Benson's Wild Animal Farm, Former amusement park and zoo in Hudson, United States
Benson's Wild Animal Farm is a former zoo and amusement park on about 165 acres in Hudson with animal exhibits, a miniature train, and game attractions near a Boston and Maine railroad station. The grounds now serve as a public park with walking trails, playgrounds, and a dedicated dog area.
John Benson founded an animal training center in 1924 and opened it to visitors in 1926, operating it until his death in 1943. After World War II, the site changed hands several times before eventually becoming a public park.
The park housed Colossus, a 500-pound silverback gorilla who became famous through official trading cards as a publicity figure.
The grounds are freely accessible with about four miles of walking trails at various levels suitable for families and dog owners. Park facilities, picnic areas, and maintained paths make visits enjoyable year-round.
A steel section from the North Tower elevator shaft of the World Trade Center stands as part of a memorial installed in 2011. This fragment reminds visitors of September 11 events and creates a quiet place for reflection.
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