Christian The Lion

Imagine meeting a lion in an department store?

Today that probably wouldn’t happen.

We as a society have become much more aware of the importance of animal rights. However, at one time in 1969, two entrepreneurs came upon such a situation at Harrods Department Store in London, England. Little did they know that their acquistion of the lion cub would become a story that is still remembered 30 years later.

Some interesting trivia regarding this story are:

*In 1969, John Rendall and Anthony Bourke purchased the lion cub for 250 guineas, under $1.00.

*The lion was named Christian and became a focal point of their life, creating a strong bond between them.

*Christian was taken for walks, allowed to run on nearby church grounds, even playing soccer with the men.

*Wildlife conservationist George Adamsons was contacted to help with the transition of the lion to the Kora National Park in Kenya, a more natural environment, when he became too large to keep in the city.

*Two other lions are introduced to Christian, a male named Boy and a female named Katania, however, Boy is eaten by a crocodile and Katania is shot.

*Christian was now full grown and became the leader of his own pride

*In 1972, John and Anthony go to Kenya to be reunited with Christian. A documentary is filmed surrounding this event called; Christian, A Lion at World’s End.

*One of the most significant moments of the the film was when Christian recognizes his former owners and runs towards them, embracing each of them in a hug.

*A movie titled; Born Free was based on the life of Christian. There are also additional books and films that document this amazing story.

*Christian continued to display the characteristics of love and trust throughout his life, even while in the wild.