Sometimes it is best to start at the end of the story. It was on Friday, December 25, 1953 that a sign appeared as high as it could be attached to the fence of the deer enclosure at the Mohegan Park Zoo but still everyone could read. “Cindy, the little outcast deer, has been appointed by me as the official greeter to children and representative of all reindeer in this park, this 25th day of December, 1953. Signed, Santa Claus and ‘his helpers.”
Cindy was only four months old when she was brought to Norwich from Stafford Springs, CT. She was placed in the deer enclosure in Mohegan Park because she was so young. The staff thought the older deer would take care of her. The staff had not counted on the attitude of “Lichy” the King of the deer in the enclosure. He had an attitude and did not like the competition of the young deer for the affection of the herd. Lichy, prevented her from eating until the other deer were through and even tried to prevent Billy the Goat from playing with her but from all accounts that did not work.
In 1953 adults and children were allowed to pet the deer and the goat and to bring them treats. Favorites were ginger bread and peanut butter and jelly. Sometimes only crumbs or a crust would be left for Cindy after the rest of the herd had their share. So the staff of the park and a nameless Bulletin reporter visited with Cindy regularly to be certain she received her share of food and to feed her treats.
On the Christmas eve visit though, Cindy did not come right away when they called her name and there was fear something had happened to her. But then there was a glint in the moonlight and there Cindy stood as if she were trying to show them something. Around her neck was a beautiful wreath of laurel, red berries and pine combs and as if Cindy was giving instruction her audience followed her gaze to notice the sign on the wire fence.
Cindy, remained a popular, gentle and friendly deer with visitors to the Mohegan Park Enclosure for many more years even though she never became a favorite of “Litchy.” Happy Holidays to all!
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