ME's Zoo Inc. opened to the public in May of 1988 with about 45 animals and a sincere desire to become a success in this rural community. In the beginning, owners Max and Eileen Oren strived to maintain the 55-acre zoo as a wholesome place to bring the family for a day of fun. Each year many healthy exotic animals were added to a beautiful country setting along with picnic areas and playground equipment.

ME's doesn't try to compete with the larger zoos, but it does have a special appeal of its own. The 'atmosphere' is that of a rolling estate, friendly staff and extremely friendly animals. Almost all of the animals are hand raised and eagerly respond to the staff and visitors. People leave with a feeling that they really got to know some of the animals. Later, they return bringing their friends!

In the spring the zoo is filled to capacity with school children on field trips. The attempt is made to provide a time of learning and fun for all. Teachers appreciate the 'personal touch' not found in the larger zoos. Special petting time, question & answer sessions, animal shows and plenty of convenient free parking makes the day pleasant for everyone.

Also, one day each year is set aside for a free day for all handicapped and elderly persons. Over the years this has become a traditional day of fun for these special people and the ME's Zoo staff as well.

How it All Began

In October 1986, the Orens became personally acquainted with something known as aplastic anemia. Max had developed the deadly disease and was only expected to live a few weeks. Very few people had survived the serious blood disorder, but he was offered experimental treatments that might prolong his life. He chose to take treatments, which began in January of 1987.

Max Oren

This could have been Max's last Christmas, so neighbors and friends joined in to string over 10,000 lights around his house, trees and fences. This labor of love was so touching, and the lights so beautiful, this it quickly became a popular sight to see. Thousands of cars drove by the dazzling light display. Cards and letters of encouragement arrived daily from other seriously ill people.

After receiving the treatments, Max was bedfast for three months and received weekly blood transfusions. He especially enjoyed watching his animals grazing outside his window while he was confined. At that time there were only a few pet deer and donkeys. He and his wife remembered how many people drove out to see the Christmas lights. They wondered if they would also come to see their animals. An idea was born! They drew plans of their entire farm as a display area for lots of animals. They then began to acquire more animals with faith that his health would continue to improve.

When Max was able to get outside again, the Orens and their friends built the zoo, which had only been a dream. Hours of work, advice, materials, and encouragement were given by dozens of individuals to accomplish all that was necessary.

His strength increased daily. Max realized God had given him additional time to live and enjoy his family. His life-message then became: Don't wait too long to appreciate life and loved ones!

In 1989, Max was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia. He was in need of a bone marrow transplant. For the next several years he waited in hopes of finding a suitable donor, but one was never found. The next few years were often difficult for Max, his family and friends, but he never gave up. Every day that he felt strong enough, he could be found in the zoo with his beloved animals and talking to people.

Kim & Eileen Oren

Sadly, Max lost his gallant battle on December 20, 1993. Now his wife Eileen and his daughter Kim encourages families to spend time together. They find creative ways to use the zoo for this purpose. The 'House of Lights' Christmas display, 180,000 strong as of Christmas 2001, remains their most well-known family attraction.

In the time since his death, his wife, daughter, family, friends and zoo staff have worked very hard to keep that dream alive for many years to come.

The first letters from their names, Max and Eileen, have formed the name of this zoo. But love, friendship and hope have created it.