1963

In 1963, the gorillas moved from their old chain-link exhibits into grotto exhibits, which provided logs and rocks for climbing, resting places with a view, and room for elaborate games of chase. Dr. Schroeder, Chuck Faust, and the curators worked on the plans for months, measuring and testing to see how the exhibits should be designed for the gorillas, but also to keep them from getting out. As Faust said, “It was exciting to work on such a new idea—but then you had to be the one standing in front when the animals first went in.” Albert, Bouba, and Bata moved into one of the exhibits, and Vila, Chuck, Trib, and Yula moved into the adjoining one, and all went well.