While not exactly Lincoln Park or Brookfield Zoo, some 100 years ago a local family had a small menagerie of animals that captivated local youngsters.

Samuel Winternitz feeding a pet deer – 1914

Known as the “King of the Auctioneers”, Samuel Winternitz was a successful and well-respected Chicago businessman. However, as his family grew, he decided to move his family to Western Springs. So, in 1906 he purchased a beautiful home at 1206 Walnut Street, which still stands today.

Sam and his wife Mary had six children, as well as a great love of wildlife. So, shortly after moving in, the family began acquiring animals. In fact, given the amount of vacant property behind the house, they eventually built a large fish pond, an animal shelter, a monkey cage, and a rookery.

While the “zoo” did not include what would be considered wild animals, it became a great attraction for the neighborhood children. Ducks, swans, fish, monkeys, deer, and a pony were all part of the collection. And, the children could even help feed the animals.

While the zoo is long gone, these images help remind us of a simpler time when children actually played outdoors and enjoyed nature’s wonders.

Former Winternitz home – 1206 Walnut Street

Winternitz pond and animal shelter

Feeding one of the monkeys