"A box without hinges, key, or lid, Yet golden treasure inside is hid."
- - J. R. R. Tolkien
Hider:
Tom Cooch Clues: Cryptic Terrain: Indoors Hidden: 12/30/98
Kimball Library was erected in 1902, the result of a bequest by Randolph
resident Col. Robert J. Kimball. It is in the clasical style of architecture,
built of red pressed brick and Longmeadow brownstone trimmings above the
basement story. The library has a particularly handsome dome, covered over
for many years but recently restored.
The library is on North Main Street, next to the Chandler Music Hall.
Those approaching Randolph on Route 12 from the south should cross
the railroad tracks and continue on two blocks through the village center.
Those approaching from Route 66 (I-89) or Route 12 from the north should
cross the bridge just past the fire station and continue on for one hundred
yards.
A letterbook is a variation on a letterbox. There is a book in the library
which has been hollowed out, and which contains a stamp and a journal.
The clues in this case do not involve orienteering, but still preserve
the spirit of a treasure hunt.
Although I support wholeheartedly the spirit of real - as opposed to
virtual - letterboxing ("The game is afoot!"), I have nevertheless made
it possible to engage in this quest on-line. Many people will not be able
to visit a small town in central Vermont. If you are one of the geographically
blessed who can, I would ask you to forswear the cyberversion and come
to Kimball for the full flavor of the hunt. If not, click
here for directions.
To the best of my knowledge, this is the first letterbook
to
have been created.
And now for the clues ...
Clue #1: You know you've got the letterboxing bug. Today you should
go for the gold.
0‡‡k1‡(;4895.)6*;48‡0†062(5(:_5(†.‡_k8;)
Clue #2: To find the missing map, you must get keene on the quest.
Clue #3: Your search now lies in Cornwall, over the sea.
Clue #4: Ponder the runes with Thorin Oakenshield & company.
Clue #5:
Since this is a public building, letterboxers are asked to be discreet:
try not to disturb library patrons, and to avoid revealing the nature of
your activity. Let the librarian know beforehand that you are there to
search for the letterbook. She can help you, particularly if you cannot
find a book you are looking for. She can also provide you with easier sets
of clues on request. You may wish to take advantage of the computerized
card catalog's search ability.
When you have finished, please make sure that all materials are returned
to their proper places.
Click here to see the stamp image and a list of gilded treasure
seekers.
