Mary Grant Roberts facts for kids

Mary Grant Roberts (born April 15, 1841 – died November 27, 1921) was an important Australian woman who owned a zoo. She owned the Hobart Zoo from when it first opened in 1895 until she passed away in 1921. The zoo later closed its doors in 1937.

A Life with Animals

Mary Grant Roberts was born in Hobart, Australia, on April 15, 1841. She was the youngest child of William and Mary Lindsay. On August 18, 1863, she married Henry Llewelyn Roberts in St David's Cathedral in Hobart. Henry owned a company that dealt with wool and farm animals. He died in 1919.

Starting the Zoo

Mary and Henry built their home, called Beaumaris, in 1877. This home later became the Beaumaris Zoo in 1895. The zoo's name was later changed to Hobart Zoo. Mary Roberts was very passionate about animals and their care.

Breeding Tasmanian Tigers

Mary Roberts was the first person to successfully breed Tasmanian Tigers in captivity. These unique animals, also known as thylacines, looked a bit like dogs with stripes. Sadly, the very last known Tasmanian Tiger died at the Hobart Zoo in 1936.

Mary's work with animals was recognized by others. In 1910, she became a member of the Zoological Society of London. She even wrote an article about her experience breeding Tasmanian Tigers. This article was published in a science journal in 1915.

Protecting Wildlife

Mary Roberts cared deeply about animal welfare. She started two groups to help protect animals: the Game Preservation Society and the Anti-Plumage League. The Anti-Plumage League worked to stop people from using bird feathers in fashion.

She also worked with the Royal Society of Tasmania. Together, they successfully pushed for stronger laws in Tasmania to protect animals.

The Zoo After Mary

After Mary Roberts passed away on November 27, 1921, she gave the zoo to the Tasmanian Museum. The museum then gave it to the Hobart City Council. The council moved the zoo to a new location. However, the zoo closed in 1937. This was because it cost too much money to keep running, and fewer people were visiting.

In 2006, Mary Grant Roberts was honored for her contributions to the community. She was added to the Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women.