Wild Bill Hickok Treasure Map

Stay tuned – you might get rich!

“This map locates many of the better known treasure sites of the United States. They are scattered from coast to coast…in the denseness of metropolitan centers, in the sands of a hundred islands, and in the desolate canyons of remote deserts and mountains. The vastness of the treasure hidden within these boundaries is beyond calculation.” – Wild Bill Hickok

This dramatic pictorial map of the United States was illustrated by Bob Glaubke and published by Rand McNally in 1952. It was issued as a promotional item by the Kellogg Company to capitalize on the popularity The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok, a television series which premiered the year prior. The original envelope is included, which includes a submission form requiring 25 cents and a Sugar Corn Pops box top for each print.

The focus of the map, as outlined in the title cartouche, is on nearly 300 alleged treasure sites scattered throughout the country. Several dozen examples are represented with illustrated vignettes, but one needs to consult the accompanying Secret Treasure Guide (also included) to determine the ‘general locations of over 300 reported buried treasure sites.’ Although it’s use as a practical ‘treasure map’ is limited, this map brims with references to a romanticized America – pirates, pioneers, conquistadors and Native Americans are all boldly depicted in various states of action and conflict. Undoubtedly an effective tool at encouraging a juvenile audience to watch the show (and request Kellogg’s cereals at home).