By the end of the 1940’s Chester Zoo had grown in size as well as in popularity. Between Jan – Aug 1949, over 300,000 had passed through the turnstiles. New aviaries were built, as well as a new den for two new tigers that were due to arrive.1949 also saw the zoo build its first elephant house, for a grand total of ï£5,482 (which was a HUGE sum at the time). The zoo was growing and the number of visitors reached 319, 423 this year.