Deep Woods Discovery: Signs of a Forgotten Still
Richard S. and his grandson uncovered what appears to be evidence of a historical moonshine operation during a treasure and relic detecting expedition in remote wooded hills. Their Minelab Equinox 600 led them to a fascinating collection of artifacts near an old hand-dug, rock-lined well and stone foundation.
The most intriguing find was a railroad spike discovered far from any known railway line. Combined with old metal strapping that could have come from wooden casks and bucket parts scattered throughout the area, the evidence points to a sophisticated bootlegging operation from the Prohibition era.
The Railroad Connection: Transportation for Remote Operations
The presence of railroad spikes in such an isolated location raises compelling questions about how supplies reached this remote site. Richard theorizes that a small-gauge railroad with push cars may have been used to ferry materials in and out of the operation - a clever solution for the challenging terrain that's "hard to access even on a 4 wheeler."
This theory gains credibility from another discovery half a mile away: two concrete walls held together by railroad tracks, positioned near another identical hand-dug well. The area is known for small gauge railroads used in local cannel coal mines, suggesting the infrastructure was already in place for creative repurposing.
Detecting Equipment That Made the Difference
The successful hunt demonstrates why the Minelab Equinox series excels at historical site investigation. Its ability to discriminate between different metals and provide reliable depth information proved crucial for mapping the scattered artifacts across this challenging terrain.
For detectorists interested in similar historical hunting, consider these essential accessories that can help with deep woods detecting and artifact recovery.
What This Find Teaches Us About Historical Research
Richard's discovery illustrates the importance of reading the landscape when metal detecting historical sites. Key indicators that led to this success:
- Hand-dug wells indicating sustained human presence
- Stone foundations suggesting permanent structures
- Old road beds showing historical access routes
- Proximity to known mining infrastructure
The Hunt Continues: Planned Return Expedition
Richard plans to return with additional detecting equipment to search for more evidence, particularly a potential firepit that would confirm the still operation. The methodical approach of mapping finds and forming hypotheses before returning shows the thoughtful strategy that leads to major discoveries.
This find exemplifies how modern metal detectors can unlock forgotten chapters of American history, turning a day in the woods into an archaeological adventure.
By: Richard S.
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