A Father’s Dream: Building a Wonderland for All

In the heart of Texas, a father’s love for his daughter has transformed the landscape of inclusivity and play. Gordon Hartman, a successful homebuilder, traded his construction empire for a dream—a dream sparked by his daughter, Morgan. Born with physical and cognitive disabilities, Morgan inspired her father to create a haven where everyone, regardless of ability, could experience the joy of a theme park.

The Genesis of a Dream

The story begins in 2006, during a family vacation. While enjoying a day at the hotel pool, Gordon witnessed a moment that changed his life forever. Morgan, eager to join in with other children, was shunned simply because she couldn’t communicate verbally. The look of confusion and hurt on her face was a stark reminder of the barriers she faced. Determined to find a place where Morgan could be included, Gordon’s search yielded no results. There were no theme parks that offered the inclusivity his daughter needed.

Building a Wonderland

Unwilling to accept this reality, Gordon made a bold decision. He sold his lucrative homebuilding business and set out to build a theme park where “everyone could do everything.” In 2007, he assembled a team of doctors, therapists, and families to help design the park, ensuring it would meet the needs of children with various disabilities.

Three years later, Morgan’s Wonderland opened its gates in San Antonio. The 25-acre park was a testament to Gordon’s vision and dedication. It featured a fully accessible Ferris wheel, an adventure playground, a miniature train, and a carousel designed for wheelchair users. The journey to creating this inclusive wonderland was not without its challenges, but Gordon’s determination never wavered.

A Carousel of Courage

One of the park’s most touching stories is Morgan’s relationship with the carousel. Initially, she was terrified of the ride, not understanding why it moved or why the animals went up and down. Her father recounts the slow process of her overcoming this fear: “First she would stand near it, then she’d get on an animal but we wouldn’t start it. It was a slow process but now she loves going on it.” Morgan’s eventual joy in riding the carousel symbolizes the triumphs achieved through patience and perseverance. “Overcoming something she was scared of meant a lot to her. Little things achieved in play can make a big difference,” Gordon shared.

Expanding the Dream

In 2017, the dream expanded with the opening of Morgan’s Inspiration Island, the world’s first ultra-accessible splash park. This $17 million addition features 25 attractions, including five interactive splash pads designed with accessibility in mind. The waterpark is not just a place for fun but a symbol of inclusivity and innovation.

Gordon describes the parks as “special places where anyone can have fun, but they were created with individuals with special needs in mind.” The unique environment ensures that every visitor, regardless of ability, can enjoy the park to the fullest.

A Legacy of Inclusion

Morgan’s Wonderland and Morgan’s Inspiration Island have welcomed over four million visitors from every state in the U.S. and more than 120 countries. Brent Fields, CEO of the Morgan’s Wonderland umbrella organization, notes that the park has “helped us spark that spirit of inclusion.”

Gordon Hartman’s dedication to creating a place where his daughter and others like her can experience the simple joys of childhood is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have. His vision has not only created a haven for those with disabilities but also fostered a culture of understanding and inclusion.

In the heart of San Antonio, a wonderland exists, born from a father’s love and unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Morgan’s Wonderland stands as a beacon of hope, a place where dreams are realised, and every child can feel the magic of belonging.