St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

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St. Augustine Alligator Farm Historic District
(U.S. Registered Historic District)
Location: St. Johns County, Florida
Nearest city: St. Augustine, Florida
Coordinates: 29°52′53″N 81°17′18″W / 29.88139, -81.28833Coordinates: 29°52′53″N 81°17′18″W / 29.88139, -81.28833
Area: less than 1 acre
Built/Founded: 1937
Added to NRHP: September 10, 1992
NRHP Reference#: 92001232[1]
Governing body: Private
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The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is one of Florida's oldest continuously running attractions, having opened on May 20, 1893.[2] Not only does it have over 20 species of crocodilians, but also a variety of other reptiles, mammals and birds, as well as exhibits, animal performances and educational demonstrations. The address is 999 Anastasia Boulevard.

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[edit] History

The park began in 1893 on St. Augustine Beach as a minor attraction at the end of a railway running through neighboring Anastasia Island. The alligators were added at first to get visitors to buy souvernirs and see the museum there. Soon, though, the reptiles themselves became the point of interest. Growing in popularity, the park moved to its current location in the early 1920s. The park changed owners in the 1930s, and after a devastating fire, they started reconstruction and expansion of the facilities.

[edit] National historic status

On September 10, 1992, the Alligator Farm was designated a U.S. Historic District. As such, it was referred to as the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Historic District. According to the National Register of Historic Places, it covers less than 1 acre, and contains 1 building and 1 structure.

[edit] Affiliations

The park is a member of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association and the Florida Attraction Association

[edit] References

  1. ^ Johns/state.html National Register of Historical Places - Florida (FL), St. Johns County. National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service (2007-03-15).
  2. ^ Virtual Views at OldCity.com

[edit] External links