How the 1965 'Reader’s Digest' Oak Island Article Sparked a Treasure Hunting Craze
This feature was where Dan Blankenship first read about the mystery of Oak Island.
Published Nov. 27 2024, 9:14 a.m. ET
The mysteries of Oak Island have fascinated treasure hunters and history enthusiasts for centuries. In 1965, a Reader's Digest Oak Island article brought this intrigue to a wider audience, captivating readers with its detailed account of the "Money Pit."
The article not only chronicled the ongoing quest for hidden treasure but also inspired a new generation of adventurers. Decades later, the enduring allure of Oak Island has found a home on television through The Curse of Oak Island, a reality show that explores the island's secrets and the people determined to unravel them.
Written with a compelling blend of historical detail and adventure, the Reader’s Digest feature placed a spotlight on the mystery of Oak Island. The story became a pivotal moment in the island’s modern history, drawing treasure hunters like Dan Blankenship and later inspiring figures like Rick and Marty Lagina.
The 1965 article cemented Oak Island’s place as one of the most famous treasure hunt locations in history.
The 1965 'Reader’s Digest' article brought Oak Island’s mystery to the world.
When Reader’s Digest published its January 1965 article titled "Oak Island's Mysterious 'Money Pit'," it introduced millions to the legend of Oak Island. The piece recounted the centuries-old story of treasure hunters trying to unlock the island’s secrets.
It detailed its discovery in 1795 as well as some dangerous and elaborate excavations. The article warned of an underground system riddled with booby traps to prevent anyone from recovering what was hidden beneath the surface.
This feature was pivotal in spreading awareness about Oak Island. Dan, a contractor from Florida, read it and was so captivated that he moved to Nova Scotia to dedicate his life to the treasure hunt.
Over the years, he became a leading figure in Oak Island’s modern history. He has played a role in organizing major excavation efforts and keeping the story alive for future generations. Thanks to this article, the mystery of Oak Island became a global fascination.
Modern treasure hunters, like those featured on The Curse of Oak Island, credit the article as a key inspiration. The show, which follows Rick and Marty's quest to solve the island's puzzle, keeps the story alive. Thanks to the article that inspired these treasure hunters, the reality show continues to keep the mystery alive by bringing in new audiences.
For decades, this article has inspired treasure hunters.
According to History.ca, Rick has frequently spoken about how reading the piece as a young boy ignited his lifelong fascination with the mystery. His story is yet another example of how people from all over the world were drawn into the mystery of Oak Island thanks to this Reader’s Digest article.
Culturally, the article bridged the gap between local folklore and mainstream intrigue. Before its publication, Oak Island was a niche story known primarily in Nova Scotia. Afterward, it became a subject of global interest, inspiring books, documentaries, and expeditions. The 1965 article is often credited with preserving and amplifying the legend, ensuring its survival.
The 1965 Reader’s Digest feature remains a landmark moment in the history of the island’s mystery. It captivated readers with its vivid account of treasure hunting and introduced the world to one of history’s greatest enigmas. The article inspired a new wave of treasure hunters to continue the hunt and keep the legend alive.
Today, the mystery of Oak Island is very much still alive. First bolstered by Reader’s Digest, the legend continues to captivate new generations thanks to The Cursed of Oak Island.
