Resident Spotlight: The Story of Fresno Chaffee Zoo's First Century

Explore 100 years of history of the
Fresno Chaffee Zoo

Jean Chaffee, resident of The Terraces of San Joaquin Gardens, Fresno Chaffee Zoo historian, author and Emeritus Docent, has spent decades preserving and sharing the zoo’s history. In this engaging presentation, she uses the story of Nosey the elephant to trace the zoo’s evolution, highlighting the people, milestones and events that shaped Fresno Chaffee Zoo over the past century.

Jean Chaffee is an educator, author and Emeritus Docent whose lifelong passion for wildlife has shaped her work with Fresno Chaffee Zoo. As the zoo’s historian and author of seven children’s books, she has educated and inspired audiences through presentations, school visits and community outreach. She also founded the Dr. Chaffee Scholarship Program, supporting students pursuing careers in animal and conservation sciences.