This Is My New Jersey

Zebras are reactionaries
Antelopes are missionaries
Pigeons plot in secrecy
And hamsters turn on frequently
What a gas, you gotta come and see
At the zoo
~Simon & Garfunkel

I remember as a child watching the commercial about the Bronx Zoo with the Simon & Garfunkel singing softly in the background. At that age, I really only new of two zoos. Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County and the Bronx Zoo. When I grew up and learned about, and fell in love with, Cape May, I learned it was happening at their zoo.

And thanks to Charles Muller, the Cape May Zoo will be cared for as they deserve for a long time. You see, Charles and his late wife, Elizabeth, began visiting the zoo over 20 years ago and fell in love with the animals and surroundings.

Philanthropists Charles and Elizabeth Muller

Charles’ loving wife Elizabeth passed away in 2010. Charles continued to visit the zoo, finding solace visiting with his furry friends. As Charles continued to age, he decided to leave his entire estate to the Cape May Zoo to ensure the zoo is financially supported. Charles passed away in 2022. Since then, his executor and attorney have worked to liquidate his estate in order to carry out Charles’ wishes. As a result, the Cape May Zoo has received an unpresented donation of $1.43 million.

The gift from Charles is truly historic and proof there are still good and generous people in the world. And his memory, along with his beloved wife Elizabeth, will live on for a very long time in the hearts of all those who love the Cape May Zoo.

Now not all of us are in the position to make such a generation donation. However, we are all in the position to do something. Make a donation if you are able to do so. Donate an hour of your time. Visit a local museum, historical association… or zoo, and show that these are important parts of every town and community in Jersey. And if you can, throw a dollar or two in the donation jar.

Thank you Charles and Elizabeth. And the animals thank you.