Welcome to Terry Wilson's tribute to
Zippy the Chimp
A brief explanation:
Zippy the Chimp was a 'comedy fixture'
on dozens of network television programs (many of them live) during
the 1950's. During the summer of 2003 I was contacted by Zippy's 'mother'
Carole Womack; the woman who actually trained Zippy and accompanied
him on many of his live TV excursions during the 50's and 60's.
Since first contact, I have learned that Carole is preparing a book
about her life with Zippy. She has asked me to help her connect with
Zippy fans around the world to add possible content
to her project...letters of personal memories of seeing
Zippy on TV, copies of photos with Zippy the Chimp..or kids with Zippy
toys.
Carole and the real deal in the 1950's.
If you would like to learn more about
Carole's book project click here >>
The little book from which the following pictures were taken was first published in 1953 and was a part of my personal library as a child.
During the summer of 1999, I happened to find
a copy of the '53 Zippy book in an antique store...(gulp!) and
decided to share Zippy's simple wisdom with you.
(Please excuse the minor art modifications and
reflections of my sense of humor at the time these were first posted.)
NOVEMBER, 1999
Zippy attempts to explain the "millennium bug"...
and becomes a highly paid consultant to the president!
December 1999:
Zippy shows us the safest place
to be on NEW YEAR'S EVE !
"life is just a bowl of cherries.."
The following are examples of unsolicited emails I have gotten since putting the pictures of Zippy on my site ...what started out as a means to entertain myself between projects has developed into sharing a circle of warm nostalgic memories.
January 17, 2003
Terry,
I owned and loved a Zippy stuffed monkey since 1953 or 1954 when my
aunt gave him to me for my 2nd Christmas. He traveled with me everywhere
but out of the states. My Dad even had to run back upstairs while a
tornado touched down nearby because I was devastated to think Zippy
might die if he remained upstairs.
I had him until just a few years ago. He was so rag-tagged from love
(even the rubber face was beginning to sort of crumble) that I put him
to rest in the garbage one day. I had to do a lot of soul searching
to do that. :)
I had no idea there was a book about zippy. I collect books, although
only when they are extremely underpriced. Hopefully I will trip across
one as you did one day. Loved seeing the pictures though.
Rebecca
January, 2004
I have to thank you so much, I had a zippy as a child,
that in my early childhood protected me, I had a very horrible childhood,
but zippy was the one thing that kept me happy, he kept my secrets,
and was unconditional in his love. You have reminded me of a wonderful
friend, thank you so much for your website.
michele
March, 2004
I was delighted to see your website and wanted to let you know that I also have the children's books of Zippy with the pictures you have posted. One is about Zippy's day at school and one is about Zippy's birthday party where he receives a puppy of his own (guess we didn't realize in those days that chimps are omnivorous). I also have a Zippy doll that is still intact, although somewhat the worse for wear. He currently is dressed in his red overalls and a new shirt made for him by my mother, who discovered him several years ago at her house. He now lives on the top shelf of my closet, covered by several t-shirts because my wife is totally creeped out by dolls and animals with the rubbery face and hands of the Zippy doll. Nevertheless, he's not going anywhere.
Robert
May, 2004
I know my question may sound strange, but if you could help me solve this riddle, it would greatlly help. I received a poem with the following verse in it: "Like Zippy the Chimp in a Robert Hall suit, rollerskating around in circles." Do you have any idea what this verse is exactly alluding to? Any hints or insights or recounts would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for your help. I look forward to your answer. Best, Maya
(..a few days later..)
I wish I could have been more help, but your Zippy riddle has got me stumped, at the moment. Best regards, Terry
Thanks. I solved it. It comes from a song called Sad Little Monkeys by an 80ies group called Psychodots.
Best, MAYA
June, 2004
Dear Terry, Came across my waterlogged Zippy book recently & was so upset. When I stumbled across your site I was SO excited to see all those photos again. Brought back lots of wonderful childhood memories. Even at 52 we never really grow up :) Thanks again! Marla
