National Zoo Construction from 1898 to 1969

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Summary

Throughout the years, better enclosures are constructed at the National Zoological Park. In 1898, the octagonal Elephant House and a freshwater aquarium are constructed; in 1900 an antelope house is added; in 1902 a 150-foot long flight cage is added; in 1903 an appropriation of $10,000 is received for an elephant house; in 1906 the Monkey House is completed; the first permanent Bird House opens in 1928; the Reptile house opens in 1931; a stone restaurant building is built in 1940; the restroom building with headquarters for the police and office and storage space for the gardener is completed in 1956; the Hospital and Research Building is completed in 1969.

Subject

National Zoological Park (U.S.)

Category

Chronology of Smithsonian History

Notes

  • Mergen, Alexa. From Bison to Biopark: 100 Years of the National Zoo. Washington, D.C.: Friends of the National Zoo, 1989.
  • Annual Report of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1900, p. 44
  • Annual Report of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1903, p. LI, 66
  • Annual Report of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1955, p. 104, 123

Contact information

Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu

Date

1898

Topic

  • Zoos
  • Architecture
  • Exhibitions
  • Grounds
  • Buildings
  • Building

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