Our Story - Twin Valley Zoo

Twin Valley Zoo is home to over 70+ species of animals, including lions, tigers, kangaroos, zebras, goats and so many more! Founded by Henny and Tony Stallmann in 1991, it continues to provide a loving, healthy environment for animals of all kinds.

The Brantford Twin Valley Zoo’s story begins in Holland. Tony and Henny grew up in the same small town in Naarden, Holland from an early age. They were smitten with each other. In the sixth grade Tony professed his feelings for her and gifted Henny with a promise ring. At 16 they would meet on Sundays to walk hand in hand by the ocean, or go feed the local park ducks.

After dating for several years in 1960 Tony, and Henny finally married and after three days of marriage, boarded a plane to Canada with nothing more than a suitcase, a tool box, and a dream. Tony and Henny were incredibly hard working, often floating several jobs, while raising 5 children. Tony worked for many years as a skilled carpenter. Tony unfortunately suffered both a shoulder injury and lost several fingers in an accident, making wood working a difficult profession.

One of Tony and Henny’s children suggested starting a small petting farm where Tony could share his admiration and love for animals. Tony had always been passionate about animals and at the time owned a wide variety of birds, waterfowl elk, and deer. With that suggestion, Tony’s love of animals and Henny’s love for Tony, Brantford Twin Valley Zoo took root. The zoo was established in 1991.

They along with their five children put in endless hours of work, blood, sweat and tears into creating what is now called Twin Valley Zoo. Sadly, Tony was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2011. Henny and Tony reached out to their children for help, and they all contributed.

Before passing, Tony asked to be taken for one last golf cart ride. They bundled him up and drove him to see the bears and the fish. A few days later he passed peacefully at the zoo, which he loved so much, with his family by his side.

Today the zoo looks a little different. It has grown and matured and continues to do so, but the backbone of what it was built upon remains.

Love, a strong passion for animals and nature, dedication and teamwork have kept Twin Valley Zoo flourishing. Henny, now in her 80’s, continues to work every day either in the gift shop, in the office, behind the scenes or greeting our visitors! As a family, they all strive to provide a loving, nurturing home to over 70+ species of animals including; Lions, Tigers, Wolves, Birds, Bears, Deer, Alpaca and Primates and many more.