![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/1-2.jpg\")
The story of Oak Island began in 1799 when three teenage boys \u2013 Daniel McGinnis, John Smith, and Anthony Vaughn \u2013 discovered a mystifying crater in the ground. The crater was surrounded by loose soil, an ideal site for young boys to begin digging. Daniel heard of rumors of the Scottish Pirate Captain Kidd supposedly hiding treasure \u2013 estimated at over \u00a32 million \u2013 somewhere in the area. They dug more than 30 feet deep and found a layer of flagstone, tool marks, and oak platforms in the pit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
2. The Money Pit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/2-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor some unknown reason, after reaching 30 feet into the earth, the teenage boys called it quits. Some speculate that they attempted to keep the pit a secret, but secrets don\u2019t remain hidden for long. A group from the Onslow Company noticed the 30-foot hole and used industrial excavating tools to continue the endeavor. After reaching 90 below sea level, the group found something that shocked them: a stone inscribed with mysterious symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
3. The Stone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/3-2.jpg\")
Source: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe symbols on the stone remain a mystery to this day. An 1862 report in the local newspaper described the stone as 2-foot square with several engraved characters. The symbols were never translated, and the stone ultimately became lost, but some have taken the symbols to mean a vast amount of hidden wealth where the stone was discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
4. Speculations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/4-2.jpg\")
Source: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMany people have produced theories and conspiracies centered on the stone with its mystifying engravings. A certain group claim that the stone\u2019s site may be hiding a collection of Marie Antoinette\u2019s jewelry, while others believe the pit is hiding manuscripts by Francis Bacon showing him to be the real author behind Willian Shakespeare\u2019s works. Rumor or not, the pit has provided great insight and evidence for 200 years that researchers have deemed useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
5. William Chappell<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/5-3.jpg\")
Source: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most well-known researchers that visited the island was a man by the name of William Chappell. He first became interested in the island after reading an article in the newspaper which prompted him to fly to Canada and begin excavating for himself. What he found astounded him more than he ever hoped. While digging, he unearthed an ax, a fluke anchor, and a pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
6. Gilbert Hedden<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/6-2.jpg\")
Source: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/7-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/8-2.jpg\")
Source: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/9-3.jpg\")
Source: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/10-2.jpg\")
Source: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/11-2.jpg\")
Source: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/12-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/13-2.jpg\")
Source: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/14-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/15-1.jpg\")
Source: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/16-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/17-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/18-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/19-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/20-3.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/21-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/22-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/23-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/24-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/25-3.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/26-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/27-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/28-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/29-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/30-3.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/31-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/32-3.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/33-2.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/34.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/35.jpg\")
Source: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/36.jpg\")
Source: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/37.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/38.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/39.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/40.jpg\")
Source: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
For some unknown reason, after reaching 30 feet into the earth, the teenage boys called it quits. Some speculate that they attempted to keep the pit a secret, but secrets don\u2019t remain hidden for long. A group from the Onslow Company noticed the 30-foot hole and used industrial excavating tools to continue the endeavor. After reaching 90 below sea level, the group found something that shocked them: a stone inscribed with mysterious symbols.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
3. The Stone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe symbols on the stone remain a mystery to this day. An 1862 report in the local newspaper described the stone as 2-foot square with several engraved characters. The symbols were never translated, and the stone ultimately became lost, but some have taken the symbols to mean a vast amount of hidden wealth where the stone was discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
4. Speculations<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMany people have produced theories and conspiracies centered on the stone with its mystifying engravings. A certain group claim that the stone\u2019s site may be hiding a collection of Marie Antoinette\u2019s jewelry, while others believe the pit is hiding manuscripts by Francis Bacon showing him to be the real author behind Willian Shakespeare\u2019s works. Rumor or not, the pit has provided great insight and evidence for 200 years that researchers have deemed useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
5. William Chappell<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most well-known researchers that visited the island was a man by the name of William Chappell. He first became interested in the island after reading an article in the newspaper which prompted him to fly to Canada and begin excavating for himself. What he found astounded him more than he ever hoped. While digging, he unearthed an ax, a fluke anchor, and a pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
6. Gilbert Hedden<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
The symbols on the stone remain a mystery to this day. An 1862 report in the local newspaper described the stone as 2-foot square with several engraved characters. The symbols were never translated, and the stone ultimately became lost, but some have taken the symbols to mean a vast amount of hidden wealth where the stone was discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
4. Speculations<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMany people have produced theories and conspiracies centered on the stone with its mystifying engravings. A certain group claim that the stone\u2019s site may be hiding a collection of Marie Antoinette\u2019s jewelry, while others believe the pit is hiding manuscripts by Francis Bacon showing him to be the real author behind Willian Shakespeare\u2019s works. Rumor or not, the pit has provided great insight and evidence for 200 years that researchers have deemed useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
5. William Chappell<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most well-known researchers that visited the island was a man by the name of William Chappell. He first became interested in the island after reading an article in the newspaper which prompted him to fly to Canada and begin excavating for himself. What he found astounded him more than he ever hoped. While digging, he unearthed an ax, a fluke anchor, and a pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
6. Gilbert Hedden<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Many people have produced theories and conspiracies centered on the stone with its mystifying engravings. A certain group claim that the stone\u2019s site may be hiding a collection of Marie Antoinette\u2019s jewelry, while others believe the pit is hiding manuscripts by Francis Bacon showing him to be the real author behind Willian Shakespeare\u2019s works. Rumor or not, the pit has provided great insight and evidence for 200 years that researchers have deemed useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
5. William Chappell<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most well-known researchers that visited the island was a man by the name of William Chappell. He first became interested in the island after reading an article in the newspaper which prompted him to fly to Canada and begin excavating for himself. What he found astounded him more than he ever hoped. While digging, he unearthed an ax, a fluke anchor, and a pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
6. Gilbert Hedden<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
One of the most well-known researchers that visited the island was a man by the name of William Chappell. He first became interested in the island after reading an article in the newspaper which prompted him to fly to Canada and begin excavating for himself. What he found astounded him more than he ever hoped. While digging, he unearthed an ax, a fluke anchor, and a pick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
6. Gilbert Hedden<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
After William Chappell\u2019s excavation project ended due to a lack of funds, Gilbert Hedden, an American industrialist, took over. Using resources from his company, Bethlehem Steel, he consulted with British journalist Harold T. Wilkins who convinced him that Captain Kidd\u2019s treasure was hidden in the Pit. After an initial dig, Gilbert purchased a large portion of the island so he could proceed undisturbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
7. Ancient Axe<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
One of the most important discoveries by William Chappell was an ancient arcadian ax that appeared to be 250 years old. How the ax and other artifacts got there remains a mystery, but their discovery only strengthens the belief that the island has more treasure hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
8. Why Bury Treasure?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
One of the most commonly asked questions regarding buried treasure is why would the owner bother hiding it in the first place? In the case of Oak Island, it may have been caused by war. Conflicts and violence tend to drive people away from the comfort of their home, and any possessions they can carry with them are hidden in safe underground ditches to be picked up later on. For many people fleeing the French-Indian War and the Seven Years War, Oak Island would have been the safest place to store their prized possessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
9. Pirates<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Another reason why so many people perceive Oak Island to be a source of endless treasure is pirates. Between 1690 and 1730 \u2013 a time period which is often referred to as the Golden Age of Piracy \u2013 many pirates were known to travel to Oak Island. The island was known having being the perfect hideaway to stock up on wood, water, and other provisions, but it was also the ideal spot to hide their loot. But there\u2019s one treasure hunter that would surprise you more than anyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
10. Franklin D. Roosevelt<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFranklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBrothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Imgur<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nEvery treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nIn the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nResearcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDavid Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nWith new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nOne of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nNot long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAfter continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nMarty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHistorical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDespite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nAnother theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nArguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nGary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nFor almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: Wikipedia<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDoug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nDigging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nBased on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\nSource: The Curse of Oak Island<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Franklin D. Roosevelt was an avid treasure hunter who dedicated a portion of his life to uncovering the mysteries of Oak Island. The 32nd<\/sup> POTUS was part of an expedition of divers and diggers who sadly produced nothing when excavating the Pit. This, however, didn\u2019t deter Franklin as he was always up to date on the latest news of the Island, even during his time in the White House.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n In the late 1950s, Robert Restall took his 18-year-old son and work partner Karle Graeser after being permitted to work in the Money Pit. In 1965, they had successfully reached 28 feet into the Pit when Robert, who went down alone, was knocked unconscious by hydrogen sulfide fumes. His son desperately went for his father but too lost consciousness. Graeser and two contract workers went in to pull the pair out, but sadly, the Restall family didn\u2019t survive. This was a grave reminder to everybody who thought digging into the Pit was all fun and games.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Brothers Marty and Rick Lagina dedicated almost their entire lives on solving the Island\u2019s riddles. They were also hoping to uncover any ancient booty that would turn them into infamous treasure hunters. Only recently did they stumble upon some pretty impressive findings. Keep reading to find out what the Lagina brothers managed to unearth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Lagina Brothers\u2019 fascination with Oak Island can be traced back to their childhood. Since learning about the island, the two brothers had always dreamed of uncovering an ancient artifact. While Rick was just 10 years old, he made his first discovery \u2013 something that would cement his desire on becoming a treasure hunter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n In 2006, the brothers decided to turn their dream into a full-time career. After scouting the island and learning more about what sort of mysteries lay underneath, Marty and Rick spent their life savings on purchasing half of the shares of the Oak Island Tour Company, an investment that included owning a part of the island and the rights to any treasure beneath. The other half of the company remained with the previous shareholder, the Blankenship Clan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Every treasure hunter who knows about Oak Island will tell you about the island\u2019s curse. According to legend, in order to find treasure, seven people must lose their lives in pursuing the island\u2019s riches. So far, six people have died in their quest over a 100-year long period. Although the odd artifact may have sprung up every now and then, believers of the curse are waiting for the seventh person to perish in order for buried treasure to make them millionaires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n After years of working and an innumerable amount of money spent on the endeavor, the Lagina brothers made a major finding: a Spanish copper coin believed to be dated all the way back to the 17th<\/sup> century. This finding was a breath of fresh air to the brothers who, despite their dreams of striking it rich on ancient loot, were beginning to lose hope. Perhaps unearthing one coin meant a whole treasure trove of copper coins waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n In the third season of their show, the siblings and their crew drained a large pond which left several prized possessions exposed for the pickings. A fellow treasure hunter showed them an ancient sword that may have been made by the Romans. If true, this piece of evidence could prove that Romans had traveled to the Americans several thousands of years ago. This could also indicate that buried treasure in Oak Island may be far older and far more valuable than anyone had predicted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Researcher and historian Zena Halpen explained her theory that 12th-century templars had come to Oak Island. Her theory is reinforced by a French map dated to the mid-1640s with the words hatch, valve, and anchor written on it. Her theory strongly suggests that a great amount of ancient wealth may be residing on the island and waiting to be discovered. All the Lagina brothers had to do was continue digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Marty and Rick Lagina would have never been able to excavate the island so thoroughly without the help of an experienced team. Two siblings were accompanied by David Blankenship, Gary Drayton, and Craig Tester, an old friend, who took to combing through the island with the finest detail. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n One person who added a ton of value to the brave team was Gary Drayton, an expert in detecting metal and author of numerous treasure hunting books. With his years of experience and penchant for finding metal out of seemingly nowhere, while working in Smith\u2019s Cove, the team uncovered something that was truly remarkable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Dan Blankenship, the original sole proprietor of the Oak Island Tour company, spend more than 50 years drilling to uncover the Island\u2019s secrets. He passed his knowledge and expertise to his son, David, who often accompanies his father on excavation trips. Although David suffered a serious injury more than 30 years ago, he still remains active and hopeful that he and his father will discover something beyond their wildest dreams on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n David Blankenship has spent nearly as much time as his father on uncovering the Island\u2019s secrets. He sold his home in Florida and moved his family to Oak Island where he helps his father and the Lagina brothers in their pursuit. He has dedicated most of his life on this quest, and he hopes to use his remaining years on discovering Oak Island\u2019s secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n With new improvements on treasure hunting technology, the team was able to uncover a wood-lined shaft that appears to have been built by early excavators. The shaft is believed to have been constructed in the 1800s in order to pull the Island\u2019s treasures up to the surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n One of the team\u2019s most impressive findings was a piece of a manuscript that may have been part of a book. The content of the book is anybody\u2019s guess, but he believes that the binder may have documented what sort of treasure lays hidden below the surface and its precise location. Regardless, uncovering this manuscript was a huge finding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Not long after finding the binder, the group discovered a parchment seemingly made of animal skin with markings resembling those of medieval writing. The Lagina brothers proposed that the parchment may be a part of a correspondence between Frederick Blair and William Chappell \u2013 the latter of which who dedicated his life to digging around the Island. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n After continuous mapping, the Lagina brothers and their crew determined that the Money Pit extended far deeper than anyone had imagined. They attempted to drain the pit, but out of nowhere, the pit would magically refill with water. After consulting with experts, the team discovered that the source of water was from a nearby beach. Perhaps the treasure they were looking for lay at the bottom of the flooded pit?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Another tremendous discovery by the Lagina brothers was a human bone that belonged to a person of the Middle East. How someone from the Arabian Peninsula had reached the island, let alone being buried there, baffled the team and scientists. They were struggling to find an answer, but every breakthrough they made led to more questions. Zena\u2019s theory of templar presence on the island may be true after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Marty is convinced that their recent findings are concrete proof that Oak Island is home to a lost treasure. He claims that their discoveries prove that something may have happened on the island even before 1799 when the three teenagers began digging into the Island. But what exactly remains to be discovered? Gold? Copper? And who put it there?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The brothers and Gary found a cross made of lead with a square hole on top. Using carbon dating methods, they discovered that the cross was made sometime between the 1200s and 1600s, effectively making the cross of medieval origin. This, of course, suggests that people came to Oak Island before the Americas had been discovered by Columbus. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Historical records suggest that the Knights Templar may have come to the island and chose the Money Pit to hide treasure. The Catholic organization dates back to 1119 with representatives across ancient Europe and the Middle East. The Templars had huge financial and political power, but they were also quite secretive in their works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Despite the cross being evidence of the Templar\u2019s presence on the Island, Zena has other thoughts. The cross that the Brothers and Gary found may not be of Catholic origin but rather an artifact depicting the Phoenician goddess Tanit. Zena goes on to claim that the Templars may not have been true Catholics \u2013 in fact, they may have been idol worshippers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Another theory suggests that this controversial cross made of lead was used to smuggle gold. Lead and gold are both heavy metals, and encasing a piece of pure gold in lead wouldn\u2019t lead to suspicions of moving copious amounts of the precious metals out of the country. If true, who did it and why? And, more importantly, did they leave anything else? <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Arguably the most significant discovery by the Lagina brothers was rhodonite garnet. The stone has a beautiful purple hue and is believed to be at least 500 years old. Although this precious gem is mined in North America, this specific type most likely comes from Africa. Perhaps ships carrying slaves landed on Oak Island?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Gary believes that the stone, dated back to 500 years ago, may be evidence that Marie Antoinette may have actually left a pile of her jewelry somewhere on the island. However, rhodonite was used by Ancient Egyptians and Romans for religious purposes, so Gary\u2019s hypothesis doesn\u2019t hold much weight. However, this raises more questions than provides answers since nobody, at least now, can determine for certain where the precious gem originated from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n For almost 200 years, numerous attempts have been made to uncover the mysteries of Oak Island and the puzzling Money Pit. Every type of conspiracy theory imaginable has been linked to the Island, thereby attracting even more curiosity than ever before. While the Lagina brothers and the Blankenship clan remain the owners of the Oak Island Tour company, the secrets of the Island on in their hands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Lagina siblings assert that Francis Drake had the knowledge and means of creating the Money Pit. Francis\u2019 command of mining and his experienced crew of engineers would make him the first person to suspect. Francis was also a notorious pirate who hoarded vast amounts of loot during his piracy years and would have good reason to keep his treasure hidden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Doug Crowell, another of the brothers\u2019 colleagues, stumbled upon a six-page ship log. The log claims that a deep pit was created to house a treasure trove, and access to the treasure is through a secret passage made in a tunnel from the shore. This immediately sent the Lagina crew in a frenzy. This might be the key to finding what the entire world was looking for nearly 200 years!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Digging deeper and deeper into the soil and producing nothing for your efforts can be disheartening. The Lagina brothers are used to disappointment, but they always remind their team of what they managed to find and expectations for the future. In the above picture, their findings lay flat on the table with their entire crew showing a great sense of pride for their hard, hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Based on their findings, the Lagina brothers believe that they are becoming increasingly closer to reaching their ultimate goal. After the rhodonite gemstone was classified as \u201ctreasure\u201d by the Treasure Trove License, the team become even more motivated to continue what they\u2019re doing. Now that the floodgates are open, the only thing left to do is soldier on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The team has been following clues of Smith\u2019s Cove holding more even more treasure. After closing the area off to the public, the siblings and their colleagues have discovered some pretty fascinating things. Beneath all the mud and sediment, they discovered a U-shaped structure that housed gold-colored coins. From preliminary observations, the coin seems to be from the 1700s, but more research is needed to determine the materials and significance of the coin. Whatever the case, all we know is that the Lagina brothers are headed in the right direction. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The average person might consider Oak Island \u2013 a small island on the southern shore of Nova Scotia \u2013 an unassuming, unimpressive island with hardly anything to offer. For the most part, they may be right, but there\u2019s no denying that more than 50 books have been written about Oak Island, documenting how rich its […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":15133,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[79,1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14795"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":97339,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14795\/revisions\/97339"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15133"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/womentales.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}11. The Restall Tragedy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. What about the Lagina Brothers?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Explorers Since Birth<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. Large Investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
15. \u00a0The Curse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
16. Waiting Pays off<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Roman Sword<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. High-Detail Main<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19. A Brave Team<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. Gary Drayton<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
21. Dan and David\u2019s Determination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
22. David Blankenship<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
23. The Shaft<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
24. An Ancient Binder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
25. Precious Parchment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
26. Going Deeper<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
27. Human Bone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
28. Even More Astounding Discoveries<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
29. Medieval Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
30. Knights Templar<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
31. The Origin of the Cross<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
32. Possibly Smuggled Gold?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
33. Rhodolite Garnet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
34. The Stone\u2019s Curious Origin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
35. Stoic Belief<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
36. Francis Drake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
37. Ship Logs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
38. Hard Work<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
39. Inching Closer and Closer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
40. Another Major Discovery<\/h3>\n\n\n\n