Why History Needs Treasure Hunters Who Follow the Facts
In 1549, Alonso de Fontaneda was shipwrecked along Florida’s east coast. He spent 17 years among the Ais Indians, meticulously documenting what he saw: shell necklaces, feathers, and ornaments salvaged from European shipwrecks. These weren’t mere decorations—they were markers of trade, status, and ritual. Most intriguingly, Fontaneda noted that treasures were rarely buried with the dead, suggesting deliberate relocation inland.
He even wrote:
“I desire to speak of the riches found by the Indians of Ais, which perhaps were as much as a million dollars, or over, in bars of silver, in gold, and in articles of jewelry made by the hands of Mexican Indians, which the passengers were bringing with them.”
These eyewitness accounts provide a rare blueprint for how treasures moved through Ais society—long before archaeologists arrived.
From History to Discovery
Fast forward nearly 500 years. The Spanish ship La Trinité, lost centuries ago, has been officially recovered—but not without controversy. Using a research-driven approach, I had narrowed down the location based on historical accounts, geographic patterns, and eyewitness records.
Yet, the state of Florida and a commercial treasure-hunting company took over the find, sidelining my work despite my key contributions.
This experience revealed a harsh truth: independent researchers often receive no recognition, even when following verifiable historical evidence. That’s why I’ve committed to funding my own expeditions—and inviting others to join the mission.
Raising Relics: Where Treasure Hunting Funds Itself
Instead of waiting for institutions, I created Raising Relics
The Hunts → Research-driven exploration of Florida’s Treasure Coast, guided by Fontaneda’s eyewitness records, yes, from the Library of Congress. Actual recorded writings from his 17 years held captive
How You Can Be Part of It
Whether you’re a history lover, collector, or investor, you can help bring this mission to life:
Centuries ago, the coastal tribes of Ais and Jeaga (Florida) weren’t rich in land, silver, or gold—but they became wealthy from the sea. Countless Spanish ships wrecked off their shores, spilling treasure: bars of silver and gold, bags of reals, jewelry crafted by Mexican artisans, and cargo from Cuba and Honduras.
Historical accounts describe fortunes worth millions in today’s value washing up and being divided among the chiefs of Ais, Jeaga, Guacata, and Mayaca. Entire armadas were lost—some carrying not only riches but survivors who told tales of the wealth left behind.
This is the treasure I’m after. Lost Spanish silver, gold, and artifacts hidden under Florida’s waters and sands—waiting to be rediscovered.
If you’re as intrigued by history as I am, or want to support this hunt for one of America’s forgotten treasure troves, reach me at raisingrelics@gmail.com.
Invest → I am seeking $50,000 in funding to expand these expeditions, giving backers direct access to discoveries and the chance to be part of uncovering 16th-century artifacts unseen for centuries.
History is alive, and its treasures are still out there. Together, we can bring them into the present—one story and one discovery at a time.
This is more than just a story—it's an invitation to join the hunt.
📖 Part historical thriller
🧭 Part personal expedition
💡 100% original
