Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden Timeline

1928 - Evansville Zoological Society formed.

1928 - 2 circus lions donated for Evansville’s zoo.

1929 - Kay (elephant) purchased partially with pennies donated by school children.

1930 - The zoo moves to current location in Mesker Park.

1932 - Bar-less lion and bear exhibits built by WPA.

1933 - “Santa Maria” monkey ship built by Rotary Club.

1935 - Dam built to form the lake.

1954 - Kley building constructed

1954 - Bunny (elephant) arrives. She is 3 years old.

1956 - Sgt. Snickers buried at the zoo.

1975 - Children’s Contact Area dedicated.

1984-85 - MPZ Docent program established.

1987 - African Panorama exhibit constructed.

1988 - Australian exhibit constructed.

1991 - MPZ ZooTeen program established.

1992 - Discovery Center opens

1995 - MPZ adds Botanic Garden to its name.

1999 - Lemur Forest opens.

1999 - Bunny retires to Hohenwald, TN.

2001 - Jordie (rhinoceros) arrives and his exhibit opens.

2002 - MPZ&BG reaccredited by the AZA.

2003 - Children’s Enchanted Forest opens.

2008 - AMAZONIA opens.

Historical Photo Slideshow