The dream of John and Lillian Pedersen was realized when Africa USA opened its gates on March 10, 1953, giving tourists an opportunity to experience a “Safari in Africa” via Boca Raton, Florida.

300 acres of land had been purchased from the City of Boca Raton in 1950 and transformed into a magnificent wildlife park full of adventure and fun. Tourists flocked to the once sleepy Boca Raton area to experience all that Africa USA offered.

My father worked at Africa USA driving the Jeep Safari Train. Below are some of Dad’s personal photos from his time there.

One of the famous residents was Princess Margaret, the chimpanzee.

Do you have any memories of Boca Raton’s Africa USA?