Benson's Wild Animal Farm - The Memory Lives On

There is such an emotional attachment to places we cherish as children. For many Massachusetts and New Hampshire families Benson's Wild Animal Farm was more than cotton candy, amusement rides, and Colossus the gorilla. Benson's was a childhood treasure...documented in our old photographs and home movies.

If you were lucky enough to visit Benson's as a child, you most likely have a special place in your heart where you keep those memories.

Benson's was for many years, and for many people, the destination for family fun.

Benson's Wild Animal Farm was closed in November, 1987

after 60 years of making Hudson, New Hampshire, a regional tourist attraction.

Now, 23 years after closing it's doors, it has been reopened as Benson Park. Volunteers have worked very hard clearing away years of neglect and vandal abuse to create a beautiful place to walk, bike or picnic.

The zoo animals and amusement rides are gone, probably forever, but the memories live on.

Restoring several original landmarks is an ongoing process by volunteers.

There are plans for the back of the gorilla house to become restrooms.

The front cage area will remain and be restored for historic purposes.

On Saturday, September 25, 2010 at 9:00 am, Benson Park is having a grand opening celebration with cake and refreshments for everyone!

Tomorrow...

I will share vintage photos from Benson's

and some pictures I took

when I recently visited the new Benson Park.