As another year draws to a close, let’s reflect on the captivating stories, fascinating discoveries, and unforgettable adventures that have filled the pages of Uncharted Lancaster. This digital platform (especially the Uncharted Lancaster Facebook Group) has grown into a vibrant community of explorers and history enthusiasts, united by a shared passion for uncovering the wonders of the Susquehanna Valley.
In 2024, Uncharted Lancaster stayed true to its mission of revealing the hidden gems, untold stories, and enduring spirit of this incredible region. I invite you to relive the highlights as we reveal our top ten blog posts of the year.
Number 10
Wind Cave
How would you like to venture into the largest tectonic cave in Pennsylvania—possibly even in the entire United States? Wind Cave, located near Pequea in Lancaster County, offers over 2,000 feet of dark, twisting passages and a below-average chill, making it a thrilling destination for adventurous explorers. Nestled along the 63-mile Conestoga Trail, the cave is open to the public for those bold enough to step into its shadowy depths. However, this eerie expanse is not for the faint of heart. In fact, as recently as 2024 and 2018, two individuals required rescue after getting into trouble in this foreboding labyrinth. Click the link for a detailed map of the cave and its exact location: Explore Wind Cave.
Number 9
Phoenician treasure hidden in the Susquehanna Valley
In 310 B.C., amidst the destruction of Carthage by Greek forces, a group of Phoenicians chose to seek a new beginning far from their devastated homeland. Carrying the legendary Golden Osprey, they embarked on a journey from the ashes of Carthage to a pre-established settlement in present-day North Salem, New Hampshire, aiming to preserve their culture. Their voyage took an unexpected turn due to storms and treacherous Atlantic currents, leading them to the Chesapeake Bay and eventually up the Susquehanna River.
Despite challenges, the Phoenicians founded a colony near the Conewago Falls. Recognizing the indigenous population’s disinterest in their treasures, they hid their valuables, including the Golden Osprey. This history became a myth over millennia.
The story resurfaced in the 20th century through the efforts of Philip Beistline and Dr. William W. Strong, who found stones with Phoenician markings in the region, challenging mainstream historical narratives. Despite initial academic skepticism, recent discoveries, including Dr. Strong’s diary, have reignited interest in this ancient saga, spurring historians, archaeologists, and treasure hunters to explore the Phoenicians’ legacy and the hidden treasures in the Susquehanna Valley. Click here to read more.
Number 8
Unraveling the Myth: Were the Susquehannocks True Giants?
In the annals of Captain John Smith’s encounters with the Susquehannock Indians during his 1608 voyage up the Chesapeake Bay, a fascinating narrative emerges—one that paints these indigenous people as giants. According to Smith, the warriors were described with awe-inspiring measurements, with one calf purportedly measuring a staggering 27 inches in circumference. The lingering question remains: Were the Susquehannocks indeed true giants?
Marshall Becker’s meticulous 1991 research delves into this historical puzzle. While his findings confirm that the 16th-century Susquehannocks were taller than many Native Americans of their time, the reality doesn’t quite match Smith’s vivid descriptions. Becker’s forensic analysis of 13 complete Susquehannock skeletons, along with long bones from 18 others, revealed that the males averaged around 5 feet, 7 inches, while the women stood at 5 feet, 3 inches tall. While not exceptionally tall by modern standards—especially compared to the average height of a male in the United States today—the Susquehannocks’ height was noteworthy for their era, nearly four inches taller than the average Englishman in the 1600s.
Becker suggests that the Susquehannocks’ stature could be attributed to their high-protein, maize-based diet. The notion of them as giants might have been further exaggerated when malnourished Europeans stood alongside the well-fed Susquehannocks. While Smith’s accounts may have portrayed these indigenous people as towering figures, the Susquehannocks’ true giants might have only existed in the imaginative heights of John Smith’s perception. Click here to read more.
Number 7
The Legend of Cecil County’s Pig Woman
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes where U.S. Route 1 winds from Pennsylvania to Maryland, a spine-tingling tale echoes through the countryside. By day, Cecil County is a serene haven, but by night, it transforms into the haunting realm of the infamous Pig Woman.
Tragedy birthed this eerie legend when a woman, engulfed in flames, leaped from a farmhouse only to be disfigured and lost to the woods. Since then, her ghostly presence has been the stuff of whispers and shivers, particularly among teens seeking secluded romantic spots.
Rumor has it that she lurks near an old bridge, using dark powers to stall cars and ensnare her victims. Those who’ve seen her speak of haunting memories, unexplained car damage, and some…never return. Click here to read more.
Number 6
Meet Columbia’s Little Bigfoot—the Albatwitch
In the area of Chickies Rock near the ancient Susquehanna River, stories of a 4-foot-tall hairy ape-man fond of apples have existed since Native Americans dominated the region. As recently as 2020, people have seen the hairy beast. Click the link to learn about Columbia’s little bigfoot—the Albatwitch.
Number 5
Own Your Very Own Island Retreat on the Susquehanna
Who said you have to be a billionaire to own your own island? This is an incredibly rare opportunity to have a private island retreat on the Susquehanna for less than $90,000. Zoned Residential, Stony Point Island is a 2.7-acre paradise in Middletown, PA, across from the Harrisburg Airport. Imagine telling people they could literally take a plane to your river island.
This secluded sanctuary is perfect for hunting, fishing, or tent camping. Relax on the sandy beach with minimal rocks, or take a refreshing swim in the river. Stony Point Island boasts breathtaking sunsets, views of Harrisburg fireworks, and the chance to encounter wildlife like deer, turkey, ducks, and even bald eagles. This family-held property has been cherished for over 80 years and can now be yours. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of history. Click the link to read more.
Number 4
A penny saved is $3,500 earned. Meet the 1787 Benjamin Franklin designed Fugio cent
If I could share a beer with anyone, past or present, it would undoubtedly be Benjamin Franklin. Echoing the sentiments of French economist and statesman Anne Robert Jacques Turgot, who fittingly declared, “He seized the lightning from Heaven and the scepter from the Tyrants,” Franklin’s remarkable legacy transcends time.
Beyond his feats of protecting buildings from lightning strikes and contributing to the cause of American freedom, Franklin also left his mark on currency design. One curious reader reached out to me with a copper coin conundrum—the Fugio cent, also known as the Franklin cent. This unique penny holds the distinction of being the first official circulation coin of the United States, minted for a single year in 1787, with a modest production of 398,577.
Unveiling the rarity of a coin designed by the founding father himself, it’s no surprise that the Fugio cent holds a value far beyond its face. In January 2022, a circulated version of this historical coin fetched $1,575, while an uncirculated counterpart commanded an impressive $3,500 on eBay. Dive into the intriguing story of this numismatic gem by clicking the link and uncovering more about the Benjamin Franklin-designed Fugio cent. Click here to read more.
Number 3
JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey: $3K Treasure Hunting Adventure
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? The fourth annual Uncharted Lancaster treasure hunt returns on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in the JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey Adventure. This exciting five-week expedition has $3,250 up for grabs, weekly cash prizes, and multiple ways to win in what promises to be my most thrilling treasure hunt yet!
On this five-week expedition, players will explore Lancaster and Lebanon Counties as they race to uncover the Golden Osprey—a fabled treasure hidden over two millennia ago when ancient Phoenician explorers discovered the Susquehanna.
Are you ready to accept the challenge, gather your team, and make history? Join the adventure of a lifetime and secure your chance at fortune and glory when you order your JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey treasure diary. Read the full details when you click the link.
Number 2
Ancient Native American eel weirs slumber beneath the waters of the Susquehanna
Before the Egyptians built the Pyramids of Giza, Native Americans were constructing giant stone structures on the Susquehanna. These mysterious masonry-shaped Vs were eel weirs used to catch the adult fish as they swam to the ocean. One of the largest can be found near Danville, PA. Click the link to learn more and exactly where to find it and others!
Number 1
Buried Treasure: Captain Kidd’s Lost Danville Treasure
🏴☠️🎶 Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me. 🎵☠️
In 1884, amidst an economic downturn, Frank Lewis and Jacob Gearhart stumbled upon a historic treasure while foraging for plants on Crook’s Riffles Island, Susquehanna River. Digging for medicinal roots turned into unearthing an iron chest filled with ancient Spanish gold doubloons & Mexican silver dollars, valued at a whopping $47,000!
Legend has it that this was Captain Kidd’s lost bounty, buried and never reclaimed due to his untimely demise. A tale of luck, adventure, and the echoes of history right in our backyard! Click the link for the full tale.
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William Wagner’s 1821 Map of Lancaster CountyPrice range: $24.99 through $44.99
Adventure Awaits!
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1864 Map of the City of Lancaster, PennsylvaniaPrice range: $21.99 through $25.99