History Society

The members of the Kilmacanogue History Society thoroughly enjoyed the February lecture of the Spring Series this week. Titled ‘The History of Dublin Zoo from Victorian to the Present Time’, it was presented by Gerry Creighton.

In his talk, Gerry explored the history of Dublin Zoo from the earliest times to the present. Interestingly, Dublin Zoo was opened by the Zoological Society of Ireland in 1831 on just four acres of land in the Phoenix Park. From small beginnings, it has grown to be the fully modern, internationally known Zoo it is today, currently attracting over one million visitors a year.

Gerry was a distinguished guest to have and he is Operations Manager for animals and grounds at Dublin Zoo and has a long association as his father was a senior Keeper, who retired recently with over 50 years’ service. Gerry was an experienced speaker, and has made many presentations to professional and community groups, with many television-show appearances, including ‘The Late Late Show’ and the TV series, ‘The Zoo’, on RTÉ one so our local society were honoured to have him speak.

Attention now turns to the March Lecture which will take place in the Glenview on Tuesday, March 6. Titled ‘The Re-enactment of Shackleton’s Antarctic Rescue Mission’, it will be presented by Frank Nugent.