Smithsonian National Zoo in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Bison and the National Zoo
From collector to conservationist
In 1886, the Smithsonian sent its Chief Taxidermist, William T. Hornaday, to Montana to collect bison for a display. Hornaday was shocked by how few bison he saw. While he did kill some animals for the display, he also collected live animals specifically to establish a herd. He housed the bison behind the Smithsonian Castle where they became a hit with the public.
A park becomes a zoo.
Hornaday believed a national zoo was needed to protect endangered species like bison. In 1889, Congress acted on his idea and created the National Zoological Park "for the advancement of science and the instruction and recreation of the people." In 1890, the Zoo became part of the Smithsonian, and in 1891 it opened to the public at its current Rock Creek Park site. Among the Zoo's first animals were a black bear, a bald eagle, a panther and of course, American bison.
Erected by Smithsonian Institution.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Charity & Public Work. A significant historical year for this entry is 1886.
Location. 38° 55.892′ N, 77° 3.146′ W. Marker is in Northwest Washington in Washington, District of Columbia. It is in Smithsonian National Zoo. Marker
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. And Then There Were (Almost) None (a few steps from this marker); Bison and the Land (a few steps from this marker); Are They Bison or Buffalo? (a few steps from this marker); Meet Our Bison (a few steps from this marker); The Scoop on Poop (within shouting distance of this marker); Feeding Times at the Zoo (within shouting distance of this marker); Giant Panda (within shouting distance of this marker); It's Our 125th Birthday! (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Northwest Washington.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 17, 2017, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 168 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 17, 2017, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
