The Curse of Oak Island Gary Discovers Evidence of Secret Tunnel

It looks like you’re summarizing a significant episode from The Curse of Oak Island where the team, including Gary Drayton, archaeologists, and geoscientists, uncovers important clues that could bring them closer to discovering the island’s hidden treasure.

Here are the key events and discoveries mentioned:

1. Hidden Tunnel and Caster Wheel Discovery:
   • Gary Drayton and his team are investigating an area near the eastern border of the swamp. During their search, they uncover a caster wheel hidden in a wall. Gary speculates that the wheel may have been used in a tunneling operation, adding to the growing body of evidence that suggests there may be a hidden tunnel or underground structure on Oak Island.
   • The discovery of the caster wheel raises questions about whether it was left by the original treasure depositors or by later searchers. This is a critical point that the team plans to explore further.
2. 17th Century Military Button and Coins:
   • Gary also makes two separate discoveries while using his metal detector. The first is a 17th-century officer’s uniform button, whose military origin is still uncertain. The second find is a small coin believed to be a marup (likely a small coin from the 17th century), which could point to a hidden treasure.
   • Later, Gary uncovers King Charles II Britannia coins buried along the Oak Island shoreline, with one coin dated 1771. These coins support the theory that treasure on Oak Island may be older than previously thought.
3. Historical Context of the Money Pit:
   • The history of treasure hunting on Oak Island goes back to the late 1700s when young treasure hunters first discovered the Money Pit, a mysterious man-made hole that is believed to conceal hidden treasure. Over the centuries, various groups have tried and failed to excavate the pit due to flooding and other obstacles.
   • Notably, the Oak Island Treasure Company was formed in the 19th century but was ultimately forced to abandon their efforts due to flooding at the pit. Despite these challenges, treasure hunters have continued to search the island for centuries.
4. Government and Ownership of the Treasure:
   • The legal ownership of any discovered treasure is a complicated matter. According to Canadian law, treasure hunters are allowed to keep 90% of any treasure they uncover, but there could be disputes over the ownership of such riches. The Legina brothers (Rick and Marty) have been leading the ongoing search, and they would likely be the primary recipients of any discovered treasure. However, claims from other parties may arise, making the situation more complicated.
5. The Role of the Oak Island Archaeological Society:
   • The Oak Island Archaeological Society has played a significant role in raising awareness about the island’s treasure hunt and has actively participated in several digs. The society continues to support the ongoing investigation and excavation efforts.

As the search for treasure continues, new discoveries, like the caster wheel, military button, and coins, suggest that the team is getting closer to solving the mystery. The tension around who will ultimately claim the treasure is also growing, as the Legina brothers continue their mission to uncover the secrets of Oak Island.