Open Legends
Pegleg Smith's Black Gold
Lost c. 1829 · Anza-Borrego, California
UnsolvedThe prize. Three buttes of black-coated gold
Where. Anza-Borrego, California
Status. Unsolved
Where. Anza-Borrego, California
Status. Unsolved
The account
A one legged trapper named Pegleg Smith said he filled his pockets with gold nuggets crusted black atop a desert butte, then could never find the spot again, and the hunt for Pegleg's gold runs to this day.
Leads, where the trail points now
- Pin down the most specific last-known position in the record before going; the legend centers on Anza-Borrego, California.
- What you are chasing is Three buttes of black-coated gold. Work the documented record of Pegleg Smith's Black Gold back to primary sources and separate what is attested from folklore before you commit time or money.
- Confirm who owns and governs Anza-Borrego, California and get written permission before any search; treat protected or archaeological ground as off limits.
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The starting brief, the gear, the legal picture for this exact ground, and a GPS chart pack you can load and go. The map stays free.
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