Preserving Walt Disney’s Laugh-O-Gram Studio
On Monday September 22, 2025, local attorney Dan Viets shared about his long time interest in all things Disney and his work to preserve Disney’s Laugh-O-gram Film Studio at 1127 East 31st Street in Kansas City. The two-story McConahay building was designed by Nelle Peters, a female architect who designed Columbia’s Belvedere and Beverly Apartment Buildings. Viets explained that Walt Disney used the Studio from 1922 to 1923 to create short animated films. Viets and the preservation team purchased the building from private owners after the city announced a plan to demolish the building about 20 years ago because it was in disrepair. Funding resources included the Disney family, state historic tax credits and the city’s TIF (tax increment financing) to preserve the building. To learn more about this historic preservation project, visit thankyouwaltdisney.org where you will find history of Walt Disney in KC as well as video about future plans for reuse of the building. The planned renovation will include a welcome center, a museum of animation, a classroom/event area, and a work studio for new startup entrepreneurs.
Check out our Archives for past meeting notes, slides, video, etc.
CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated, but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. The preservation of historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, signing up for our newsletter attending an event, or donating.
Questions? Suggestions for speakers or events? Email CoMoPreservation@gmail.com