CWPZoo Hosts 75th Year Employee and Volunteer Reunion

2008 marks 75 years since Gordon Gaver first began exhibiting animals to the public as Jungleland Snake Farm in the Catoctin Furnace area near Thurmont. The modest seasonal roadside attraction has grown through three name changes from less than two acres of mostly reptiles in 1933 to a facility that is favorable compared with the larger city zoos by visiting guests even tho it operates on less than 10% of their budgets. It is now a non profit institution operated by the Global Wildlife Trust, Inc. on fifty acres with all major groups of animals represented.

To celebrate the institution’s longevity, growth and service to the community and their animals, the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is hosting a 75th Anniversary Reunion. All former employees and volunteers and their immediate families are invited to attend. The gathering will be from 5:30 to 8:30 on Saturday, September 20th. Food and drinks will be served and all exhibits will be open for viewing. In addition, the new Safari ride trucks will be touring interested persons until 8pm. Executive Director Richard Hahn estimates that there are over 2000 people eligible for this free invitation not including their families so reservations are a must.

To reserve your space, you may call, email or stop by the Preserve now but not later than Sunday September 14. Former employees and volunteers living in the area are asked to contact and advise other former fellow workers and volunteers of the gathering.

The Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is located 12 miles north of Frederick and 20 miles south of Gettysburg on Rt. 15.