From ZR: When I first started the section of this blog dedicated to Zoo History, I knew that one of the first stories that I'd want to share was that of Willie B, the famous gorilla from what is now Zoo Atlanta. Willie B's life serve as a before and after in the ongoing transformation of modern zoos from cabinets of living curiosities to conservation centers dedicated to optimal animal welfare.
Aubrey Brooke reached out to me wanting to share some personal stories of her mother (Pat Dann) and her shared history with the famous gorilla. I'd like to thank her for writing the below column to share with us. Thank you, and enjoy!
Did you know that Willie B. never experienced rain or sunlight? Do you realize that he had never nested or interacted with another gorilla? This had to change.
Did you know that Willie B. had a front-page Christmas list in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution? Did you know he had several TVs donated and worldwide attention? Did you know that two weeks following her phone call, Mayor Maynard Jackson got in touch with Pat Dann, appointing her as director of public relations? It brought people together, voiced their opinion, and stepped up to the zoo’s plight. One single phone call changed everything in an instant!
When news broke that the zoo would be closing, people were stunned. Pat dialed the number provided for comments and suggestions. Two weeks later, she received a call asking if she would be interested in meeting with Mayor Jackson and explaining why she was opposed to it. He questioned her about why she didn't want the zoo to shut down once she sat in his office. She reminded him that he shouldn't leave Atlanta, as this is Willie B.'s home. The mayor said, "Are you passionate about this?" He then said, "What are your plans?" "When you invite others to offer their ideas and suggestions, it's a great method of receiving feedback," said Pat. "They represent the zoo's best chance of enduring." "Large corporations must be contacted and asked to help.” Mayor Jackson opened the double doors to his office and announced to the awaiting press that this is the new public relations director.
Patricia quickly understood that well-wishes and good intentions would only pave the route to an impending closure through painful, daily sessions with an Atlanta legend and possibly her best animal friend, Willie B. She realized "someone had to do something" as she gazed into the soul that hid behind those giant gorilla's eyes. She was that somebody. And the something in question was genuinely remarkable. Patricia delved into the fussy world of public relations, an environment she knew little about outside of her three local grooming shops, and faced internal conflict, mountains of red tape, and a new role that was placed upon her and paid her an annual salary of zero dollars.
There were countless instances when she wanted to give up and walk away. Because of the keepers' passion and dedication, she chose to continue after being given a tour of the zoo by Ed, the elephant keeper.
Once again, she was about to give up when she prayed to God for guidance on what to do next. Around ten o'clock at night, she had the idea for Willie B.'s Christmas list. When she called the newspaper to ask if they could fit something in at the last minute, they said it would appear on the third or fifth page. She couldn't wait for it to run in the paper. The following day, it was featured on the front page of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, much to her shock. News of the Christmas list had traveled all across the world—in today’s terms, it had gone viral. Both the Atlanta Zoo and Willie B. became well-known thanks to it.
She had the strength and will to discover new meaning and purpose in her life thanks to Willie B. and the zoo. She will always be grateful to Mayor Jackson for giving her the opportunity.
To the surprise and dismay of some, this selfless woman helped scores of suffering animals. She begged for money from any individual or group that would listen, making countless phone calls. She developed strong relationships with the zoo keepers to receive much-needed assistance.
Dr. Mort Silberman was her mentor and a pillar of strength. He should also be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the Atlanta Zoo. Dr. Silberman was a great man who cared about all the animals at the zoo, succeeded daily in making a difference, and was a part of a movement for change.
Patricia wants Atlantans to gather again and honor Willie B. and his legacy. Bring back the enthusiasm that formerly drove children to send money and the Smithsonian's best wishes, motivate others to make Valentines, and get engaged in a cause that is integral to the history of the Atlanta Zoo and the great city of Atlanta. Atlanta's future should include Willie B. Day and the Christmas list.
Pat wants to connect with those who want to build a life for themselves and pursue their ambitions; you may contact her at soulendangered@gmail.com. Programs must be implemented to attract corporate support. Remember that everything is possible.
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