Hello, I have been reading over the threads here for the last couple of weeks and I must say this is quite some adventure. The first time I had ever read about Swift silver mines was in the late 1980's from a book I picked up about hiking the Red River Gorge (still have it somewhere). I have always been interested in the legend but at the same time told that silver doesn't 'occur' in KY. It is more plentiful out west as I was told. But deep in the back of my mind I know there has to be some nuggets of truth to the legend. As with all legends/tales, there is always some portion of truth to the story. I have been a regular visitor/hiker/camper to the RRGorge since 1980 or so. I spent many afternoons bush whackin' off trail with friends to see what is around the next corner. There is something both mystical and somewhat magical about that area of our state. I always use my trips there to regroup myself from the hectic day to day life. There is the spiritual aspect as well, I am closer to my maker when I am there. I recharge spiritually as I fatigue physically while stomping around those old mountains. The mystery of the ancient peoples that both lived there and passed through there has amazed me in that we are so detached from that 'hard' lifestyle. Sorry for blabbing on but I want to offer any help that I may be able to give to your cause of finding answers to this riddle. After reading so many of the threads here I almost feel like I know some of you folks. Anyway, I would like to offer help if any need 'boots on the ground'. I'm pushing 50 but I still get around well!
