It’s almost time for the treasure hunt. It’s a pretty big deal around here. A hundred cars with several gamers inside each will be driving around Hillsdale, Jonesville, Reading, North Adams, Waldron, Litchfield, and Allen, Michigan, seeking clues that have been cleverly hidden around the county. Some may be in town, most may be out in the country hidden at public places.
Our team has been assembled, our supplies have been laid out, our peeps are covered, and we are ready to go. My wife, Lori, is a veteran player. I am a rookie. Every year I have wanted to go, and every year I have had to take care of late arriving peeps at the Munro House Bed and Breakfast or special events that kept me at work.
This is what I know:
The Lewis Emery Treasure Hunt (Lewis Family Treasure Hunt) is traditionally scheduled for the Saturday before Halloween. This is the 76th annual running of the treasure hunt. This year, the game will be held on October 24, 2009. It begins promptly at 6 p.m. on Saturday night in Hillsdale at the fairgrounds. With over 400 participants expected, an early arrival is highly suggested to get signed up.
The quest takes teams around the county searching for clues that have been cryptically written describing a route to find the next piece of the puzzle which is hidden in a public place. The first team to the final destination wins a cash prize, bragging rights, and gets to host next year’s event. This activity provides an evening of puzzle solving, teamwork, and old-fashioned fun.
Despite cash prizes, not all the teams are in it to win it. Many come to spend a fun evening with family and friends. Some are just in it for the challenge. Most teams finish the hunt by midnight. Some die-hards have staggered in after 2:00 a.m.
To win, it may be a good idea to bring some items that have been helpful in the past: the current Hillsdale County Chamber of Commerce phone book, Old Farmer’s Almanac, The Bible–must be King James version, a full tank of gas, a flashlight, a cellphone, and GPS or a good map reader.
I am looking forward to the treasure hunt. My friend, Josh, was part of last year’s winning team. They have been working all year on challenging puzzles for a night of fun. I hope the weather is nice and the puzzles not too hard.
Good luck to all hunters!
Mike Venturini – Innkeeper
“Life is good in Jonesville”