




It is such a shame when a zoological institution let's this happen to it's historic structures, regardless of the circumstances. If for nothing else, what an incredible "Elephant Museum" it would make.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
San Francisco Zoo's Abandoned Pachyderm House
San Francisco Zoo Elephants
This pictures was posted on April 11th under "Unknown Zoos #4" with the question, "is this possibly San Francisco's defunct elephant exhibit?" I guess now we know.
1964
1953
http://www.britishpathe.com/record.php?id=27494
This link has some interesting footage of a San Francisco Zoo elephant whom apparently fell into the moat. The first .35 sec. has neat footage of Jim Alexander walking his "pups," followed by a quick shot of Radar getting ready to practice, followed by the "elephant rescue" which starts at .39 sec.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Hawthorn Mellody Zoo

In the past we have discussed the Polar bear/Grizzly bear hybrids that were at the National Zoo, and a photo was requested. I don't have any of the National Zoo's but above is a picture of a one month old Polar/Grizzly hybrid cub, one of a number that Hawthorn bred. Later a Hawthorn act, which was presented by Eloise Berchtold had a couple of the hybrid's in the act. I don't know if this cub is one of those animals or not. I saw the above mentioned Berchtold hybrids in 1976 a short time before Eloise was killed, and they were quite a striking, beautiful animal. Large and thick like a Grizzly, with a light yellow/palomino coloration.
For more on the Hawthorn Mellody Zoo type "Hawthorn Mellody" in the search bar at the top left of the blog.
John Cuneo's birthday is coming up, and as long as I have known him, he always appreciates a few months "publicity/advance notice" to that fact. LOL Good bless him, a more unique individual you will never meet.
Famous Hawthorn Mellody Hitch's





The leaders in this beautiful hitch are Briton, 9 times champion in England and Haxton 1st prize gelding Illinois State Fair. The swing team is Nelson and Prince 1st prize winners Illinois State Fair and the wheel team is Pete and Smiler.




































