Como Park in Saint Paul in Ramsey County, Minnesota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
The Early Years
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
— A Proud Heritage —
Photographed By McGhiever, December 11, 2023
1. The Early Years Marker
Como Zoo was informally founded in 1897 with the donation of three deer to the City of Saint Paul. The City fenced in a pasture for the deer. The deer were later joined by donated zebu cattle, elk, moose and fox. In 1915, visitors driving in their automobiles through the park could see two bison donated by former Lieutenant Governor Thomas Frankson as well as an American black bear named "Peggy" who was donated by a local citizen. The acquisition of the bear triggered the construction of animal enclosures since the bear couldn't be kept in a pasture. The City used old iron archways that had previously been in Como Park to build the enclosure. By 1930. over one hundred animals were housed at Como Zoo.
In 1934, Como Zoo acquired a large number of exotic animals when the Longfellow Gardens Zoo in Minneapolis closed. Over the years, new exhibits included a Kiddie Zoo, a prairie dog hill, the mill house and bird yard, Rabbitville and a Northern Pacific steam engine.
Erected by Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Charity & Public Work • Parks & Recreational Areas. A significant historical year for this entry is 1897.
Location. 44° 58.927′ N, 93° 9.131′ W. Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Como Park Begins (here, next to this marker); The Zoo Expands (here, next to this marker); Sparky Show & Toby the Tortoise (a few steps from this marker); A Glasshouse Becomes a Reality (a few steps from this marker); Como Zoo Today (within shouting distance of this marker); The Picturesque Landscape (approx. 0.4 miles away); The Melan Arch (approx. 0.4 miles away); Como Park's Early Years (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Saint Paul.
Photographed By McGhiever, December 11, 2023
2. The Early Years Marker (center) at the south end of the Administration Building at Como Park Zoo
Credits. This page was last revised on March 23, 2024. It was originally submitted on March 14, 2024, by McGhiever of Minneapolis, Minnesota. This page has been viewed 36 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on March 14, 2024, by McGhiever of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
