Disney Movie Opening Scene Filmed on WA-ID Border

The opening scene of Disney's 'Peter Pan' is etched in many people's memories. A glowing star in the night sky, a train chugging along a track, and a bridge crossing a quiet river toward the ocean. But did you know that this iconic scene was filmed right on the WA-ID border? The Snake River, which divides Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington, is the real-life location of the animated river.

Lillian Marie Disney, Walt's wife, grew up in Spalding, Idaho. She graduated from high school in Lapwai before moving to Lewiston for business college. Lillian later moved to Los Angeles in 1923 to join her sister and landed a job at Disney Brothers Cartoon Studios after Walt asked her to work for him.

Two years later, Walt and Lillian returned to Lewiston to marry at her brother's home on Third Street, which still stands today. The newlyweds honeymooned across the Pacific Northwest before returning to Los Angeles via train. It was during this trip that Lillian played a significant role in naming Mickey Mouse.

Walt Disney wanted to name his new cartoon character Mortimer Mouse, but Lillian suggested Mickey instead. This small suggestion became one of the most recognizable names on Earth. Lillian passed away on December 16th, 1997, at age 98, which coincidentally is the same date Walt died in 1966.

For anyone who has crossed the Snake River near Lewiston and Clarkston, there's something moving about a woman from small-town Idaho shaping both the name of Mickey Mouse and possibly the opening frame of childhood movies watched by millions.