Stories to Discover
The RZSS archive is full of stories for you to discover. Below are a couple we have extracted from the collection on reaction to global conflict and stories from some enjoyable trips to Edinburgh Zoo.
RZSS Memories
With a history of over 110 years, the archive of RZSS contains many stories about the animals, those who worked with them, and the people who have visited Edinburgh Zoo since 1913. Let’s have a look at some of those memories and hear from those who have worked at RZSS in that time.
Edinburgh Zoo during WWII
RZSS was not immune to the effects of global conflict, with WWII (1940-1945) having a major impact on their work. With food stock running low, many of the hoofed mammals were killed for food for the zoo’s carnivores. To raise funds to feed the animals, the animal adoption scheme was introduced which still runs to this day. You can see a copy of the first adoption scheme in this image here.
Edinburgh Zoo was at risk of bombing and RZSS took steps to make sure the risk to their collections and members of the public was reduced.
Edinburgh Zoo was indeed bombed twice during the night of the 4th of November 1940. Thanks to the precautions taken by RZSS, there was no loss to human life and animal loss was minimal.
The RZSS archive holds documents which give a very clear idea of what WWII was like for those who both worked for RZSS and the residents of Corstorphine.
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Childhood memories
RZSS’ aim has always been to bring people closer to nature to learn more about the natural world around them and how to protect it. The archive shows that Thomas Gillespie was keen to inspire a love of nature and animals in the young.
Edinburgh Zoo would often host one off events, such as this carnival which took place in 1927, to engage the public in the work of RZSS.
The archive contains numerous children’s letters, addressed to “Mr Zoo Man”, which were graciously received.
Maybe you have your own childhood memories of visiting Edinburgh Zoo.
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