

Wow, I never knew any of this! Your more hobby approach is welcome even if it means less videos for us viewers. Thanks Rob!

[@cuernimus]

I love the informative nature of your videos, but I also love the last 20 seconds or so with the music, crowds, fountains, and whatnot. If that is your own footage, has anyone ever told you that they would watch much longer videos of just that? Because I would. It is very relaxing.

[@Marylandbrony]

Considering Disney World was the first place with 911 in Florida, they would be able to report the antics of the Floridia man.

[@DisneyDude1928]

The King has Returned, It’s a Christmas Miracle!

[@Rick-vm8bl]

Missing your awesome videos, but totally get it if it's no longer something you enjoy. Hope you're doing well and are happy :)

[@Direpig]

Let me just say that as an avid Disney history fan, your videos rank among my absolute favorites. Your production quality is exceptional, your topics are fascinating and your voice is very good for what you do! I don't know when or if you'll be back, but I'm hoping you make a return soon!

[@13Photodog]

I lived in St. Petersburg (Pinellas County) when the 911 system came on line. There were several billboards put up to educate people. The problem was many of these lowest bidder billboards came from the printer incomplete. One I recall was on 62nd Ave. N. The missing sheet allowed the previous billboard to show through. So the ad read " In Pinellas dial 911 for improved ant and roach killer"

[@fifthrider]

The topics you cover are so rare and unique that it's what sets you apart from those who just grind out topics everyone else covered. Well done!

[@1DawnMarie1]

A Christmas miracle!! So happy to see a new video.

[@RetroFett]

Rob always put out great content, so sad to see that it's been over 2 years since this last video. I hope all is well!

[@thatoneguyyouknow9078]

Hey I know you don’t make many videos anymore, but it would be cool to see you cover a video about the alligators of Disney World, what do they do with them etc

[@lesgobrandon]

Happy to see a new video Rob. Merry Christmas to you and anyone that reads this.

[@marsoelflaco5722]

🎅✌🏽

[@RobRibRab5]

Glad to have you back Rob! Happy holidays!

[@AbbyDee1015]

THIS is the kind of obscure history I’m interested in. Thanks for the great, informative video. And Merry Christmas! :)

[@coachken6130]

I never knew I wanted to hear about Disney's phone system until after watching this video. Thanks😊

[@vanvorst1999]

😎👍 Walt Disney World was the largest urban planning project ever!

[@nathang1996]

Are you ever coming back? We miss your videos 🫡

[@watless100]

I miss this channel. Hope all is well whatever you're up to now 🙌🏾

[@LegendaryShots]

So glad to see you back!!

[@MissMTurner]

I remember in the mid 80s, Pasco County (just north of Tampa Bay and about 90 miles from WDW) was undergoing street name changes to implement their 911 system. Previously, there were multiple smae-name streets within the county and with 911 coming online, every street name needed to be unique. My grandmother's street name changed because of this process.

[@Lafalot54]

Glad you’re back!

[@JeffFrmJoisey]

Fascinating!! I always wondered about the phones in WDW!! Thanks for the "Christmas Present" of an informative Disney video!! I had wondered where you had gone. Don't sell yourself short, your weekly content was great and informational, touching on Disney subjects I had never thought about. No matter the frequency of your videos, I always enjoy watching them and learning something new!!!!!

[@celebrityrog]

The number I remember the most for Disney World… 407-W-Disney.

[@martycrites9255]

Excellent, great info. It got me thinking, with Disney owning its own phone company, did anyone else ever think it was strang Disney never set up a 1 800 number to call for reservations. Back in 1999 and 2001 I had to call long distance and get charged to make my reservations... wow WDW...

[@pt008]

I didn't find it strange or surprising at all, considering how gladly people let themselves get fleeced for everything else about the WD experience.

[@michaeltaylor1603]

Rob, while I can truly say I've missed your vids & boyish charm + energy in their production. I truly understand what you mean. I belong to a forum. I supply a lot of material. It's almost like a "job" When it's not to fun, it's a grind. having said that, Great video! The now defunct AstroWorld themed park had the 1st touch tone phones in Houston, TX. in 1968. Ironically the section music was supplied by reel to reel tape from 1968-2005 when the park closed. LOL! Merry Christmas to you and yours Rob!

[@atropos0754]

More videos please😊

[@AndyRoche]

Thanks for the great video, Rob. I appreciate all the time and effort you put into them and I am glad to hear you are still here as well. I will take whatever you wish to publish at whatever rate since you are always giving me great information and it will be better for it.

[@n8f2f]

It’s so good to have you back! And and all of your videos are greatly appreciated.

[@robertschaapsmeerders]

Great job once again, Rob! Happy Holidays and keep enjoying your hobby!

[@Caleb-zt5ht]

Rob!! I'm so glad to see another video from you! Merry Christmas!

[@loraleistandish]

Wooohooo glad to see a video you hopefully are happy with and not rushed! Happy you’re going at your own pace - thanks for the good video Rob!

[@sarasullivan6918]

I miss the days when Disney was on the forefront of innovation. I know it is still present in their movie making and ride design, but I guess what I'm really missing is the real/original EPCOT.

[@CinnamonGrrlErin1]

Me too. I remember visiting WDW in the late 80s as a very young kid, and Epcot, more than anything else, was my favorite part. I still remember meeting Dreamfinder and Figment too! I will say that I've been to some science museums that are pretty good substitutes too, like the one in Boston (the Tesla coil show is pretty awesome)

[@HunterKiotori]

That drive and innovation was all Walt's doing. Epcot was his dream, and after his death, money became the drive of the company.

[@creekfreak05]

Where did you go? I miss what you bring to KZbin.

[@TheJustoShow]

Thanks for the new upload Rob! We've been waiting

[@RichJordan3]

Glad to see this up again, love all the videos. Also happy to see you doing it as an enjoyable thing instead of work. Good luck with all.

[@TheDoc624]

Love your content and this one on telephony was very well done!

[@blazersport4x4]

Merry Christmas Rob! Another great video!

[@andrewseiler3529]

It’s a Christmas miracle, rob is back!!!!!!

[@Bossk-mt8me]

I'm just glad that you are back! Keep up the great work!

[@SoCaliSurfer13]

Thank you Rob for the video, I know you must have been super busy so you weren't able to make videos like you use to but I'm super glad and happy to have this video pop up on my subscriptions page! I hope you have a wonderful holiday and take care, I will be looking forward to your next video.

[@PD-mi3qj]

So happy to know you're OK! Loved seeing you and the gang on Charityland (especially the vids from Rob Plays Sr.... I totally remember seeing the same Mickey Birthday show and Disney in the Afternoon) and look forward to whenever you treat us to your next amazing video! Here's to finding the fun! 🍾

[@flaco171ac]

It's been too long! Thanks for the early Christmas gift.

[@xxManscapexx]

This is so freaking fascinating. Good to have a new Rob video!

[@Shilly_JD]

Thanks for the Christmas Miracle, Rob! So glad to see you pop up on my Subscription Video List again! Hope you and Kat are doing well and have a Great Christmas!! I will still look forward to these - no matter how infrequent! Until Next Time, Cheers! S2

[@argyleandplaidful]

God Rob, I absolutely love all of these videos. PLEASE keep making them.

[@David-vs8uh]

Glad to see another video. Love your videos. Ty

[@jackcarroll3575]

Love this channel ❤️ I know youtube can be a lot to deal with, but I hope to see more of your work in the future :)

[@joedoyle7799]

Rob I am so glad to see you back! I was actually worried that something happened to you 😬 glad to see your still with us and that we’ll still get videos on occasion, merry Christmas 🎄

[@SaturnCanuck]

That was great Rob. Good luck moving forward and I always enjoy your videos.

[@rollaracerDX]

Welcome back! I always enjoy your content and look forward to more videos at your pace. Merry Christmas 🎅

[@vincenthanig5011]

Will another video be coming anytime soon?! Your channel is one of my favorites and I have been craving content!! Lol!

[@TeacoreLeather]

Miss the videos. Always a treat

[@italiansunrunner]

Hope all is well man! Your videos are incredibly well done with great information.

[@Tryingtohaveityall]

What a nice little Christmas gift this was. Thanks! Happy Holidays.

[@TL_oS]

Hooray❄️💚❤️A Christmas present from Rob😺🌟Thanks for the video. I’m loving the podcast. Wishing you and Kat and your sweet felines the merriest of Christmases🎄🎅

[@afluker6757]

How cool! It never ceases to amaze me how much of an impact Disney had on Orlando beyond the theme parks. Looks like Lake Nona in southeast Orlando followed this strategy when it came to high-speed internet years ago.

[@denbrew_]

Welcome back!!!

[@adinubila]

you do such great research =) love your program

[@Joypyf]

So interesting! Really liked this video! 👍🏼

[@Spartan168]

Please come back!

[@cmarie1357]

Welcome back, Rob!! Great video! I know this wasn’t the main point, but I had no idea 911 has existed for that long. I thought it came about in the early ‘80’s/late ‘70’s at the MOST. Fascinating stuff! (“Some people opposed it because…..of course they did.” If that isn’t the truest line ever spoken. LOL). I grew up in North Dakota and I still remember when we got 911 service. I was in like 1st or 2nd grade and I remember we had an assembly at school to teach us how and (probably more importantly WHEN) to use 911. Can’t wait for future content on the channel whenever something strikes you.

[@merrivideo]

I like your videos because they remind me that Disney is bigger than a theme park, they have created a whole district and still maintain it.

[@drdremd]

As always, masterful.

[@harrisintheflesh]

Good to have you back Rob :D

[@Prettyflyforaryguy]

Hey Rob, wanted to drop in and say miss you. You're easily one of the greatest Disney content creators! Hope you've been well!

[@rmannayr2129]

FINALLY HE'S BACK!!!!!!!!!

[@Bernstorm5000]

Fascinating!

[@michaelmiller6843]

I miss your videos

[@misterhat5823]

6:52 Dick Anger is one hell of name to have.

[@marsoelflaco5722]

There was a politician from Rhode Island, early 90's, named Dick Sweat.✌🏽

[@christalbot210]

Seeing the title reminded me of my experiences when trying to make a hotel reservation at WDW. I lived in Florida at the time, but I'd end up waiting five to ten minutes or so for somebody in the reservation center to pick up the phone. My calls were made in January, but the earliest we could get reservations for was Memorial Day (which became an annual thing for us since we didn't have to take off from school and it was just before summer). Understand that I was still a kid at this time, but ever since my first trip to WDW on my 8th birthday, I've wanted to visit the park every year (and did so). As such, I was the only one willing to stay on the phone while it rang for the required ten minutes (it felt like a lot longer).

[@bjmajor]

Great video and information, thank you!! I had heard that the main "switchboard" of operators answering calls on property (and booking the resort hotel reservations, etc.) was located inside Cinderella Castle on one of the upper floors. Having worked for answering services, pbx and receptionist positions most of my life, I'd love to know if this is true....

[@r1l56me]

I have read the same, and am surprised Rob did not comment on it.

[@MegamanEXEv2]

As a telecom history nerd, this kinda stuff is my jam. Thanks!

[@georgeabruzzo7705]

I was thinking the other day that there hasn’t been a video from “Midway to Main Street” in a while. Glad your back. Look forward to your next video. It’s amazing to think how innovative Disney was. What happened? Now they can’t get there WiFi or apps to work properly in the parks.

[@Tinkerbe11]

Great you are back! I was busy during the summer and missed your shutting down of Patreon, so I couldn't say good-bye and good luck there. So, I wish you a happy New Year and better luck (and more fun) at your new job! About the video: I'm from Germany, and our emergency number is 112, and I lived in the UK where the emergency number was 999 - so 911 is not a global number, but rather a national US number. We had our first phone in the early 1970s, and at the time, we already had this emergency number. It was convenient for the dial phones. You could put a small lock on the number 3 when you left your children at home unattended (in my childhood, that was still the norm) and they could still dial 112, but not make expensive long distance calls or prank calls. Though my parents never had such a lock, I only saw it at friends's houses.

[@common_c3nts]

Awesome video.

[@EALeathers]

I remember when we didn't have 911 as a kid and I had a RR mailing address. When we did get 911 they named the roads (no more RR's), so we ended up with out road named after us!

[@maddog7365]

Just wanted to say that you should totally bring up your podcast or plug it every video from now on. Maybe even make a post about it. I was missing your videos/content then found your old video talking about it. (Of course I have realized it is in the video description now lol) Needless to say I was very happy to have more of your content in any form.

[@joeychitwood6004]

It is now called Smart City Telecom. Awesome video!

[@Reubachi]

seems that whenever a channel decides to stop making mass content for the alg and plans to focus on their interests, channel just stops altogether. I got back into disney this year and was super bummed to see you're no longer one of the "top channels"....I hope all is well and that you catch the bug again some day.

[@jeffbaumgardner2419]

very good to see you back, maybe do a mark robler and on one once a month

[@jessilyngray1223]

Wow that's really neat

[@rmannayr2129]

WOW A TELEPHONE COMPANY!

[@whitechocolate5809]

Listen, Vista-United had my office at the Walt Disney Studios set up! My phone guy, Butch, spoiled me. I had Nortel Executive phones that were all glass touchscreen panels… no physical buttons. Was so modern at the time and we had features unavailable to the regular public phone service. Loved the tie-lines too. Could dial any Disney property, worldwide, using an 8 digit (xxxx-xxxx) format number. Was always a trip to see the number to the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland or Space Mountain at Disney World. Good times.

[@thebluetarp]

8:35 my kids loved Disney quest. We could spend all day there!

[@NickD11]

Cool channel, just subbed. You should start making videos again

[@edvaira6891]

Welcome back

[@nathangrabowski7338]

Hes back!

[@orenalairlines6101]

Jack and Dan look VERY VERY happy to see u

[@imark7777777]

Well that was fascinating that's the kind of stuff I really want to know and would love to see if I visited

[@jackwerner2453]

Good to have you back Rob. Been watching since your Minecraft Disney World days, and have loved all the content since. Keep up the great work