Ruth Harkness, an American fashion designer and adventurer, gained widespread attention in 1936 after she captured a nine-week-old giant panda cub in the mountainous region of Sichuan, China. This momentous occasion unfolded as Harkness was on an expedition following the death of her husband, who was an established explorer. Intrigued by the allure of the unknown and possessing a passion for wildlife, she set forth into the forests of China, driven by the aim of bringing back a giant panda to the United States. Her efforts culminated in a significant achievement, achieving the goal of capturing a live panda, a feat never attempted by individuals outside of China before.Upon successfully capturing the cub, she named it 'Su Lin,' meaning 'a little bit of something' in Chinese. The panda's arrival in the United States became a major media sensation, shrouded in excitement and curiosity about this exotic animal. Harkness later became instrumental in the efforts to promote the conservation of giant pandas, raising awareness through public exhibitions and events. Su Lin was presented to the public at the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, capturing the hearts of many and igniting interest in the species across the country. Harkness's endeavor opened the doors for further discussions on wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.The journey of this tiny panda, once hidden in the forests of China, also marked the beginning of an enduring fascination with giant pandas in American culture, which would last for decades as more pandas were imported and conservation efforts expanded. Ruth Harkness's involvement with pandas not only provided a unique link between the East and West but also framed future contributions to wildlife preservation, showcasing the intersection of fashion, exploration, and environmental awareness.