Hattiesburg Zoo Invites Community to Share Memories for 75th Anniversary
In a heartfelt initiative to mark its 75th anniversary, the Hattiesburg Zoo is reaching out to community members, inviting them to share their unique memories and photos from past visits. This celebration is an important reminder of how the zoo has been a cherished part of the community since its opening in 1950.
The zoo encourages submissions of personal stories, limited to 500 words, along with any relevant photos. These memories can showcase visitors' experiences with various animals or simply encapsulate moments enjoyed with family and friends during their time at the zoo. Gabrielle Nordan, the Special and Seasonal Events Coordinator, emphasized the inclusivity of this project, stating, "All of the stories and photos that are submitted will be entered into a drawing," with the winner obtaining a backstage pass for four.
Over its 75 years, the Hattiesburg Zoo has expanded significantly, evolving from its original identity as the Kamper Park Zoo. Nordan shared that significant additions, such as the Africa Pavilion featuring giraffes and the recent birth of baby hyenas, have marked the zoo's journey. "We’ve added the Africa Pavilion with our giraffes, we have hyenas now, we've had two baby hyenas, and so we're really excited this year to celebrate 75 years of the Hattiesburg Zoo," she stated proudly.
The festivities will commence on April 26 with a kickoff event at the zoo, followed by special occasions every other Saturday throughout the year. University of Southern Mississippi senior Macayla Douglas captured the spirit of joy that the zoo provides: "I’d totally recommend people to go," she remarked on her visit. "It’s a great way to connect with your family and friends, the animals are super cool to see, and I think it’s a great way to pass time."
Submissions for this heartwarming community project are open until September 27, 2025. Participants can share their stories and images by visiting hattiesburgzoo.com or emailing directly to the zoo. This initiative not only celebrates the zoo's rich history but also reconnects it with past visitors, fortifying its role as a vital community hub.
As we celebrate this milestone with the Hattiesburg Zoo, what memories do you have of your visits there? We’d love to hear your stories and reflections. Feel free to leave your comments below!
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