The Wonders of the Royal Menagerie

So many books set in the Regency mention the Royal Menagerie that I could not resist learning how close my imagination and other authors are to the real deal. What I did not realize was that there were two places to see exotic animals in London. The Tower of London housed animals for much of its early history.

The first payment transaction to see the lions housed within is recorded in 1210.

I learned that under Elizabeth I’s rule, people were given free admission to view the animals if they brought a dog or cat to feed the lions. In the 18^th century, a woman’s flesh was torn from her arm, and she died hours later from the wound. The last keeper of the menagerie, Alfred Copps, was attacked by a hungry boa constrictor and only saved when his assistants came rushing in and snapped off its teeth. Still, the Tower continued to house animals and allow the public to view them until a monkey bit a peer, and it was shut down by the Duke of Wellington in 1835.

The Royal Menagerie was housed in the Exeter ‘Change and held many animals in upper-floor cages over the winter months for circus animals and more until the London Zoo opened in 1828. For the cost of the admission, one could have the lions roar at you, have monkeys swipe at you, or you might even watch them feed. While the debutante might cling to the arm of her brave escort, perhaps even swoon into him, it was common enough that she was not considered compromised given the thrills and chills found within, particularly at feeding time. Sorry, ladies, you shall have to try again at the next ball!

Sources for The Wonders of the Royal Menagerie

Knowles, Rachel “The Royal Menagerie at the Exeter Exchange” Regency History, March 19, 2013, Regency History: The Royal Menagerie at the Exeter Exchange

historynavigator “The Animals in the Tower: A Brief History of the Royal Menagerie” Travel Through Time, March 4, 2018 The Animals in the Tower: A Brief History of the Royal Menagerie – Travel Through Time (historynavigator.org)

Bellotti, Alex “Lions And Monkeys And Bears Used To Live In The Tower Of London” Londist, Last Updated July 2, 2020 Lions And Monkeys And Bears Used To Live In The Tower Of London | Londonist

Kane, Katheryn “Amusements in London: Exeter ‘Change by Regina Scott” Regency Fiction Writers, September 4, 2013 Amusements in London: Exeter ‘Change by Regina Scott – Regency Fiction Writers