In 1974, Marlin Perkins purchased a large parcel now the
home of Blue Spring Reserve and the adjacent Arrowtree
development. Mr. Perkins is world-famous as the host of the
award-winning series, “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom”.
Mr. Perkins had a unique vision; to create a wildlife-based
theme park on the Blue Spring Reserve property. His
announcement created significant interest in the area,
resulting in the development of hotels, commercial, and
residential properties just South of Blue Spring Reserve at the
intersection of U.S. Highway 27 and State Route 19. Further
commercial interest dwindled when Mr. Perkins’ vision did not
fully materialize. Although Mr. Perkins did not construct his
theme park, Blue Spring Reserve became home to dozens of
exotic wildlife species. Local lore recounts hippopotamus
bathing in the canals and giraffe necks peering above the
stately oaks. |
