[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 141 (Thursday, August 23, 2018)]
[Senate]
[Page S5909]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LINCOLN PARK ZOO

  Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, this year marks an important milestone for 
a true treasure in Illinois. The Lincoln Park Zoo, located in the heart 
of Chicago, is celebrating its 150th anniversary.
  From its inauspicious beginnings with the gift of two pairs of swans 
from Central Park in New York City, the Lincoln Park Zoo has grown to 
be a destination for Chicago residents and visitors alike. The zoo is 
visited by 3.7 million people annually.
  Visitors to the zoo appreciate its central location; it is close to 
cultural and shopping attractions in Chicago. But what everyone loves 
about the zoo is that there is no admission fee in order to enjoy the 
zoo's exhibits. That is right; admission to the Lincoln Park Zoo is 
free. In 1878, 20 years after those swans arrived from Central Park, it 
was resolved that the Zoo would always be free and open to the public. 
Today, Lincoln Park Zoo remains the Nation's only privately managed, 
free-admission zoo in the country.
  When people visit the zoo, they not only experience the seals, 
gorillas, polar bears, giraffes, the big cats at the Kovler Lion House, 
and a pygmy hippopotamus, they also are introduced to farm animals, 
equipment, and practices that reflect the importance of agriculture to 
my home State. For many urban children, the zoo allows an introduction 
to nature and agriculture in a way they may not otherwise experience.
  Generations of Chicagoans have fond memories of spending summer days 
at Lincoln Park Zoo with their families. Many can tell you that it is 
worth braving the blustery Chicago weather for a visit to Lincoln Park 
Zoo during Zoo Lights, their annual winter celebration.
  I have always considered Lincoln Park Zoo to be a hallmark of a 
Chicago childhood. It is a place I wanted to share with my twin 
grandchildren, now age 7, when they come to visit. Hopping on the 151 
CTA bus and wandering the zoo grounds in summer and winter has always 
been a great adventure for my family.
  I want to join the community in celebrating the 150th anniversary of 
the Lincoln Park Zoo. The staff and volunteers of the zoo should be 
proud of their efforts to preserve and foster this Chicago treasure, 
ensuring future generations have the opportunity to create memories as 
I have done with my family.

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