Gilbert Hedden facts for kids
Gilbert Dayton Hedden, Sr. (born April 6, 1897 – died September 14, 1974) was an American businessman, a local leader, and a famous treasure hunter. He served as the Mayor of Chatham Borough, New Jersey from 1934 to 1938. Today, he is best known for his efforts in the 1930s to solve the Oak Island treasure mystery. Many people call this the most expensive treasure hunt ever.
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Who Was Gilbert Hedden?
Gilbert Hedden was a smart and driven person. In 1919, he became a top manager at the Hedden Iron Construction Company. This company built things using strong metal. They made and put up large steel structures.
In 1931, a bigger company called Bethlehem Steel bought his company. Gilbert then became the plant manager for the "Hedden" works. This meant he was in charge of the factory where they made the steel parts.
Hedden's Interest in Oak Island
On May 8, 1928, Gilbert Hedden read an exciting article. It was about Oak Island in The New York Times Magazine. The story of a hidden treasure on the island completely fascinated him. He decided he wanted to buy the island himself. His goal was to find the treasure.
Gilbert spent a lot of his own money on this search. His main treasure hunt lasted from 1934 to 1936. After that, he helped a professor named Edwin Hamilton from New York University take over. Professor Hamilton was an engineer.
Searching for the Treasure
In 1935, Gilbert Hedden bought the eastern part of Oak Island. He tried to drain a famous spot called the Money Pit. This pit was believed to hold the treasure. He used a large pump to remove the water.
During his search, Gilbert made some important discoveries. In 1936, he found a special stone at Joudrey's Cove. This stone had symbols carved into it. Many believed these symbols were Masonic. This meant they might be from a secret society.
Hedden's Legacy as a Treasure Hunter
Gilbert Hedden was one of the most important people in the Oak Island mystery. Other treasure hunters have continued the search since his time. He stands out because he invested so much of his own money. His background in engineering also helped him. His early discoveries were very important to the ongoing mystery.
