Currently, I am finishing up the edits and fine tuning my new novel entitled Swift. The novel chronicles the tale of three friends who accidentally discover clues to the hidden treasure. The background history about the legend is presented in a unique approach which gives readers an understanding of the legend.The Legend of John Swift Silver Mines has touched many lives over the years and many people have spent fortunes searching for the elusive treasure. Countless theories have been proposed and almost as many supposed journals that describe the secret location of the mines and caches of counterfeit coins. There are a number of websites that briefly describe the Swift legend and the mystery has been written about in newspapers over and over again.
I invite anyone interested, knowledgeable or curious to join in on this site. You are encouraged to share your thoughts and ideas, ask questions or simply follow this site. We will be announcing the book release date and provide links to review and purchase.
In the late 1950’s and early 60’s, I became familiar with the famous legend from my father and my cousin, Michael Paul Henson. I recall various treasure hunters coming to Kentucky armed with copies of the journal supposedly left by Swift. Since my father had extensive knowledge of the Red River country, having named many of the arches himself, he was much sought after to provide directions and information about some of the unusual rock formations of the region. Later, my cousin Michael Paul wrote books and became a recognized authority on the subject. Paul devoted a good portion of his life researching and searching for the lost mines. From both these two fine gentlemen I gleaned quite a lot of information and over the years have collected articles and information regarding the famous legend.
I’ve started this site to share thoughts, information and perhaps unique stories you have discovered in your time following this elusive story. One thing is for sure, the legend has been around a very long time. I believe it to be the oldest legend in Kentucky. Harper’s Monthly Magazine carried an article in 1886 that mentions the Swift Silver Mines. In 1896 the New York Times carried a short article stating the famous old silver mine was believed to have been discovered in Kentucky. Articles and stories have been published in newspapers and magazines periodically ever since. There have been a few books written and hundreds of web sites mentioning the silver mines. I will from time to time add to this site with information that hopefully will be interesting. But, I really look forward to your comments and thoughts.
Ed Henson
