Fort Solomon Traditional Cache

This cache can be found and logged as a normal cache, but is also one of twelve caches needed to find GC1JFFC Paraskavedekatriaphobia. Inside this cache is a laminated card with a number that will be used to find GC1JFFC Paraskavedekatriaphobia. Please make note of this number so you can find the master cache, then leave this card in the cache so others may enjoy the hunt. You are looking for a container larger than an twelve ounce soda can, but smaller than a three-pound coffee can.

The complete list of caches needed to finish this series are listed below:

This cache is hidden on Bogey Bridge, an area rumored to be haunted. I don't know about this legend, so if anyone knows anything regarding this myth, I would like to hear from you. Southeast of here, about 1/4 of mile from the north/south road (halfway from the cache to 135th Road) and about 100 feet north of the Solomon River, there was a log fort with a palisade. This fort was known as Fort Solomon and while not a sanctioned Army fort, it was a stockade built by early settlers so they would have a place of protection from Indian raids. This fort was finished in 1864 and contained cabins for living quarters, a cabin for a school and meetings, plus a large dugout and water well.

The fort was placed close to the river to enhance its defense. There were no trees between the fort and river, and the river bank was 25 feet high and nearly vertical. At one time 95 people lived in the fort. The fort never defended against any Indian raids, but there was an incident of horse stealing August 12-14, 1868, when Indians came into the area from south of Delphos, and north into Mitchell and Cloud counties. Nobody in Ottawa county was killed, and the settlers had received warning, but the Indians did not come this far south.

After the Civil War there was an influx of soldiers to the area and Colonel John Kerwin started the first store at the fort. The first marriage in the area occurred at the fort in 1865, when Matilda Jones and Dan Bruce were united. In July, 1866, Seymour Ayers prepared the papers to organize the county, feeling the area had the requisite population of 500. The first county seat was nearby, being in a cabin near the river, and was called Ayersburg.

There is not sanctioned parking, but you can park at the end of the bridge and not be a hindrance to the infrequent traffic. Please respect the area, CITO if needed, practice stealth if needed, and rehide as you find it for the next cacher. Thank you and good luck.