Map that shows the route taken by the reindeer and caribou during Operation Reindeer. The map includes a tentative timeline and shows the stops made along the way. Operation Reindeer was the name for the transfer of 14 reindeer and 1 caribou to the National Zoological Park from Alaska in 1958. The animals were a gift for Alaska's admittance to the United States of American (which became official in 1959). The Operation was a joint effort between the Smithsonian, State of Alaska, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Consolidated Freightways, Alaska Air Command, Alaska Steamship Co., Alaska Railroad, and Garrison Fast Freight. The reindeer and caribou all arrived safely to Washington, D.C. on December 11, 1958, just in time to participate in that year's "Pageant of Peace" on the National Mall.
Cite as:
Smithsonian Institution Archives, Record Unit 365, Image No. SIA2011-0027
Repository Loc.:
Smithsonian Institution Archives Capital Gallery, Suite 3000, MRC 507; 600 Maryland Avenue, SW; Washington, DC 20024-2520
No access restrictions Many of SIA's holdings are located off-site, and advance notice is recommended to consult a collection. Please email the SIA Reference Team at osiaref@si.edu
