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San Francisco Dedicates 'Claude the Alligator Way' in Golden Gate Park During Public Memorial

The Academy will retain Claude’s skull and white hide for its scientific collection.

Overview

  • The Recreation and Park Commission approved the ceremonial renaming of Music Concourse Drive in front of the California Academy of Sciences.
  • The "Claude Forever" celebration drew about 2,000 attendees with eulogies from officials including Assembly Member Catherine Stefani and state Sen. Scott Wiener.
  • Claude died in December at age 30 from liver cancer after 17 years as the museum’s unofficial ambassador.
  • An Anthropic-sponsored webcam broadened the albino alligator’s reach, helping make him a global favorite.
  • Most of his remains were cremated, and museum staff are debating how to reconfigure the swamp exhibit.