Mesker Park Zoo And Botanic Garden Timeline

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  • 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.



    • *Historical Photo Slideshow*