The conservation charity is appealing for for memories and artefacts to bring its 200-year history to life.
The ZSL (Zoological Society of London) – the conservation charity behind London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo – is launching History Hive: a public appeal for memories and artefacts.
Launching two years before the world-famous institution’s bicentenary, History Hive aims to build a collection of memories to reflect the varied voices and lived experiences of everyone who has played a part in ZSL’s rich history.
ZSL is asking the general public to to submit everything from vintage zoo toys and historic tickets to correspondence and maps, enriching the charity’s understanding of its own history.
The objects donated will then form a part of an exhibition celebrating the 200th anniversary in 2026 alongside fascinating artefacts from ZSL’s existing archive, which all help to tell the story of ZSL’s impact on animal care and conservation.
Among some of the notable artefacts in ZSL’s possession include: a first edition of Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species, a limited-edition bear-shaped soap from the 1940’s which was produced by Cullingfords to mark the birth of baby Brumas the polar bear at London Zoo, zookeeper uniforms from decades past, and a decorated ostrich egg, painted by an unknown artist, to mark the opening of Whipsnade Zoo in 1931.
Tina Campanella, ZSL’s Bicentenary Project Manager, said, “ZSL will celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2026 – a landmark milestone that is just two years away. Everyone who has had a connection to ZSL – from world-famous biologists and renowned TV broadcasters to visitors to our two conservation zoos – is as much as part of our history as we’re a part of theirs. It’s only right we celebrate our bicentenary together, so we’re excited to see what people share”.
History Hive will culminate in an exhibition in 2026 – ZSL’s bicentennial year – bringing its history to the 36-acre grounds of London Zoo. Those who have contributed their stories and ephemera will be invited to the exhibition’s launch, celebrating both their role in two centuries of natural history and the start of a new century of critical conservation work. 2026 will also see the launch of a programme of interactive displays, talks and trails, vividly illustrating the story of the charity and the public support which makes its conservation work possible.
For those wishing to submit to ZSL’s History Hive can do so by visiting: www.zsl.org/historyhive.