Interview with David Johnson

I did [get to watch the wolves being fed]. We lived near Bradford and my Dad took me to see the wolves in the late 50's. I was asked to carry a water bucket and allowed in the area by the cages. I remember my Dad helping me because the water bucket was heavy. I got a treasured silver dollar for that work. 

 

 

I was between 9 and ten years old. We had moved from the Chicago area to Bradford, PA.  I believe that my Dad read the article that you provided [“He Made Friends with a Wolf Pack” from True: The Man’s Magazine, March 1958] and we were interested to go see the wolves.

 

 

On the day we visited (late summer as I recall) I was fascinated by the brochure detailing the Lobos and their individual history. An older man was opening the gate for a walkway between the cages. I remember being fascinated by this act - the wolves did not seem alarmed nor did they threaten. The man had a metal bucket and was pouring water through the cage into a container. I asked if I could help and he said sure - but not to come into the walkway past the gate. So I went to the spigot, filled the bucket, and brought the water to the man. I don't remember how many trips but I do remember the loaded buckets were a struggle.

 

 

I don't remember if it was the Dr. or not - I don't think we were introduced. My Dad said it was him but I can't say for certain. I was given a silver dollar by the man (who, to a nine or ten year old, seemed very old) and his thanks.

 

 

On subsequent visits I recall him going inside the cages and being nuzzled by the big wolves.

 

There were others but none held my interest.