I'm a little reluctant to post this for general consumption, but at this point I am simply gauging availability and interest...

So, as a bit of background, Marlin Perkins (of Wild Kingdom fame) took at least 2 herp collecting trips to Arkansas in the late 1920's to mid 1930's during his tenure at the St. Louis Zoo.  Among the species he collected were Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnakes (in the double digits!) and at least 8 Coralsnakes.  Most of these were deposited in scientific museums, but I believe a few of the animals went on display at the zoo.  A couple of scientific papers, which I have not read yet myself, were published as to at least one of the earlier collecting trips, but these obviously omit some important information.  For example, the papers don't even mention the Coralsnakes as these were not accounted for in the 2004 AR herp book, but I know about them now based on recent museum queries.

Now to the plans...

I am tentatively planning to travel to St. Louis for a couple of days during my winter break--December 17 to January 1--to pore over the Perkins papers in regard to his herpetological work in Arkansas.  The State Historical Society of Missouri Research Center at the University of St. Louis houses the records and is only open on weekdays.  I'd like to allow two days for the work in case one isn't enough.  By the listing of materials, there could be a lot to sort through.

http://www.umsl.edu/~whmc/

http://www.umsl.edu/~whmc/guides/whm0516.htm

http://www.umsl.edu/~whmc/guides/whm0721.htm

That's about how I know it at this point.  I just tracked down the existence and availability of these documents right at the end of summer break, and it was too late to follow through before school started back.  I have to tell you, I practically idolized Marlin Perkins growing up and have watched every episode of Wild Kingdom at least 4 times...probably double that if they showed any snakes!  HA!  Throw in W. Diamond-backs and Coralsnakes and...well, I've been almost giddy in anticipation of this trip already.  It really is going to feel like a little kid waiting for their best Christmas ever to come!

I'm sharing because I know at least some on this forum have similar feelings toward Perkins, Diamond-backs, and Corals.  So, if sitting in a dull library poring over documents for 1 or 2 eight-hour winter days is for you, then I'm willing to share in this opportunity...if the finer details can be worked out.  I think, unfortunately, a reasonable number of participants is probably going to have to be limited to no more than four.
...

Possibly for next herping season...  Retrace Perkin's steps???  How fun would that be?