If there’s one thing you can count on upon entering The Happiest Place on Earth, it’s the Disneyland Fire Engine. Faithfully chugging along, it’s remained an iconic fixture of the park for decades. You can also be sure of a smile and a wave from longtime driver, Steve Finley. This year, these two, beloved Disneyland treasures celebrate milestone anniversaries. Delivering their own special magic to Disneyland Park, their legacy is engrained in the hearts of guests. While we’ve recently had to say goodbye to a couple of iconic Disneyland voices, this dynamic duo endures as a tribute to the park’s early years. Today, we celebrate the Disneyland Fire Engine’s 65th anniversary and Steve Finley’s 50th year at Disneyland!
History of the Disneyland Fire Engine
Disneyland’s Fire Engine debuted on August 16, 1958, about three years after the Park’s opening. The last vehicle added to Main Street, U.S.A.’s vintage lineup, guests can also enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time via the Horse-Drawn Street Car, Jitney, and Omnibus.
Designed by Disney Legend and Imagineer Bob Gurr in a 5/8th scale, the Disneyland Fire Engine was inspired by vehicles like the 1907 Rambler and 1916 American LaFrance Fire Truck. Although it can reach a top speed of 35 miles per hour, it maintains a pace of 5 miles per hour as it transports guests along Main Street, U.S.A.
The Disneyland Fire Engine has sentimental ties to Walt Disney. Walt loved the vehicle and often drove it through Disneyland early in the morning before opening to check out the park. Poignantly, Walt Disney’s last official photograph at Disneyland was taken with Mickey onboard the Fire Engine.
Longtime Driver Steve Finley
On a recent trip to Disneyland, I caught up with longtime Fire Engine driver, Steve Finley, who shared that 2023 marks his 50th year at The Happiest Place on Earth!
Finley started in 1973 as a utility man at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant but wasn’t fond of the early morning hours. After that, he moved to Tomorrowland attractions, working on rides like Space Mountain. But, in a similar form, he wasn’t a fan of the fast pace. Steve finally found his niche in 1984 when he moved to Main Street, U.S.A.
Although he trained on all of the vehicles, he’s been happily driving the Fire Truck for almost 40 years now! Steve is well aware that people identify him with the Fire Engine and shares that, they actually “get upset” if he’s not at the helm. After all of these years, you’ll still catch Steve with an upbeat personality and a big smile on his face. He is the epitome of what makes Disneyland so magical. Referencing his tenure as the Fire Engine driver, Steve says that he’s “loved every minute of it,” and that it’s “always a delight.”
Journey to the Rose Parade
This year, the Disneyland Fire Engine became part of a beloved tradition, with a spot in the Pasadena Rose Parade. Steve Finley sat proudly onboard with Mickey and Minnie, as Minnie threw the ceremonial first pass.
Disney has an established history with the Rose Parade. Throughout the 1930s, Walt, his brother Roy, and their families attended the annual event. In 1938, Disney’s first float honoring Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was featured in the procession. Seventeen years later, in 1955, a Disneyland float celebrated the park’s upcoming opening! In 1966, Walt Disney was the Grand Marshal of the Rose Parade. He and Mickey led the City of Burbank float that year. Disney has continued its presence in the Rose Parade over the years and was even given a Certificate of Appreciation from the Pasadena Tournament of Roses in 1985. “In recognition of your contribution to the success of the Tournament of Roses and with thanks for many years of support.”
What a proud and well-deserving legacy for the Disneyland Fire Engine to be a part of! Over the years, Disneyland guests have grown increasingly fond of this longtime staple. Bob Gurr shares, “Out of all my designs for Disneyland the fire engine by far was my favorite.” I’m sure many guests concur. Happy Anniversary to the Disneyland Fire Engine and longtime driver Steve Finley! Thank you for continuing to spread your Disney magic at The Happiest Place on Earth!
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Let’s Hear From You!
What’s your favorite vehicle on Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A.? Has Steve Finley ever taken you for a ride on the Disneyland Fire Engine? Did you know about the Fire Engine’s involvement in the Rose Parade this year? Let us know in the comments!