Lost California Treasure

Dr. John Marsh Pioneer Cache

Dr. John Marsh, one of the first American doctors in California, accumulated a massive fortune in gold coins and bullion during the Gold Rush. Distrustful of banks, he buried his wealth in various spots around his massive stone ranch house near the base of Mt. Diablo. In 1856, Marsh was murdered by disgruntled vaqueros. While some gold was recovered from his home, the bulk of his fortune was never accounted for by his heirs, and is believed to still be buried on the former rancho land.

Record typeburied cache
LocationMt. Diablo Foothills, Contra Costa County
Probability indexLow
Land statusState Park (Restricted)
Research coordinates37.8924, -121.7214
SourceContra Costa County Historical Society

Field Research Notes

The Marsh Creek State Historic Park is strictly off-limits to detecting and digging. However, public properties and historical roads in the surrounding Contra Costa foothills can be researched for coin shoots.

Recommended Gear

Historical Map App, Note Pad, Metal Detector (Private/Permitted Land Only)

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