From Maytag Vision to Phoenix Zoo

One man’s dream—Robert Maytag, grandson of the Maytag appliance giant—launched the Phoenix Zoo in 1961, securing 100 acres in Papago Park. Though he died tragically in 1962, his wife Nancy kept the vision alive, leading to a grand opening in November 1962 that drew 2,000 people. Initially called the Maytag Zoo, it sold memberships for just $5 a year, quickly becoming “Maytag’s dream becomes reality.” By 1963, it officially became the Phoenix Zoo—a beloved community landmark born from passion, perseverance, and a little bit of Maytag magic. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/02a92d8c50c1e1e6