Treasure Hunting

Treasure Hunting as kids always carried with it an air of mystery and excitement. Whether it was finding that special rock that had a sparkle to it, collecting cans or bottles and turning them in for money and then rushing off to buy some candy or finding that special fort, cave or tree house that we could call our very own.

As adults, there are still plenty of ways we can go Treasure Hunting. 'Returnable hunters' can still make a pretty good buck or two. There are some people that like to wait for that big event, fair, concert or festival and then rush in to collect the empty bottles and cans. There is one man I know who goes around to all of the dumpsters behind convenience stores and restaurants and makes enough to pay his rent every month.

Another good spot to hunt is in your large Wal-Mart or mall parking lot. The best time to hit these spots is very early in the morning at sunrise. Stand at the far end of the lot facing the sun and start looking for sparkles. These could very well be diamonds or other gems that have fallen out of their settings. When people leave the warmth or coolness of their cars, the stones work loose from their settings and may fall out. It is also a very good time to look for the bills that people often loose as they come out of the store.

As a modern treasure hunter it also pays to check your hotel room while on vacation. Many times people will hide their cash there for safekeeping, only to forget it later. Check to see if there is anything taped underneath the desk drawer, in the Bible or phonebook, under the mattress and under or between the cushions of the chairs. You may also want to check behind any mirrors or anyplace else you see that may make a good hiding spot.

Many times people didn't trust their banks, hence the 'post hole bank.' Treasure hunting old homesteads can really pay off. Metal detect around any foundational walls and the fireplace. If the walls are still standing, check for hiding places in the walls; Look behind old pictures, false windowsills, removable baseboards and loose floorboards or shelving. When people would cache their valuables outside, they often wanted it easy to see from the kitchen window or front porch, to check for any potential thieves. Many times it would be hidden in the chicken coop or dog house that would provide a built-in alarm. Hunt around any potential landmarks; large trees, lone rocks and the clothesline.

As you can see, anyone can be a treasure hunter. For more stories about professional treasure hunting, metal detecting, gold prospecting, manly adventure and OOPArt's, please visit Treasure Hunting News