Avondale in Cincinnati in Hamilton County, Ohio — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
The Reptile House
Built in 1875, the Reptile House is the oldest existing zoo building in America.
Once home to monkeys and apes, the building was converted into the Reptile House in 1951. The preservation of the building's original and unique architecture earned the Reptile House a place on the National Register of Historic Places, and it was significant to the Cincinnati Zoo's designation as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service in 1987.
Erected by Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Parks & Recreational Areas. In addition, it is included in the National Historic Landmarks series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1875.
Location. 39° 8.648′ N, 84° 30.553′ W. Marker is in Cincinnati, Ohio, in Hamilton County. It is in Avondale. Marker can be reached from Vine Street north of Erkenbrecher Avenue, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 3442 Vine St, Cincinnati OH 45220, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Sol A. Stephan (a few steps from this marker); Breeding Steller's Sea Eagles at the Zoo (a few steps from this marker); Saving Our National Symbol
this page online
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), June 26, 2022
2. The Reptile House
The Reptile House is surrounded with lush, green vegetation and is hard to photograph in context. The marker stands to the left of the darker green tree in the center.
Photographed By Devry Becker Jones (CC0), June 26, 2022
3. This indoor sign expands on the Reptile House's historical significance
Oldest Zoo Building in the United States
Built in 1975 the Reptile House is the oldest zoo building in America and is a National Historic Landmark. Designed in Turkish style by James McLaughlin, the 60-foot diameter round stone structure featured a 40-foot-high ceiling.
Originally a Monkey House, elaborate iron enclosures were once attached to the outside of the building.
In 1953, the building transitioned into a reptile facility.
Today, the Reptile House is home to dozens of reptile and amphibian species from around the world.
Modern-Day Excellence in Animal Care
Though the Reptile House may be over 100 years old, every animal habitat within the building meets or exceeds modern-day standards set by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), of which Cincinnati Zoo is an accredited member. These standards ensure that every animal in our care has the space and resources it needs to live a happy and healthy life.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 2, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 182 times since then and 59 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on July 2, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A better photo of The Reptile House and a better context photo of the marker (may be the same photo). • Can you help?
