ROYAL OAK, Mich., May 3, 2006 – When the Detroit Zoo’s train resumed operation on the first of May, it marked the 75th anniversary of one of the park’s most popular and beloved attractions.  Over 40 million Zoo guests have ridden the rails since the Miniature Railroad was introduced in 1931.

“In addition to providing convenient and fun train rides, we are preserving an icon of our heritage,” said Detroit Zoological Institute Director Ron Kagan.  “The railroad experience holds wonderful memories for millions of people.”

Donated by The Detroit News in 1931, the miniature railroad was credited with helping the Zoo survive hard times during the Great Depression.  Starting out at a nickel a ride, train fares provided the Zoo with dependable revenue.  The replica steam locomotives and passenger cars carried 10 million passengers before becoming obsolete in 1948.

In 1949, Chrysler Corporation designed, built and donated the first of the diesel-powered trains, the Walter P. Chrysler, along with two more locomotives in 1950 and 1951.  The Zoo’s new trains were modeled after the fast, aerodynamic Streamliners of that era. 

After serving millions more riders, the trains were idled in 1980 for repairs.  A fund drive raised $300,000, including donations from children’s’ allowances and proceeds from a Zoo garage sale.  In 1984, the trains returned to service.

In 2001, Daimler-Chrysler renewed its historic commitment, donating upgrades to the trains’ drivelines.  Modern, computerized emission-control engines now run on unleaded gasoline – about 11 gallons per day – and computer diagnostics make tune-ups easier.

The train carries passengers to and from the Main Station near the park entrance and the Africa Station at the farthest corner of the park, weather permitting.  The Miniature Railroad is open May through September and weekends only in October; hours vary.  The one-way fare for all passengers is $2.

The Zoo offers a Tender Seat package, which includes a ride with the engineer in the tender seat, an official cap and a photo taken in the train’s historic engine compartment.  The cost is $12 per child, or $20 for two children or one child and one adult.

The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo.  Founded in 1928, the Institute is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife.  Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak.  The Detroit Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily April through October, with extended hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays during July and August.  Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61, $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older, and $7.00 for children ages 2 to 12; children under 2 are free.  For more information, call (248) 398-0900 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.  The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is currently undergoing renovation but provides some programming, with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks, on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on weekdays with advance reservations by calling (313) 852-4056.  The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Institute.  Financial support has allowed the Zoo to open new exhibits, develop important education and conservation programs and implement major beautification projects.  To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership or volunteering, please call (248) 541-5717.
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