Open Legends
Cave-in-Rock River Pirate Loot
Legend since 1790s · Cave-in-Rock, Hardin County, IL
UnsolvedThe prize. Gold coins & silver bars
Where. Cave-in-Rock, Hardin County, IL
Status. Unsolved
Where. Cave-in-Rock, Hardin County, IL
Status. Unsolved
The account
From the 1790s this Ohio River bluff was the lair of river pirates and the murderous Harpe brothers, who hid stolen gold near the cave.
Leads, where the trail points now
- Pin down the most specific last-known position in the record before going; the legend centers on Cave-in-Rock, Hardin County, IL.
- What you are chasing is Gold coins & silver bars. Work the documented record of Cave-in-Rock River Pirate Loot back to primary sources and separate what is attested from folklore before you commit time or money.
- Confirm who owns and governs Cave-in-Rock, Hardin County, IL and get written permission before any search; treat protected or archaeological ground as off limits.
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