The Albert Schweitzer Institute of Chapman University
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866
“Now, we’re approaching beautiful Schweitzer Falls, named after the famous African explorer, Dr. Albert Falls.”
-Disney Parks Jungle Cruise Skipper script.
Adventureland’s Jungle Cruise puts guests in the middle of adventurous situations at every twist and turn before climaxing with passage behind beautiful Schweitzer Falls. At this point, passengers will likely hear their Jungle Cruise Skipper explain “Now, we’re approaching beautiful Schweitzer Falls, named after the famous African explorer, Dr. Albert Falls.” To many passengers, the true-life story of the name behind the falls is obscured by such a jovial take on the Jungle River Cruise’s major tourist attraction. However, the earlier scripts were far less pun-laden than their modern incarnations. Even the Disneyland record album (1968) made note of the inspiration behind the name as the narrator’s voice describes : “We’re approaching beautiful Schweitzer Falls named after the famous doctor - Albert Schweitzer, who’s done so much for the people of Africa.”
Let me assure you that the next time you “turn and take one last look at the dock” . . . you may never look at it the same way again. Further, you might pause for reflection over the fact that Doctor Albert Schweitzer actually did face this realization as he headed down some topical river, due to a deeply rooted ethical motivation to help others.
At the age of 21, Albert began to think about his life. He had many choices. He was already a teacher. He could be a famous musician (having already recorded numerous LP records of himself playing Bach for Columbia Records). He could have been a famous professor or a pastor. So what would motivate a young Albert Schweitzer leave “the last outpost of civilization” and head deep into the jungle? He realized that he had been blessed with good health, a good mind, and a loving family, and he wanted to do something in return. He decided that he would devote his life to taking care of those in need. He decided to become a doctor to care for the people of Africa!
At age 31, Schweitzer enrolled as a medical student, (and with no prior knowledge or experience) headed for French Equitorial Africa in order to serve as a doctor.
“Albert Einstein, I presume!”
Doctor Schweitzer became known by his signature robust white mustache and hair - a similar look to that of his good friend Albert Einstein. Once, on a train to Africa, two girls mistook Schweitzer for Einstein, and asked for an autograph. Schweitzer happily complied, signing, “Albert Einstein, by his good friend, Albert Schweitzer.”
Albert’s friend Helene Bresslau, who was studying to be a nurse, wanted to help with this work. They were married in 1912 (seven years after Albert first enrolled as a medical student), and together they moved to Africa. After a three week passenger boat ride from Europe, they traveled on a smaller boat up the Ogowe River through the jungles to the village of Lambaréné.
The long boat seen along the Jungle River’s shores are similar to the type used in the region of Lambaréné, Gabon.
They brought all the scientific necessities like his medical kit, his magnifying glass, pharmaceutical bottles full of components of medicines and treatments that would be necessary during his time in Africa. All of these supplies were packed in travel trunks marked “ASB” which stands for “Albert Schweitzer Breslau”.
When he and his wife arrived at Lambaréné, their first clinical facility was located inside a former chicken shed (which they promptly disinfected). News of the new doctor spread quickly, and they treated rampant cases of leprosy, dysentery, malaria, and syphilis, in addition to general injuries, fevers, tumors, hernias, and sores. With access to European medicine, Schweitzer’s hospital became a source of hope for all in the region.
The bottles in the left are antique Jungle Cruise props, and the ones to the right are some of Doctor Schweitzer’s actual mid-century pharmaceutical bottles used to carry the medication to treat patients!
While at the hospital complex in Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer became known as. “The Great White Doctor”. He was known as such because he wore a white shirt (like the one pictured below) to protect his clothing. He also wore a pith helmet to block his skin from the tropical sun’s rays. Whenever there were visiting dignitaries Albert would add a touch of elegance by wearing a bow tie with his ensemble.
By the end of Albert’s lifetime, the Schweitzer Hospital at Lambaréné, Gabon had expanded to include 72 buildings, 600 patient beds, a staff of six doctors and 35 nurses. Today, the hospital is spearheaded by its first native Gabonese Doctor and has helped train many new local doctors. In addition, medical students, missionaries, and activists continue to seek out this facility!
Don’t miss the bronze bust with an inspiring quotation from the altruistic Doctor!
Doctor Albert Schweitzer made contributions to the fields of arts, science, and humanities that distinguished him enough to be nominated and awarded for a Nobel Peace Prize in 1952.
The humble Doctor Schweitzer died in September of 1965. But he passed knowing that his humanitarian efforts gained much appreciation from individuals like Norman Rockwell and Walt Disney, who both took the time to memorialize him in their work. Without a doubt, the complete “true-life” story of Doctor Albert Schweitzer was packed with more adventure than any of the thrilling experiences of any simulated Disney Parks attraction. As we again take a look back at Schweitzer Falls (this time from behind), we are inspired with a new selfless outlook toward the world around us, as well a truly different view from behind!
PLEASE STEP THIS WAY!
The Albert Schweitzer Collection at Chapman University is an exhibition of the theologian, philosopher, musicologist, organist, and physician.
HOURS : May vary. Please copy and paste https://www.chapman.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/schweitzer-institute/exhibit/index.aspx into your internet browser for more information and hours of operation!
Thank you for joining us. I certainly hope you've enjoyed our “behind the scenes” look at Doctor Schweitzer. I look forward to you joining our next expedition real soon!