Virginia Zoological Park - History

History

In 1892, the City of Norfolk purchased the 65 acres (26 ha) that was currently occupied by Lafayette Park. In 1900, the park began acquiring animals to exhibit, and by 1901 its collection exceeded 200 animals, including mammals, birds and reptiles.

In 1974, the facility was fenced off from the city park, and renamed Lafayette Zoological Park. Though fenced off, residents of the nearby LaValette Street could see the zoo's elephant exhibit from their homes. Newcomers, unfamiliar with the fact that a zoo was in the location, sometimes called the police at the sight of the elephants. Between 1974 and 1980, most of the zoo's old exhibits were renovated.

Also in 1974, the Friends of the Zoo was established to act as a support organization for the development of the zoo. In 1989 it was renamed as the Virginia Zoological Society and established as a non-profit organization.

In 1985, Lafayette Zoological Park was renamed the Virginia Zoological Park at Norfolk (commonly known as the Virginia Zoo). In 1987, the zoo gained accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

In 1992, a Master Plan was adopted by City of Norfolk and Virginia Zoological Society. Plans included a new Education Complex and Visitor Center, as well as African, North American, Australian, South American and Asian-themed exhibits.

• In 1999, Part I of Phase I opened, including Gelada baboon habitat and Xaxaba African village and 100th Anniversary of Virginia Zoo and Lafayette Park
• In 2001, design for Master Plan Phase II: North America exhibit began
• In 2002, Part II of Phase I opened: African Okavango Delta exhibit, thus completing Phase I of the Master Plan
• In 2004, Part I of Phase II opened: Prairie dog habitat.
• In 2005, the zoo got its third elephant named Cita.
• In 2011, Part I of Phase IV opens: "Trail of the Tiger" exhibit opens with various fauna of India and Southeast Asia.