This photo most likely predates the building of the Zebra House in 1907 by architect Frank Rooke. Van Norden was interested in breeding horses and zebras towards producing a superior working breed. He imported the animals from Abyssinia along with many other unique livestock from other parts of the world. Van Norden had a strong interest in Zoology and was a member of the NY Zoological Society to which he gifted many specimens.
According to newspapers in 1906, Van Norden purchased 5 zebras to try and substantiate the heredity theories of W. Ewart, a professor of natural history in Edinburgh. For their comfort and health, he began work on a zebra house at his estate in Rye complete with a paddock, steam heating and temeperature controls as well as a drinking fountain.
Warner La Montagnie Van Norden kept and bred zebras on his property in Rye, New York on the Jay Estate.
Like the Duke of Bedford in England, he was very interested in zoology.
Inlfuenced by the animal trainer and breeder, Carl Hagenbeck, whom he most likely encountered at theb St. Louis Exposition of 1904, he was interested in the scientific aspect of domesticating zebras.
The Classical Revival "Zebra Barn" was commissioned by Jay estate owner Warner Van Norden circa 1907 to house his collection of rare animals. It was designed by architect Frank Rooke, the same architect who designed the carriage house(front view) next to the barn above and in the photo below.
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