History of Brookfield Zoo

Zoo Core Editors Desk

History of Brookfield Zoo

by

The history of Brookfield Zoo dates back to 1921 when the Chicago Zoological Society was chartered. The zoo itself opened on July 1, 1934, with a focus on conservation and animal care. Brookfield Zoo has consistently been at the forefront of animal care and conservation, with a rich history of innovative practices and groundbreaking achievements.

Early Years (1930s-1950s)

In the early years of Brookfield Zoo, several significant events and milestones occurred:

  • 1934: Brookfield Zoo opens to the public on July 1, featuring stunning Italian-style buildings designed by Edwin H. Clark.
  • 1937: Su-lin becomes the first panda in a U.S. zoo, creating a sensation.
  • 1941: Georgie-Joe, the first black rhino born in a zoo, is born.
  • 1943: The zoo sells animals to private citizens to raise funds during World War II.
  • 1948: The zoo acquires rare Indian rhinos, Kamala Rani and Kashi Ram.
  • 1952: The first animal hospital opens, making Brookfield Zoo one of the first three zoos in the country with a dedicated hospital.
  • 1953: The Children’s Zoo opens, connecting Chicagoland children with domestic native animals.
  • 1954: Roosevelt Fountain is created to honor President Theodore Roosevelt’s conservation efforts.

Expansion and Innovation (1960s-1980s)

History of Brookfield Zoo

During the 1960s through the 1980s, Brookfield Zoo experienced significant expansion and innovation:

  • 1957: Wolf Woods is established, leading to groundbreaking studies on wolf behavior.
  • 1961: The original Seven Seas Panorama opens as the country’s first inland dolphinarium.
  • 1962: Olga Walrus arrives, inspiring guests to care for marine mammals.
  • 1966: The first Mold-A-Rama machine is installed.
  • 1968: A diesel-switch train begins running around the zoo.
  • 1969: The sale of marshmallows is discontinued, marking a shift towards better animal nutrition.
  • 1971: The Volunteer League is created, with volunteers contributing countless hours to the zoo.
  • 1973: Work begins on Tropic World, which opens in sections from 1982 to 1984.

Modern Developments (1990s-2020s)

In recent decades, Brookfield Zoo has continued to evolve and introduce new exhibits and initiatives:

  • 2010: Great Bear Wilderness opens.
  • 2012: The Xtreme Bugs exhibit opens.
  • 2013: Dinosaurs return to the zoo.
  • 2014: The Ann McLean Conservation Center opens, and CZS launches the first Holistic Welfare Management program.
  • 2015: Hamill Family Wild Encounters and Bramsen Animal Ambassador Pavilion open.
  • 2016: Brookfield Zoo becomes the first U.S. zoo to earn the American Humane Certified seal.
  • 2017: CZS holds its first International Symposium on Pangolin Husbandry and Conservation.
  • 2018: A sensory-friendly family room and resource center opens.
  • 2019: Hamill Family Nature Plaza opens, and the King Conservation Leadership Academy is founded.

Brookfield Zoo’s rich history is a testament to its commitment to animal care, conservation, and providing an engaging and educational experience for visitors. From the early days of its opening to the modern developments, the zoo has consistently been at the forefront of innovation and has played a significant role in shaping the zoo industry.

References:
– Brookfield Zoo’s 80th Anniversary
– Brookfield Zoo’s History
– Brookfield Zoo’s History

Leave a Comment