Description:
Judy, an Asian elephant, was one of the most beloved figures for many residents of the Oklahoma City area for nearly 50 years. She came to the Oklahoma City Zoo (then called Lincoln Park Zoo) on May 21, 1949. Thousands of schoolchildren all over the state raised $3,250 – most of it in pennies, nickels and dimes – to bring her to the zoo. Judy was the main attraction at the zoo until her death in 1997 at age 52 and she brought joy to three generations of families in the area. Today a memorial to Judy stands at the zoo.
Judy’s trainer, Bert Pettus, taught Judy to do tricks and he and Judy often made visits to schools and public events. Here, in August, 1951, Bert helps Judy check out a book entitled “All About People” while little Sally Frye waits to check out “The Story of Judy”. Jean Babcock was the assisting circulation clerk.
FURTHER READING
Kuhlman, Judy. “Children Reach in Pockets for Oklahoma City Zoo Judy the Elephant Popular Campaign.” Daily Oklahoman, April 24, 1994, 19
Money, Jack. “City Zoo Elephant Dies of Cancer Students Bought Judy in 1949.“ Daily Oklahoman, October 9, 1997, 1-B.
Shottenkirk, Marcia. “Longtime keeper will never forget elephants.” Daily Oklahoman, May 22, 2001, 1.
Van Dyke, Bill. “An Elephant Fling is a Glorious Thing.” Daily Oklahoman, May 22, 1949, 1.