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Records relating to the proposed closure of London and Whipsnade Zoos in the 1990s

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, formerly known as Whipsnade Wild Animal Park, is a zoo and safari park located at Whipsnade, near Dunstable in Bedfordshire, England. It is one of two zoos (the other being ZSL London Zoo in Regent's Park, London) that are owned by the Zoological Society of London. A disastrous fire in Whipsnade's Administration block in 1962 destroyed most of the archives held at Whipsnade (except for the Whipsnade Daily Occurrences). The files listed here were the ones kept in the Offices at Regent's Park, and were therefore not lost in the fire.

Records relating to ZSL during World War Two.

London Zoo opened in April 1828 as the Gardens of the Zoological Society of London, in the first instance only to fellows of the society. It opened to the general public in 1847, in an effort to boost funds for the Zoo.

Records relating to veterinary and pathology at ZSL

The Zoological Club, connected with ZSL, was founded in 1866 by HW Bates, WH Flower, TH Huxley, PL Sclater, and others. The Club met to dine at various restaurants, including the Cafe Royal, before basing itself at London Zoo from 1914.

The Superintendent reported directly to the Secretary of ZSL, and was in immediate control of the Menagerie at London Zoo through the Assistant Superintendent, was the superior officer of the Curators and Prosectorial staff, and in direct control of the works, stores, gatekeepers and gardening department. The post of Superintendent was abolished in 1953.

Staff records of ZSL

Letters and papers relating to the position of Secretary at ZSL. In the past this position was responsible for the overall running of the Zoo(s), but in later years it has become an honorary position. The letters in particular show a breadth of correspondence between the society and people and organisations around the world.