Unlike many others, Barbara Halbakken is an apprentice treasure hunter. A self-described "45-year-old single female from Plymouth," Halbakken first discovered the thrill of the hunt in 1997, and she's back for more this year.
"It's not the bargain, it's the hunt," she says. "Even if you don't find the medallion, it's the richness that you gain with the hunt. Don't get me wrong; I'd love to hold the medallion in my hand. But a lot of people take their vacation time to do this, and that many people can't be doing it just for the $4,000."
That spirit is what draws so many to the hunt year in and year out. Halbakken recognized as much early on, and her quest has quickly grown into a passion that rivals that of any veteran hunter. She is now the proud owner of a three-ring binder filled with past clues, newspaper clippings, and maps.
Most important, Halbakken is a quick study of it all. Her advice to first-time hunters?
"Understand that you can get derailed early on if you don't know how the clues have been written in the past," she says. "Look back and look at the history -- which is what St. Paul is all about. Try not to read into it too much, but understand that there is a word game going on.
"Most of all, have fun. Visit with people. Go to lunch at Gabe's and look for people dressed like you -- in snowmobile suits and ski masks and boots. When I started, I thought it would be everyone out for themselves, but it's not like that. People share information, and I've made great friends. I've had a ball with it."
Copyright 1998 Pioneer Press.
