Frick, founder of the zoo and a former Head of Surgery and Medicine at the Kansas State University School of Veterinary Medicine, volunteered to acquire, provide care for, and display animals for 43 years.

The city received its original funding from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) for the initial construction of animal exhibits, buildings and walkways.

Much of this original native limestone work has been preserved, serving as educational examples of social history, and remains part of the zoo's Master Plan.

In 1980, the citizens of Manhattan encouraged the City Commission to build a modern zoo.

This led to the development of a Zoo Master Plan and city approval to charge a small admission fee.