2008-2009 Henry Vilas Zoo Volunteer Guide

HENRY VILASZOO HISTORYIn 1904 two of Madison’s leading citizens, Colonel William F. and Anna M. Vilas gave$18,000 to purchase a large tract of land along the shores of Lake Wingra for use as apublic park. Their donation was made in memory of their deceased son Henry with asingle condition under which Henry Vilas Park would remain admission free. HenryVilas Zoo began in 1911 with a donation of five whitetail deer; it has continued todevelop as a free zoo ever since.• 1904 Madison Parks & Pleasure drive Association accepted $18,000 from Col. &Mrs. William Vilas to purchase parkland.• 1911 Five White Tail deer were donated by T.C. Richmond and Exhibited.• 1912 Primate cages and bear dens were constructed. Camel barn moved to zoo.• 1914 Henry Vilas Park Zoological Society was founded.• 1915 Bird & aquarium house (present visitor center) was built with funds donated byMrs. Anna Vilas.• 1917 Lion house was built with $15,500 donated by Dr. Charles Vilas. Bear/caninedens were completed at their present site.• 1919 ‘Monkey island’ built. The first one built in America.• 1925 Fountain located in park above zoo office finished.• 1930 Primate house and concession stand completed. The Park and Pleasure DriveAssociation gave control of the zoo to the City of Madison Parks Department.• 1930’s Tapir shelter constructed from old school house bricks.• 1934 Replacement Monkey Island built.• 1938 Black bear exhibit built with help from WPA.• 1938 Sheep mountain finished.• 1961 New camel barn built.Revised 11/25/200817