Big Bear, CA
I quiet mountain community full of back country adventure.
Herman Petrasch
Herman Petrasch of Phoenix, Arizona, is best known for his involvement in the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, one of the most famous treasure legends in American history. Born on June 6, 1868, in Walla Walla, Washington, Herman Petrasch moved to Arizona with his family, who were among the early settlers in the region. The Petrasch family played a significant role in the exploration and development of Arizona’s mining potential.
Early Life and Family Background
Herman Petrasch was part of a pioneering family deeply involved in the mining industry. His brother, Rhinehart Petrasch, was also a prominent figure in Arizona’s mining history. Growing up in a family dedicated to prospecting and mining, Herman gained extensive knowledge and experience in the field from an early age.
The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
Herman Petrasch is most famously connected to the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. The mine, allegedly located in the Superstition Mountains near Phoenix, Arizona, is said to hold a vast fortune of gold. The story of the mine is shrouded in mystery and has captivated treasure hunters for over a century.
The legend originated with Jacob Waltz, a German immigrant (often referred to as the “Dutchman”) who supposedly discovered the gold mine in the late 19th century. Before his death in 1891, Waltz reportedly shared the location of the mine with a few people, including Julia Thomas, a family friend of the Petrasch family.
Involvement with the Search
After Waltz’s death, Herman Petrasch, along with his brother Rhinehart and Julia Thomas, dedicated themselves to finding the lost mine. They conducted numerous expeditions into the Superstition Mountains, guided by the clues and maps left behind by Waltz. Despite their efforts, the exact location of the mine remained elusive.
Herman’s dedication to the search for the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine exemplified the adventurous spirit and determination of the time. The Petrasch brothers’ explorations added to the mystique and allure of the legend, attracting countless other treasure hunters to the region.
Later Life and Legacy
Although Herman Petrasch never found the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, his legacy is deeply intertwined with the legend. His persistent efforts and the stories of his expeditions contributed significantly to the mythos surrounding the mine. The legend continues to be a topic of fascination and speculation, drawing treasure hunters and enthusiasts to the Superstition Mountains to this day.
Herman Petrasch passed away on April 7, 1953, in Phoenix, Arizona. His life and adventures remain an integral part of Arizona’s rich history, symbolizing the enduring allure of hidden treasure and the human quest for discovery.
Conclusion
Herman Petrasch’s involvement in the search for the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine has made him a legendary figure in the annals of American folklore. His story, marked by determination and adventure, captures the imagination of those who continue to be intrigued by the mysteries of the past and the promise of hidden treasures.
Further Reading
 The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen CorbinThe Curse of the Dutchman's Gold by Helen Corbin Helen Corbin's The Curse of the Dutchman's Gold is the first book I have read on… |
References
- Apache Junction Public Library
- Findagrave.com
The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen Corbin
Helen Corbin’s The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold is the first book I have read on Jacob Watlz’s mine. The book does an excellent job of documenting the history of the most enduring legends of the American Southwest: the tale of the Lost Dutchman’s Mine. Nestled in the rugged Superstition Mountains of Arizona, the story of this elusive treasure has captivated adventurers, historians, and treasure hunters for over a century. Corbin’s book offers a comprehensive exploration of the legend, blending historical research, folklore, and personal accounts to create a rich narrative that is both informative and enthralling.
Engaging Narrative and Rich Historical Context
Corbin excels in setting the stage, providing a detailed historical context that enriches the reader’s understanding of the legend. She meticulously traces the origins of the Lost Dutchman’s Mine, starting with the enigmatic figure of Jacob Waltz, the “Dutchman” himself. Through Corbin’s vivid storytelling, Waltz comes to life as a complex character, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. The book doesn’t merely recount the legend; it delves into the socio-economic backdrop of the time, exploring the broader context of mining booms and the cultural tapestry of the American West.
Meticulous Research and Diverse Perspectives
One of the book’s strengths is its thorough research. Corbin has sifted through an array of sources, from historical documents and old maps to interviews with contemporary treasure hunters. This diligent research is evident in the depth and breadth of information presented. Corbin also presents various theories about the mine’s location and the curse supposedly protecting it, offering multiple perspectives that allow readers to form their own opinions. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and firsthand accounts adds a layer of authenticity and immediacy to the narrative.
Captivating and Atmospheric Descriptions
The author’s descriptive prowess shines as she brings the Superstition Mountains to life. Her descriptions of the harsh yet beautiful landscape create a vivid backdrop for the story, immersing the reader in the treacherous and alluring terrain where the legend unfolds. Corbin’s ability to convey the atmosphere of the mountains—their eerie stillness, the rugged beauty, and the palpable sense of mystery—enhances the overall reading experience.
Corbin strikes a balance between entertaining storytelling and scholarly analysis. While she doesn’t shy away from the more fantastical elements of the legend, she also provides a critical examination of the myths surrounding the Lost Dutchman’s Mine. This balanced approach allows readers to enjoy the story as a captivating legend while appreciating the rigorous historical inquiry that underpins the narrative.
The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold is a compelling read that will appeal to history enthusiasts, treasure hunters, and anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the American West. Helen Corbin’s ability to weave together historical facts, folklore, and personal stories results in a book that is as informative as it is engaging. By the end of the journey, readers will find themselves not only more knowledgeable about the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Mine but also deeply immersed in the enigmatic allure of the Superstition Mountains.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer in the legendary treasure, The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold offers a captivating exploration of one of America’s most intriguing mysteries.
Book Summary
| Title | The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen Corbin |
| Author | Helen Corbin |
| Publisher | Fox West Publisher |
| Pages | 237 Pages |
Adolph Ruth
Early Life and Background
Adolph Ruth was born in the mid-19th century and worked as a government employee in Washington, D.C. His passion for adventure and treasure hunting led him to explore various parts of the American Southwest in search of lost mines and legendary treasures. Ruth was particularly captivated by the tale of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, a legendary gold mine purportedly hidden in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona.
Adolph Ruth’s started his side career in treasure hunting in California’s Anza-Borrego Desert. While searching for another lost mine. near Warner’s Hot Springs and Borrego Mountain, Ruth fell into a ravine and broke his hip on December 22, 1919. The injury almost cost his his life, and Ruth spent several hours lying in a desert arroyo before being discovered by a search party organized by his son.
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine is one of the most famous treasure legends in American folklore. According to the story, Jacob Waltz, a German immigrant known as the “Dutchman,” discovered a rich gold vein in the Superstition Mountains during the 19th century. Waltz supposedly kept the location of the mine a secret until his deathbed, where he provided vague clues to its whereabouts. Over the years, countless adventurers and treasure hunters have sought the mine, drawn by the promise of immense wealth.
Adolph Ruth’s Search
Adolph Ruth’s interest in the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine intensified in the 1920s after he acquired a set of maps that he believed could lead him to the elusive treasure. The maps were said to have originated from Mexico by his son and were purportedly linked to the Peralta family, who were believed to have operated gold mines in the region during the 19th century.
In June 1931, at the age of 66, Ruth embarked on an expedition into the Superstition Mountains, armed with his maps and an unwavering determination to find the legendary mine. Despite warnings about the harsh and treacherous conditions of the terrain, Ruth ventured into the wilderness.
Disappearance and Death
Adolph Ruth’s journey into the Superstition Mountains was fraught with difficulties from the start. After several days without contact, concern for his safety grew among those who had assisted him in his expedition. Following a newspaper report by the Arizona Republic on June 26th,, 1931, a search party was organized. Initially, there was no trace of Ruth. The search was quite intensive and even included the use of planes and sponsered by the newspaper to try and located the lost treasure hunter.
In December 1931, six months after Ruth’s disappearance, his skeletal remains were discovered in a remote area of the Superstition Mountains. The circumstances surrounding his death remain mysterious and have fueled speculation and intrigue. Some of Ruth’s personal belongings, including his journal and part of his skull with a bullet hole, were found near his remains, suggesting foul play. The official cause of death was listed as exposure, but the bullet hole led to various theories about possible murder.
Legacy and Impact
Adolph Ruth’s tragic end added a new layer of mystique to the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. His death reinforced the perilous nature of the quest and underscored the dangers of venturing into the unforgiving terrain of the Superstition Mountains in search of treasure. Ruth’s story has become a central part of the lore surrounding the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, captivating treasure hunters and enthusiasts for generations.
Ruth’s son, Erwin Ruth, continued to believe in the legitimacy of his father’s maps and the existence of the mine. He, along with many others, perpetuated the search for the fabled gold, contributing to the enduring fascination with the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine.
Adolph Ruth’s quest for the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine and his mysterious death in the Superstition Mountains have left an indelible mark on the legend. His story embodies the spirit of adventure and the relentless pursuit of dreams, even in the face of danger and uncertainty. To this day, the tale of Adolph Ruth serves as a cautionary yet inspiring narrative, reminding us of the enduring allure of hidden treasures and the lengths to which people will go to uncover them.
The Coolidge Examiner Articles About Disappearance of Adolph Ruth
 The Coolidge Examiner – The Search for Ruth Still FutileLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth The Coolidge Examiner of July 17, 1931 headlines the "Search for Ruth Still Futile" as he is lost looking… |
 The Coolidge Examiner – Search for Ruth SuspendedLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth The Coolidge Examiner of August 7, 1931 announces the Search for Rush Suspended due to heat in the Superstition… |
 The Coolidge Examiner – Search for Adolph Ruth in the Superstition MountainsThe Search for Adolph Ruth in the Superstition Mountains ends it tragedy as reported by the Coolidge Examiner on December 18, 1931. After months of… |
 The Coolidge Examiner – Lookout Station on Superstition MountainLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth Adolph Ruth was a nove treasure hunter whose pursuit of the legendary Lost Dutchman Mine led to his mysterious… |
Further Reading
The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen CorbinThe Curse of the Dutchman's Gold by Helen Corbin Helen Corbin's The Curse of the Dutchman's Gold is the first book I have read on… |
References
The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
. The tale, rooted in mystery and intrigue, has captivated treasure hunters and historians for over a century. The legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine is set against the backdrop of the American expansion westward during the 19th century. Following the California Gold Rush of 1849, prospectors flocked to the West in search of fortune, transforming the region’s demographics and economy. The Arizona Territory, with its rugged landscape and mineral wealth, became a focal point for these adventurers.
Jacob Waltz: The Dutchman
The central figure in the legend is Jacob Waltz, a German immigrant often referred to as “The Dutchman,” a term that mistakenly identified his German origin. Waltz was born on September 20, 1810, in Württemberg, Germany, and emigrated to the United States in the 1830s. After participating in the California Gold Rush, he moved to the Arizona Territory in the 1860s, where he gained a reputation as a skilled prospector.
Jacob Waltz lived out his later years in Phoenix, Arizona. The Dutchman lived in an adobe houses located in the northeast corner of section 16, Township 1 North, Range 3 East. The site is located today near the southwest corner of 16th Street and Buckeye.
On February 19th, 1891, his adobe home is abandoned when the Salt Creek flooded over running its’s banks. The flooding is severe and local papers at the time, do not mention Watlz, yet did headline “SEVERAL PEOPLE PROBABLY LOST”.
Waltz died on October 25, 1891 at the home of a black woman Julia Thomas after months of illness. Thomas had be housing the old man since . When the Dutchman passed, a candle box under his bed contained 48 pounds of the rich gold ore. The source of the gold is believed to be a “lost” gold mine of Jacob Waltz, the Dutchman, the Lost Dutchman Goldmine.
Unfortunately, the facts of the gold mine end with the death of Jacob Waltz, and the legends spring to life with rumor and tall tales.
The Last Days of Jacob Waltz.
On his deathbed in the early morning of October 25, 1891, Waltz is said to have revealed the location of the mine to Julia Thomas, a local woman who had cared for him during his final illness. Unfortunately, the old prospector was suffering from pneumonia, so, at best communication would be labored and difficult.
When the old man passed, Holmes and Thomas were in possession of a incredible secret and 48 pounds of rich gold ore. According to historians Tom Kollenborn, the Dick Homes took possession of the gold ore and took it to Goldman’s Store in Phoenix were it was assayed. The assay report stated the ore to be worth $110,000 a ton in 1890’s dollars.
Whatever was said a few things came from the events to the Dutchman’s death. Dick Holmes, Julia Thomas and Reiney Petrasch were the only people around when the old miner passed. Weather or not the true story of his last mine is the subject of debate from multiple factions from these two parties.
Julia’s Search
After Waltz’s death, Julia Thomas was convinced of the mine’s existence and its potential to transform her life. She, along with her adopted son Rhinehart Petrasch and his brother Hermann set out for the Superstition Mountains on August 11, 1892. They hoped to find the mine based on the directions supposedly provided by Waltz. However, the harsh and rugged terrain of the mountains, coupled with the elusive nature of Waltz’s descriptions, made the search extremely challenging. August in Arizona was probably not a good choice.
Despite her determination, Julia Thomas never found the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. Her repeated failures and the high cost of the expeditions depleted her resources. Eventually, she was forced to abandon the search and return to her life in Phoenix Later in life, she would tell her story and sell maps to the Lost Dutchman’s gold mine. It remains confusing why someone would purchase a map to a gold mine from someone who didn’t find it, is also a mystery.
Following her search, Julia sold her story to Pierpont C. Bicknell who first published the tail in The San Francisco Chronicle on January 13th, 1895.
First Description of the Mine
Published in The Saturday Review, November 17th 1894
“In a gulch in the Superstition Mountains, the location of which is described by certain landmarks, there is a two room house in the mouth of a cave on the side of the slope near the gulch. Just across the gulch, about 200 yards, opposite the house in the cave, is a tunnel, well covered up and concealed in the bushes. Here is the mine, the richest in the world on the side of the mountains, is a shaft or incline that is not see steep but one can climb down. This, too, is covered carefully. The shaft goes right down in the midst of a rich gold ledge, where it can be picked off in big flakes of almost pure gold”
The Disappearance of Adolph Ruth
The lost Dutchman Mine makes natioanl attention following the search for and death of Adolph Ruth.
Adolph Ruth was born in the mid-19th century and worked as a government employee in Washington, D.C. His passion for adventure and treasure hunting led him to explore various parts of the American Southwest in search of lost mines and legendary treasures. Ruth was particularly captivated by the tale of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, a legendary gold mine purportedly hidden in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona.
Ruth lost his life by following a map he acquired and then initiated his search in the middle of June, 1931. His remains are found near Weavers Needle, by an investigation reported on by the Arizona Republic. His skull is found with a large hole which may have been caused by a firearm or scavenging animals. Regardless, the news paper published the story and the Lost Dutchman Gold mine is a national story.
Legacy
Following the death of Jacob Waltz, the location of the Lost Dutchman’s mine was lost forever. The dying miner may have shared the location of his mine with three people, Julia Thomas, Dick Holmes and Herman Petrasch. However, even this claim is unclear. All three of these people searched for the lost mine, and all three passed into history penniless, or with no apparent success.
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman’s gold mine is grown by the stories of these three people and those who listened to them. The tale over time becomes sensationalized, expanded, convoluted, romanticized and even led to the death of some. In 1832, The Coolidge Examiner claimed that nine people including Adolph Ruth had lost their lives searching for the treasure. The original tale has been expanded to include murders, apaches, mexican bandits and the Peralta.
The Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
Obviously, anyone would be interested in a map to the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. Sadly, you need to keep looking… In the meantime, here is a map of locations associated with the lore of the lost mine.
People Associated with the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine
 Adolph RuthEarly Life and Background Adolph Ruth was born in the mid-19th century and worked as a government employee in Washington, D.C. His passion for adventure… |
 Herman PetraschHerman Petrasch ( April 6 1864 - 23 Nov 23, 1953 ), Photo by Desert Magazine January 1954 Issue Herman Petrasch of Phoenix, Arizona, is… |
 Jacob Waltz the “Dutchman”Photograph take of Jacob Waltz after his arrival in New York. Jacob Waltz, often referred to as "Dutchman," was a German immigrant whose life became… |
 Julia ThomasJulia Thomas, a figure of historical significance in Phoenix, Arizona, was born in the mid-19th century. Her role in the passing of Jacob Waltz serves… |
 Rhinehart PetraschRhinehart Petrasch of Phoenix, Arizona, is best known for prospecting and ranching, and was said to have spent considerable time searching for the Lost Dutchman… |
Historic Newspaper Accounts
 Mesa Free Press – A Curious FindMesa Free Press. (Mesa, AZ) 9 Nov. 1894, p. 1. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/item/sn95060636/1894-11-09/ed-1/. A Curious Find. P. C. Bicknell is back… |
 San Francisco Chronicle – Jan. 13, 1895On January13th, 1895, an article from the San Francisco Chronicle entitled A Mine in the Superstition Mountains announced to the world, Jacob Waltz and what… |
The Coolidge Examiner – Lookout Station on Superstition MountainLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth Adolph Ruth was a nove treasure hunter whose pursuit of the legendary Lost Dutchman Mine led to his mysterious… |
The Coolidge Examiner – Search for Adolph Ruth in the Superstition MountainsThe Search for Adolph Ruth in the Superstition Mountains ends it tragedy as reported by the Coolidge Examiner on December 18, 1931. After months of… |
The Coolidge Examiner – Search for Ruth SuspendedLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth The Coolidge Examiner of August 7, 1931 announces the Search for Rush Suspended due to heat in the Superstition… |
The Coolidge Examiner – The Search for Ruth Still FutileLost Dutchman Mine searcher Adolph Ruth The Coolidge Examiner of July 17, 1931 headlines the "Search for Ruth Still Futile" as he is lost looking… |
 The Kansas City Journal, Sunday February 17, 1895The Kansas City Journal, Sunday February 17, 1895 outlines the initial legend of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine. The Kansas City Journal, Sunday February 17,… |
 The Saturday Review, November 17, 1894A Mythical Mine Headline in The Saturday Review, November 17, 1894 J.C. Bicknell's newspaper articles on the Lost Dutchman Mine, published in the late 19th… |
Further Reading
The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen CorbinThe Curse of the Dutchman's Gold by Helen Corbin Helen Corbin's The Curse of the Dutchman's Gold is the first book I have read on… |
References
Jacob Waltz the “Dutchman”
Jacob Waltz, often referred to as “Dutchman,” was a German immigrant whose life became legendary due to his association with the fabled Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. “Dutchman” was a common American term for a German. “Dutch” was the the English cognate to the German demonym “Deutsch”.
Born on September 20, 1810, in the Kingdom of Württemberg, part of present-day Germany, Waltz grew up during a time of economic and social upheaval in Europe, prompting him to seek a better life in the United States.
Early Life and Immigration
In the 1830s, Jacob Waltz emigrated to the United States, settling initially in New York before moving to the Midwest. He worked various jobs, including farming and carpentry, skills that would serve him well in his later adventures. By the 1840s, Waltz had joined the wave of settlers heading westward, spurred by the promise of land and opportunity.
Journey West and Mining Ventures
Waltz’s life took a significant turn during the California Gold Rush of 1849. Like many others, he headed to California in search of fortune. Although records of his successes during this period are sparse, it’s clear that Waltz gained valuable experience in prospecting and mining.
In the 1860s, Waltz moved to the Arizona Territory, a region rich in mineral resources. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1861 and established himself as a respected prospector and miner. Waltz was known to have worked claims in the Bradshaw Mountains and other areas, gradually building a modest reputation and some wealth.
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine
The most enduring and enigmatic chapter of Waltz’s life began in the late 19th century with his alleged discovery of a rich gold mine in the Superstition Mountains, east of Phoenix, Arizona. According to legend, Waltz found a vein of gold so abundant that it defied belief. However, he kept the location of the mine a closely guarded secret until his death.
Waltz’s reticence and the scant details he provided about the mine contributed to the mystery. He was reputedly evasive about the mine’s location, sharing cryptic clues and maps with only a few trusted friends. This secrecy fueled speculation and stories about the mine’s existence, especially after Waltz’s death.
Later Years and Death
In his later years, Waltz lived a relatively quiet life in Phoenix, Arizona. He never married and had no known children. Waltz’s health began to decline in the 1890s. On February 19th, 1891, the Salt River flooded to its highest known levels at the time, and forced Waltz, along with many other families, to flee his homestead. In 1891, he moved in with Julia Thomas, a local woman who had befriended him and cared for him during his illness.
Jacob Waltz died on October 25, 1891. On his deathbed, he purportedly revealed the location of the mine to Julia Thomas, but subsequent searches by Thomas and countless others have failed to definitively uncover the fabled treasure. At the time of his death, Waltz was in possession of 48 pounds to rich gold ore, said to be in a box under his bed. Questions about the source of this gold lead many to speculate of the existence of a rich lost gold mine.
Legacy
Jacob Waltz’s legacy is intertwined with the enduring legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine. The tale has inspired countless expeditions, books, movies, and a mystique that continues to draw adventurers to the Superstition Mountains. While the exact truth of Waltz’s discovery remains elusive, his story symbolizes the enduring allure of hidden treasure and the American frontier spirit.
Waltz’s life and the legend of his mine highlight the era of American expansion and the human fascination with untold wealth. Despite the passage of time, the mystery of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine ensures that Jacob Waltz’s name remains etched in the annals of American folklore.
Locations Associated with Jacob Waltz
Burial: Jacob Waltz, the legendary “Lost Dutchman” associated with the famous Lost Dutchman’s Mine in Arizona, is buried in Phoenix. He died on October 25, 1891, and his final resting place is in the Pioneer and Military Memorial Park, specifically in the City/Loosley Cemetery section, located in Phoenix, Arizona. This cemetery is part of a larger collection of seven historic cemeteries that date back to the early days of the city’s establishment.
Homestead: Jacob Waltz settles on a 160 acre homestead described as the North East quarter of Section 16, Township 1 North, Range 3 East. The Waltz property is bordered on the north by Buckeye Road. 16th Street served as the Eastern boundary. The western edge is marked by present day 12th Street and on the South by the Salt River bottomland.
Further Reading
The Curse of the Dutchman’s Gold by Helen CorbinThe Curse of the Dutchman's Gold by Helen Corbin Helen Corbin's The Curse of the Dutchman's Gold is the first book I have read on… |