Memphis Zoo

By: Robert W. Dye

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Synopsis: What started over a century ago with an orphaned bear tied to a tree in Overton Park has grown into one of the nation's top zoos. The Memphis Zoo, which attracts more than one million visitors each year, is nationally recognized not only as a tourist attraction but also for its giant panda research, captive breeding programs, and efforts to reintroduce endangered species into the wild. Established in 1906 by the Memphis Park Commission, the zoo has become a Memphis institution. It seems like everyone in Memphis has an Elvis story, but just as many Memphians have memories of the zoo and attractions like the Lion House, Monkey Island, or the free one-ring circus. The zoo has been fortunate to have many devoted staff members and volunteers over the years, and through hard work and dedication, they have built a first-class institution--not only for the animals but for the families, children, and all patrons who visit the zoo every day.