David Hager, along with his family, is embarking on a treasure hunt in New York City. The hunt is inspired by a book written by Byron Preiss in the early 1980s, where he buried ceramic casques and keys in 12 cities across the US and Canada. Followers of the book, known as “The Secret: A Treasure Hunt,” believe that one of the clues directs readers to a treasure hidden in NYC. Hager, a former science teacher turned college-planning service owner, believes he has figured out the exact whereabouts of the treasure and is determined to find it.
Hager’s belief in the location of the treasure is based on his interpretation of the clues in the book. While many think the treasure may be in Brooklyn where the author grew up, Hager believes it is “south of Liberty Island” due to a specific line in the clue. The book’s clues feature intricate pictures paired with esoteric verses that followers analyze to locate the treasures. Despite the challenges, Hager is confident in his ability to decipher the clues and locate the hidden casque containing a key that can be exchanged for a valuable gemstone.
The author of the book, Byron Preiss, passed away in 2005 without revealing the locations of the treasures he buried. His family remains involved in the treasure hunting process, but they may not know where everything is hidden. Hager is among many individuals who are obsessed with finding the lost treasures, with online forums and social media platforms buzzing with discussions on the topic. The recent discovery of a casque in Boston led Hager to start his own hunt in NYC, using advanced equipment like metal probe cameras and hand shovels.
Despite potential obstacles such as digging permits and fines for unlawful excavation, Hager is determined to find the treasure in NYC. His passion for the hunt is fueled by the memory of his father, who passed away in 2020. Hager’s father was an international studies professor who enjoyed taking the family on trips to New York, making the treasure hunt a tribute to him. Additionally, Hager sees the challenge of proving himself right as a way to bond with his sons. His 16-year-old son is supportive but wants to see the treasure unearthed, prompting Hager to make it happen for his family and himself.
The hunt for the hidden treasures has captured the imagination of many, with thousands of enthusiasts joining the search for clues and locations across various cities. The treasures’ allure lies in the adventure and mystery of solving a 40-year-old puzzle, driving individuals like Hager to delve into the complex clues and embark on the quest. The Boston discovery showcased on a TV show inspired Hager to start his own journey, equipped with tools and determination to unearth the treasure. Despite the risks and challenges involved, Hager remains optimistic and committed to finding the hidden casque and key in New York City.
