The Story of George from Disney World’s Pirates of the Caribbean

Being that we are blogging about all things spooky this month here is a” story” about a spooky side to the Pirates of the Carribbean ride at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Today’s spook is brought to you by, Jenn aka Dis Savvy. Enjoy!

In honor of Pirates of the Caribbean 4 releasing on DVD/Blue Ray this week, I present the story of George at the Pirates of the Caribbean in Walt Disney World.

 

DISCLAIMER: this ghost story is not officially sanctioned by Disney management and has been investigated by David Koenig in his book Realityland and disproved. The following story brings together legends and lore from many sources including blogs and current anonymous cast members.

 

Once upon a time in Florida, an amazing theme park was being built. So many talented workers came together to make Walt’s dream a reality.

 

One such talent was named George. George was an unassuming mechanical engineer from Virginia. Walt hired him directly to help bring his vision of Pirates of the Caribbean to life.

 

Here is where the story gets fuzzy. One version involves George working on the top tower in the middle of the ride’s fire scene and falling four stories to his demise. Another story tells George getting killed from a beam falling on his head.

 

One intricate version develops our main character’s life a little further. It seems George had a girlfriend while in Virginia who was also hired to work at Disney. George soon wasn’t number one in her life anymore and they broke up.

 

That night, our George visited his sanctuary – the quiet of his attraction. He was startled to hear the ride start up around him. As George looked around, he saw one of his pirate boats heading forward with his girlfriend and new man in the “middle of things.” As the boat neared, he pulled out a gun and fired two shots. (why he had a gun I don’t know)

 

The saddened George then walked along the hidden walkways to the bottom of the chute portion of the attraction. He waded out into the water as that vessel made its descent into the darkness.

 

Oooooh. Creepy huh? And you thought the ghost stories were at Haunted Mansion. HA!

 

George’s story led to various superstitions and beliefs of cast members past and present. George has also spurred a ritual for open and close of each day. “Good morning George” and “Good night George” will be spoken over the loudspeaker every day to ensure smooth sailing for the day.

 

What if someone forgets? “No more than three full cycles of boats have been completed before an E-stop or Automatic Power Disconnect. He is real. He isn’t mean or haunting, but can be mischievous” (anonymous cast member).

 

There are reports that guests who talk about George can cause stops or mechanical issues. According to cast members, George is more interested in Cast members than guests.

 

Many cast members have had moments when they have “felt” George’s presence. There are numerous stories of hearing footsteps behind someone while walking through the attractions passageways. Some cast members have received phone calls to the control tower with no one at the other end.

 

Conflicting stories exist regarding “George’s Tower.” In the burning city room, there is a tall tower in to the right/center. If you see a light burning inside the tower, then George is present and watching over you. Then again, it is also believed that if the light is on, the ride is about to break down.

 

Whatever you believe, it isn’t surprising that in a place full of fantasy and magic that there are more stories that are only told in quiet whispers to those working along side their main characters.

 

Good night, George.