searching for Forrest fenn's treasure
Cynthia

Cynthia Meachum has been searching earnestly for Forrest Fenn’s treasure since 2013 and has recently published an incredible account of her adventures in ‘Chasing Fenn’s Treasure’.  Cynthia’s book offers compelling details, thoughts, ideas, and facts about Forrest Fenn’s treasure hunt.  It’s a must read for anyone actively hunting for Forrest’s hidden treasure chest.

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to ask Cynthia the following Six Questions.  While reading her book it was clear she has whole heartily taken Forrest up on his dare to find his treasure.  Chasing Fenn’s Treasure provides persuasive interpretations and unique insights on the poem, and so I’m excited to hear what more she might have to say!  Enjoy!

(PLUS, MW is hosting a GiveAway for a free copy of Chasing Fenn’s Treasure by Cynthia Meachum.  See details below)

Six Questions with Cynthia

  • 1Q) Forrest Fenn’s treasure hunt is such an extraordinary challenge.  When you first became aware of it, what went through your mind? How would you say your thoughts about the treasure and your search have changed since first learning about it? And what was your inspiration for writing Chasing Fenn’s Treasure?

At first I thought, “How hard can this be?” I mean solving the poem and finding Fenn’s treasure chest. (I’m smiling at myself as I write this.) Now I understand the difficulty and complexity of solving the poem, which is paramount in finding the treasure. Searching became more about the adventure than finding the trove. I wrote the book so others who cannot search boots-on-the-ground for whatever reason can still go vicariously through my stories. My parents live in an elderly community… the book was originally designed for them. Then I decided to add additional Fenn information for anyone newish to the Chase or for those who don’t have time to keep up reading the various blogs.

  • forrest fenn treasure hunt book2Q) Chasing Fenn’s Treasure shares compelling solves, ideas and details for the finding of Forrest’s secreted bronze treasure chest. Not to mention it includes countless awe-inspiring snapshots of the places you’ve searched in New Mexico.  Can you share why you feel so strongly it is in New Mexico? Do you ever consider one of the other states (Colorado, Montana, or Wyoming) for Forrest’s treasure to be hidden in? 

For awhile I thought Forrest hid the treasure chest near Santa Fe to give back to the community … to the place he chose to move to after retiring from the military… to the place where he “wanted the world to stop and let him out.” (quote from The Everlasting Forrest Fenn in California Sunday Magazine.)

About 6 months ago, I decided to broaden my search area and go where the poem takes me… and that is Montana, or maybe Wyoming, or possibly Colorado.

  • 3Q) Thousands have searched for Forrest Fenn’s treasure, and yet it remains undiscovered.  It’s been said the first clue is vital and one of most difficult clues to determine. Why do you feel that is?  Do you feel ‘Where Warm Waters Halt’ is only to be confirmed once the treasure is found? Or do you feel the poem might hold a confirmation or hint for the first clue in some way?

These are great questions… unfortunately I don’t have any answers. IMO, I think Forrest had to make the first clue/ the starting place extremely cryptic, so the treasure chest would remain hidden for many years, even centuries. I think the poem does indeed hold a hint to where warm waters halt but the only way we will know it’s the right solution is to find the treasure chest.

  • 4Q) Many times in your book you mention discovering treasures of a different kind while out exploring the mountains north of Santa Fe. What would you say are some of the best treasures you have experienced or discovered while searching for Forrest’s treasure? Do you feel you would have found these treasures if not for the hunt?

So far, I’ve never found any tangible objects that are really cool like other searchers have shared with us. But I have discovered new hiking trails and the vistas along the way including my favorites Hamilton Mesa in the Pecos Wilderness and Bull Spring Meadow near Taos Canyon. A few life-time friendships have been forged as well. None of these would have happened without Forrest and the Chase.

  • 5Q) Like others, you’ve been so fortunate to chat face to face with Forrest numerous times over the last few years, and have gotten to know him and his expressions more. Do you ever get the sense he wants the treasure to be found and the hunt be over?  Or do you feel he would rather pass feeling his treasure will remain hidden for years to come for people to Chase?

I don’t know the answer to this question. At the Q&A after The Lure screening, I thought he gave out hints I’d never heard before, thereby wanting the treasure to be found in his lifetime. However, maybe that was just me optimistically hoping that was the case. Forrest has such a poker face most times I seldom sense I can read his mind. Unless he rolls his eyes…

  • 6Q) Your passion for the search is apparent.  It seems the quote you included in your book, “The mountains are calling and I “must go”…(by John Muir), relates not only to Forrest, but to you.  I wonder, what do you enjoy when the mountains aren’t calling or not hunting for the treasure, and what did you do before?  How do you think you will feel if it ever is found (either by you or someone else)?

I’ve had the John Muir quote taped to my desk for 40 years, so the mountains have been calling me most of my adult life. Before Forrest hid the treasure, I was actively backpacking, hiking, camping, and skiing/ snowboarding. Then I got old… now I settle for hiking and camping. But when I’m not in the mountains, I love to ride bikes, either on the Albuquerque bike trail along the river, or on my mountain bike in the Sandia foothills. Whether I find the treasure or I hear someone else finds it, my heart will palpitate wildly, followed by streams of tears running down my face, either from relief I solved the poem, or from the devastation that will consume me knowing this awesome adventure-of-a-lifetime is over! Fini…

Thank you, Jenny, for allowing me to be a part of your wonderful blog. I truly appreciate all your kindness and all you’ve done to promote Forrest and the searchers.

the blaze fenn's treasure
Peek inside book

Thanks Cynthia!  Such genuine and heartfelt answers.  Perfect!  

I’m sure many will be in turmoil if or when Forrest’s treasure is found.  You describe the possible scenario and emotions well.   And I had to smile at your answer to Q2.  I too have kept an open mind to ‘where’ the poem leads a searcher and haven’t been fixated on any one state.  I see potential in them all.  But isn’t that the beauty of Forrest’s challenge to explore wide and far.  We must trust the answers will come.

Again, I want to say thank you for sharing not only here, but in your book as well.  Your delightful travels and experiences while searching for Forrest’s treasure are inspiring.  It’s obvious treasures of numerous kinds are found when daring enough to seek.

AND NOW:  ENTER YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FREE COPY OF CHASING FENN’S TREASURE!

(Entries received until December 14th.  Winner will be announced on the 15th!  Best of luck to all!)

GIVEAWAY ENDED.

63 Comments

    1. How? I live in Rio Rancho, NM. I sold a few books and wrote an inscription in the buyers’ books last month after the Book-signing Brunch at Tesuque Market. I don’t mind signing any books but I think logistics could be an issue. Thanks for inquiring.

      cynthia

    1. The hardest part for me was trying to find a publisher/printer. I looked at several websites and settled on BookBaby to print and sell it. It also costs a bunch of money when a person self-publishes. Forrest encouraged me to write it a couple years ago. Then my parents really pushed for me to do it. My dad is 91… I decided if I was ever going to write this book, it had to be now. It’s also a lot like searching for Fenn’s treasure chest… do it for the joy of doing it, not because you think you will gain anything financially.

      cynthia

  15. Very nice interview Cindy and I just love your book!
    You know that I have been a very big fan of your writing ever since you
    started sharing your adventures on HOD!
    Once again, Congratulation on your new book!
    Tom

    Thomas D

  18. Thank you Cindy for writing this wonderful book. The words you use to describe what you personally are experiencing made me feel like I was right there with you. You have a real talent in the way words are painted on a written page. The photography is incredible. If I were younger, I would certainly get engrossed in “the Mystery of the Missing Treasure Chest.” (That sounds like a good title for a Nancy Drew book.).

    Jeanne Mackenzie

  21. I checked what was available about the book and author. It is amazing the difference among writers in the way they write and design their memoirs full of experiences. I imagine it is difficult to select the best adventures to write about when there are so many wonderful places within the Rocky Mountains. I guess the biggest difference between this book and mine (in press) is the point of view. I wrote third person. The mountains and streams took first place for me. Overall, very colorful and eventful book.

    Pen Ghost

  26. “The mountains are calling and I must go.” – John Muir

    https://quotefancy.com/quote/7527/John-Muir-The-mountains-are-calling-and-I-must-go

    What a beautiful statement. I like to retreat to the mountains when I can as a well. I don’t seem to get there near enough.

    I’m looking forward to reading your book, Cynthia. Forrest seems to be quite a Good Coach and Motivator. Quite a few folks have accomplished Great Things with his encouragement…I’ve noticed.

    Thank You, Jenny and Cynthia.

    JC1117

  29. Nice Job Cynthia!!! I like that picture of you and Molly… I’m going to order one to add to my Chase books… If I write a book it will be about all the crazy armchair solves I have attemped… 🙂 My favorite so far was I took some “Resolve” and sprayed the pages while sitting on a “Mettle” sheet… lol fyi… nothing happened!!!!

    Spallies

  31. Hi Cynthia! Your insight and knowledge can very well be the key to helping others find the treasure. It might even get them out he door. Love your questions and answers, and would love to read your book. I am looking forward to much more from you! Thank you

    Raymond James

  32. To those of you who ordered my book, thank you so much. And to everyone who posted comments here, thank you for all you kind words. One of these days, one of us is going to find Fenn’s treasure chest. It may not be me, but I sure have had many happy adventures these past 5 years. Good luck and happy holidays to all.

    cynthia

  33. I enjoy your search posts more than all others on HOD site. I’m in Dallas and head over to hike in Pecos twice a year with my two dogs. Your posts have become a travelogue for me to plan hikes in other areas in north NM. Did one of your Weimaraners pass? Sorry for the loss, if so.

    aardvarkbark

  38. I am pretty sure I won’t be able to spend a 3-day weekend in New Mexico. Any chance of hiding a treasure closer to Salt Lake City, Utah? There are plenty of mountains 500 miles long and 50 miles wide, and hundreds of canyons, maybe thousands. Much love.

    D.Hortin

    1. Wouldn’t it be frustrating if the finder remained nameless and kept the location a secret.If it’s over by June first 2018 Fennberee will be quite interesting.It would be fun to mingle knowing you have it and listening to the braggers claim they’re solve is the best.If I find it I think I will do just that since it would be so much fun oooo the mystery LOL.

      Nobody

  45. Hey Cynthia Toby an Shelly is looking in the wrong place I watched y’all’s video tonight witch date is 3/28 /18 we’re all 5of y’all were talking Forrest came out few weeks ago to say he believes it will be found an he was right I will be releasing picture in 4 weeks so that u will know I’m not full of shit!!!

    Sc, Carolina man

  47. I’m glad you’re back, Lone Aspen.

    It will be a nice reLAXing weekend for me 2. I’m pretty sure everything will work out okay…in the end.

    I’m bringing the wife and kids up to my mom’s for Easter weekend. I’ll be ultra-focused to be sure those round chocolate/malt balls are really that…and not something the Easter bunny left…uhhh…behind. :/

    I hope you have a Great Weekend…not a crappy one.

    Happy Easter, Everyone!

    JC1117

    2. Lol JC1117.

      My uncle actually had that happen. Everyone loved grandmas’s oatmeal cookies but with 9 children on my mother’s side they went quick. As the story goes they just finished a family picnic in a field and all the cookies had disappeared. Everyone was searching to no avail when my uncle suddenly found one more on the ground right next to him. He popped it into his mouth real quick but soon realized his error and proceeded to spit it all back out.

      It’s fun to hear family stories. It makes most of my errors feel more normal.

      Have a Happy Easter everyone!

      Dampenedmyth

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