The Most Overlooked Town on World-Famous Route 66: Oatman, AZ

Oatman, Arizona: Route 66, Dollar Bar, Donkey

Nestled into the northwest corner of Arizona just before you cross into California on Route 66, you find the rugged town of Oatman. It may be one of the most overlooked towns along the famous road trip, but it may have the most famous burros. While the burros’ pushy demeanor demands attention, you won’t want to miss all this historic town has to offer.  The namesake story, gold mining strikes, and place in Americana history along Route 66 make this town so much more. 

Cryptic Ciphers, Treasure, Duels: The Life of Thomas Jefferson Beale

Declaration of Independence

Thomas Jefferson Beale. It’s the name you likely have not heard, but the name behind a story you’ve seen a version of on the big screen.  A 200-year-old mystery in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia begins with TJ Beale. He is credited as the author of the Beale Papers (also known as Beale Ciphers). They are the “treasure map” to the Beale Treasure worth an estimated $65 million.  Consisting of three ciphers explaining what the treasure is, where it is and who is entitled to it the ciphers have never been fully decoded. The cipher explaining what the treasure consists of was decoded using the Declaration of Independence n the late 1800s. Does that sound familiar?  The movie National Treasure is said to be loosely based on the story.  Now it is time to tell the real story of Thomas Jefferson Beale. 

6 Things to do in Safety Harbor, Florida 

Tocobaga Indian Mounds - Safety Harbor, Florida

Nestled into the northwest corner of Tampa Bay sits Safety Harbor.  While the name originates from the time pirates ruled the Gulf of Mexico you will find a deeper history along its shores. Including the mounds of the  Tocobaga, healing mineral springs, and a vibrant art community today. 

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