[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 177 (Friday, October 24, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1002-E1003]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CELEBRATING 125 YEARS OF THE TOLEDO ZOO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 2025

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a milestone year 
in the Toledo Zoo's remarkable journey in my district. The Zoo is 
celebrating 125 years in our community with a series of events 
culminating in a special gala on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Rated the 
top zoo in our Nation, Toledoans are justifiably proud of our treasure.
  The Toledo Zoo began modestly in 1900 when Megan Cole donated a 
woodchuck for display at Walbridge Park along the Maumee River in South 
Toledo. The attraction was popular, and within the year, thanks to 
continued donations, the zoo had 39 animals in its collection. 
Unprepared to properly house and care for the growing collection, the 
Toledo Zoo built the Lion House in 1907. During these earliest years, 
when housing was a challenge, animal escapes were not uncommon.
  The Toledo Zoological Society was subsequently founded in 1913 to 
spark development. William H. Roemer was the first president, and by 
1916, the Toledo Zoo exhibited

[[Page E1003]]

471 animals. In 1922, the position of curator was developed, and the 
indefatigable Frank Skeldon was the first curator for the zoo. It was 
during this time that national recognition was pursued. Building 
continued, and by 1929, the Giraffe House, Carnivora Building, and 
Primate House were all housing the animals.
  Building continued through the Depression-Era WPA, so that by the 
1930s the Reptile House, Aviary, Museum of Science, Amphitheatre, 
indoor theatre, and Aquarium were all completed, along with structural 
improvements, the subway and zoo entrances.
  The 1940s, 50s, and 60s brought new adventure with the addition of a 
miniature railway, the publication of Safari magazine, the nation's 
only indoor trout run, the development of waterways, and other 
improvements. By the 1960s, the Toledo Zoo's collection included more 
than 3,600 animals.
  Facing significant funding challenges following the region's 1980s 
financial collapse, the Toledo Zoo was on the verge of closure. A zoo 
levy was initiated in 1980, and in 1981, Bill Dennler became the new 
zoo director following Frank Skeldon's retirement. Under his tutelage, 
buildings were restored, a children's zoo opened, the birth of two baby 
hippos was caught on tape, and China lent the zoo two giant pandas. 
People flocked to the zoo to view these wonders.
  The 1990s saw continuing innovation, community support, and national 
and global supremacy for the Toledo Zoo. By the early 2000s, the zoo 
was well into its successful breeding program, including the rare birth 
of an African elephant. Development continues to this day. There are 1 
Million visitors a year and 78,000 households hold membership. The 
highest in the nation! There are 16,000 animals from more than 680 
species, including 90 endangered species, and 73 Million dollars are 
generated for our local economy.
  The Toledo Zoo has arrived at its 125th birthday as the top zoo in 
our nation and a global leader in wildlife conservation and engagement 
in sustainable practices. There are forty acres of native plants and 
110 prairies planted at the zoo and around the region. More than 45,000 
students and families learn from tours, camps, overnights, virtual 
programming, scouts, and gardening workshops. The Zoo hosts Music Under 
the Stars in its lovely Amphitheatre, where people can hear the 
symphony and creative performers on beautiful nights. People from all 
over come to view the Toledo Zoo's African Savannah, Aquarium, Arctic 
Encounter, Aviary, Rescue Roost, Cassoway Crossing, Conservatory, 
Flamingo Key, Kingdom of the Apes, Museum of Natural History, Nature's 
Neighborhood, Penguin Beach, Pheasantry, Primate Forest, Reptile House, 
Tembo Trail, Tiger Terrace, Snow Leopards, beautiful flora, fun 
amusements, nourishing treats and the stunning Lights Before Christmas.
  The Toledo Zoo is an absolute star on the map of Northwest Ohio. It 
truly and uniquely lives up to its motto: ``Enjoy. Inspire. Educate. 
Act.'' Our entire community congratulates our wonderful Toledo Zoo as 
we look back on a fantastic journey and look forward to an awesome 
future.

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