Smokey's living history began early in 1950, when a burned cub survived a fire in the Lincoln National Forest near Capitan, New Mexico. Because this bear survived a terrible forest fire and won the love and imagination of the American public, many people mistakenly believe the cub was the original Smokey Bear, but in reality he did not come along until the advertising symbol was almost six years old. After being nursed back to health, Smokey came to live at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., as a living counterpart to the CFFP Program's fire prevention symbol.
Over the years, thousands of people from around the world came to see Smokey Bear at the National Zoo. A mate, Goldie, was introduced with the hope a young Smokey would continue the tradition of the famous living symbol. These efforts failed and an adopted son was sent to the zoo so the aged bear could retire on May 2, 1975. After many years of popularity, the original Smokey died in 1976. His remains were returned to Capitan and rest beneath a stone marker in Smokey Bear Historical State Park. For more than 15 years, the adopted Smokey carried on as the living symbol, but in 1990, when the second Smokey Bear died, the living symbol was laid to rest.
Smokey's Detractors
Smokey's task is becoming increasingly difficult. In years past, it was a challenge for his message to reach traditional visitors to the forest. Now we are faced with getting his wildfire prevention message to an increasing number of people who live in and around these areas.
But Smokey may have done too good a job. There are some who suggest that we have eliminated fire to the point that it is hurting not only forest management but is building fuels for future fire disaster. They don't want Smokey's message out anymore.
Charles Little, in an editorial called "Smokey's Revenge" , states that "in many circles the bear is a pariah. Even at the National Zoo in Washington DC, which tends to be inclusive, the popular Smokey Bear exhibit was quietly dismantled in 1991 - after having featured since 1950 a bear going by this name (involving two separate animals). The point is, Smokey's ecological correctness quotient is low, as an increasing number of forest ecologists have been pointing out in recent years. We anthropomorphize at our peril."
Another good essay was written by Jim Carrier for High Country News. It gives a humorous but somewhat cynical view of Smokey. He does not sugar-coat and offers a very entertaining piece called "An Agency Icon at 50". This is a must read!
Adapted from USDA Forest Service Publication FS-551
