Downs' Zoological Gardens, Historical zoo in Fairmount, Halifax, Canada
Downs' Zoological Gardens was a 40-acre zoo in Halifax featuring ornamental flowers, trees, walking paths, and statues. The grounds also contained a pond, bridge, waterfall, artificial lake with fountain, and a glass structure housing a greenhouse with aviary.
Andrew Downs founded the first scientific zoo in North America north of Mexico in 1847. He operated it until departing for New York City in 1868.
The gardens became known for their taxidermy collection, which gained recognition across the Atlantic. Andrew Downs' carefully preserved specimens were distributed to museums and private collections throughout North America and Europe.
The zoo was located in Fairmount on Dutch Village Road and was easily accessible on foot. The forests, paths, and open spaces were suitable for walking and exploring.
The zoo grounds served not only as a place to see animals but also as a research and collecting station. Many specimens were later sold or transferred to prominent museums and institutions.
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