In 1828, the Zoological Society of London opened the Regent’s Park Zoo as a scientific research facility. In 1829 King George IV granted the Society a Royal Charter, and it opened to the public in 1847. The aim was to raise funds for scientific study. It is thus the world’s oldest scientific zoo, and has made history on many occasions.
The Quagga
The Zoo housed the only living quagga before it became extinct. It was sadly overhunted in southern Africa towards the end of the 1800s. It is also were we got the only photographs of this passive creature.
Boa Constrictor
In 1849 the first Reptile House was opened. It became a big attraction at feeding time for the boa constrictor. He was fed a live rabbit, which, caused public uproar.
William Thackerary
This highly regarded 19th century novelist lived in Palace Green, near the Zoo. He is most well-known for his 1848 novel ‘Vanity Fair’ and other satirical works. He thus moved in elite Victorian circles of London society. His work was only second in popularity to Charles Dickens. When he spoke, many listened. William was outspoken about the horrors of this attraction. He thus caused ‘ripples of discontent’ about the goings-ons at the zoo, across the city.
Today, the London Zoo is the official name of the Regent’s Park Zoo.
Read about another Distinguished Gentleman in London, Lord Chesterfield, who was part of London society in the 1700s.
