We Bought a Zoo Timeline ( Real )

purchase
March 24, 2006

Purchase of Dartmoor Zoological Park by Benjamin Mee

Benjamin Mee and his family buy the Dartmoor Zoological Park after the death of their mother and wife, seeking a fresh start.

renovation
August 15, 2007

Renovation and Reopening of Dartmoor Zoo

Benjamin Mee and his family undertake extensive renovations of the Dartmoor Zoological Park to meet safety and animal welfare standards, leading to its reopening to the public.

film_premiere
December 23, 2011

Premiere of the movie 'We Bought a Zoo'

The film 'We Bought a Zoo,' based on Benjamin Mee's book and his real-life experience purchasing and running the Dartmoor Zoo, premieres in theaters.

We Bought a Zoo Timeline ( Fictional )

family_event
early 2010s, prior to move

Death of Benjamin Mee’s wife

Benjamin Mee’s wife passes away, prompting Benjamin to seek a fresh start for his family.

relocation
spring 2011

Benjamin and kids move to the countryside

Benjamin moves with his two children to the countryside in hopes of starting anew.

purchase
spring 2011

Buying the zoo

Benjamin purchases the rundown Rosemoor Wildlife Park with hopes of restoring it and creating a better life for his family.

family_event
spring 2011

First visit to the zoo by family

The Mee family visits the zoo together, exploring the grounds and seeing its potential.

relationship
shortly after purchase, 2011

Meeting Kelly Foster

Benjamin meets Kelly, the zoo’s head animal keeper, who becomes instrumental in helping him with the zoo.

zoo_event
early summer 2011

Zoo is closed due to disrepair

The zoo is found to be unsafe and is closed by the local authorities, making the restoration urgent.

decision
summer 2011

Decision to renovate the zoo

Benjamin decides to commit to repairing the zoo and reopening it, despite the challenges.

conflict
summer to fall 2011

Challenges in renovation

The family and staff face numerous obstacles including funding, animal care, and structural repairs.

preparation
early spring 2012

Spring reopening preparations

Final preparations are made for the zoo’s reopening in spring, including building exhibits and marketing.

zoo_event
spring 2012

Zoo reopens to the public

After extensive rebuilding, the zoo officially reopens, symbolizing a new beginning for Benjamin and his family.

family_event
spring 2012

Dylan makes peace with loss

Benjamin’s son Dylan makes progress in coping with his mother’s death and bonding with the family