The next two show some of the competitors practicing back stage. On my permanent want list is one of the aprons and one of the frying pans they are using to flip the pancakes.
A collection of images and other items from Disneyland, theme parks and other amusement parks. Also look for images and items I find interesting, amusing or both.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Aunt Jemima Pancake Race 1961
One of the many fun events held at Disneyland over the years was the annual Aunt Jemima Pancake race down Main Street. The race featured housewives running down Main Street while wearing a house dress and apron all the time flipping a pancake. The races were held in several cities throughout the United States. Disneyland was the site of the California finals to see who would go on to the Nationals. The photographs are from the 3rd Annual race which was held in 1961. The first image is a lovely shot of Aunt Jemima with a competitor. I wish the button was specific to Disneyland, but it is a generic Aunt Jemima Pancake Days button.
What a wacky idea! But I'd rather watch housewives flipping pancakes instead of some of the slick, heartless parades that are run today.
ReplyDeleteThere should have been a pancake EATING contest for the guys! And yes, the frying pans and aprons would be amazing souvenirs!
Wow, that would so not fly today for so many reasons, but it looked like fun then ^_^
ReplyDeleteyet more amazing pictures. a glimpse into a special time and place. thanks.
ReplyDeleteThis must have been hysterical to see. And that Aunt Jemima is adorable. Does anyone have a clue to her real identity? Her stories of portraying Jemima - and in the early days of Disneyland - would be fascinating!
ReplyDeleteKevin - I don't know offhand, but think there might have been more than one person to portray her at Disneyland over the years. One of the people was Aylene Lewis (name from memory). I think I have her obituary around here somewhere...
ReplyDeleteAlyene Lewis, not Aylene. Her hire date was October 2, 1957, so there must have been more!
ReplyDeleteFantastic photos! Let me know when you get the apron - I'll bring the grill and syrup.
ReplyDelete