Obelisk Puzzle Cache Mystery Cache

• Visit 17 locations to collect data for solving the puzzle.  These locations are scattered throughout central and western Massachusetts and each represents a mini-cache.  Hopefully you'll search for these whilst looking for other caches!
• Using the information gathered solve the puzzle for the actual cache coordinates.  It is simple math - so everyone should be able to do it!
• Figure out how to get to the cache.  Some research here should be expected.
• Go find it!  Unlike most of the 17 puzzle waypoint locations getting to the cache will take some time.

Step 1 - Collecting Data
As the name of this cache implies - what you will be looking for will be obelisks or monuments.  At each of the 17 locations you will find an obelisk or monument for someone.  I will provide you the coordinates and the name on the monument and you must find the year that this person passed away.  (Note: some monuments have multiple names on them - so be certain you get the right one!)  The last digit of the year represents the value you want to use for each waypoint e.g., 2006 = 6.  Most of these monuments are from the 1800's - while you are in the area take an opportunity to check out the history and uniqueness of some of these monuments.

Step 2 - Solve the Puzzle
Solve the answer for the cache coordinates by using the simple equation below.  Each digit in the final cache coordinates is determined by simply adding or subtracting two of the 17 waypoint values you found in the previous step.

Step 3 - Seek the Cache
In your efforts to find the cache you will need to take care on determining how to get to it. There are many ways and may approaches. The easiest (and possibly shortest) route may take you between 60 to 90 minutes to reach the cache.  Some approaches may take you longer - and for those of you who are in good shape you'll find this a simple refreshing hike. No bushwhacking is necessary.

Note: the final cache location was moved on 08 Aug 2009 to be in compliance with dcr guidelines. Please: when you return the cache please hide it standing upright and make sure that it is well hidden so that it can't be seen from any viewpoint. A good hide will ensure that the cache will be there for the next seeker!

Waypoints
The waypoints are named QxMRZG where x is the WP letter in the following table:

Other Info

• The 17 waypoint locations were collected between October 2004 and November 2005.  I have photos and additional info from each location.
• The cache is a single wide ammo box with camouflage tape and was hidden on 13 Jan 2006 and moved to its current location on 08 Aug 2009.
• Initial contents contain typical cache items.  I did not want to leave anything significant in the cache not knowing how soon or often someone may find it!
• Please do not leave any food or other items in the cache that may attract animals!
• After you have solved the puzzle feel free to send me a message via the Geocaching site with the final coordinates.  I will acknowledge whether they are correct or not.
• Based on the difficulty for this cache I suggest you do not leave travel bugs in it.
• Please do not post pictures, write descriptions or generally include information that would otherwise aid other seekers in finding the 17 waypoints or final cache.  This would include: where to park, what gate to use or explicit photos of the waypoints or cache location.  General photos and description of your experiences are very much welcome! Extra points for photos of moose, bear, etc.

Good Luck!