ZooAmerica has a history that is as wild and surprising as its more than 200 animal occupants. What began as a private animal collection in Hershey, PA has become an 11-acre site, refuge, home, and AZA-accredited sanctuary for more than 200 animals representing 70 species from across the continent of North America. Discover how below.
The Formation
The idea for a zoo in Hershey dates back to the formation of the town itself. In 1903, Milton S. Hershey broke ground for his new chocolate factory and began plans for the model town his factory workers and their families would reside in – with everything from homes and schools, offices and recreational facilities. This included a zoo.
Mr. Hershey acquired the zoo's first residents – twelve prairie dogs – from a family who was unable to care for them. Hershey Zoo, as it was then known, received more private donations in the coming years. Hershey Zoo continued to grow through the 20's and 30's. The zoo temporarily closed from 1942 – 1950 to aid in the country's involvement in World War II.
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