Will cooperation lead to the gold? That’s the question the New Mexico Tourism Department is wondering as a weekend event, Fennboree, has been planned to bring together treasure seekers who are on the hunt for Forrest Fenn’s hidden prize. Five years ago, Santa Fe resident Forrest Fenn, hid the chest somewhere in New Mexico after stocking it with coins, diamonds, sapphires, rubies and gold nuggets whose value as been estimated as high as $2 million.
It’s been estimated by some that nearly 30,000 people have looked for the treasure and now a weekend dedicated to discussing past hunts, advice to new hunters, and strategizing tactics for new hunts is planned at the Rio Chama Campground in New Mexico.
Fennboree, named in honor of Forrest Fenn, and will consist of a two-day event, Friday-Sunday, focused on collaborating and finding the hidden gold. Forrest Fenn believes the hunting will bring an estimated 50,000 additional people to the state this summer.
Tourism officials are thrilled if it brings many to the state hunting for gold but believes the journey might have more to offer than just searching hidden treasure.
“New Mexico is a great place to visit whether you’re an adventure seeking treasure hunter or simply a family looking for a beautiful place to vacation,” states Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Latham, New Mexico Tourism Department. “We love that this hunt for gold has turned into an opportunity to find more than actual treasure though. Regardless of what brings you to the Land of Enchantment a spiritual journey can be found in every corner of our state.”
Clues have come in the form of Forrest Fenn’s self-published book “The Thrill of the Chase.” Mr. Fenn’s latest clue was revealed in the New Mexico True video series called “The Searchers,” which has received over 250,000 views.
A shrine called The Golden Fenn will be on display during the entire Fennboree where hunters can pay tribute with fun offerings, however, Forrest Fenn is not expected to be at this year’s event.
For more information about Fennboree and what to bring, contact:
desertphile@fennboree.org.