Zoo History

Zoo History Timeline

1923

Dickerson Park Zoo Founded

Dickerson Park Zoo is founded on land purchased from the estate of Jerome Dickerson, Sr.

1975

Friends of the Zoo Gets Its Start

Friends of the Zoo established as the not-for-profit organization supporting the zoo.

1985

A New Master Plan Is Created

New master plan utilizing geographic themes is developed. The zoo becomes involved with the Species Survival Plan.

1986

Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Accreditation

Dickerson Park Zoo receives accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and has successfully maintained the high standards required for re-accreditation since.

2010

Master Plan Realized & Reengineered

DPZ and FOZ accomplishes the goals from the master plan and begin a strategic plan to make the zoo a regional tourism destination and a leader in conservation education.

2023

100 Years!

Dickerson Park Zoo turns 100 years old!