Temerity Magazine Volume 1 Issue 3 August 2011

Page 1

Volume 1 Issue 3

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

2

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

3

August 2011


Table of Contents Pg. 5-Temerity...the first word by Chad T. Everson Pg. 6-SuperJammyGit’s Historic Gift by Chad T. Everson Pg. 7-SuperJammyGit & Temerity Magazine Pg. 8-SuperJammyGit Cover Photo Contest Pg. 9-SuperJammyGit Subscription Contest Pg. 11-The Silver Half Crown-“Queen of the Desert” By Colleen & Warren in Australia NQExplorers Pg. 16-Buffalo Nickel Classified By Chad T. Everson Pg. 17-Metal Detecting – Changes & Innovations to the Hobby By Ian Hughes Pg. 23-Interview with Anti-Que & Uncle Vintie Interview By YardsaleCzarina Pg. 29- Meteorite Hunting In "blow out areas" with Skip Wilson & Ruben Garcia! By Ruben Garcia Pg. 33-REDDIRTDIGGER Interview By Chad T. Everson Pg. 40-“Do you ever find anything worthwhile?” By Derik (aka Pulltabpirate) Pg. 44-Research and Perseverance – Essential Tools of the Treasure Hunter. By NQExplorers Pg. 49-“THE MOOSE” By Evelyn Mohlke Pg. 50-The Moose Tree of Oronoco, Minnesota By Evelyn Mohlke Pg. 54-There's treasure to be found and you don't need a metal detector, shovel, or a pirate map to find it. By Will Wright @Terminal99 Pg. 60-I Was Garage Saling Before Garage Saling Was Cool! By Hoardermart Pg. 65-Uncovered Treasures By Virginia Chojnowski VCStar5 Pg. 66-The Metal Detecting Site of My Dreams BY: Ryan Cowden RecoverngRelics Pg. 70-NOVICE 2 NOVICE Part 2: THE HUNT By Tom in SC Pg. 73-Oronoco Gold Rush Days Visit By Chad T. Everson Pg.84-You may have noticed By Chad T. Everson

Volume 1 Issue 3

4

August 2011


Temerity...the first word. I want to thank every one of our authors who had the temerity to get grizzly with us here in this Temerity Magazine August issue! It was so fun getting in all these great articles and photos to weave together into this issue and publish it for you, our Temerity Magazine readers! We have so many Grizzly Relic & Treasure hunters for you to enjoy in this issue! The countries of Australia, England, & USA are represented. I want to take this time to invite you to submit your article for our next issue! No matter where you are in the world, just have the temerity to send your voice, thought and image to Editor@TemerityMagazine.com by October 20th, 2011. SuperJammyGit has gifted Temerity Magazine with 5 really historic coins he has metal detected and found in his Grizzly Backyard. Two coins will be won by November’s Cover Photo submitter and winner. Three coins will be won by a subscriber of either SuperJammyGit or GrizzlyGroundswell on YouTube or a Temerity Magazine Promo Video publisher. I am really touched that every author and SuperJammyGit are so supportive of our Temerity Magazine effort, lifting up one another and this great Relic & Treasure passion we all share. This is our third issue of Temerity Magazine and we are slowly growing in readership and submissions. I am so proud to share with you all the great relic and treasure hunters’ skills, knowledge, expertise and passion for this great addiction we all have in common. Anything that I can do to bring more people to Relic & Treasure hobby, industry and way of life, I will do as will our Temerity Magazine authors found here within these pages. We are here to inspire and motivate you to join us and share your experiences in Temerity Magazine. Get Grizzly! Volume 1 Issue 3

5

August 2011


I received this package in the mail containing some old coins that I have never seen before. SuperJammyGit had contacted me previously and said he wanted to help raise awareness of Temerity Magazine and that he would be sending me some coins that I could use in a contest to raise awareness for Temerity Magazine. I had no idea that the coins would

Volume 1 Issue 3

be this spectacular! I have to admit the thought of keeping these coins did cross my mind! Yet, what a historic gift given by SuperJammyGit to help Temerity Magazine grow! I sat there admiring and holding these coins, just soaking in the history in my hands. Could these coins assist Temerity Magazine in gaining the readers our authors deserve? I pray they do.

6

August 2011


Prize for Temerity Magazine Cover Photo Contest: 1.

Elizabeth the first hammered silver penny 1558 1603 believed to be second issue 2. obverse crowned bust reverse quarted royal arms over long cross 3. fourches

2. 1860 Victoria D:C: Britt Reg F:D: Farthing

Prize for Subscription, Friend and Promo Video Contest 1.

Hammered Roman coin of probus about 277 AD obverse legend reads - “Virtvs probi avg” radiate helmeted cuirassed ,bust left

Volume 1 Issue 3

holding spear and shield. Reverse reads “adventvs probi avg” emperor riding with right hand raised holding scepter with captive at feet. Georgius III Rex Britannia 1773 Copper coin Georgius III D.G. Rex 1806 Britannia Copper coin

You may find these coins on SuperJammyGit’s videos on his YouTube Channel. If you win, they will be a superior addition to your collection!

Help us spread the word about Temerity Magazine! Editor@TemerityMagazine.com

7

August 2011


These two outstanding coins gifted to Temerity Magazine by SuperJammyGit, will be won by the person with the temerity to win the Cover Image Contest with their photo submission.

zine for your article, submit it again for November’s Cover Image. Every person that enters gets one entry no matter how many photos they submit. However, if one of your photos wins, these two coins are yours, and your photo will represent Temerity Magazine in the November Issue.

Everyone, except SuperJammyGit and myself. is eligible to enter and win. Even if you have already sub- Submit your photo to: mitted the photo to Temerity Maga- Editor@TemerityMagazine.com

Volume 1 Issue 3

8

August 2011


These three awesome coins will be won by one lucky subscriber Nov. 3rd, 2011! That is right! One lucky subscriber, and that person could be you if you just do this to enter this great contest! 

Subscribe or Friend SuperJammyGit =1 entry

Subscribe or Friend GrizzlyGroundswell =1 entry

Produce and publish a great Temerity Magazine promotional Video = 10 entries

Yes, you could earn up to 12 enVolume 1 Issue 3

tries to win these great coins gifted to Temerity Magazine to promote this great magazine! All promotional video links must be sent to editor@TemerityMagazine.com to assure you get your 10 entries! Random.org will pick the winner on October 31st and published in November’s Temerity Magazine. Additional entries will be given for innovative Temerity Magazine promotions! Help us get the word out! 9

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

10

August 2011


The Silver Half Crown – “Queen of the Desert”

hunting it. Here in North Queensland we have a rich heritage of mining, from gold and silver to vast reserves of copper, zinc, nickel and lead. The western, arid areas of Queensland are sprinkled with By Colleen & Warren in Australia ghost towns dating from the late 19th and early 20th century, boom and bust settlements that rode to glory on high metal prices and then disappeared just as quickly. Most were served by longAustralian relic and coin hunters have no abandoned railway lines and often had shortage of ground to cover, with an area their own smelters or treatment plants. Populations varied from just a few hunroughly equivalent to the Continental dred to over 2,000 in the larger towns. United States, Australia has a much Very little remains of them now. smaller population – there are only around 23 million of us Aussies. So there is plenty of ground and a lot less people

NQExplorers

Volume 1 Issue 3

11

August 2011


Visits to these remote, arid areas need to be well planned. You need a well equipped four wheel drive with plenty of fuel and water, tools and spares, and good communications equipment. We often travel with two vehicles for safetyâ€&#x;s sake.

first World War, then died and disappeared in the late 1920s when copper prices went through the floor and the depression set in. It was a reasonably large place, around 2,500 people, 4 pubs and a big school and even a well-equipped hospital.

The area we visited is around 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) and 15 hours driving time from home. It is a very remote spot in arid spinifex country.

We spent two full days detecting, but as the town area covers several square kilometers, there is a lot of ground to cover. Early on the first day, I was lucky to find a rare (key date) 1918 Australian silver Sixpence in the ruins of the hospital. I We were detecting at the site of a former was confident that this would get me the copper mining and smelting town which "Find of the Day Award" back at camp started in the 1880s, boomed during the that evening. Volume 1 Issue 3

12

August 2011


Colleen was trying her luck in the remains of the railway station (just an old concrete platform). We always carry little hand-held UHF radios in these places for safety as it is very easy to get 'bushed' or bitten by a snake. Just after our morning tea break, back detecting and well out of sight of each other, the radio came to life. The conversation went something like this: (Ill never forget it)

C: "Hey, I think I‟ve found something here" W: "... OK what is it" Volume 1 Issue 3

C: "It‟s big, round and silver" W: "Is it a coin" (hopefully) C: "It looks like a coin, but it‟s too big I think, too big for a coin. . I‟ll just clean it and have a look" Several minutes of radio silence followed. W: (increasingly frustrated) "Well . . .what is it?" C: "I‟m not sure but I think it‟s Queen Victoria on one side and on the other side it says something . . CROWN" 13

August 2011


I didn't reply, just dropped everything and belted across the 300-400 yards to where she was detecting.

the camera there to record the occasion and the look on her face says it all. You can see Queen Victoria in all her glory on the coin.

Well, we cleaned it properly and couldn't believe it, a great big silver coin. It was a 1900 Queen Victoria "veiled head" Half Crown (two shillings and sixpence 2/6). A truly beautiful coin and a stunning find in such a desolate place.

The 1900 Half Crown coin, as minted weighs in at 14.1 grams (0.45 oz), thatâ€&#x;s almost half an ounce of sterling silver. Ours is a bit more circulated and worn than 14 grams, but remains a beautifully designed coin featuring the elderly Queen To date this is our greatest coin find. Col- Victoria in all her regal beauty. It was leen always manages to outdo me when truly a memorable moment when she saw we are out together, which I don't mind, the sunlight again after more than 100 years lost in the desert. and on this occasion, she definitely got the "Find of the Day". Luckily we had Volume 1 Issue 3

14

August 2011


We have another trip planned into the area as there are more than a dozen old towns and settlements to explore and detect. In reality, they receive very few visitors, partly because of their remote location, sometimes difficult access and predominantly very hot, dry conditions. But for those reasons, they are relic hunters dream! But you must be well prepared and equipped to venture into these areas and it is always advisable to give your itinerary to friends or family, or even the local police who are happy to look out for you. That was our “Queen of the Desert� coin, a truly remarkable find in such a place, lost so long ago, but saved, treasured and preserved, and now taking the pride of place in our coin collection.

Colleen & Warren NQExplorers.com www.youtube.com/user/NQExplorers

Volume 1 Issue 3

15

August 2011


Buffalo Nickel Classified just launched and already finding success. It is Theodore Mediaâ€&#x;s online store front where you can purchase the great Grizzly Garage Sale finds from your home.

As luck would turn out the buyer was no other than Tim of FishDecoy.net. He has one of the largest spear fishing decoys collections for sale today. So it was a great sale and contact to be made.

Recently an authentic Pearl Bethel Min- Pearl Bethel was born in 1864 and died in nesota Spear Fishing Decoy was pur1960. He lived in Park Rapids, Minnechased and saved from a local garage sale. sota. His Spear Fishing Decoys are It only took three days before the buyer highly prized and collected. Pearl is the had purchased both the decoy and one of great grandfather to over 5 generations of Minnesota spear fishing decoy makers. the Spear Fishing spears. Truly a Historic find now in a collection.

Volume 1 Issue 3

16

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

17

August 2011


Metal Detecting – Changes & Innovations to the Hobby. Hi, my name‟s Ian Hughes, I‟m a metal Detectorist from Carlisle in the UK, up on the border between England and Scotland. I‟ve been metal detecting since the 1990‟s but then had a long break from detecting, spending 10 years working overseas in the Middle East. I retired back to the UK last year, and, once I got settled back in at home I decided to take up metal detecting again. Once I started though, I found that there was a world of difference to detecting today than there was back in the dying years of the last century. Many new innovations had made the hobby a lot easier and a lot more fun, some very high tech and some extremely low tech, but just as effective in their own way. No longer just a case of wandering into a field and waving a detector round a bit, I found now that, not only could I sit at home and see a field on Google Earth and Google Maps from above, but I could also see traces of ancient footpaths and building sites in the grass, where there was nothing visible at ground level. I could research the history of a site using some of the thousands of pages of historical data on the internet and use tens of thousands of other pages to research my finds. There are websites that I can go to in order to log my really good finds so anyone can look at them, sites such as UKDFD [UK Detector Finds Volume 1 Issue 3

Database] and the PAS [Portable Antiquities Scheme] website. The time comes, though, when you have to get out and about and the personal touch comes into play. I started by going round to see farmers and land owners nearby and asking them for permission to search. Almost everyone I contacted agreed and gave me permission, much better results than writing letters or emails and waiting to see if anyone gets back. Other useful sources of information were the local „old timers‟, usually very knowledgeable about the history of a place and very often, once they started chatting, they‟d point me in directions to hunt that I wouldn‟t normally have considered. Once I had the permissions to hunt, I put together my bag of goodies, loads of cold drinks, sandwiches (known here as butties) and snacks before heading out into the fields with my old detector (rapidly exchanged for a new one) and my new pin pointer, another high tech piece of kit that wasn‟t around when I was previously detecting. So, out in the field, I found that one of the problems that I‟d come across before was still bugging me, this was that whenever I was trying to walk a straight line in a field I found myself veering to the right. Whether this was because I was looking down at the detector when walking or whether it‟s just a natural thing, I‟m still not sure. Anyway, I realised I was actually missing large parts of the field and as a result, losing, potentially, loads of finds. After a bit of thought, I came up 18

August 2011


with a solution, very simple, very cheap and not at all high tech. I bought a roll of parcel string, around 25 yards long from a local stationer then slipped into the wife‟s greenhouse and stole a couple of bamboo stakes from her tomato plants. I cut the stakes into 12 inch lengths and tied one to the end of a roll of string. Once I was out in the field I staked this end into the grass and rolled out the string, tying another stake to the other end and giving me a line to detect against. I‟ve now developed this a bit further and, using two rolls of string, I get a fifty yard line out, then measure two detector swings out to the side and set out another two rolls of string. This gives me four „lanes‟ to detect at a time, covering roughly 600 square yards and no missing patches. It‟s very easy to move the lines along once the four lanes are finished and it‟s amazing how quickly and effectively a field, lot or piece of parkland can be covered in this way while it also ensures you cover all the ground and can hoover up all the

finds. Admittedly it is a bit of a pain having to roll up the strings again at the end of a day but I think the results are well worth it. Obviously, this is not much use on a beach or in woodland or rough terrain but it works a treat in pastureland, ploughed fields and parks or gardens. Once I get a „hit‟ in a field I usually dig a much bigger hole than is probably necessary so I can avoid breaking an artefact with the shovel or scratching a coin, I can get away with this in a field but have to be more delicate and a bit more precise when detecting a garden or in parkland so use a smaller trowel and a probe to locate the find. When I‟ve pinpointed the find I dig it out with a trowel that has a plastic or Teflon coating which helps to avoid scratching the finds. I now carry a plastic spray bottle, once used for household cleaners, but now filled with water for initial cleaning of finds in the field without rubbing and damaging them. Then comes the logging of the finds, no longer a quick pencilled note in an old notebook, now I can use

Volume 1 Issue 3

19

the GPS locator on my mobile phone to log the exact find coordinates. This leads me back to Google Maps where I can input the GPS coordinates of finds and add a pointer on the map of the site. As the finds come in so the finds information builds up and I start to see patterns of finds emerging. On one site the patterns formed a wavy line across the map, suggesting there may have been an old footpath across the land. The ends of the line finished at the edges of the field but, I reasoned, if this was a footpath then it probably continued onto the neighbouring fields. Unfortunately on this occasion I couldn‟t get permission to search the neighbours land but the usefulness of high tech in detecting was established for me. I do a fair bit of reading during the frequent spells of very wet weather here and was surprised by how often I came across references in detecting articles to guys that found silver or gold on land that had been detected many times before. I decided to test this out and went back to some

August 2011


of my early sites to detect them again. I started making finds straight away. Even when I met up with another Detectorist, with a very expensive high tech machine, who told me not to bother going in a certain part of the site as he‟d already „done it‟, I carried on and made a couple of nice finds. I‟ve demonstrated in my videos, several times, how lots of good finds can be missed no matter how carefully you think you‟ve covered the ground. So, I never think it‟s a waste of

time to hit a spot that someone else has already done, no matter how good they are, there‟s very often something else just waiting to be uncovered. Another change to the hobby came from a discussion with a local archaeologist who advised me not to get hung up on “metal” detecting as there‟s very often other stuff out there that‟s worth fetching home, for instance, flint arrow heads, knives and tools, even bits of pottery. So I‟m now collecting the bits of pottery I come across

Volume 1 Issue 3

20

when I‟m digging in the hope that I‟ll eventually hand in some fragment of roman, Anglo-Saxon or earlier pottery that may point the way to a new and maybe undiscovered archaeological site. Yet another change to my way of detecting came about when I was watching a TV program and the presenter held up a small green bronze thing telling the cameraman that it was an ancient Roman button. I immediately recognised this as I‟d dug one up a few days before but had con-

August 2011


signed it to the scrap bin. On checking with the local museum this turned out to be a Roman toggle button

dating from 100BC to AD300. [ Fig 1.] So now I always wash and check my scrap metal finds after I get

Volume 1 Issue 3

21

home. Usually they really are scrap but Iâ€&#x;ve lost count of the number of times Iâ€&#x;ve made a find and

August 2011


stated it was scrap metal only to find out it was silver or an ancient artefact. A couple of recent examples of this are the lump of lead that turned out to be a pilgrims ampulla dating from 12th-15th century [Fig.2] and the bit of scrap metal that turned out to be a fragment of a Roman silver denarius dating AD183 to AD235 [Fig 3.] The most far reaching innovation for the hobby though, as far as I‟m concerned, has to be the ability to film my hunts, string the clips together as a video and upload the videos to the internet, where they can be viewed by anyone worldwide. It‟s really a bit awe inspiring to know that my metal detecting days out are being watched and, seemingly, appreciated by detectorists from around the world, in places such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA, Latvia, Italy, Norway, The Netherlands and even China, as well as by many detectorists in the UK.

If anyone would like to view any of my hunts from the last 12 months or so, live on video, they are all online at „Janhyooz‟ youtube channel, in a series of videos entitled :

Good luck and happy hunting.

Metal Detecting… ...In Cumbria

Volume 1 Issue 3

22

August 2011


Q1. How did you come by your names?

{pronounced Auntie K) Yard Sale Czarina (AQ) and Uncle Vintie, the Vintage Tool AQ: It started years ago when I decided Man (UV) that our town needed a yard sale code enforcer. So, I created the position and be- Q2. When do you first remember gocame the “self-appointed Yard Sale Cza- ing to a yard or garage sale? rina”. I do not have any official authority, but I try to help people in the community UV: We started going to yard sales and flea markets back when we were college organize, promote and run successful yard sales. In the Fall of 2010, we started students in Texas. It was an inexpensive “The Yard Sale Show” on YouTube as a way to furnish and decorate our apartments. In fact, we found some beautiful way to chronicle all the “stuff ” that we antique pieces that we still have today! buy. We needed pseudonyms for the AQ also frequented the Goodwill store. show, so I came up with Anti-que, Volume 1 Issue 3

23

August 2011


Back then, you could find vintage clothes, Saturday (i.e., yard sale day,) is our favorjewelry and antiques for next to nothing. ite dayd of the week! For us, pick‟n is a hobby that started with collecting and expanded to buying, selling and trading. Q3. What ignited your passion about antiques and sales? Q5. There is really a great Pick'n famAQ: I guess that happened ~ 10 years ily on YouTube and more joining in ago when we were visiting my Uncle in St. Louis, MO. He took us to the Wentz- the fun everyday! Tell Temerity Magaville, MO Flea Market!! WOW!!! We were zine readers how they can find you on YouTube and what to expect from hooked!! We crammed as many stoneware crocks and jugs in our little Honda your great channel! Insight as we possibly could. After that, we started collecting antique stoneware. Then, it expanded to cast iron items (kettles, irons, banks, potbelly stoves, pumps, etc) and now it‟s just about any utilitarian Americana antique or tool. Uncle Vintie‟s grandfather and father both owned ice plants, so we also have a lot of old items from them that we really cherish. Q4. Your YouTube videos and channel is both entertaining and very informative giving others tips and encouragement to go out there and find that next great pick! How did you get started as pickers?

UV The picker network on YouTube is a wonderful resource! There are so many outstanding videos, it is difficult to keep up with all of them! Our YouTube channel is YardSaleCzarina and the name of our show is: The Yard Sale Show with Anti-que, Yard Sale Czarina and Uncle Vintie, the Vintage Tool Man. We really enjoy finding interesting items, researching them and sharing that information with our viewers. We try to make the shows educational and entertaining. In the future, we plan to mix it up a bit by interviewing some of the local collectors, antique dealers, auctioneers, estate sale company owners, etc., and doing more educational segments. For example, AQ is actually going to try to use the spinning wheel (that should be interesting). We‟ll also show how we restore a variety of items including a couple of old steamer trunks that we‟re currently working on. Plus, more tricks of the trade!!!

AQ: We have been pick‟n for a long time now. In fact, (sing along), “we were pickers, when pick‟n wasn‟t cool”!!! Right now, we are what you would call, parttime pickers. We both have “day” jobs. Uncle Vintie is a physicist and I am an exercise physiologist. I often joke about writing a Picker Physical Fitness Training Q5. You have a lot of fun in your vidManual and I might do that someday. Al- eos and always come home with some amazing finds, what is your winning though we both enjoy our “day” jobs, Volume 1 Issue 3

24

August 2011


that my most prized possession is the last AQ: For one thing, we are in a great loca- great deal that I got. Currently, that tion for antiques. Annapolis is steeped in would be an awesome old Larkin clothes wringer. I only paid $24 and it is worth a history and teeming with antiques. We th also make a good tag team….. It‟s amaz- lot more! You can see it in the July 9 show. ing what one person misses. I can‟t tell you how many times UV finds a really cool item that I overlooked and vice Q7. UV, what is your most valuable versa! find and was it the one you cherish strategy?

the most? Q6. AQ, what is your most valuable find and was it the one you cherish the most?

UV: I would say the most valuable (current item) is the vintage new –old stock croquet set that we bought for $5 AQ: That is a tough question. It‟s almost and sold on ebay for $168.50! Another like choosing a favorite child! I‟ve gotten one is the free vintage set of horseshoes some really great bargains on antiques at that sold for $30.00. I‟m more about the $$$ than AQ. yard sales and those are the ones that I treasure the most. I guess I would say Volume 1 Issue 3

25

August 2011


Q8. Both of you have strong interests in what you purchase and are looking for. Is there anything that you wish your spouse would quit buying? (LOL! My wife wishes I would quit buying old tools I will never use, but it‟s not going to happen! I wish she would quit buying Kitsch!) AQ: No, I‟m fine with UV buying whatever he wants. However, I suspect he‟ll have a list of items that he wishes I would quit buying.

AQ: That would be one with a ton of vintage tools and antiques. Every once in a while, we come across a house and/or garage that is jammed packed with old items. For example, last Fall, we went to an estate sale at a rather small home in Annapolis. Initially, UV didn‟t even want to go in because he didn‟t think they would have any tools. Boy, was he wrong! It was vintage tool picker paradise. Check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=Qr4ozB-wojM

UV: We don‟t need anymore oil lamps, crocks and large stuff! Right now, we Q11. Can you share a few tips on have filled up two houses, so it is times to pick'n for our Temerity Magazine start seriously selling! Readers? AQ: Or, we could just build a bigger house or a barn! I like that idea better! Q10. Can you describe your ideal garage sale for both of you?

Volume 1 Issue 3

Get Connected: We are on the email list for all the local estate sale companies, auction houses and flea markets so we receive notification of upcoming events.

26

August 2011


Day. The sales generally run from 8:00 AM – 12:00 NOON so you only have a limited amount of time. We get up early and leave at the crack of dawn, which is why most of our friends don‟t go with usJ Estate Sales: The estate sales in our area attract a lot of dealers, pickers, collectors, etc. so it is very competitive. You need to get there early and pick up a number. Some of the dealers actually sleep in their trucks overnight so they can be first in line. Most estate sale companies post pictures of the items on their website, so we check those postings the night before and make note of any particular items that we are interested in. That way we can run and grab them right away. It really is like a bargain basement sale. Uncle Vintie and I split up so we can cover more area. We grab anything that we might be interested in and start a “pile” by the cashier. Then before we check out, we scrutinize the items to make sure they‟re in good condiPlan ahead: We also search the local pa- tion and that they‟re not reproductions, etc. Most estate sales won‟t deal very pers (most post the classifieds free online) and Craig‟s List for garage sales in much the first day. However, we always try to negotiate a lower price, or come our area. We narrow the search to antiques and tools. If we find one that has back the 2nd day of the sale when prices both, then that‟s our first stop. Unfortu- are reduced. nately, we don‟t always get it right. Some sales sound wonderful on paper, but turn .Keep an eye on your “pile” These sales out not to be very good. That‟s just the are usually jam packed with people everyway it is….. it‟s like a box of chocolates. where. So, someone may inadvertently “pick” your pile. Usually they are just unThe early bird gets the good stuff: In aware, but there are some unscrupulous our area Saturday is Yard and Estate Sale people out there. One time, a man grabbed an air compressor that UV put Volume 1 Issue 3

27

August 2011


in our pile, quickly paid for it and was making a quick get-away when Anti-que (a.k.a. the Pitbull) cut him off at the pass. Trust me, he will never do that again!! Don‟t mess with AQ!!!

If you don‟t know what it is: There is a saying, “if you don‟t know what it is, then you probably don‟t need it”, but AQ approaches it a bit differently. If she doesn‟t know what it is, then she buys it so she can find out. I know, that sounds crazy, but she usually “lucks out”. However, there are a few items in our “what the heck is it” box. Perhaps we‟ll do a segment on that.. I‟m sure that some of our fellow pickers will be able to help us identify those items.

Check prices on eBay: A good tactic is to use your cell phone to check prices on eBay. Be sure to check the “closed” price so you can see what the item actually sold for. A lot of people aren‟t aware that you can do that. They look on eBay and think that something is worth an outrageous amount of money because someone Don‟t sweat the small stuff: If you pay listed it for that price. People can list too much for something (and that does items at happen on occawhatever sion) don‟t beat price they your self up about want, the imit. Just learn from portant critethe experience and ria is what be wiser next time. they SELL FOR!! Ebay essentially Have Fun! Enjoy sets the yourself!! Yard prices these Saling is green, it‟s days, so that is a valuable tool!! economical, it can be lucrative and it‟s fun. It‟s like a treasure hunt. You never Freebie items: Always look in the free- know what you‟ll find or who you‟ll meet. bie bin. We have gotten some great free Sometimes the people are as, if not more, items. Most recently, UV bought a radial interesting than the “stuff ” arm saw for $20, which was a great deal in and of itself, but when we went back So, please strive to be a good steward of to pick it up, the seller gave us a barely the land, the animals and the antiquities. used microwave /convection oven - for Anti-que and Uncle Vintie free. It‟s white and his wife wanted stainless steel. It works great and we love YardSaleCzarina on eBay it. He also gave us some vintage horse“Caution!!! We brake for yard sales” shoes that we sold for $30 on eBay. Volume 1 Issue 3

28

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

29

August 2011


Meteorite Hunting In "blow out areas" with Skip Wilson & Ruben Garcia!

chondrites both classified and unclassified.

This has been a very interesting and rewarding year with respect to meteorite hunting. Not only did I have the opportunity to take part in the filming of a few meteorite related TV shows and a movie called “Heaven Strewn.” I‟ve also had some wonderful hunting excursions. These treks into the wilderness have yielded some beautiful pallasites, siderites and of course

This prolific hunter has found over one hundred and twenty five unique meteorite classifications. These include two urelites, one achondrite and a beautiful Portales Valley meteorite that nearly struck his house.

Volume 1 Issue 3

While all of this has been great, I must admit that one experience stands out among the rest. This year I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know America‟s Greatest Meteorite Hunter.

His name is Skip Wilson, and for nearly forty years he has been scouring remote areas of New Mexico for

30

August 2011


Recognize them he did. Skip found An amazing fact about Skip is that all nearly fifty meteorites on just one two hundred and eleven of his finds blow out that was about 40 acres in were made in New Mexico. One me- size. Incredibly, Skip didn‟t find them all in a single day. Inner-mixed with teorite came from De Baca County, terrestrial stones the meteorites three from Lea County, four from Curry County and the remaining two blended in so well it took him years to collect them all. hundred and three coming from Over the next four decades Skip simwithin Roosevelt County. ply went from blow out to blow out How did Skip find so many unique collecting meteorites. It seems meteorite classifications in such a small area? The answer may surprise strange that these areas could hold so you, as he did it by hunting mostly in many meteorites until one realizes that the ground upon which they areas called “blow outs.” rested is very old. Ground samples A blow out is a bowl-shaped area that collected by Skip were studied and is virtually devoid of any sand. The some scientists have estimated these constant wind in these particular ar- blow out areas to be over one hundred eas formed the bowl by scooping out thousand years old. the sand, and exposing the hard clayThis is important because if the like surface below. In the process of removing the sand, the wind also un- ground has remained unchanged for tens of thousands of years, then it has covered hundreds of tiny stones. had plenty of time to collect falling These stones that once rested upon stars. Oddly enough all blow out areas the sand, now lay on the bottom of did not produce meteorites. In fact the blow out. Occasionally, hidden among these terrestrial stones are me- Skip says that many more blow outs were completely void of meteorites teorites. than those that held them. This is Skip told me that he found his first something that no one has been quite meteorite in 1967 and that it took him able to explain. two more years to find the second. This is partly because he didn‟t know Skip Wilson and others like him have how to go about finding meteorites in paved the way for meteorite hunters an area of the state covered by farm like me. It was a pleasure meeting him and getting to experience first land and sand dunes. hand what he does so well. I can‟t It wasn‟t until he realized that these imagine what it would have been like blow out areas held meteorites, and to be a meteorite hunter forty years that all he had to do was be able to ago with such little information availrecognize them in order to find them. able on the subject. Somehow Skip extra-terrestrial treasure.

Volume 1 Issue 3

31

August 2011


made the quantum leap in logic between knowing meteorites exist and being able to find them. In fact he did it so well that it may be quite some time before another American meteorite hunter can even come close. Skip still hunts meteorites as time, and his knees permit and actually found yet another new unclassified stone earlier this year. Iâ€&#x;m sure that no matter how the meteorite market changes, Skip Wilson will still be out silently doing what he does best, proving that he is, Americaâ€&#x;s Greatest Meteorite Hunter.

You Can Find Ruben Garcia on YouTube.

MeteorFright His great Website Mr-Meteorite.net

Volume 1 Issue 3

32

August 2011


as they grow and get in some metal detecting! We both wanted to get his first year of metal detecting shared with the readers of Temerity Magazine. But with such a busy schedule, it was easier to talk on the phone and have me write up the interview than to take away time from RDD‟s growing family to type up a regular article. I enjoy catching up with metal detecting friends and enjoy these interviews, so I obliged so that I could get his voice and expertise here for our Temerity Magazine readers.

REDDIRTDIGGER Interview By Chad T. Everson I had the great opportunity to catch up with RedDirtDigger, or RDD, on a hot July summer day. I was complaining of the 95 degrees with humidity until RDD told me it was 107 degrees in his Grizzly Backyard and there was high humidity! Boy that is hot! RDD is blessed with having a great family centered employer in Walmart that allows him to work the late shift during the summer months so he can enjoy his kids Volume 1 Issue 3

As of July 8th , it has been one year since RDD went down to his local Whites dealer to look at metal detectors. A Whites Prism 5 walked in as a wife wanted to resell it after her husband tragically had passed away from a heart attack before being able to use it. It was brand new in the box and she wanted to sell it back to the dealer. She was not happy with the price so she returned to her car to bring it back home. RDD talked with her in the parking lot and took her phone number to possibly purchase it. RDD called her a few days later. She said on the phone that she had a few other things she would like to show him that she had for sale. RDD purchased the Whites Prism 5 and she threw in a sand scoop, Whites headphones and a vintage military bayonet that was her late husband‟s. RDD sensed a presence with him those first few times out hunting, as if this widow‟s late husband was along for the thrill and adventure of the hobby he 33

August 2011


never was able to pursue. On the second day the third target was a beautiful 1942 mercury dime. RDD never videotaped or shared this find with anyone except the widow he had purchased his metal detector from until today. RDD just knew that this was not his coin, but instead it was the widow‟s late husband‟s who had been joining him that day on the hunt.

with shoreline around bodies of water. Every human inhabitant of his great state one way or another revolved around the water ways. From cattle drives, to early settlement, life was never too far away from water. As RDD talked about his strategy it occurred to me that coming from North Dakota where roadways are laid out in patch work quilt patterns across the landscape, that RDD‟d strategy was very insightful and made me look at my own strategies in a new way. To find the old coins and relics I was approaching the landscape from a roadway mentality, but the relic and treasure I seek was before roads and relied here in Minnesota instead upon the waterways. This Waterway Strategy of RDD‟s is one I have since adopted. It is brilliant.

Placing this coin in the hands of the widow brought her great joy. It was rewarding for RDD to share this coin, this great find that he never considered his in the hands of the rightful owner. It gave the widow much joy and a bit of closure after having to sell a gift she had purchased for her husband that he had never had the chance to use, and looked so forI asked RDD what was his favorite or ward to using it. This experience really helped RDD gain most special find in this first year of confidence in his ability and skill in this metal detecting. RDD has had a lot of new hobby of his to start sharing it with great finds, but his favorite, he feels was the world on YouTube with his metal de- never his own. It was that 1942 Mercury tecting videos. RDD had spent 6 months Dime he gave to the widow that sold him watching metal detecting videos on You- his metal detector. Not the Standing Liberty, the Shield Nickel or any of the other Tube before he ever set foot in that Whites dealership. Most of that time, he great finds, but instead his favorite is the did not comment on videos because he one that is not in his collection, but innever had a YouTube account. Watching stead in the hands of a widow that never was afforded the opportunity to see her these videos on YouTube gave him a knowledge base to know what to look for and purchase. It must have worked because RDD hit the ground running. His strategy of following the bodies of water in his Oklahoma Grizzly Backyard have really paid off with some great finds. RDD points out that his Grizzly Backyard is filled Volume 1 Issue 3

34

August 2011


gift give her late husband so much joy. Or did it? I think it did. When asked why he metal detects, RDD was brutally honest. RDD stated that he likes to gamble, and each plug he digs and target he recovers is a cheap way of pulling a lever because you truly donâ€&#x;t know what is going to be in the bottom of that plug! This was what first attracted RDD to this metal detecting addiction.

the great ethical reasoning behind the hobby that he really grew to love it. The asking of permission to hunt private property, the leaving the location better than you found it ethical principles that he holds dear and wants to share with his kids and others through his videos and this interview. These are all great reasons to promote and enjoy this great metal detecting hobby.

side waterways where humans would have camped and set up outposts. He has a great many locations researched and will be beginning to hunt these areas later this fall.

We had to cut our interview short as we could have talked for hours, but RDD had to take his daughter to swimming lessons. One blessed father, I then asked RDD what enjoying his young children The research quickly became another exciting as- was next for him in his sec- and the hobby of metal pect to this metal detecting ond year of metal detect- detecting that he loves and ing. He said he was work- shares on his youtube hobby that has really excited and kept RDD going. ing on expanding his Wa- channel: RDD also added that it is terways strategy to that of REDDIRTDIGGER hunting thick woods alongVolume 1 Issue 3

35

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

36

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

37

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

38

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

39

August 2011


“Do you ever find anything worthwhile?” by Derik (aka Pulltabpirate) I recently have had many people come and question me while detecting. The most common questions are, “what kind of detector should I get to do this?” or “Do you ever find anything worthwhile?” I give the usual answers such as, “It‟s more about getting to know what your machine is telling you than what machine you have” or, for the second question, I just pull out a handful of silver coins that I recently dug in response. Lately though I have found myself giving REAL answers to these questions mostly because these said questions suddenly started to remind me of when I was just beginning my short, yet relatively successful, metal

detecting career. It started back in February of 2011. I watched some YouTube videos, thought to myself that it looked easy enough, ordered my Ace 350 and Pro-pointer and it was off to find treasure. The first place I detected was an old 1801 stagecoach stop which yielded my first wheat cent and a pile of clad. The next two months were spent metal detecting random areas that were open to the public and I just couldn‟t seem to find that elusive silver coin. I was already contemplating who I could sell the detector to in order to recoup my money when I detected my own yard and found a 1942 Mercury Dime! I was immediately hooked…. at least for the next week of digging clad and again started to think of ways to unload my detector. Then, again in my own yard, I dug my second silver…an 1891 Seated Liberty Dime! This gave me enough fuel to keep going for a while but then again the silver mine closed. It was at this time that many people from

Volume 1 Issue 3

40

August 2011


addict. In two days detecting I dug 4 large cents (the earliest being 1798), my first Barber quarter, a few Mercs and Barber dimes, an 1881 Indian Head Penny along with other 1900‟s Indian Heads, a silver Washington and a Walking Liberty Half Dollar. Since that time I‟ve now collected my 100th silver coin (Inluded are 3 Barber Quarters, 2 Walking Liberty Halves, 2 both YouTube and from detecting foSeated Dimes, 1 Barber Half and 12 Barrums befriended me and provided some ber Dimes), 10 Buffalo Nickels, 6 V much needed encouragement to keep go- Nickels, 11 Indian Head Pennies, 5 Large ing. They helped me figure my machine Cents as well as several old foreign coins out and also helped point me in the diand have had more fun with this hobby rection of research, which is ultimately than anything else I‟ve done in my life. key in successful detecting. I ended up So, when I am asked those questions digging my first Barber dime as well as now, I think about the million questions more Mercs and Rosies to get my total to that went through my mind for those first eleven. It was about the time I felt I had six months and try my best to answer mastered the Ace 350 when I decided to them all. If I‟d not had help from others make the leap as I knew I would never where would I be? I suppose the whole stop this great hobby and bought a point of this article is to remind people Minelab E-trac. that we all were once newbies or even just had passing interest and chances are This machine was far more than anything others helped us. Isn‟t it only fair to reI had messed with before but I did my turn the favor for someone else? due diligence. I researched videos of others using this machine, looked up the metal detecting terminology that I was still unfamiliar with, spent countless hours digging even remotely close signals to better understand what it was telling me and played with settings until I finally felt comfortable. I had several friends on forums and on YouTube again offering their assistance. Then I decided to hit an early 1800‟s farm house and my addiction went from occasional use to an all out Volume 1 Issue 3

41

August 2011


In summary, I recently had a young boy following me around and I gave him all the clad I dug. His father noticed how amazed this boy was at simply pulling up 2 inch deep clad asked how much one of those (detectors) run. I told him first that itâ€&#x;s important to get to know your machine, then I basically told him what I wrote in this whole article. That little

boy is now the proud owner of a Bounty Hunter Tracker 4 and is having a blast just diggin!

Volume 1 Issue 3

42

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

43

August 2011


well-known former mining townships in the area. Research, however, can often mean „reading between the lines.‟ What we were looking for was not so much information on the well known places, as that was readily available, but rather mention of maybe some more remote mining camp, settlement or coach stop hotel. The site we eventually visited was only briefly mentioned in the historical references, but that was enough to arouse our interest. From what we understood, the place was established in the mid-1880s and by the time of the First World War had all but ceased to exist. What was even more intriguing was that the more we researched it, the less we found. There was very little information anywhere, on the internet, in historical reference books or even old maps and newspaper articles. This was what drove us to keep searching, because if such little information existed about the place, there was a good chance very few people had ever visited the old town. That would mean there could be a wealth of historic relics and coins waiting to be found. We concluded that, the less we could find out about the place, the more we could find in the field!

In September 2008, in a remote bush location in North Queensland, Australia, we arrived by four wheel drive at a long abandoned town site. So little remained of the place that it was virtually „invisible.‟ It was just another spot in the bush among the ironbark and bloodwood trees. The only indication that anyone had ever passed this way was a small dump of 19th century green beer bottles. On further investigation we discovered a stone pitched floor and some ceramic scatter, the few remains of one of the town‟s hotels which was a coach stop on the Cobb & Co stagecoach route to the west. After the obligatory cup of tea, out came the detectors and within 10 minutes we had 6 silver coins in our hands. This 19th century „pocket spill‟ comprised shilling and sixpence coins dating from 1873 to 1888. The thrill of those finds was the reward of several months of research After several weeks the research had hit a and several days of searching for the site brick wall. Then it suddenly occurred to in the field. us to check one of the most obvious resources – the Topographical Survey We first learnt of the site from an out of Maps, of which we had an extensive colprint library book we had borrowed. The lection right at home. To our amazement, book documented the history of several the site was clearly marked on the map. So the very next weekend we packed up Volume 1 Issue 3

44

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

45

August 2011


the camping gear and headed west, around 300km from home. We set up camp that evening, eagerly anticipating the finds of the following day. Next morning bright and early, armed with the topographic map, we headed out to the site, on an old bush track. On arrival, we double checked the position on the GPS, and spread out to look for evidence of the old townsite in the bush. Usual indicators are „old timers‟ iron rubbish, bottle dumps, or if you are lucky, an old cemetery or the remains of a chimney will point the way. Two hours later we returned to the 4wd, without having found any trace of the old place. It simply wasn‟t there. The metal detectors hadn‟t left the truck. Several weeks later

Volume 1 Issue 3

when passing through the area we stopped for a second search on foot but to no avail. The place didn‟t exist. More research was required. Finally, the historical collection in the local library turned up a small article about the site, the most substantial information to date. We were aware the town serviced a silver mine which existed from the 1880s until the early twentieth century. The final piece of the puzzle came in an old newspaper article from the 1890s. It was written in the prosaic style of the time, where the reporter „Stood on the verandah of the upper floor of the hotel admiring the thriving township‟ before him and to the „distant hillside, the site of the silver mine a mile to the north.‟

46

August 2011


There it was, the last clue - the townsite and coach change was a mile south of the old silver mine. We knew the location of the old mine, we had seen the mullock heaps on a previous field trip. Now we finally had an accurate physical location for the townsite. Incredibly, the site of the former town was marked in error on the survey map approximately 3km south of its actual location.

across a small dump of green beer bottles. A quick search revealed old stone fireplaces (probably from tent houses), and a large area of stone flagging where the larger of the town‟s two hotels had once stood. It was a great feeling to stand on the very spot where that reporter hand penned those words, our final clue, 130 years earlier.

Out came the detectors. Just a few meters The next weekend, off we went again, from the car, on the side of the old track confident in the knowledge that we opposite the hotel entrance, the first tarwould find it „this time‟. Sure enough, get. It was shallow, sandy granite soil and armed with the GPS and venturing a couple of scrapes with the prospecting deeper into the bush in the 4wd, we came pick and out flips a beautiful silver shilVolume 1 Issue 3

47

August 2011


ling, dated 1877. Now in our experience the old Western Queensland ghost towns are hard going for a metal detector, lots of old iron/tin trash in generally rugged terrain. We regard one or two 19th century coins in a day‟s hunting as a good day out. Imagine then, the feeling of a second target, less than a foot from the first, ringing high on the detector, indicating a second silver coin. Unbelievably, a second silver shilling! We kept swinging and digging, unearthing four shillings and two sixpences, all in fine to very fine condition, untarnished and shallow targets. Clearly, the site had never seen a metal detector. In the next few hours of the hunt we recovered an 1865 English Victorian „bun‟ penny, buttons and artifacts that confirmed our suspicions that the site had never been hunted.

NQExplorers We purchased our first metal detector way back in the early 1980s, a second hand D-Tex BFO, starting out in the goldfields of Western Australia and Victoria. The old D-Tex eventually broke down and was hung up in the shed. We now live in North Queensland and returned to the hobby with the new generation of electronic detectors a few years back. The area is rich in history dating from the 1860s and we go out camping, prospecting, gem and treasure hunting at every opportunity.

Warren & Colleen The „NQExplorers‟

We returned to camp that night with large smiles on our faces, unlike, perhaps, the poor fellow who dropped the coins, as six shillings (total monetary value of the find) would be a very substantial amount of money in the 1880s. Researching old sites is, to us, just as exciting as getting out in the field and finding the relics and saving the little pieces of history that make our hobby such a satisfying pastime. We hope to revisit the site later in the year, and while we don‟t expect to get that lucky a second time, we are confident many more treasures and relics await us. Happy hunting everyone.

Volume 1 Issue 3

48

August 2011


“THE MOOSE” By Evelyn Mohlke

In a forest long ago An American basswood began to grow. For one hundred fifty years it grew, Watching eagles as they flew. This veteran tree became unique, Adapting a moose like physique. With three heads growing from its wood, Those who gaze on it feel good. If four souls could get inside, They might lunch at a table three foot wide. Arborists of Rochester and Hayes Trees Want the “Moose” to always be Strong as possible, dominant, commanding, Long of tooth but ever standing. Wind sway is reduced with dynamic cable, Allowing adaptive growth while remaining stable. Crown reduction minimizes stress When howling winds blow their best. Massive roots can thrive and spread Safely „neath a bordered bed. Adam Hoehne, Ed Hayes, Jon Marx Saved this tree in Oronoco Park To keep the “moose” before us strong, Protected, safe, and living long.

Volume 1 Issue 3

49

August 2011


to assist Oronoco in protecting the 150 year old Veteran “Moose.” Their work is sorely needed to keep the tree healthy and safe. Ed Hayes, Jon Marx, and Adam Hoehne have adopted the “Moose” as a By Evelyn Mohlke long term commitment. Assessment and Near the time that Leonard Hodges first planning commenced early this spring. A crown reduction will be done May 13, camped on the bank of the “Las Zambras” [Zumbro River] March 13, 1854, a weather permitting. This involves reducing individual branches in the outer basswood seedling started growing in a crown there by reducing wind stress durforest and what is now Oronoco Park. ing storm events. Dynamic cabling will be That “founders” tree is used to reinforce the tree‟s crown. Later, the now known as the surrounding area will be Moose tree because of mulched and bordered the unique formation to protect it from vehiof at least three discles which could damage tinct moose heads. the massive root system. From Ed Hayes report: The moose heads formed as a natural “THE COLUMN DECAY IN THE LOWER protection system for STEM IS SO LARGE the tree, created when THAT FOUR PEOPLE the tree grew more [IF THEY COULD wood to support a GAIN ACCESS] COULD branch or when it was SIT DOWN AROUND A injured. The tree comTHREE FOOT WIDE TABLE AT GROUND mands a dominant poLEVEL INSIDE THIS sition near the Oronoco Gold Rush monument. Visitors fa- TREE AND HAVE LUNCH!” Ed Hayes (Hayes Tree), Jon Marx and vor the site for the natural healing and Adam Hoehne (both of Arborists of renewing feeling they claim to derive Rochester) have all donated their experfrom their stay on the nearby grounds. tise, time, and labor for this much needed Hayes Tree (www.edhayestree.com) and and appreciated project and will continue Arborists of Rochester to monitor and oversee the future of the (www.arboristsofrochester.com), two tree care companies, have come together “Moose”.

The Moose Tree of Oronoco, Minnesota

Volume 1 Issue 3

50

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

51

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

52

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

53

August 2011


There's treasure to be found and you don't need a metal detector, shovel, or a pirate map to find it. By Will Wright @Terminal99 Every weekend across the country, millions of items are placed out for sale on blankets and card tables at yard sales and flea markets. To some people, these sales represent nothing but piles of junk and they cannot imagine buying something at such a place. Many people, though, see these sales as an opportunity to save money by purchasing everyday items and

Volume 1 Issue 3

collectibles at a large discount to what retail stores are asking. A handful of people see these sales as potential gold mines. These people are called pickers. What is a picker? A picker is someone who is looking not just for a bargain, they are looking to find something that is so cheap in price that they can then turn

54

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

55

August 2011


around and sell it at a profit. Anyone can be a picker. They are as diverse as the things they buy. Male or female, young or old, pickers can be found scouring flea markets in the early morning hours with flashlights in hand. A picker understands that if a seller has something good, it will not last long. These are the "early birds" that many yard sale advertisers tell keep away in their ads. I am a picker and you can be one also. One thing I've learned is that if you pull up to a yard sale and everything is already set up, you're probably too late. I started learning about what to buy when I was a small child and my parents would haul Volume 1 Issue 3

me around to thrift stores, antique shops, and flea markets. My mom and dad had a love of antiques and a fondness to find a hidden gem. This rubbed off on me and soon I was out scouring flea markets with them - a couple of dollars in hand. The thrill of the hunt got into my blood and I soon realized that the more I knew about antiques, the better the chance I had to find something good. Picking is like metal detecting. You never know what you are going to turn up. Also, like metal detecting, if it was easy everyone would do it. You don't need much money, or knowledge to start. Where to start is your local yard sale or flea market. 56

August 2011


Not all flea markets are the same. The markets that you need to find as a picker are the ones that everyday people visit to unload their belongings. Some flea markets sell nothing but new things or made in China junk. These are the ones to avoid.. What should you look for to buy? I would say start slowly with what you know best and expand your knowledge from there. Whether you like sports collectibles, dolls, tools, toys, clothing, musical instruments, video games, jewelry whatever it is, it will show up at a flea market or yard sale. There are many good you can find. Who knows, maybe you will videos on YouTube made by pickers which can give you some ideas of what to come home with some treasure! look for. A tour through some antique shops can educate you as to what to look for. Once you buy some things to sell, where do you sell them? There are many outlets for selling your finds. Smaller items that are easy to mail are good to sell on eBay while larger things go well on Craigslist.. EBay charges a fee to list your item and they also take a percentage of the final value.. If payment is made using PayPal, which is usually the case, an additional fee is charged. It may seem like there are too many fees to use eBay. Some people will not use eBay because of the fees, however I feel that it is the best place for selling most things. eBay has a huge world wide audience that cannot be matched. Craigslist is nice that, at this time, it does not charge any fees. The drawback is that craigslist is only good for local sales. Get out there this weekend and see what

Will Wright @Terminal99

Volume 1 Issue 3

57

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

58

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

59

August 2011


I Was Garage Saling Before Garage Saling Was Cool! As in many realms of our socio-cultural development the times of garage sales have progressed and proudly I was a saling in the early times when saling wasn‟t necessarily cool! I was recruited unwillingly by my mother and her sisters who found the saling to be a fun and beneficial weekly adventure. Being the oldest of three sons my mother recruited me to be the designated carrier to the car of the vast array of purchases she and her sisters made at most every sale. As I advanced in age and got my beginners driver‟s license, I was designated as the official driver and carrier. Duties my father and uncles respectfully declined, in those days while not cool, it also was not manly. Perhaps it might be helpful to step back and review those days, which Volume 1 Issue 3

found a female dominated group of saling members. Garage sales began to become a major weekly event in communities across our country in the 1950‟s and 1960‟s in part due to the rise in economic times and the increasing American dream of owning your house. Following World War II, housing developments increased and buying your own home became the way. In addition, it was a time of increasing household tools and gadgets to make the housewife‟s job easier. With the homes came the garage, with the increase in household items and gadgets came an over surplus in some homes. Thus, the over surplus was taken to the garage area, signs placed and here came the other house wives to buy slightly used, new or unwanted items from the seller which all tended to be in the realms of running a 60

August 2011


household from a female perspective. In addition, hobbies and crafts supplies found there way into the piles as did books, many of the romantic novel types, clothing, purses and other female items of interest. In those days there simply weren‟t many men items found. Since the items were not particular wanted by the seller price haggling became a major part of the saling process and became more incorporated into both the buying and actual socialization of the garage sale adventure. In addition to the sales of the new more modern household inventions of the time older items became increasingly more into the sale piles and collectables became a increasing hobby as the economy grew and allowed more money for fun stuff. The 50‟s and 60‟s were a unique time with many new inventions and many new gadgets to make the world easier thus household surplus rapidly occurred and for the bargain seeking housewife a saling trip was good! It was the founding wives of garage sales that led to a progression of the socio-economic

Volume 1 Issue 3

realms of today‟s garage sale world. In the 50‟s and 60‟s most autos didn‟t have air conditioning as standard equipment, no seat belts and the family car was primarily utilized by the husband for his daily to and from work. Television was black and white with rabbit ears, not 24 hours with no cable or satellite dishes. Telephones were in the home with a nice loud ring and a rotary dial attached to the wall with tangled cords. Many were the party-line shared system, with „someone‟ listening in. Computers where of the future, awaiting e-mail, internet and search engines--the bubble was yet to occur. ebay had not arrived. Priceless moments weren‟t associated with Mr. Visa or Mr. MasterCard and Sears was the main credit card and place for housewife‟s to shop. The price guides for collectables and older pieces tended to be a visit to the local antique shops where my mother and aunts would really be astonished when they had found something for ten cents that was marked in the Antique Store $5.00. Items such as rhinestone jewelry

61

August 2011


were in great abundance and often passed by because they were considered untrendy and not so popular, older style furniture and items were reflective of the years of the depression and were considered for „poor‟ people ,thus often passed by--as were pieces of pottery, etc. It was a time of wanting newer items and wanting to take the advantage of the many new gadgets to making the household duties easier while having episodically Sales to decrease the piles less traveled within the home. The early bird trend started and the few antique

dealers in town begin the serious buying of items at garage sales to increase their supplies and profits. These days were the precollectors days and the pre re-selling days which begin to expand in the 70‟s which continued the progression of the piles less traveled of the garage sale realm. It was a primitive saler‟s time as compared to the socioeconomic bases garage sales offer today. While there are no accurate tracking mechanisms of garage sales in our country there are „estimates‟ that there are between 7.5 to 9.5 million garage sales annually with revenues from such

Volume 1 Issue 3

62

adding 1.5 to 2.5 billion to the economy. The primitive salers launched a voyage which has had significant influences on the socio-economic variables of the times and the future looks very bright on the horizon. We at the HoarderMart Institute continue to enjoy the saling and welcome the continued growth of the Pickers and eBayers as the garage sale realms continue a natural progression. Secondhand Blu, Hoarderologist, HoarderMart Institute

August 2011


The mission of the Hoarder Mart Institute is to assist humanity, and the hoarders there of, in reducing the piles of hoarding to better serve mankind.

It is our goal to conduct ongoing research, develop comprehensive studies and progressively find ways to assist all hoarders in the „cleaner up‟ realms on a individualized and collective sphere of the world. The times of mankind are changing--today we have the technological developments to conduct and apply the methodologies and we shall seek to provide a progressive and sound milieu to provide the various realms of services from such.

on hoarding and over see the research of, program developments and hoarderological/motivational realms in seeking sound ways to turn a hoarder‟s dysfunction into a functional behavior to better serve humanity. Hoarderologist Blu will utilize concepts of „honesty, belief, trust and acceptance‟ in a intrapersonal format, „organizing within‟ to allow a higher level for success for the hoarder to transform from „dysfunctional‟ to „functional‟ and serve humanity by „organizing without„ his or her piles.

down those piles for a profit or perhaps buying just one more needed item as we venture through the “Piles Less Traveled--and begin a new journey of“. Secondhand Blu, Hoarderologist will also be available to present inspirational and motivational in-services to organizations, businesses and all other groups of humanity.

For those who may have an interest in the field of Hoarderology the Institute is accepting applications for The Hoarder Mart Institute: those interested in a chalThe Hoarder Mart site allenging life in this field. You lows by a social media com- Communication, and the may apply to the program by munity the availability for all tools of, will be a intrical part submitting a request for aphoarder‟s to find a benefit for of the program with empha- plication on- line at the themselves and humanity by sis on how to control Hoarder Mart site. Upon accessing all realms of the „emotional diarrhea‟ as well successful completion of the Institute. the preventive measures of course work you will receive longer term affects of a Certification of RecogniChief Hoarderologist Sec„emotional hemorrhoids‟. tion as a Hoarderologist Asondhand Blu will serve as the Technological availability to sociate from the Hoarder Institute‟s noted Life Coach easily and painlessly sell Mart Institution.

Volume 1 Issue 3

63

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

64

August 2011


Hello everyone.

ger of detecting alone and being a woman. I have had occasions where My name is Virginia Chojnowski, there were not so friendly of characaka vcstar5 on YouTube. I also am starting a BlogSpot blog at Uncov- ters approach me. This is very scary ered Treasure. One of my passions is so I always have to be aware of my Metal Detecting which I have been location and who is around me. It is doing persistently since 1999. This also difficult to find a detecting is when I joined the Michigan Treas- buddy so that you can watch each ure Hunters Club located in Livonia, other’s back. Michigan. This is the best club that I have ever been in and the people in I love the hobby and I will never let the club are the greatest bunch of fear get in the way of finding treaspeople that I have ever known. They ure even if I can’t go digging also have a great forum for members through the woods, because it is aland non members to post their ways exciting to *uncover treasfinds! Being a woman metal detectorist in ures*! really what would be considered a Virginia Chojnowski man’s hobby can be challenging on Michigan Treasure Hunters Club occasions. I can hold my best with Michigan Treasure Hunters most of the men in the club, but sometimes I do have difficulty dig- Club Forum ging and even swinging my detector for long periods. My detector of choice is the Minelab Explorer II, and it is a heavy detector, but I love it. I limit my detecting areas to local parks or schools because of the danVolume 1 Issue 3

65

August 2011


The Metal Detecting Site of My Dreams BY: Ryan Cowden

stare at the house. Seeing the house immediately gave me a sense of danger and death. It was a large, light blue farmhouse, with three floors and large windows on every floor. It sat directly next to a large pond. The house appeared to be in good condition, it was definitely abandoned, but it had remained in good condition. It was in a clearing in the woods, which was totally surrounded by pine trees. In the dream I got the feeling like I shouldn‟t have been there. I would stand still in complete shock for about ten seconds, and then the dream would end.

As a little kid, I would often dream about a particular house that lay in the middle of the woods, not even a mile from my own house.. It was a reoccurring dream, and it wasn‟t exactly pleasant. The dream would start out calm and peaceful; the part where I was walking in the woods. Then all of sudden, the house appeared. For some reason which I may I continued to have this same never know, the sight of the house just dream for several years. Back then, the gave me an eerie and uneasy feeling. I dream was just random and unimportant would stop dead in my tracks and just to me. I didn‟t think much about why I Volume 1 Issue 3

66

August 2011


kept having the dream over and over again. Eventually, I stopped having the dream and I totally forgot about the whole thing. Sometime after the dream stopped, I started getting into metal detecting. I liked exploring old places in the woods and using my metal detector at these various places hoping to find silver coins and old relics. The dream was now long since forgotten. I continued with metal detecting and searching old places out in the woods. In September, 2010, out of nowhere, I had the dream again.. It was completely out of the blue. The dream hit me like a freight train. I had completely forgotten about the dream and hadn‟t thought of it in years. Completely out of nowhere, I had the dream again. It was the strangest thing. This time though, things were a little different. This time I was exploring the woods, when all of a sudden I stumbled upon a big old blue farmhouse. The house had deteriorated a little bit compared to the last time I saw it in my dreams. Although I was much older since the last time I had the dream, the sight of the house still gave me the exact same feelings it had before. I felt like I shouldn‟t be there; I sensed danger and death. If you knew me well enough, you would know that even this wouldn‟t stop me from exploring an old abandoned house in the middle of the woods. I approached the house and as I neared the back of it, the feeling of danger grew and I was almost in panicmode. I kept getting closer, and I finally was able to see the other side of the Volume 1 Issue 3

house. It looked pretty much the same as the other side did. Then the dream unexpectedly ended and when I woke up my heart was racing. I still don‟t know what made the sight of the house so frightening to me. After having the dream again, I decided that I should do some research on it. I knew where in the woods this was taking place, because it‟s less than a mile away from my own house, so I was able to look at old aerial photos and maps. I

looked over to where I believed this house to be on a map from 1879. When I saw the dot marking the site of a house I was stunned. I honestly couldn‟t believe that there was an actual house there the

67

August 2011


whole time. I continued looking at old was hidden by several trees where the enmaps and aerial photos. The house was trance used to be. As we were walking, I still there on my oldest maps from 1833. noticed an opening in the woods. I saw a beautiful tree, I‟m not sure of the kind, but it was covered with flowers. When I saw that I knew we had to be close. As we turned the corner of the driveway, I finally saw it. It wasn‟t what it looked like in my dreams, and I wasn‟t scared to see it either. It was actually a nice New England cellar hole, with a large tree right next to it. The area surrounding it was just as nice. There were several clearings in the woods which used to be fields, and several natural paths that we followed that led us to multiple bottle dumps throughout the woods. We also discovMy neighbors have done a lot of research ered an old well not too far from the on our area, and had lent me a binder of foundation. I captured the adventure on information they had put together of the video. We didn‟t do a lot of metal detectarea we live in. In the binder was a list of ing that day, but in a short time we were people who lived in each house and listed able to recover an old piece to a lantern their jobs and their ages. In the house and my dad was able to find a nice little that I dreamed of, lived the White family. buckle. We will be going back there again At one point, the house consisted of a soon to dig that place up good. There grandfather, husband and wife, and three has to be something great there waiting children. The house had been in the for me to find. White‟s family for several generations. After learning so much about the property, all I could think about was metal detecting there. I figured there had to be a reason for these dreams over the years. At the same time I was nervous to go there considering the dreams had been nightmares. I obviously chose to go anyways. My dad and I went there in May to explore and do some metal detecting. We walked down a long dirt driveway that Volume 1 Issue 3

68

August 2011


This is something I will never forget and itâ€&#x;s a story Iâ€&#x;ll pass on to my children and grand-children. My dad and I are going to continue searching this place for old coins, relics, and bottles. Look for more videos from my channel in the future to see what my dad and I are finding at this place. Thanks for reading my story every-

Volume 1 Issue 3

one, I hope you enjoyed it. Be sure to check out my YouTube Channel: RecoveringRelics , to see more of my metal detecting and bottle digging adventures. Thanks again, HH.

-RecoveringRelics

69

August 2011


NOVICE 2 NOVICE Part 2: THE HUNT

about old home sites, fields, etc‌

1.. WHERE TO HUNT The best places to start are the homes of relatives.. Pick homes that are the oldest. Make sure you have permission from the owner, Even if they are a relative that may be very picky about their homes and lawns.

2. Be Courteous Be aware of others in the park areas. Keep away from them. They are there to enjoy the outing and do not want you lurking around. Also you do not want them to see that gold ring that you find either. Leave the area as you found it. No holes, junk, grass replaced ‌. Always remove the plug and any soil in a way that is replaced back in an almost perfect condition. See below for recommended removal procedures. Always leave a good impression. This can be done by disposing of all the trash targets in a proper manner. I always pick up other trash and littler that I find while hunting. Paper cups, drink cans,

The next best areas are local parks and ball fields. Again make sure that there are no local laws against metal detecting. At ball fields, limit your search to areas where the fans are located. A lot of work is put into maintaining the playing fields. As you become comfortable with detecting, start asking for permission from strangers

Volume 1 Issue 3

70

pull tabs etc.. that are on top of the ground is always an easy way to help return the favor for allowing you to hunt the park or lawn.

3. Target Removal You have found a target and it is time to dig. At first it is easy to get excited and just start scooping out soil to get to that big find. DON’T !! Use you shovel or hand digger and insert in a circular pattern around the target location. STOP when you are 80% around the location. Lift the plug using the uncut portion and a hinge. Flipping the plug over. Using your detector, determine if the target is in the hole or the plug. If the target is still in the hole and you need to remove more soil, place a piece of plastic or fabric on the

August 2011


ground to put the soil on. This will help to keep the area neat. Once the target has been recovered, slide the plastic or fabric to the edge of the hole, lift the edge and allow the soil to slide back into the bottom of the hole. Pack the soil a little to allow the plug to fit on top. Now flip the plug back into position. Stand and press down with your feet to smooth it over to a natural condition. You are finished and on to the next. 4. Best Times To Hunt On weekends, the parks are usually full of people so try to go during the weekdays. Ball fields are best in the off seasons, when there are very few people around. Homes are also best when the owners are busy with other tasks.

Even if you are very careful with the lawn, they will see you digging out that plug and feel very uneasy.

the local Police have limited budgets, give them one of your cards. They may have a need for your services one day. AND when ADDED TIPS they see you out, they 1. Make or create a will know who you are. business card to 5. Find someone in hand out. This will your area that likes show that you are a to hunt also. This will professional who cares add a new level to the and wants them to hunt. know who you are. It will motivate you to 2.. Run an ad in the find more, It will exlocal paper. Offer as- posed you to different sistance in finding lost equipment. Also the items. I have never other person will have found a ring or other family members who item that did not lead to live in housed located an area that I could on Lawns. hunt. 6. Have Fun. 3. If hunting on pri- Tom in SC vate property, give TManly25 Youtube Channel the owner something that you Originally published at found. It will show DetectorStuff.com that you are honest and were thankful for the opportunity to search their property. 4. If you live in a small town where

Volume 1 Issue 3

71

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

72

August 2011


Oronoco Gold Rush Days By Chad T. Everson

Friday, July 1st, 2011, I loaded my three metal detectors, my grading pans that fit my 5 gallon buckets, waders, my trusty old magnet attached to twine, two shovels, my water scoop, various sizes of gold pans, jammed my igloo cooler with Gatorade and Rice Krispy Bars and headed down to Oronoco, Minnesota at about 6am. The previous day we had reached 102 degrees F. Friday was only supposed to get to about 80, and muggy. Not ideal, gold panning weather, but, when does one get a chance like this? I was excited and pumped to get Grizzly on this historic site. Steve Mohlke, who I had been put in contact with through the Oronoco Gold Rush Days, had contacted the land owner where the actual sluice was constructed and the first gold operation in Minnesota had occurred way back in 1858. $2-6 dolVolume 1 Issue 3

lars of gold were being found at that time per man. Around 90 to 100 men were employed in the mining or sluice operations. It was no small operation. The operation was plagued with spring floods that would wash away their sluices so it was short lived but people are still pulling out nuggets from this placer gold deposited lake to this day.

About 10am, I rolled into the Oronoco park that Steve and his lovely wife Evelyn manage for the city of Oronoco. A serene setting that is blessed with the Moose Tree, a historic foundersâ€&#x; tree that has three or more moose head growths tall in its branches. There is also a great plaque there telling of the historic Gold Rush of Oronoco. As a side note, this park has been detected many times and has rewarded the relic and treasure hunter with many older valuable coins. However, as often happens, they were overrun with amateurs that did not fill in their 73

August 2011


holes and the city has since banned metal detecting in the park because of the senseless damage. What a travesty! With our new technology, what lies beneath our toes today? Now there is also the Oronoco Lake that has been drained as the flood of 2010 washed away the dam holding it back. I pray this great city finds that fine balance between allowing our great hobby discovering their history and yet holds vandals accountable. It is a dilemma we see unfolding across this great nation.

many years studying the areaâ€&#x;s colorful history. From early voyagers, native settlements, Jesse James, the stage coach and of course the reason for my visit--gold! This area is just teaming with history and despite the flooding still has many of its old buildings and history intact. At 10 am it was already steamy, and Steve showed me around the park, then we were off to meet the farmer who holds the land that the historic sluice site sat upon.

Now because people are people, I am Steve and Evelyn were gracious hosts and protecting this location and private land so talented, I would have been happy to ownerâ€&#x;s identity. Being that I am just one spend the day just talking with them of a handful of people who have ever about the area and their hard work pre- seen the actual location, we are going to serving its history. Steve Mohlke is a re- keep it that way, for fear of vandals in tired history teacher and has spent many, these tough times. Volume 1 Issue 3

74

August 2011


Steve and I drove out to a great multi generational farm with a rich story to tell in itself, yet, for security sake, I refrain from sharing it. I was pleasantly introduced to a farmer and his son. Right away I just wanted to sit and listen to this great Minnesotanâ€&#x;s stories. But time was of the essence and we headed out to witness the location of this historic Oronoco Gold Rush operation. Driving through corn that was knee high before the Fourth of July we headed closer to the Zumbro River. We got out of the vehicle and took a storied hike through woods that took us back to 1858 and the settlement of this state. We walked a muggy overgrown trail back deep into the woods and then, through the trees, the land fell from sight. We found ourselves atop a look-out over a deep canyon wall that dropped directly down to where the old sluice operation once bustled with activity. The visage took our breathes away. Eagles soared, and wild turkeys jotted behind us on the trail we had just walked. Quiet and serene you could imagine the 90 to 100 men still working beneath us. Their oxen teamed up and pulling more logs to complete the sluice damaged by the spring flooding. Horses bringing in goods and hauling away yesterdayâ€&#x;s take to safe keep and pay for the massive amounts of food Volume 1 Issue 3

and supplies to keep such an operation going. The river valley would be filled with the sounds of singing and men working. It was a moment I only caught with a few snapshots I may never publish. It was not the gold panning experience I had prepared for, but it was precious and one I will remember, keeping its secrets with me until my death. With the heat of the day bearing down upon us, we reluctantly made our way back up the hill to the vehicle. The only tangible proof of the experience was a wild turkey feather Steve picked up that was left for us right in the middle of our path back to our vehicle. He passed it to me and told me to put it in my cap. I chuckled and held onto it as a reminder of this great blessing of an experience. We piled into the vehicle. The elder farmer had waited in the vehicle. He told us of a Native American hunting camp that he had found evidence of just

75

August 2011


around the bend, as he often finds flint cast offs and arrow heads each year they put in the crop, after hard rains. This land is storied and it was such a blessing to just listen to its stories being revealed in confidence. We made our way to the multi-generational farmstead and reluctantly said our goodbyes. I left knowing I would return and try to hear more of those stories. Hopefully I‟ll get a chance to explore the site when more time could be set aside for such an expedition. But Steve and I had to get to our next appointment. So we rolled down the Volume 1 Issue 3

country road and eventually made our way back to the historic town of Oronoco. The town is not sleepy, but teaming with industrious residences gearing up for the Oronoco Gold Rush Days‟ event. Wood is being hauled and grass is being cut. The local farmer‟s market tables are being set as we find ourselves at the events‟ coordinators‟ lovely historic home. Steve was suffering from the heat and had a bad migraine at this time, so after our introductions, I drove him home and then came back to talk more about the 76

August 2011


to visit Berg‟s Antique Store. It turns out that Mary Lou and her husband kicked off the amazing Oronoco Gold Rush Days right across from their store! So I said my goodbyes to my gracious hosts and departed to do some pick‟n! I headed over to Berg‟s Antiques and was struck at the historic building right by the river. The structure was showing its age, Gold Rush Days‟ Event. David, Carole‟s yet, when I walked in the front door I husband, greeted me at the door. This knew I was in picker heaven. This buildold cowboy invited me in and right away, ing was jam packed with great old items. I recognized the trim in their home Mary Lou greeted me as she sat reading matched my own. Turns out David and and listening to the radio as a lovely old Carole had done extensive renovation to industrial steel fan kept her cool on this their 1908 home yet kept and matched muggy day. She was cheerful, but did not the old trim. Michelle and I are in the want to interfere with my shopping. I process of doing the same thing. So I wanted to capture this business on video sidetracked our conversation to home because you really don‟t find these gems renovation, but eventually after a cold of stores. This was a state if not a naglass of water, we brought the conversa- tional treasure and I feel any picker worth tion back to this great event. their salt in the area needs to set foot in Carole is the Oronoco Gold Rush Days‟ this great business. event coordinator and she is really savvy I knew the proprietor had a wealth of and great at her job. Earlier this year, I knowledge and I had to try to bring that contacted her because of the historic out somehow. So I kept chatting. Now gold claim, and offered my services to most proprietors would see this as a nuipromote Oronoco Gold Rush Days and in turn be able to tell this historic story. After talking and getting really excited about this year‟s Gold Rush Days, I really wanted to learn more about this event and area. Carole insisted that I make sure Volume 1 Issue 3

77

August 2011


in this great idea to lift up Oronoco‟s historic Gold Rush and keep this lovely little town on the map. I had so much fun talking with Mary Lou. I learned so much about the industry and her great strategy that assisted them in finding a niche in this industry. I finally had to get down to pick‟n and sance and try to get me back shopping, honestly, if I had the money, I would but not Mary Lou! Her quick wit and have bought 50% of all the product she knowledge of the industry blew me away. had for sale. But strapped for cash, I Her strategy was gifted by her late husneeded some great buys to turn for band, Earl. who people naturally graviprofit. So I was looking for those few tated to. They sold both wholesale and pieces that I could turn into profit. I had retail supporting a growing industry in come to the right place. My stomach their area. Mary Lou stated that in this grumbling, I did a quick once over and business their strategy was to make a little asked Mary Lou where there was an profit and pass that opportunity to anATM as I did not have any cash on me. other to resell and if they made a profit, She directed me to Tilley‟s and gave me then they would come back and buy directions, even through all the construcmore! It worked and Mary Lou and her tion that was taking place. late husband Earl have been in business now for 49 years. That is amazing con- I asked about the history of the building sidering how many downturns these last and again I was blown away. It turns out the building once had a speak easy in the 49 years have seen. basement! She directed me to the back Earl was gifted with being able to buy stairs and I went to check it out. Walking low and sell for a modest profit. Earl is down the stairs you could hear the clinkcredited with founding the Gold Rush ing of glasses and conversations and Days‟ event, but Mary Lou‟s quick wit laughter of yesteryear echoing up the adds that she did all the work! How does high ceiling walls. The decorative old tin that old saying go? Every man is just one was still on the ceiling and the dance great woman away from greatness? Well floor was still present. When I returned Earl found his greatness in Mary Lou and Mary Lou told me that when Earl and Volume 1 Issue 3

78

August 2011


her bought the place they were made to sign off that they would never sell alcohol because the sheriff was sick of his deputies driving to the county line and their favorite drinking hole! I can‟t remember what Mary Lou said the establishment was called but I guess even Earl had a story of being escorted out of the joint by his teeth as a lad. Did I tell you I was in picker heaven? I guess people from all across the country return to once again walk into their favorite drinking hole. One gentleman came from down south as an old man and wanted to once again set foot in the place he spent the best days of his life. Mary Lou was worried because of the stairs and the gentleman replied that he was an old man and all he wanted to step foot in the place he remembered so fondly one more time before he died.

Volume 1 Issue 3

I told Mary Lou that I would return and I don‟t think she believed me. I went to Tilley‟s and called my wife. I told her that I was disappointed that I was not gold panning. She understood, but reminded me that she was glad I was making lemonade out of lemons. As I sat and ate a great burger at Tilley‟s I reflected that the relic and treasure I was finding today was truly the people and their stories I was fortunate enough to meet. Steve and fEvelyn, Carol and David, Mary Lou and Earl‟s memory, I was reenergized and excited to get back to the hunt to find and uncover more treasure here in Oronoco. Grandma‟s Closet was right next to Tilley‟s, so after my belly was full and I had a stake of cash in my pocket, I headed to check this place out before returning to Berg‟s Antique Store. Wow is what I have to say about Grandma‟s

79

August 2011


Closet. The prices were more retail, but I saw items there that I had never, ever seen before. The display that stood out for me is the retro kitchen display that had a Hoosier in perfect condition: red, white enamel with chrome, the perfect piece to build a kitchen around. Then they also had almost every item launched that year with that style. Grandma‟s Closet was truly a magnificent antique shop. The prices did not leave me any room to resell, so I just compared prices and marveled at this lovely, lovely store. I did not get the names of the ladies working but they were really helpful and informative. I can‟t wait till I bring my wife back to shop all of Oronoco‟s great shops!

back through the construction to Berg‟s Antiques. Mary Lou greeted me with a little surprise and I went right to pick‟n. I found nine great old treasure magazine and purchased them for $1 each. There was a great old wood fired jug that I had to have and splurged a bit spending $22. Then I found this great old axe head that I had never seen before. I think it may have been used to true up logs, but not sure. I had to have it and sweet talked Mary Lou down from $25 to $18. I thought that was a victory in itself. Yet, in giving me what I thought was a deal, I will always return and buy more! I was thrilled and visually overloaded and hot. So, I said my goodbyes and headed out to another shop that Mary Lou suggested I I left Grandma‟s Closet and made my way stop into.

Volume 1 Issue 3

80

August 2011


I have been looking for one of these Hoosiers and an old wood stove to be our key pieces in it. I thought this Hoosier was the one and it had a great price on it. Gordon told me to follow him, he had something else to show me. So he On the way I stopped back at the Orobrought me to his showroom and there it noco park and shot a video of the Gold was! An even better Hoosier and almost Rush plaque and the Moose Tree. It was $700 less than any I have ever seen and hard walking around that big old tree in all those were lesser quality. I had to have less than one minute! Then I took a it. I made arrangements to put money walk down to the river so that I could at down to hold it. I will pay the rest in the least get my hands and feet wet. I did a third week in August when I attend Oroshort video and watched an eagle snap up noco Gold Rush Days! a fish and deliver it to its nest. Breathtakingly beautiful was how I would describe Yvonne shared with me that Gordon had bought her a metal detector. Gordon it. chimed in that it was still in the box. I talked with Steve and Evelyn and we Metal detectors can be hard for those even watched one of the videos I upnew to the hobby to get a grip on. They loaded to YouTube from my phone on YouTube together. I thanked them for all also had a son that lives in Princeton, MN. So I told Yvonne and Gordon to their help and went back to pickâ€&#x;n. I crossed over Highway 52 and found my- bring their metal detector next time they self at Oronoco Antiques. visit their son in Princeton and I would Yvonne and Gordon Cariveau greeted me help them get started metal detecting. and dropped what they were doing to huGordon introduced me to another guy mor me when I asked about their old that was in the shop. It turns out he also guns. Gordon kept pulling out these guns that I had never seen before. I was sells at the Gold Rush Days event, so I headed over to his home that he has blown away, but all the ones I wanted were out of my current cash flow. So I turned the old cafĂŠ into. I was blessed with another great show of classic kept looking and found an even older American antiques. He had a ton of taxiHoosier that was oak and enamel. Michelle and I want to redo our kitchen and dermy and even a better Hoosier that was Volume 1 Issue 3

81

August 2011


out of my modest price range, but I had never seen anything like it. He told me his story and I was inspired. But I really needed to get back on the road and head back to the dream fulfilled. So I said my goodbyes and headed North on 52. Michelle called me in the midst of a terrible storm that hit our dream fulfilled. It had toppled our beloved marble tree were we had our swing, and broke off one of our many pine trees. The power was out and I was getting grizzly trying to get home. The stormy weather

Volume 1 Issue 3

made for a cooler ride home. I finally got home, marveled at the downed tree and felt safe and sound and blessed that besides the trees everything was alright. As I lay in bed that night going over my day in Oronoco, it became clear that my assumption of panning and finding gold was not to be. Instead, I found the treasure of the people and history present for anyone to discover in Oronoco. When you go to Oronoco, MN, and find your own treasure there in the people and history, tell them Grizzly sent you!

82

August 2011


By Chad T. Everson Blog YouTube Shop

Volume 1 Issue 3

83

August 2011


You may have noticed that a great deal of my effort online is to bring more and more people into relic and treasure hobby, industry and passion. Temerity Magazine lifts up those that have the Temerity to share their passion, expertise and insight of relic and treasure hunters around the world. I also have www.TemerityDomains.com that discounts domain URL and hosting costs for relic and treasure hunters. The other night, I had a revelation. I could really help my fellow relic and treasure hunters have their own blog on their own hosting account and share with them all I have learned in these last 7 years of being an award winning blogger. The more great relic and treasure hunters that I can gift with a great hand up get online today, the brighter this great relic and treasure hobby and industry will be in our shared future. So I sent out an email to a handful of Temerity Magazine authors that I knew did not have a blog yet. You see a blog is the passport or credential everyone needs today online to be taken seriously. It can also be a source of income to put food on the table or even buy that next great metal detector. In this email, I offered to set up their hosting account, install their WordPress blog and gift it with the plugins I have gathered over 7 years of blog experience. I would do this if they only purchased a domain name URL and a hosting account from TemerityDomains.com . Well thus far, two great relic and treasure hunters took me up on my offer. VCStar5 now has a blog at UncoveredTreasure.com and NQExplorers have a blog NQExplorers.com that Colleen, our cover model, can sell her relic and treasure clothing line! I am now offering Temerity Magazine readers the same gift. If you purchase a domain URL and hosting account through TemerityDomains.com I will set up your hosting account and gift you with a blog that will have 7 years of award winning blog experience tools installed. Especially those who have YouTube accounts . Your videos, comments can automatically be published on your new blog! Email me: Editor@TemerityMagazine.com Lets get you Grizzly today! Volume 1 Issue 3

84

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

85

August 2011


Volume 1 Issue 3

86

August 2011


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.