On this day 25 years ago (May 3, 2000) the very first cache was hidden by Dave Ulmer, a computer consultant who wanted to test the accuracy by hiding a navigational target in the woods. The day before, we as geocachers became what we know today as 'Blue Switch Day'. Ulmer called the idea the "Great American GPS Stash Hunt" and posted his hide in an internet GPS users' group. The idea was simple: Hide a container out in the woods and note the coordinates with a GPS unit. As they say, the rest is 'history'.
Sadly the orignal stash was destroyed not long after, due to construction in the area. But Team 360 was able to recover what has come to be known as 'The Original Can of Beans (OCB)' . Today the OCB travels to various events around the world as a reminder of Dave Ulmer's original 'stash'. I've had the pleasure in the past of hosting an event where the OCB was a part of (sorry, no OCB appearance scheduled for this meet). Thank you Team 360 for keeping this iconic symbol safe for all to enjoy!
Since then, millions of people have enjoyed the growing sport we've come to know as geocaching and have found a gazillion caches! So today we celebrate the inginuity of Dave Ulmer's vision and give thanks to this crazy obsession we call geocaching.
Seating is on a first-come, first serve. I recommend bringing a folding chair and perhaps your favorite (non-alcoholic) beverage to Windmill Park. There's a playground for the mini-cachers as well. I may have a couple of small prizes to raffle off. So come celebrate (rain or shine) and mingle with some of the locals!
Community Celebration Events - 2025
This Event is part of a limited release of Community Celebration Events to celebrate 25 years of geocaching. Geocachers hosted events between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025. Learn more about Community Celebration Events on the Geocaching Blog.