Origins and Early History
The roots of the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens date back to 1914, when the city of Jacksonville first recognized the value of public spaces for recreation and education. Originally part of a municipal park system, the early animal exhibits were modest, often consisting of small enclosures and cages that housed a limited collection of native wildlife, exotic animals, and farm species. The primary aim during this period was public amusement rather than formal conservation or scientific study.
By the 1920s and 1930s, the zoo began to expand its collection, acquiring additional exotic animals such as monkeys, parrots, and large felines. These early decades were characterized by limited resources, minimal infrastructure, and rudimentary animal husbandry practices, common to many American zoos of the time. Despite these limitations, the Jacksonville community embraced the zoo as an educational and recreational asset, drawing families, school groups, and tourists alike.
The establishment of a permanent site in Zoo Boulevard, Jacksonville, marked a turning point, providing a dedicated location for growth, habitat development, and long-term planning. shutdown123