Princeton Scientific Expeditions to Patagonia, 1896-1899

This was one of three scientific expeditions Princeton University sent to Patagonia, 1896 – 1899. Mr. John Bell Hatcher organized the trips, and was assisted by O. A. Peterson and A. E. Colburn. The primary focus was to collect vertebrate and invertebrate fossils. The trips were inspired by a series of well-publicized paleontological discoveries by Dr. Florentine and Carlos Ameghino that started in 1887. Expedition members collected a wide range of area flora and fauna, including birds, plants, mammals, amphibians, fresh-water fish, and mollusks. They also studied geology of the region including its stratigraphy. The first trip (March 1, 1896 – July 16, 1897) included O. A. Peterson as assistant to J. B. Hatcher. The second trip (November 7, 1897 – November 9, 1898) A. E. Colburn came as assistant and taxidermist. The third trip (December 9, 1898 - September 1, 1899) J. B. Hatcher was again assisted by O. A. Peterson.