In 1992, a couple in Monrovia found a 500-pound American black bear soaking in their hot tub. He returned often, earning a nickname around town: Samson. When wildlife officials made plans to euthanize the bear, the outcry was so intense that Gov. Pete Wilson intervened, offering Samson a stay of execution.

He was given a home at the Orange County Zoo, a move later credited with reviving visitorship. When Samson died in 2001 at the old age of 27, the zookeeper fought back tears, the L.A. Times reported. A county supervisors’ meeting was adjourned in Samson’s honor.

Nearly 20 years later, homages to Samson are everywhere in Monrovia. His likeness appears in parades and statues around town. There’s a children’s book about him. Last year, he was named mascot of the fire department. 

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