When Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride closed in the Magic Kingdom on September 7, 1998, it created a stir within the theme park community. There were in-park protests and online petitions that attempted to “Save Toad” from being replaced. They were unsuccessful and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh opened on June 4, 1999, taking the classic ride’s place in Fantasyland, where it remains to this day.

Small references to J. Thaddeus Toad and his pal Moley can still be seen at the Magic Kingdom today, including on the Winnie the Pooh ride itself! And there’s a somewhat morbid homage to the Toad in a Pet Cemetery near The Haunted Mansion. Today, we’re taking a look at these nods, as well as some of the history of this beloved attraction.

Check out the video above for more information, including a brief history of the Mr. Toad and Winnie the Pooh rides in the Magic Kingdom, and check out the photographs below as well!

Tribute in The Haunted Mansion’s Pet Cemetery

Welcome to the home of 999 happy haunts in the Magic Kingdom

As you exit you’ll notice a Pet Cemetery off to the side

There’s many tombstones for different animals in the Cemetery:

Mr. Toad’s tribute is hiding in the far back on the left side

The Toad statue is based on an old souvenir maquette they used to sell in the gift shop. Looks like Imagineers used the same mold, but poured with a more durable, outside-safe material

Hidden Nods on the Winnie the Pooh Ride

Welcome to the Hundred-Acre Wood!

As you enter the second scene, inside Owl’s house, you may find some hidden nods

Look to your left and you’ll see a portrait of Mr. Toad

Mr. Toad handing the deed over to Owl (Photo: Michael Gray)

Then look to your right before the end of the scene, there’s a pile of photos on the ground

Here you’ll see Moley tipping his hat to Pooh (Photo: Michael Gray)

You can watch a full ride-through of the Pooh ride in the video below.

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