One of the stones, sometimes called the "Priest Map Stone," shows an image of a priest (or a witch) with a cross next to a few brief sentences in Spanish with misspellings. Translated, in context, the words say "you go eighteen paces" (after reaching the trail’s starting point); "the [canyon] wall is dangerous;" "look for the heart," a reference to a hidden heart, an emblem over the image of a horse incised on one of the other stones; and "look for the map," a reference to a second map hidden within the map incised on yet another stone.

A second stone, called the "Horse Map Stone," shows the image of the horse, beautifully incised, and brief comments in Spanish. Translated, the words appear to say, "horse of holy faith" but actually mean "knight of holy faith," which is a clue to the identity of the person who created the Peralta Stones; and "I pasture north of the river," which is a clue to the trail’s starting point.

A third stone, the "Trail Map," bears disconnected lines and symbols on one side and the badly worn word "DON" (the Spanish word for "gift" or "grant") on the reverse side.

A fourth stone, the "Heart Map," has disconnected lines and symbols, a heart-shaped cutout and a dagger outline (which serves as a directional pointer) on one side. The surface inside the heart-shaped cutout has the year "1847" and several symbols engraved into the stone. The Heart Map has a cross – a symbol for a church – engraved on the back side. Combined, the word "DON" and the cross mean "church grant." The heart-shaped inlay stone, called the "Heart Stone," has strange symbols engraved on each side. Laid side by side, the Trail Map stone and the Heart Map stone, with the Heart Stone nestled into its cutout, appear to be related. Judging by the workmanship, I suspected that at least two different people produced the various images on the stones.

With the clues on the Peralta Stones, I set out to solve the mystery of the location of the Lost Dutchman’s Mine. I contacted the A. L. Flagg Foundation, the curator of the stones, in Mesa, Arizona, to find out whether I could see them first hand. The person I talked with informed me that I needed to get permission from a board director. I asked how to do that. The person said that the information was unavailable. Looking again at the photographs and drawings in my books, I decided that I really didn’t need to see the real stones. The images gave me all the detail I really needed to solve the mystery of the location of the Lost Dutchman.

What I should have done at this point was go see a shrink. But not me, I was hooked. Over the next three months, I convinced myself that I had found not only the trail’s starting place but also its end. During this time, I realized the map had been carved on the stones not once, but twice, by two different people. In both instances, it gave cryptic instructions for how to follow the trail.

In light of this discovery, I examined the images of the stones carefully with a magnifying glass and found very faint numbers all over the map, none of which seemed to be of any use as far as I could tell. I decided that whatever had been incised into the stone surfaces originally had been abraded off, leaving only traces of meaningless images. I also found that the side of the stone with the word "DON" on it and the reverse side of the heart stone had not been altered, and the images offered no apparent useful information. It was the map on the stones that showed the trail into the Superstition Mountains, where the famous Lost Dutchman Mine was supposed to be.

On the Ground in the Superstition Mountains

By September of 1996, I had not yet actually been to the Superstitions to check my theories about the map, so my wife and I took a trip to the mountains. We would hike to a place I thought I might be marked by the map on the stones.

It did not come easy. We had to hike through a lot of scrub brush and cacti, walking over pea-size pebbles which rolled like marbles when we stepped on them, making the going tough. It seemed that for every foot we traveled forward, we traveled five feet sideways.

As it turned out, I could not connect the first place with the map, but I knew there was a second possibility about half mile away. My wife had had enough of the heat, brush and pebbles, so she headed back to the car. I hiked the half mile. The second place appeared to fit the map! That was the first time I believed I might be able to solve the mystery, but by now, I was completely exhausted. I decided to call it a day. I headed for the car.

The next day I returned with my wife to the second site. She took photographs while I tried to correlate what I saw on the ground with the symbols and lines on the map. I got nowhere. I felt sure that we stood at one end of the trail, which is indicated on the map by a doughnut-shaped symbol, but we could find nothing else which seemed to tie to the map. Since we were walking primarily on bedrock, there just wasn’t much of anyplace for a hidden mineshaft or anything else. I looked for some kind of possible trail marker and could find none.

I realized now that I may not have found the site indicated by the map after all. There were other locations where it could be. It would take years for me to realize that the map indicated only an approximate location. There was no specific trail marker at the site indicated by the doughnut symbol. Such a thing would have saved me a lot of trouble.

I did wonder about a tall peak to the south and a small canyon running into a large canyon. Both the canyons were brushy with a lot of boulders, making them almost impassable, but one did have a ledge – a possible trail? – high on a stony wall near where the stone map would appear to lead, but I suspected that this is typical of the kinds of possibilities your mind invents in a search for the Lost Dutchman’s Mine. There must be similar "clues" all over the Superstition Mountains.

At length, I began to believe that the Lost Dutchman could only be a figment of someone’s overactive imagination. I wasn’t going to fall for it. I was just not going to go on that wild goose chase. No, not me. My wife and I called an end to our trip. I gave up on the stone map. Obviously, it was just another scam. This trip was a lark. We had a lot of fun. It was worth it. I put the whole thing out of my mind. Pretty much so, anyway.

We headed for home, a small community of about 350 permanent residents whose ability to divulge a secret is restricted only by the limitations of the telephone. They’ve always looked at me kind of strangely, but it’s never bothered me. There aren’t many straight people in the entire town.

The Eyes in the Picture

When we returned home, my wife sent her photographs off to be developed. We got them back and I didn’t see anything unusual about them except they were very good pictures. My wife is an amateur photographer and sometimes has her best shots enlarged and framed to hang on the wall. She selected one of these for that purpose, and it hung in its appointed place for two or three weeks.

For some reason, one night I took the photograph down for a closer look. I caught my breath. At the very edge of the photo, I discovered a pair of eyes in a very vague stone face. This was no ordinary pair of eyes. They had pupils surrounded by white. They looked like real eyes, with the meanest stare I have ever seen.

Our collection of books on the Lost Dutchman had grown since I discovered the Peralta Stones in Sikorsky’s Fools Gold, so I dug one of them out and discovered a face was part of the legend. I began re-checking the information I had about landmarks and the features which were supposed to be near the mine’s location. I learned that the mine was supposedly located on a ledge high on a canyon wall just a short distance up from where a small canyon runs into a large canyon. Both canyons were almost impassable because of brush and boulders. A stone face appears where you turn off the main trail or two hundred yards directly across the small canyon from the mine.

Too much information matched. This couldn’t be a coincidence. I tried to remind myself that the Lost Dutchman was just a figment of someone’s overactive imagination. I wouldn’t fall for that. I wasn’t going on a wild goose chase. No, not me.

Second Visit

I returned, with my brother, to the site marked by the doughnut symbol in May of 1997. This time, we found a relatively easy route to the location. Late on the second day, we found a place where there might be a mineshaft. It was at the base of a small hill with an almost vertical wall. There was a lot of loose and unstable rocks near the top. It was dangerous. The rocks would have to be cleared before we could work safely in the area below. It was getting late. We had to leave. More searching would have to wait until the next trip.

Months would pass before I could arrange another trip. That was pure torture, but I would get used to it. It would happen regularly for the next three years, a time during which my wife would continue to believe in me even if she couldn’t really understand me. She did rib me a lot, possibly to cover her anxieties about my trips to a place she considered dangerous. She felt better, however, because I took good solid people with me to help in the search. The rest of the family figured that I was bonkers.

Third Trip

During the next trip, with a friend and his son in November 1997, we ran into heavy thunderstorms. The rain followed us almost all the way to the Superstitions. As we passed through the mountains west of Globe, the rain became sporadic. When it finally stopped, the water running off the rocks was a glorious sight, worth the trip in itself.

When we arrived at the campsite, I began unloading and setting up our gear. My friend began assembling the tent. He had just acquired this tent at a garage sale. He had no instructions. The thing had mesh sides with a plastic top. He called me over. Something was wrong, he said. I began laughing. He had erected the tent upside down. It made a very good playpen with a ground sheet, but it had no roof. We had just gotten the tent straightened out when another hard rain began to fall. We jumped into our vehicles, where we spent the night because we didn’t have time to trench around the tent, and the rain lasted well into the night. We would have been drenched had we tried to stay in the tent.

The next day we went out and set to work. We had to clear the rocks from above us, and then we started to dig. We were only about five feet from the rim of the canyon wall, which had more than one hundred foot vertical drop. At the end of the day we returned to camp, where our wives joined us. The next day we worked about three hours and hit bedrock. We called it quits and just sat around, discouraged.

I was extremely disappointed. For the second time, I completely gave up on finding the mine. The Lost Dutchman could only be a figment of someone’s overactive imagination. I wasn’t going to fall for it again. I just was not going on that wild goose chase. No, not me. I put the whole thing out of my mind. Well, pretty much so, anyway.

While we were sitting at our camp, we noticed two people with metal detectors crawl into a cave about a quarter mile up the small canyon. We didn’t even know there was a cave there. Later that afternoon, we saw two people from the search and rescue service crawl into the cave. They left about 30 minutes later. We never found out what happened. That cave, however, might serve as a landmark for the Lost Dutchman.

But at that point, I didn’t care. I figured that the chance of me finding anything was remote. When we explored the area further, we did find signs of a mountain lion’s kill—the still-greasy skull of a javelina, its tusk recently broken. The story was pretty clear. The lion had killed the javelina all right, but that collared peccary did not go gently into the night.

Fourth Trip

Over the next few weeks, another friend studied the Peralta Stone map, and he wanted to go out to trails end. By now, I had no enthusiasm for it. I didn’t want to continue a wild goose chase, but for some reason, I agreed to go. On that trip we explored a wide area and still found nothing. On the trip home, however, my friend asked if the curved arrow on the map could be an extension of the trail. Bells began going off in my head, and I realized that I had never reached the end of the trail. I had been looking in the wrong place!

Obviously, the small canyon merged with the large canyon where it made a curve, creating a long narrow point between the two. On an earlier trip, we had found a place where we could climb from the top down to the next level of the large canyon. It was only about an eight feet vertical drop, and it had foot- and handholds. The only problem was, it led into the large canyon, and we needed to be on the other side of the long point in the small canyon. We had not seen any way around the point.

Still More Trips

Over the next several months, I made four more trips, trying to find a way to get from one canyon to the other. The map told me where I had to descend from the top. It was the same place we had previously found. I just couldn’t find a way around the point at the level where I believed that I needed to be.

On the next trip, my wife and I planned to take pictures from a short way up the small canyon. When we got there, a forest fire was burning in the Four Peaks wilderness area just a few miles away, creating a large column of smoke overhead with the upper winds pushing the smoke down into the canyons in the area.

We shot the pictures anyway but with little hope of them turning out well. The angle was bad so we hiked around the head of the canyon and down the other side to a place directly across from the ledge, where we took more pictures. The pictures turned out better than we expected, but they did not show a way around the point or anything else I could use. They did show a vague outline of a horse on the canyon wall, but the head was missing from just below the ears. An earthquake in 1887 had altered the area a lot. What remained of the figure of a horse was not much as a landmark. No eyes or face this time, either.

On my next trip, I planned to hike down the large canyon to see if there was a way from the bottom up to the ledge. It was about two miles as the crow flies from the head to where the mouth of the small canyon was located. How much distance the bends and curves would add was impossible to know. I made camp near the head of the canyon and started out the next morning.

A short distance down the canyon, I found a cave that fit a description I had read. The only thing missing was a rock house that was supposed to be in the cave, but a flash flood or even some person might have destroyed the rock house. I had left the camera at home (as usual), and the cave wasn’t included in the day’s mission anyway. It would prove to be the only place in the whole area that provided shelter, water, firewood and nearby grazing for livestock. All necessary for long-term habitation. On inspection, I found that the cave’s floor had two manmade holes that would hold about three gallons of water each, and if walled in, the cave could serve as a fortress.

The hiking was very slow and after about four miles, I could see that I had no hope of reaching my destination within the day. The only thing to do was return to camp, and reaching it before either the daylight or my legs gave out was an iffy thing. Spending a night in the canyon wasn’t appealing, but it would not have been disaster. I had food and water. About dusk, I dragged myself into camp exhausted but otherwise no worse for wear. The canyon was eliminated as a way to get onto the ledge.

Now What?

I knew that there had to be some way to reach the ledge. I went back to the stone map. This time, I found a possible place to descend from the top, enabling me to make my way around the point. On the next trip, that’s what I did.

Once I descended from the top, I felt as if I had entered a whole new world. I had to clamber either up or down steep inclines while going around a very slanted canyon wall. Huge boulders, brush and cacti covered the area. There was little room to maneuver. The pea-sized pebbles that rolled underfoot were everywhere. I had to move with great care. This was wild country, unlike anything I had ever encountered. Finally reaching junction of two canyons, at the end of the point, the view was stunning. It extended two miles in length and a mile in height. I could see into the bottom of the large canyon 500 feet below. The opposite wall extended upward another 800 feet. The color was overwhelming. Extraordinary rock formations were everywhere. Later, I would see a helicopter down in the canyon. It looked as small as a dragonfly.

(We made this place a rest stop. Regardless of the number of times we saw it, this view always had the power to stop conversation. It always left us in awe.)

I found that I was too high. I had to make my way carefully down to where there was a passage around the point. When I reached the other side, I found that I was 20 feet too low. I still had a steep climb up to reach the ledge. The ledge was shaped like a backward comma with the round part about one hundred yards across, the tail was about 20 feet wide. It tapered to two feet where the trail came onto it, and it slanted steeply toward the outside. A vertical canyon wall over 100 feet high extended above the tail.

Giant boulders covered the ground, but there was not much brush or cacti, so it was a little easier walking on this side. About half way up on the canyon wall was a small ledge. At this point, I suspected that a crescent landmark on the Peralta Stone map would show the way to the mine. After searching the ledge and canyon wall, however, I found no indication of any mining. The only things I found were some prehistoric potsherds, including a part of a vessel’s rim. From the curve, I could tell the mouth of that jar had been about 12 inches in diameter. A container of that size, I guessed, must have been used to store food. It would have been a difficult task getting it where it had been broken. Finally, I did discover a boulder that would serve as a bridge to the trail which would lead to the end of the point, just where I believed I wanted to be.

Part II of this article on the Lost Dutchman Mine.

Questions

Peralta Who? Space Cowboy El Cajon Ca.

1: What makes you think these tablets called the Peralta Stones have anything to do with the Lost Dutchman? 2: If these people in AZ have the original stones, why haven't they used them to find the Lost Dutchman?

Space Cowboy Mr X Arizona

Answer #1 We found the Lost Dutchman landmarks leading to same place as stone map. Answer #2 The people with the stones, like everybody else who has tried cannot read them correctly. MORE DETAILS ON THIS SUBJECT IN PART #2

Peralta Misinterpetation Craydog Quartszite AZ.

Why does everone think they are searching for the lost dutchman/peralta mines by following stone tablets. If the peralta family was ambushed and massacred,(perhaps ordered by an evil priest or a Don) Maybe Pedro Peralta knew his attackers,and the stone maps are actually leading (followers)in pursuit to a Ranchero or Mission and the stolen LOOT! How about in Santa Fe NM?

SAME SITES? TIM WELCH Texas

DO YOU THINK IT'S POSSIBLE THAT THE LOST DUTCHMAN MINE AND THE LOST ADAM'S DIGGIN'S COULD BE ONE AND THE SAME ?

Questions Answered Mr X Az.

Craydog The stone map tells eaactly where & how it is placed on the ground we didn't beleive in Lost Dutchman until we got to the end of the trail and found the landmarks Tim Welch No. The Adams Diggings Is Located farther east and has lots of placer gold.

killer mountains Dale Duncan Yuma Az.

Have you read the book "Killer Mountains: by Curt Gentry and if so, did you explore the same area as in the book?

Dale Duncan Mr X Az.

I have not read this book. With all the murders, accidents, and disappearances that have happened in those mountains it sounds interesting. As for the areas explored, I will release this information at a later date.

sharp arrows Buzz Western States

I am surprised that you think you are so close to the mine. The mine WAS guarded by individuals with bows and arrows. When people got close to the mine, warning arrows would be shot. The arrows cared people away. The mine is not where you think it is. When I returned from overseas in the Army in 1968 I was sent to Fort Huachuca, Arizona. Two of my Army buddies and I spent several months in study. Yep, we had the warning arrows and WE ALSO FOUND THE GOLD. Keep writing because you are a great writer. But we have all the gold we need! There is probably enough gold left to fill about 20 huge 4 X 4 pick up trucks!!!!! Oh, the clues you have been reading were merely decoys! If you go about 1/2 mile east of where you think the Dutchman's mine is you will see a four foot rod in the ground. It's a rod that people hang clothes on in their closets and it is wooden and round. It is painted with alternate gold and black stripes each about an inch long. I left it there as a marker in 1994, the last time I was there to get gold. I now have more money than I can imagine so go for it. Let me know if you find it. The bowsmen are now dead having spent all the money they could so you will be safe. Their families are wealthy so there is no need for armed guards there now. The bow and arrow is silent and deadly. The rod is about a foot deep so there is three feet sticking up. You can see it easily with binoculars from 200 feet away. Sure, I know you don't believe me -- nobody does but that doesn't bother me one iota. One of my Army buddies was a Ranger and he was an excellent tracker. Tracking is a lost art to be sure. He taught me enough so that we leave no tracks. There is no evidence that man was ever there. But the marked and painted rod is easy to spot since yellow is the easiest color to detect and it is easy to see. Virtually nobody ever gets out that far so placing the marker was a sensible thing to do. We had been back about every three years since discovering the mine and had trouble locating it. I wash you the best AND happy hunting.

To Buzz Mr X Az.

Congratulations on your find. I will check on marker next time out. I have read about your group. The arthur gave the group a lot of creditability. The stone map may only lead to other maps. Who knows?

Samples Please goldmule PA

Of all the searchers who have claimed to have found the LDM or some other cache or deposit in the Superstitions, has anybody ever seen a sample of the gold or of the ore discovered? If Buzz has, indeed, located such a cache, and has such excesses in his possession, perhaps he would be willing to send a sample to the editors of DesertUSA so we can all see what it looks like!

Goldmule Mr. X Az.

I would like to see some of the gold found by all the people who have found the LDGM. There is some gold that is claimed to have been under Jocob Waltz's bed when he died. This is very beautiful stuff in quartz. My neighbor the geologist did the test on the lava flow and he said "we would not find any quartz" The only yellow I have found so far has been the wildflowers

GPS Location? Ron Bolyard Onyx, California

Mr. X. Did you ever get the latitude and Longitude of the final site? I am not interested in going to the field and digging, but it would be interesting to have the site on my Delorme maps for reference. I am a rockhound, mineral and map collector. Thank you and Be with God, Ron.

Ron bolyard Mr. X Az.

Yes I have the lon & lat. I took a reading with a GPS. This information will be made public when I release information on how to read the stone map. Thank you.

Dirt Road Bill

I saw a dirt road in two of the photographs that you took. Where is this road, it lookes like a great drive to take on a Sunday afternon. I believe the second photo was labeled, "a view from the top".

Dirt Road Mr. X Az.

For all those not aquainted with the Superstition Mountains. The dirt road is part of SH 88 or the apache trail hwy. It is a sceenic route through the mountains from Apache Junction to Roosevelt dam. The road is surfaced until about 1 mile past FS 80 or the Horse Mesa Dam turnoff Then is dirt the rest of the way. For Those wanting to drive this road, it takes about 3hrs one way. you must allow more time for stoping to enjoy the sceenery or to take pictures. In Fall, Winter and Spring there is high traffic between Apache Junction and Tortilla Flat. This drive is a very good for an afternoon trip.

No Quartz, No Dutchman Rusty Scupper 29 Palms, CA

Mr. X Good Luck and God Bless! But the Dutchman's ore has a specific type of quartz as the gangue material. You may well be onto some other lost mine/deposit but no quartz, no Dutchman! The rusty scupper

Well... truthseeker

I have been studying the clues that were said to have been left by Walsh and have come up with a few theories that may of use or not. After close observation and reading them about a hundred times I said, What about Weaver's Needle? All cles point to it. Could it be that the trick in the trail that Walsh was suposedly talking about is Weaver's Needle. COuld it just be that going to the trail's end would lead to the entrance to yet another trail? One that goes under Waver's Needle. I know it is supposed to be an ancient volcano but it is a hunch. These stone tablets may be leading you to the Perolta gold instead of the Duchman's. I think that it is worth a try. SOmeone must have analized the clues as I have. It is also possible that the mine is in the most obvious place but we just haven't looked hard enough. Walsh did say that one could be in the mine and not know it. Maybe the land just north of Weaver's Needle is the area. This is only what I came up with.

people crazy? john achille south carolina

why would anyone believe this mr x? Yeah right he took some gold and left more there! Anyone that thinks he found a deposit or mine is a complete idiot. hey, I have a bridge in forida for sale! great revenue builder for tollbridge. haha mr x I have the means to travel to see this mine and if you say you have found it prove it! I would like to b richer! You are probably a 30,000.00 dollar a year laborer that isdreaming like everyone else! there is no gold left in those mtns. That is if there was any in the first place. Jachille@aol.com

Truthseeker Mr. X Az.

I beleive you are correct about one trail leading to a second trail. Information on the first trail is very vague while it is detailed on the second. I followed the stone map to get there. I also found all the trail markers for the second trail to the Lost Dutchman The tall peak with a needle point at the top was not Weavers Needle

One mine Jacqueline Dement Ft.Collins, Co.

There are people who are still out there looking for this god forbidden mine. I was wondering if you knew how To contact them or if anyone was looking for a fellow to join them on there quest?\ Please let me know if you have any helpful information. thank you so much, and blessed be.

Sharp arrows- To: Buzz Apache Junction, AZ

I don't believe you either! You seem very arrogant! I believe that you are boasting & bragging & lying! You are telling everyone that you found the gold to convince that they are too late & should stop looking for it. In the meantime, you are still looking for it. I've seen stock traders use this tactic to get people to do what they want to make money off them. This is what your posting reminds me of. If I'm wrong, you won't care what I say & forgive me. If you don't forgive me, you'll only be hurting yourself. God will forgive me, anyway. Most importantly, I sure hope that you are right with God, have a relationship with Jesus & are a good steward to what prosperity God entrusts to you. Otherwise, your life is in vain & it too will pass away with your riches & in the last day everyone will have to answer to God on the way they lived their life. I've got a farely good relationship with God, so I usually detect a lie when I hear one. I'm looking at your fruit which you probably don't understand, because you don't read the Bible like everyone should & doesn't. Anyway, are you humble? The meek & patient shall inherit the earth! (quote from the Bible) Sure there are evil people or non-christians with money. The Bible also says that the wealth of the wicked is stored up for the righteous. I'm righteous, so I know I'll probably be one of those. If I got a lot of money, I would help spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and help the poor get back on their feet. Of course, I would also have many luxuries, but would not forget about the less fortunate. Also, recently, several pieces of a puzzle in my life have been revealed to me (I may reveal specifics @ a later time) through support & strong Christians in the Church, and my personal relationship with the Lord. I now do believe that we moved out here to find a the lost dutchman's mine. We are not looking for it, yet. And we are believing God will supernaturally show us where it is located. What a priveledge it would be to be entrusted with this wealth. I don't believe that I'm better than anyone else, just tried & trusted to use this money for God's purpose. These are the end times & a lot of work has to be done to fulfill the end time prophecies. I'm only a small piece of the puzzle. Anyone can become a part of the puzzle if they so choose to be. The wealth is not what is sought. It's the love of God to spread & cover the multitude of sins. Money is just a vehicle that is need to get you where you need to go. Money is the root of all evil, people can to great lengths & sins to obtain it, which by itself is a bag with holes. Money used rightly can also show love & spread it. Spread the love! God will not be mock! What you sow is what you'll reap & only that is what you'll reap. Sow by giving of your time & money! And see what abundance will return to you & be patient and you will reap! I encourage others to post or give me their e-mails, so I can personally talk with them. At this time, I do not feel safe about enlisting mine until I get an annoymous one. May God Bless All his Saints! Anyone can become one!

You wouldn't be BAITING us now would you Mr. X? Jim Hatt Apache Junction, Az

Congratulations on your adventure Mr. X, I enjoyed reading your article. It reminded me a lot of my own first couple years in the Superstitions, finding one clue after another all lining up just as they should and leading to absolutely nothing. I am very familiar with the area you were working in and know exactly what part of the Stone Maps led you to search there. I too was in the mtns. when the truck load of Illegals turned over on Hwy. 88 and watched the sky filled with helicopters. (That was the first dead giveaway as to where you were working) I wasn't searching in the area you were, I was caught in the traffic pile up as they cleaned up the accident, and rounded up the people in the canyon below. I spent several years in the late 80's and early 90's in that same area. Not searching for the Dutchman, but like yourself following what I believed at the time to be the end of the trail identified on the Stone Maps. (So you see, the Apache Junction locals here are not quite as ignorant as you portray us to be). I also know a large number of other Local, Dutch-Hunters that have worked that area driven by the same conclusions that eventually lead you and I to search there. The list of names is long and stretches back several decades. They all just sat back and silently watched you the same way they silently watched me and waited for us to figure out that something might be wrong with the ‘scale' we were using to decipher the Stone maps. It happens to every one of us that started at the top of the stone maps and worked down rather than working up from the bottom. (The starting point on the trail) Please understand Mr. X, I do not mean to belittle your efforts in any way. Over the years I have developed a Great Respect for anyone that is willing to endure the hardships & hazards, as well as the Joys & Disappointments of entering those Mountains time after time, with visions in their heads of capturing a glance of the Dutchman's Gold or the Peralta Cash. At the same time, I have to bring to your attention the fact that in view of the area you have been working in, (Barely off the Apache Trail) the hardships & hazards you have experienced are rather small & unimpressive in comparison to say... Someone that has backpacked ALONE to the top of Geronimo Head, Black Top or Bluff Springs Mtn. carrying on their backs everything they needed to survive in 100+ Degree weather for 3-5 days. I am sitting here wondering if you are even aware of the fact that you didn't even venture in far enough to qualify as having been into the Wilderness Area? The manner in which your article is written and ends (in it's cliffhanger fashion with hint to divulge more later). Tends to disturb me and cause me to suspect you are 'baiting' the public to perhaps "approach you with financial offerings for the information you have withheld"? Being a rather long-term resident of Apache Junction, and a truly dedicated believer in the Lost Dutchman Mine and the Stone Maps. I have, over the years, observed almost every type of Scam imaginable inflicted on the general public wherein the individual claims to have "information" that is sure to lead to the Lost Dutchman Mine, or the Treasure located at the end of the trail depicted on the Stone Maps. Each and every one of them with their own individual detailed explanations and/or excuses for just why 'They' haven't quite been able to come up with either of these Treasures for themselves using this "information". The general public never seems to grasp the concept that should any individual ever REALLY BELIEVE he possessed this "information" it would most certainly NOT be in his own best interest to tell anyone about it. In my own experience... Once an individual makes the decision to start letting bits of his "information" out to the general public, or post it on a forum such as this. It becomes pretty safe to assume that the individual has LOST his own faith in the value of his information and has begun to search for a way to recover his investments. Long Term, and Dedicated, Local Dutch-Hunters have a keen sense of smell for this kind of 'bait', and resent the out-of-towners that come into Apache Junction, and the Superstition Mountains, immediately see something in the Stone Maps that No Body else has ever observed, and eventually end up in an attempt to Rape our Legends (for their own personal gain) and give us all a bad name. Just because you (or anyone else) have invested a lot of time and money in your fruitless search, does not give you the right to recoup your investments from anyone ignorant enough to believe you can provide them with any "information" that will lead them to what you could not find! I hope that is not where you are headed here, but your story and it's conclusion (or more precisely... ‘LACK OF') sure has my nose twitching! (I smell something familiar & unpleasant in the world of Lost Dutchman/Treasure Hunting here) You have had some of the most wonderful (tho expensive) experiences our Superstitions Mountains and it's Legends have to offer. You have stories to tell for the rest of your life. You made your own investments with your eyes wide open. Chalk up your losses and count your blessing! Neither you or anyone in your party have suffered any major physical harm or loss of life (As many have in the same adventure you chose to undertake). Go on with your life Mr. X, Cherish the memories of your experiences in our beautiful Wilderness Area, and leave the Dutch-Hunting and Stone Maps to those of us who are in it for the Long Haul, have a little more information than you have gleaned from the couple of books you have read, and a LOT more experience in the Mtns...... and... are not quite as ignorant as you would like to believe we Apache Junction Locals are!

Sorry for the 'Blunt' post above Mr.X Jim Hatt Apache Junction

For all you you that may read the above post in the future, I took a second look at my post the next morning and felt that I had been a bit harsh on poor ole Mr.X. Later that same day I received a private e-mail from Mr.X that confirmed that earlier feeling. Although my nose is working fine, it appears that it needed a little calibration. Mr.X in my opinion is NOT seeking to inflict any kind of scam on anyone. What smelled to me like 'BAIT' was what Mr.X himself described as 'FISHING'... Hmmmmmm, it turns out (According to his e-mail) That "I" in fact was one of the particular 'FISH' for which he was trolling! (No wonder the BAIT hit me so strong)! His intentions, I might add are completely different than I had perceived from his article. My sincere appologies to Mr.X. All is well that ends well. Jim

clear, convincing, and unequivocal evidence Jim Hatt Apache Junction, Az

The following comments are in response to a rather "sour grapes" essay about the authenticity of the Peralta Stone Maps and this article, by a Mr. Gene Botts that can be found at http://www.desertusa.com/mag02/sep/per_stone.html I would have posted this on his page but for some reason the website is not allowing comments to be posted there with out first being reviewed and approved by the webmaster at Desert USA. "The Peralta Stones are fakes! There is no doubt about it! They're not even very good fakes". "The whole thing is a hoax, dreamed up and perpetrated by God-only-knows who for God-only-knows what reason. The evidence is clear, convincing, and unequivocal". Mr Botts begins his rather long winded and wandering article with some pretty strong expressions of his "opinions" about the authenticity of the Stone Maps. He brings to attention his background as a federal criminal investigator, but shows no hint of any professional format or methodology in his evaluation of the Stone Maps . I spent almost an entire wading through his ramblings in search of his 'clear, convincing, and unequivocal evidence'. "A magazine writer who I met in Apache Junction",............................."The writer - I donýt recall his name and havenýt seen him since"... Were this individuals comments offered by Mr. Botts as part of his "Clear, convincing, and unequivocal" evidence? Would it not be fair for us to at least expect a verifiable name from a former federal criminal investigator that is in the process of presenting us with his "Clear, convincing, and unequivocal" evidence? The stones have been examined by a number of experts in various related fields over the years, I suppose "Experts in various fields" is an example of Mr. Botts' "clear, convincing, and unequivocal" Evidence? Is this what our Government trains or federal criminal investigators to believe "clear, convincing, and unequivocal" Evidence is? "a stone cutter who had years of experience carving names, dates, and other data on gravestones" .............. "He suspected an amateur carved the stones with an electric drill or a grinder and then roughed them up a bit to create the appearance of age". Well, here we have a Stone Cutter! I am impressed now... I don't even care if he has a name or not, This is obviously "clear, convincing, and unequivocal" Evidence! I guess I will just have to let you win this one Mr. Botts! "the most careful and pains-taking examination was by Father Charles Polzer, a Jesuit priest and a well-known ethnohistorian associated with the Southwestern Mission Research Center at the Arizona State Museum. Father Polzerýs work is highly regarded, and he can easily be described as eminent in his field. He reportedly laughed when he was told that the drawings were purported to be more than a hundred years old. Upon close examination, Father Polzer found that the surface of the stones had been milled with modern machinery before the drawings were inscribed thereon. And he went on to say, "¤the drawings were cut into the stones with modern tools. and in the end he concluded that, "the stone carvings are a hoax of relatively recent origin." At this point, I am very reluctant to trust Mr. Botts' ability or willingness to attempt to quote, evaluate or represent anyone else's opinion in any form of credible manner. I wonder if he could get Father Polzer to put any of this in writing for us all to review? If we are to believe everything Mr. Botts says, we could hire Father Polzer and the Stone Cutter friend of his and get rid of the entire FBI and close their Labs. One chilly evening in the winter of 1998, I was sitting beside campfire in the Superstition Mountains along with approximately 8 other individuals listening to the then former Attorney General of the State of Arizona (Mr. Robert Corbin) telling us an experience he had with these very same Stone Maps. To the best of my recollection the story went something like this: Someone had come to the AG's office when Mr. Corbin was the sitting AG, to file a complaint regarding the ownership of these Stone Maps. While in the process of attempting to make every possible effort Mr Corbin could think of to determine who actually was the rightful owner of the stones, The matter of where and when they were found and dug up brought into the situation, the question of whether or not they were covered by the Antiquities Law? Under the circumstances, Mr. Corbin confiscated the Stones and had them shipped to the FBI Labs (I believe he said in Washington, DC but I am not sure) to see if they could determine the age of the writing on the Stones, and/or anything else that might help determine their origin . Mr. Corbin told us that evening beside the campfire that when the FBI returned the Stones to him with their evaluation, that the only the thing the FBI would commit themselves to reporting about the writing on the Stones was that it was over 100 years old. Mr. Corbin then stated that in view of this information he determined that the Stone Maps, No matter who made them or why... Were covered under the Antiquities Law, and refused to return them to either of the parties claiming ownership. He then placed them where they are today at the Arizona Museum of Mines and Minerals in Phoenix to be preserved as Relics of Arizona History! Had it been possible to determine the actual method that had been used to carve these stones, I fully believe the FBI could and would have done it at that time. I mean no disrespect for the opinions of Father Polzer whatever they might be, or heaven forbid.... The unknown Stone Cuter, But I tend to put more faith in the above related story than anything Mr. Botts has presented herein. "If Mr. X, the latest treasure hunter to find and interpret the infamous Peralta Stones, is digging in the Superstition Mountains, heýs going to be in a heap of trouble when the rangers catch him, and they surely will". "I, of course, donýt know where Mr. X is excavating; however, if heýs in the desert west of the mountains, where many people believe the treasure is located, heýs just as likely to be in trouble when heýs caught. Digging in the Lost Dutchman State Park, on Arizona State Trust Land, or on private property withhout permission could result in serious consequences". Since Mr. Botts states that he has no idea of where Mr. X is working, I can only assume that his experience as a former federal criminal investigator, makes him feel he has the right to fabricate the worst possible scenarios and suggest that Mr.X might be guilty of them! I do, happen to know where Mr. X's location is and wish to state here for the reader that his area is not in any of the areas described by Mr. Botts that are closed for mineral exploration. Seems to me that Mr. Botts would have had the necessary contacts to find this out prior to issuing his warnings to Mr.X. "There are several accounts of where and how the so-called Peralta Stones were found, but none of them hold up to even casual scrutiny". Perhaps Mr. Botts, a little more effort on your part, than you were willing to put forth, might be required to determine the truth about where and how they were found. Then again, it may be entirely possible that you would never discover the truth no matter how much effort you put into trying to find it. Still, this would not result in an kind of verification that nobody else knew the truth! "I believe at last count there were one hundred thirty-four people who have over the years claimed to have found the Lost Dutchman gold, but not one flake of gold that can reasonable be proven to have come from the Lost Dutchman mine has yet been produced". I don't know how to explain this to you Mr. Botts, you being a former federal criminal investigator and all, but someday you are going to have to admit to someone, sometime that there does exist certain bits knowledge in the world that has not been cleared through you! "Yes¤Iýve heard about the famous matchbox, and I donýt believe that, either". Have you got some more of your 'clear, convincing, and unequivocal evidence' to support your theory of the FAKE matchbox, or is this just another one of those things you would like us to take your word for? Perhaps you would like to provide us with a few words from an old Jeweler who's name you can no longer recall that claimed the matchbox was really just a gold plated chunk of lead? Brownie Holmes was about as credible as was his father. Is there nothing sacred to you at all? I'll tell you what Mr. Botts, (It gets increasingly difficult for me to refer to you in that way, so I am glad that this will be my last comment) I wasn't aware of the fact that you knew Brownie Holmes Mr. Botts. I never did get to meet and know Brownie myself, but I sure do know a bunch of people that did. Of all the people I know that knew him, to my knowledge, you are the only living person I have ever known to utter an unkind word about the man. I seriously doubt that your words will ever influence the way anyone ever remembers Brownie Holmes Mr. Botts. But... I would bet the Ranch, that they will forever influence the way a lot of people remember you!

MUST READ MR. ZZYZXS FORT WORTH, TEXAS

I READ YOUR STORY OF YOUR SEARCH AND WAS VERY INTERESTING. I DO REALISE THAT YOU HONESTLY KNOW THE EXACT SAME FEARS THAT I EXPERENCED WHEN I MADE THE SAME JOURNEY OF MY OWN BACK IN THE EARLY 1990'S. NOW HANG WITH ME HERE. YOU SEE, I DID EXTENCIVE RESEARCH TOO AND BEFORE I EVER WENT OUT INTO THE SUPERSTITION MOUNTAINS, I KNEW WHERE TO LOOK FOR THE LOST DUTCHMAN GOLD MINE WITH THE HELP OF TYPOGRAPHFICAL MAPS OF THE AREA THE CLUES LEAD ME. I WENT BY MYSELF IN LATE OCTOBER WITH NO WATER OR TOOLS OR PROPER SHOES BECAUSE ME BEING A CITY BOY, I JUST DID NOT THINK OF THAT. ANYWAY, I DID FIND IT THAT DAY. RIGHT WHERE ALL THE RIGHT CLUES AND STORIES LEADS TO. BUT I LIKE YOU, COULD NOT ENTER IT BECAUSE OF THE FEAR OF WHAT COULD BE WAITING. ALONE I MIGHT GET HURT SOMEHOW AND NO WAY TO GET HELP. ALSO, I FELT I COULD NOT TRUST ANYONE TO GO WITH ME. IN THE YEARS I HAVE RETURNED TWICE BUT STILL TO THIS DAY, I HAVE NOT WENT INSIDE THE ENTRENCE NOR HAVE I EVER REVILLED THE LOCATION TO ANYONE DEAD OR ALIVE. I AM THE ONLY ONE ALIVE THAT TRULY KNOWS THE REAL LOCATION OF IT. THEREFORE, I, LIKE YOU, HAVE TO KEEP MY IDENTIY SECRET FOR THE SAME REASONS. I DO NOT WANT TO CLAIM THE LOST DUTCHMAN NOR THE FAME OF ITS FIND... ALL I WANT IS TO SELL MY KNOWLEDGE FOR A GOOD PRICE (ONE TIME PRICE) ALL THE WAY TO THE ENTRENCE OF THE LOST DUTCHMAN GOLD MINE ON WHICH I WILL ACCOMPANY. THIS IS ALREADY TOO LONG SO I WILL WAIT FOR REPLY. MAYBE YOU CAN SUGGEST SOMETHING?

In response to: Mr. ZZYZXS Jim Hatt Apache junction, Az

Mr. ZZYZXS "You have an interesting story. It isn't often someone surfaces in the realm of Dutch-Hunting who has been involved in the search as long as you have. Your knowledge of how the Superstition Mountains were in the early 1900's alone is a Treasure in itself. My first though after reading your post is naturally (Like everyone else's I am sure) How do you know that what you have found is the 'Lost Dutchman Mine' if you never entered it? I am sure someone that has been involved in the search as long as you have already knows that there are MANY ‘known' old mines in the Superstition Mountains and the surrounding areas. Some were known to be excavated in the 1800's by Mexicans, some suspected to have been excavated by the Spaniards in the 1700's, but Most were dug by white men in the early, mid, and late 1900's. The ones dug by the white men were mostly done by individuals working Low-Grade deposits that never produced enough precious metal to justify the expense of digging it out, or where no deposits existed at all, but information in their possession (from one source or another)n at the time suggested to them that it was a good place to dig. I personally know of so many of these old diggings that we could spend a month on horseback in the Superstitions and never see them all. Of course, I admit . . . This in no way proves that you are wrong. I sincerely believe that the Lost Dutchman Mine IS out there somewhere and remains to be found. Every new digging that is found presents the possibility of being the one for which so many have searched! In your case, the mere fact that you first found it so long ago eliminates the possibility that it was excavated during the digging fury that occurred in the middle to late 1900's by Dutch-Hunters and Prospectors. In all honesty Mr. ZZ . . . I believe you are going to have to enter that mine and bring out something that verifies it to be what you believe it to be, before you will get anyone to take your claim seriously enough to consider paying you anything for the directions to your find. It should be remembered that there are so many published "Clues/Landmarks" (Valid or not) pertaining to the location of the Lost Dutchman Mine, that a person can stand anywhere, on any Mountain or in any canyon, from Main to California and observe 'Something' that has the appearance of a 'Dutchman' Landmark, or even several of them for that matter. The only way to verify that you have indeed found the source of the "Dutchman's Gold" is to have a large quantity of it in your hand. The Dutchman's Ore is very unique and can easily be identified with little more than a naked eye inspection by a knowledgeable individual. Surely Mr. ZZ . . . (assuming that you are now too old to make another trip to your mine yourself) you have somewhere within your circle of friends, Someone physically able and trustworthy enough to go into the mountains for you, and make the necessary inspection of your find to determine what it is, and when it was dug? In short of that, all I can offer you is this . . . If you have in your possession, Photographs of the mine entrance (Not showing of course, any background that might give away its location to someone that did not already know where it was), I could put you in touch with certain members of the Superstition Mountain Historical Society that might be able to review your photos and tell you exactly when your mine was excavated and who did it. Jim Hatt

Glenn Ford jonathan erlanger, ky

I am new to this even though I saw the movie with Glenn Ford. How much of the movie is factual? How much time is spent there? When is the best time to travel? Thanks

Mr. ZZ Jim Hatt Apache Junction, Az

Hello again Mr. ZZ. I got a phone call this morning from a friend that read my reply to your post and suspected I had misread your date. He was right, you wrote early 1990's. I read early 1900's. Time for new glasses I guess. I do have a friend that has been going into the mtns since 1931 so I figured you were in his age group. The difference doesn't change much except the possibility of your find being a modern digging increases greatly. The Superstition Wilderness area was open for mining up until around 1986, and a LOT of mining was done out there all through the 1900's up until that year. The BLM has records of all the mining claims recorded back there on micro film dating back to around 1937. Prior to that they were recorded in ledger books. Many of the Ledgers books are still available for inspection & research. Under the circumstances, (of my error) I would change my suggestion to you about how to find out about the history of your location. The first step would be to get the Township and Range of your location off a Topo Map and go look up the history of mining claims in that area from the BLM. You may find all the information you need right there if the mine was worked between 1937 & 1986. If nothing shows up there,it could have been worked prior to 1937 and you will have to go to the County Seat in Florence, Az. and go through the old ledger books. If those methods fail to produce any record of mining activity in that area. . . You might be looking at a mine that was worked during or before the Dutchman's time. As I said in my last post, There are some known mines out there that predate the Dutchman era and are also known NOT to be the Dutchman. You may have found one of them, or you might have discovered one that was not previously known about. The only way to find that out, is to attempt to get the Historical Society to review your location and photos. These guys have a lot of information that you will not find in any books or micro film files, But . . . They are not easy people to get together with for something like that unless you make a strong written presentation to them way in advance with evidence that there is no record of a mine in that area on the books. I bet you had no idea it could be so difficult to sell directions to the Lost Dutchman Mine did you? Believe me, anyone seriously thinking of purchasing your information will want to know right out of the gate, how well you have researched your area, and what has caused you to come to the conclusion that you have found the Lost Dutchman Mine. Jim

Mr. ZZYZXS Mr. X Az.

I will bow to Jim Hatt's responce to your post as he is more experence than I and he knows what he is talking about.

Hello Glenn Ford Jim Hatt Apache Junction, Az

Well Glenn . . . There was a Dutchman (Jacob Waltz) He did work a rich Gold Mine somewhere in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona, The whereabouts of that mine is still unknown and there Is a Town named Apache Junction at the foot of the Superstition Mountain 'Proper'. That is about all of the information that is in the movie that is Factual. Oh! One more thing. . . Glenn Ford! He is a real person too!

Jonathan Mr. X Az.

I have not seen the movie, so I cannot tell how much is the truth. The best time to be in the Superstitions is spring or fall, winter is a little cool and summer is way to hot. As for how much time to spend there it depends on what you want to do

Update for 2003? Jake Fort Sill, OK

Greetings Mr. X! It is the new year and I was wondering if you'd made any more progress. I am just getting started in TH, and find the (tall) tales and accounts of treasure seekers fascinating. My sister was in the Phoenix area going to college and brought back a postcard of Superstition Mountain, "where the lost Dutchman gold mine is rumored to be located." To Buzz, your account is quite interesting. Most people, I think, would shrug it off as a ruse but your story gave me that twinge in the back of my mind. Maybe I am just gullible, but after reading what you had to say, images of long forgotten indian Warriors with bows guarding an unknown hall filled with treasure filled my mind! It piqued my curiosity, to say the least. Perhaps it was your account of being in the Army that made me feel that way, as I am currently stationed at Fort Sill, and was mentored by an old crusty Ranger during part of my training (I am active duty Field Artillery right now). To cut to the chase, I was wondering if you would care to divulge more details about the mine (not the location, of course!). Specifically, I had always thought that the mine was just that...a mine...which may contain gold ore or gold in other forms that would have to be mined rather than just carried off. (Your account seems to imply you were able to just carry the gold away, as well as you being able to estimate how much gold was there implies a known quantity of gold rather than a mine.) My e-mail is included if either Mr. X or Buzz wish to remain out of the public view, of course. God bless you all!

Shame Shame! Jane Citizen Gold Canyon, AZ

I was horrified to read that you and your cronies were digging up and destroying land located within a protected Wilderness Area! The Superstitions are to be protected and enjoyed without altering or desicrating the natural environment. The real gold of the Superstitions can be found in the beautiful views, rare and unique flora and fauna and the peace and solitude that can be obtained during one's visit. There is no price for what can be emotionally and spiritually gained within the Wilderness Area. Shame on you for altering the natural environment in an attempt for personal monetary gain. If everyone did this, imagine the irreversible destruction that would result! I appreciate the area's history and lore just as much as anyone else, but I don't support destruction of a wilderness area (which is supposed to be enjoyed by all people) just so someone can try and get rich. I suggest you visit the Leave No Trace website (http://www.lnt.org/) and learn some wilderness ethics!

Jane Citizen Give me a BREAK! Globe, Az

Dear jane, I am afraid you didn't read all the comments, or you didn't read them very well. It has already been established that Mr. X was NOT digging in the Superstition Wilderness area. I find it interesting that you display such an intense desire to protect the "beautiful views, rare and unique flora and fauna and the peace and solitude" of the area. Did you know the area where you have chosen to live (Gold Canyon) was once a beautifull blooming natural Desert which is being destroyed by bulldozers and subdivisions for people like yourself who put up gated communities and destroy the "spiritually" of the entire area? Just imagine the irreversible destruction that has resulted from YOUR selfish abuse of the land. I suggest YOU visit the Leave No Trace website (http://www.lnt.org/) and learn some wilderness ethics!

Question??? curious spectator Phoenix,AZ

I live in Phoenix, AZ, and am very interested in finding info. about the lost d.man, any tip or suggestions.

entering mountian Lawrence E. Goldapske Fond du Lac, WI

Are you free to enter the mountian,without resistence, and how long would it take from begining to end.

To Lawrence Mr. X Arizona

Yes you are free to enter the Superstitions. There are many hiking trails. You do need to know what you are doing when you leave the road as it is very dangerous out in the mountains. As for time you can spend hours or days.

mule bags Larry Las Cruces, New Mexico

I think Jacob found a mule or two that got away from the Peralta's during the Indian ambush. He would go out and comee back with some gold, and towards the end, when the mule bags were empty, he never went back. Also around 1999 a bunch of Mexicans were in the area and the park rangers were asking and watching them. They would disappear and return with heavy packs.

gamehunter antonio,c munoz mesa,arizona

Is it possible that the map was not for finding the lostducthman mine.The reason for me saying this.I hunt in section 24b for mule deer near iron mountain and other locations in the surrounding mountains ranges just outside superior arizona which I'm sure you are familiar with.I go back deep into the mountains ther inthat location if,I was to be left off on any mountain top their ,I would not need any map or form of location device to find my way back,what I'm trying to say is why make a map ,if you would know the mountain ranges,If you did not want anybody finding your stash,Even jacob said knowbody would find the his mine,for now at least.even with computers today using all the information you have doesn't it seem that something is wrong with the maps possible.From what I read about the mine you should not have to dig that was jacobs words all you need is sunshine in the right spot to see the mine shaft only the mexicans were diging for the gold possible,they also had to know where to look how was that possible,they they have information about the location of the mine who knows or was it just luck as well,just as jacob says luck is to find the mine just as he explains in his words or was it his words,I have read and have some knowledge of the superstition mountains for looking for the mine ,would you have any information to help me in my quest for the gold while I'm out there hunting. I hunt just west of superior east of florence junction any info. would would be helpful would cut you in a %, and if you know people the go out and look for the mine I would be interested, thank you for your interesting story gamehunter

marker found?? jason Redding, CA

Did you ever investigate the story that "Buzz" told about leaving a marker in the ground marking his entrance to the mine??

To Jason Mr. X Arizona

I have searched the area where I have been working and have not found a marker of any kind.

just curious Jason Redding

Dear Mr. X, I just finished reading a book called The Lost Dutchman Mine Of Jacob Waltz by T.E. Glover. It was a very well researched book as far as I could see. I was wondering if you have ever read this book or part 2 of this book that deals with the Holmes manuscripts? You seem to be an authority on the subject and the area. I must say I have enjoyed your article very much. I am also curious if you could recommend any further reading or research on the subject. I dont have any wild ideas of someday finding a mountain of gold, I am interested just as a hobbiest and as an avid reader to do more research on the subjects partaining to the legend. People such as Pedro Peralta, jacob waltz, Richard Holmes, and his son "Dick" Holmes Jr. If you have any more information on the subject or any advice for someone like myself please email me. I also wanted to say how much I appreciate you taking the time to make your research public for all too see.

for mr x Gene Reynolds not on the west coast

I'll give you a tip = Tom K has a manuscript that I wrote (Gene Reynolds) telling of my travels to Washington, DC - Adolph Ruth's home - and including a 5 or so year investigation I did. Ruth was doing other things besides going just to Arizona in search of the Peralta mine. Please notice I didn't say he was looking for the Dutchman. However, things do admittedly seem to fit. I wont go into detail although someone apparently has already let to much information out without asking my permission. Ruth was looking for a shaft that the Peralta family had dug. They had not cleaned it out at the time due to problems with Indians and they were afraid to go back (for obvious reasons). I don't feel I need to tell you the whole story because you should already be aware of it. I was once asked if I felt there should have been a 4th map - a locater map. I told him - I don't know........interesting? You want to know what the mine looks like - that easy - just look for a book called "Peralta" there's a picture of it in the book, rose quartz and all. Of course the picture is in black and white. The book is gray in color - about 9 inches tall and 5 wide. It contains about a hundred pages. Oh yes - it was published in Kansas City. And yes - at least one does exist today. After 20 or more years have transpired since I was involved in all that stuff - I had pushed it as far away from me , because of "people". Once you've had your fill of it - you to may also one day - do the same. The manuscript I wrote and I gave 1 copy of to Tom K - has had much left out - why - because I just had a feeling that he was not the right person to tell it all to. As it turned out - I was right. I don't know why I bother to talk now other than you seem to be an honest guy trying to get to the bottom of things in a realistic manner. I am now in to bad of health to do a damn thing about any of it so I just keep my mouth shut and say nothing. It's a shame though, by the time you get old enough to be wise, it's to damn late to benefit from it. Hope this gives you some encouragement - now it's time for me to crawl back into my hole again. = (Sorry had to take the name of the author out due to your reg. email not working) Good Luck - Gene Reynolds - Borrego 13

Newbie Vi Grand Rapids

I am new to this, and am fascinated. I have never searched for this treasure, let alone been to Arizona. But do have a comment about the stones. They could be a map, but to me looks like a grave marker, or maybe a map to a grave? especially with all the crosses, and religious stuff on it. and the back of the heart appears to be graves. I am not trying to discount any ones expert opinion, just giving mine, and maybe shedding some new light on this mystery.

the first of gold in arizona. Gabriel Phoeniz, Arizona

who was the first to find gold in arizona, when and were was the gold found?

Black Mary H.Sonny Garvatt New York and Phoenix

I was born and raised in Phx,and in fact,still keep a home there.All my life,I've heard stories about the "Lost Duthman"I've hiked in to Weavers Needle on many separate occasions,and Ive arrived at the following conclusions:in 1963 the U S government found the mine ,but left it all there,just estimating the value,etc.#2The Apache tribe knows where the mine is.#3you can see the road to FT McDowell from the mine, but you you can't see the mine from the road.I am interested in Black Mary,and what part she played in this whole scenario.Thanks in Advance

Hello from tucson Steve Tucson Az

I just wanted to let you know i enjoyed your trip account very much and wanted to know when planned to tell the lat and lan to your find??

laws? Roo Judsonia,AR

What are the laws and regulations for looking for the lost Dutchman's mine? My friend and I are new to this and are planning a trip in the next couple of years.

caution to easterners paul Apache Junction,AZ.

I`ve lived in Arizona for going on 20 years now.Coming from back east myself I was amazed by the beauty of this state with its deserts and mountians but more intreaged by its history and ledgends,one in piticular,The Lost Dutchman.I see some messages here from people that say they have never been to Arizona but are planning to hunt for the mine.NOT SMART.I live in Apache Junction at the foot hills of The Superstition Mountians.Sure,I`ve hiked back into the mountians a hundred times like probly everyone else has,learning a little more with every adventure. #1 lesson for all you easterners is survival...Do yourself a favor Brush up on arizona...Desert Wildlife, plants, and climate. To many times we`ve all seen the search and rescue helecopters go up into the mountians to retrieve the unprepared.especially in the summer months 100+ degs.(may-sept.)Dont be one of them. Not trying to scare you off.just want you to be knowledable on what you might encounter on your adventure....Happy hunting and be safe. Oh yea, Mr.X Good story. was very captive. if this is indeed a true story you should hand the info on to a group if you no longer plan to return to the site.You could get your benifit when and if its actually found in the area in form of percentage on return ore found. publicly releasing the info could lead unprepared people to places they dont belong.

Images in Crack in Canyon Wall hone10@aol.com anaheim , ca

Dear Mr. X, Thank you for a great and interesting read. I love the LORE and mystery of the Dutchman's Lost Mine. The photos are superb and it all looks so beautiful. I've only seen the Superstitions from a ways away while driving the highway. Anyway, the photo of the 'crack in canyon wall' had interest to me. If the rectangular photo was a clock, there is a 5 pointed white star at 2:00 o'clock. A white pelican (they are inland lake migrants) at 5:00 o'clock. A condor or vulture at 7:00 o'clock. Are the white images quartz? Have you seen them before? Thanks, Mr. X. I will never make it to the Superstitions but I hope you are able to write more. Good hunting. Hope you find a bonzanza! Regards, hone10@aol.com

mr x derrick Apache Jct. Az

i was just wondering if you have ever stopped to think about the stone maps, every1 knows of the people that have been killed because of what people thought they knew and what not and i imagine that back when the stone maps where made it was even worse than it is now, so y make the maps? any1 that has been or know anything about the Superstion Mountains know why, but you have to take into account that they would make a map that only they could read. Like the old saying 1 mans junk is anothers mans treasure or beauty is in the eye of the beholder these landmarks and markings on the stone maps could mean 1 thing to you but mean something entirely differnt. I highly dought that they would make the map as you are reading it. And just a thought have you taking into account that some of the marks on the stone maps are no longer there. As any "dutch hunter" as jim hatts puts it, knows there was a earthquake that destroyed alot of the natural landmarks that was there back in the 1890's. If you go back in history and look at the natural landscape, where your looking doesn't really make alot of sence. If you have been all over the supertion mountains oviously you have notices all the washes and water spouts that come out of the mountain it's self, you ever wonder how they got there? Perhaps your right and it is right under your nose, but i have known alot of people and know a few things. And your story altho very interesting i would have to say is wrong sorry. Also a note to jim hatt i think it would be a very interesting conversation me and you would have i took the liberty of emailing you i look forward to a responce, but as for you Mr. X my advice to you in the next time your in the superstion mountains stop look around listen to the enviorment around you and enjoy yourself. The true treasure in just that enjoy your time there and your time everywhere live happily thats the true measure of life.

The gold is gone!! PaulK74 ?,?

The government has cleared out the Dutchman's mine. The gold is Gone!! And as usual, the government has covered it up. They have erased all evidence.

paulk Derrick Apache Jct.

Very true paul, as jim hatt could probably tell you, or maybe not, is that the national forestry department has destroyed countless hyrogliffics and markings from the time period of about 1982 to about 92,also they started fires to destroy the bigger trees to make it easier to spot people, any1 that goes into the superstions must of noticed the bi-planes always fling by ever wonder why there are so many fling around that mountain? also i know of quite a few hunters that would find interesting markings in caves and what not and would destroy them so only they knew about them. But you are correct I do believe that the government has taken quite a bit out of the supertions but what, i am not sure of. I do know that there is a sidewalk in a certain place in the superstion mountains over 6 feet deep and over 2 miles long just out in the middle of know where, how did it get there and why well i have my speculations but as we dug down the side of it we did find small traces of silver. was it a cover up who knows but most hunters don't have the money or resourses to go to that lenth to fill a silver vain that big up with concreate. Also there is a senetor back in the 80's that found something up there any hunter that saw the rows of helicoptors coming out of the mountans that night knew what was going on. There has been a few other times also where similar events like this happened, so is there anything still up there?? Who knows. But what i do know is if u study the history of that mountain u would see that it is the perfect place for stashing gold. back in 1892 i believe it was there was a natural spring that flowed out of the supertion mountans and the landscape was much different than it is today but after the earthquake it was cut off, don't believe me? ask around apache jct to see how many people have there own wells. I have heard storys saying that the grasses at the base of the mountain was belly high to a horse if that gives you any idea of what it might of looked like, now think about it you have plenty of places to hind things in the superstion mountains, at the time plenty of water, grassing for your horses, water like that and grass like that would attract plenty of hunting game so if you look back u can see why the indains choose such a place to live, everything you need to sustain life. Is there anything left up there in those superstion mountains? I personaly believe so, but then again maybe there isn't, but really it's more about the search to the dutch hunters finding it would just be a bonus. And thats something that will always be there weather or not there accually is anything left or not thats up for debate, but if you ask a dutch hunter there plenty left.

STILL THERE CHRIS

hOW DO YOU KNOW THAT ONE OF THE LOCALS HAVE NOT ALREADY FOUND THE GOLD AND THE MINE . THEY COULD HAVE DESTROYED ALL OF EVIDENCE AND KNOWBODY WOULD EVEN KNOW.WHAT ELSE DO THE LOCALS HAVE TO DO BUT SEARCH FOR THE GOLD.

don't know derrick apache jct az

well chris no one can answer that question but like i said it's the hunt that makes it worth while finding it would be a bonus

Very Interesting Johnny az

PT Barnum, "A Sucker born every minute"! Ah, the things men do for "Gold" & women. Should there really be lost gold outthere, it will only be found by accident. If you have ever set foot in the wilderness, you can see how extremely hard it would be to find something that has laid hidden for all these years. Sure makes for good reading, and some make money from just that. Experts on the lost dutchman, that too is such a joke. It's kinda sad to see grown people fall for such stuff. Oh, well, very interesting the results of greed in mankind.

aww jonny derrick apache jct. az

For someone that says very interesting you don't comprehend very well do you jonny. I tell you of the history of the mountains and only information known first hand, and even say that it is the time spent in nature that is the treasure finding something would be a bonus. So how exactly does this bring you to the assumtion that I am a sucker?? I love to see peoples reaction to different situations, your rash decion to call us suckers speaks volumes about you. I am guessing that you don't get out much do you. Just because people choose to enrich there life with the beauty of the superstion mountains and get excersize in the process don't mean that we are suckers and if someone does happen to stumble acrossed it well that makes it even more of a great day. In my opion you are the sucker jonny. Get out and enjoy life, don't let it pass you bye.

Native Americans Joe Tucson AZ

The native Americans must have some good stories of the Brave Warriers who drove out the Spanish? After all it was there land frist.! I would be willing to bet they know where all the mines are located and believe Bad Medicine protects the gold. ( nothing like an earth quake to inforce their belief in Thunder Gods) Great pictures and good writing, Thank you

What Horrible-Jealous-Troll- Posters HUMAN BEING New England, USA

I can not believe the evil jealousy many of you posters are against this author who is sharing his experience with you. If you do not believe him fine, but to attack him, shows you have a 'lowly class' and demonically-jealous personality for anyone who would come into a find. SHAME ON ALL OF YOU TROLLS. AND TO THE AUTHOR. I enjoyed reading your journey and experience and wish you the best. SIGNED -'A HUMAN BEING'- NOT A JEALOUS-USELESS TROLL WHO WANTS A HAND OUT. GO TO YOUR AJOINING CAVES

What Horrible-Jealous-Troll- Posters HUMAN BEING New England, USA

I can not believe the evil jealousy many of you posters are against this author who is sharing his experience with you. If you do not believe him fine, but to attack him, shows you have a 'lowly class' and demonically-jealous personality for anyone who would come into a find. SHAME ON ALL OF YOU TROLLS. AND TO THE AUTHOR. I enjoyed reading your journey and experience and wish you the best. SIGNED -'A HUMAN BEING'- NOT A JEALOUS-USELESS TROLL WHO WANTS A HAND OUT. GO TO YOUR AJOINING CAVES

the cave Len Phila Pa

Was not part of the story about the mine....My cave lies ddirectly in front of the mine from which I can view it as the light shines into my cave. Now lets just suppose the cave you found with the holes which could hold water (3 gallons each) was used as the base. Makes sense to have a water supply, yes? So if you look directly across and either up on down, say 3 to six feet, the opening should be there. You will have to do some digging to uncover the entrance but I feel it is in that area. If you ever go again, let me know....if possible I would like to venture out with you.

where was gold first found jeremy Australia

Governmant cover-up? Grant Miami, Fl

In 1970 I read an article in the Miami Herald titled something like "Lost Dutchman's Gold mine located". The article mentioned someone who had spent years either purchasing the land, or the rights to the land in the Superstition Mtns., and searching in a grid pattern over several years, using the best technology available, ie therman imaging, etc. The article went on to state that when located, the ore being recovered was of the richest "ever" found in the USA. TheArticle was cut out and kept by me, but over the years ws lost. I never heard another word about the "find", not even a follow-up story. Any ideas?

Symbolic Stone Butch Anaheim, CA

Hello everybody! Does anybody in this group speak Indian language or Spanish or Mexican? I have a couple of theorys about these Peralta Stones: 1) The dead sea scrolls were written by a secret sect called the Eseens...forgive my spelling but it's pronounced: S' - EENZ. It would seem to me that these stones would be symbolic as well as "dis-information" (as is used in today's intelligence) just by way of common sense. 2) Although it is all very fascinating, maybe the treasure is the "hunt", the mystery, the fascination, the brotherhood of treasure seekers all coming together for one common bond. My reason for this theory is that I've read the postings and apparently the Spanish Missionary's were involved. Being educated, they would have known about the "Esseens" and the dead sea scrolls and modeled this whole affair after them in hopes that people would find the true gold in their hearts.Ok, here's the number 3) On the other hand, maybe it is spiritual. Maybe their is a treasure of fantastic proportion and it will be found by one who is worthy of it's posession. Kind of like that sword in the rock.....I think the Excalibur?????? Anyhow, lot's of conjecture, lot's of theory, and most fascinating of all is the effort by the people telling the truth. Liars abound everywhere and it is as refreshing as a drink of springwater in the desert to hear the truth about this matter. I believe that truth, faith, and integrity will find the treasure sought out by so many. Maybe all three of my theories are a part of this situation. Then again, I am just a little man with a small thought.

i was 13 rabbit near milwaukee,wi.

have you found these clues ?? the place i saw when i was a boyscott.when on a survival quest to earn my eagel pin. where these clues; the so called mine is'ent a mine at the entrance,cats meow,baby shoes,mountian goat,watery grave & three cases of dinimite !!

for buzz X-Factor now where, but everywhere

buzz, do you really think that someone is going to believe your story of you finding the gold? here is a clue that might stump you next time...everyone says that the gold is very unique. now is you show up with lots of gold bars or raw gold, where do you think that you are going to take it? if you show up with lots of gold to some smelting place or local bank you don't think they are going to ask questions? Its like if you finding millions of dollars, you don't think that is going to get someone's attention...it gets tracked. Here is another problem Buzz...you could easy be tracked through this website or your email...it leads to an Internet Service Provider, who has a listing of the persons name, address and telephone number...you leave an electronic paper trail. You see every bit of information sent on the web contains a small packet of information on where the message was sent from and its destination and all that other good stuff. If you were smart you would realize that tracking is not a dead art it has just changed shape...Hacking its 21st century tracking.

for Mr X X-Factor now where, but everywhere

Great story and if you figure it out...good luck. BTW sorry for the previous spelling mistakes on reply to Buzz...that is the problem when your mind is quicker than your hands.

x-factor Derrick Apache Jct

X-factor. As to your statement to buzz.. He has found nothing because anyone that has is not dumb enough to go bragging about it.. thats how people have ended up dead in the past. You do have a interesting question tho, how to disperce the gold without it being traced back to you... First off u smelter it yourself, if u find ore that is. Say you find gold bars, if i was going to try and unload gold bars i would melt them down and make gold nuggets out of them or something like that u can easily make them if ya stop n think about it. Then just get a claim somewhere doesn't really matter where and if any1 asks u got it from your claim. U could also unload it in different nations and what not take it to mexico or something ya might not get what it is worth but if u have as much as the lost dutchmans mine is said to have it wouldn't matter to much thats still alot of money. Truth is there is lots of ways to unload stuff like that with little questions asked. Did buzz find IT? gut says no, who would be dumb enough to say o i found it on here u right it is very easy to trace, but who knows maybe he did honestly who cares i'm always up for a advenure so i just say it's there and have fun when i go hiking. Remember tho take lots of water!

why not ice saratoga springs ny,area code 518

why hasn't any one try tnt,blow it up and clear the rocks out an see if the mine is there... why does is seem every one is scared

answer 2 ice derrick Apache jct

ice thats not a bad idea but here is a few reasons. 1 no 1 really knows where it is. Another is, there was a farmer that lived over by the san tan mountains, thats southeast of the superstion mountains. One evening he was rounding up some stray cattle or something and got cot out in a really bad storm. He like any1 tried to find some cover and ended up finding a small cave n ducked in and was going to wait out the storm for a little bit. When he went into the small opening of the cave he found that it was rather big on the inside, from the describtion it was about 4 feet high and around the same in width. he went down the cave alil bit and ended up finding a couple 100 million in gold bars or so.. he took 1 gold bar out with him and was going to come back for the rest.. I don't remember exactly who he took back but they were saying the same thing we need to open up the entrance so they could get it out faster n wanted and ended up using TnT to try and do that and as a result of the blast brought half the mountain down on top of the processed gold that was found. That gold bar that he brought out is acually in a museum now not sure which 1. TnT can be helpful but can have....upredictable result. Good question tho

Mr x marco

where is MRx i have tryed to email but it is no longer valid

Confederate Money Nick Denver

Read the book "Shadow of the Sentinel" co-authored by Bob Brewer. It is a very captivating book on the hidden treasures of the Confederacy and there is a portion of the book about the Lost Dutchman's Mine and the fact that it very well could be a cache of hidden Confederate money.

retarded retard Francsico Javier Ortega Phoenix , AZ

what the hell were you thinking by wasting your lifetime looking for that?

poor dreamer mark mitchellville,iowa

with the advent of things like gold detectors,satelites,etc wouldn't looking through usgeologic survey or satelite imaging (ifg even just for depth provide some helpful information about posible rock/soil/mineral