Preserving and Building Upon Walt Disney's Legacy
Welcome to our website! The Carolwood Society is a community of passionate individuals dedicated to celebrating the legacy and inspirations of Walt Disney, particularly his enduring quest to bring imagination to life. Rooted in Walt’s early experiences — especially his childhood in Marceline, Missouri, where he developed a love for steam trains, art, and performance — his journey evolved as he and his brother Roy built their studio in Los Angeles, guided by values of family, optimism, and innovation.

The Society honors Walt Disney’s story, the remarkable people who helped to shape his vision, and those who continue to build upon his legacy. Members come together to support and inspire one another in striving for bold, creative accomplishments—ventures that spread joy, wonder, and a shared belief in achieving the seemingly impossible.

Our Society, founded by Michael and Sharon Broggie in 1993, is named to honor Walt Disney’s Carolwood Pacific Railroad, one of the most intricate miniature live steam railroads ever built. Designed and constructed for and with Walt by his Studio Machine Shop team led by Disney Legend, Roger Broggie, this backyard pike at the Disney Estate in the Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles was an unexpected but important step in the creation of Disneyland, and subsequently every theme park around the world.

Walt Disney's Barn
Amidst his railroad, Walt built a barn where he could monitor and control the operation of his railroad. Walt's Barn also served as a workshop and a place for Walt to relax. The Barn is open to the public in Los Angeles' Griffith Park.

Learn more about Walt’s Barn