317 A Philip Randolph Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL 32202
USA
Join us October 15th for “The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: 100 Years New” with Biological Programs Registrar Alan Rost. The program is free and open to the public, and will be held at the Old St. Andew’s Church, 318 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. The program beings with a reception at 6:30 p.m, followed by the presentation at 7 p.m.
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens got its start in Springfield near 3rd and Broad Streets with a single red deer. Within two years, the zoo included monkeys and black bears along with other species. In the same year, the Jacksonville City Council appropriated funds to purchase an axis deer, a llama, zebu cattle and a bison. In late December 1916, days of heavy rain brought near disaster. Although some animals were up to their necks in water, none were lost. A move to the zoo’s current location on Trout River came in 1924 following “odor” complaints from neighbors.
Today, more than 800,000 people visit the zoo annually and a staff of 250 runs the operation. As a public-private partnership, 600 volunteers assist at the zoo. The non-profit Jacksonville Zoological Society manages the zoo and contracts with the City of Jacksonville. Twenty-five year zoo staff member, Alan Rost, is the presenter.
- Free parking is available in the lot behind the Merrill House, or you may park along A. Philip Randolph at the parking meters.
- Security will be on duty.
- Your guests are welcome!
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