Bert Onsgard is granted permission from the city council and mayor to build and organize the Duluth Zoo. The dream becomes a reality as Bert and his friend Billy, a white-tailed deer, begin what is now the Lake Superior Zoo. Bert found Billy while in a logging camp during hunting season the previous year and kept it in his printing shop in West Duluth.

1920's

Mayor Samuel F. Snively implements a WPA (Works Progress Administration). The bear dens, elephant house (new polar shores) and various stone bridges are built.

1924

Zoo population: 2 buffalo, 3 foxes, 3 wolves, 2 coyotes, 9 deer, 7 bears, 75 fancy pigeons

1926

Bert Onsgard named to Duluth Hall of Fame.

Coyote dens are built.

1927

The main building is constructed and for many years was home to a variety of primates on the main floor; and the majestic large cats which resided on the lower level.

Children's Drive -- lions purchased

City Council named special advisory committee to take over supervision and management of the development of the zoo: Mayor S.F. Snively, Commissioner W.S. McCormick, and Commissioner Chris Evens

Bert Onsgard named manager at salary of $1.00/year

1928

2nd Annual Duluth Zoo Dance

Bert Onsgard authorized by city council to have entire charge of all animal activities--under direction of special zoo committee By August zoo population: 220 animals, birds & reptiles Two large Stanley Paradise Cranes are donated to the zoo

1929

Circular pony track built with 12 Shetland ponies drawing carts or saddled

Zoo becomes separate department of city.

A variety of animals find their new home at the Zoo. Including tigers, a zebra, unspecified monkeys, baboons, two baby chimpanzees, an Indian elephant and a variety of small mammals and birds.

1930-1935

The Great Depression hits and the Zoo is almost closed.