Everyone dreams of one day having a place to call their own. Well, one fire department captain finally got his opportunity and bought his forever home. However, little did he know that when he purchased his home, there was something unexpected his new property, giving more than he originally bargained for. Follow the story of the John Sims who got the surprise of his life when moved to Tuscon, Arizona.
Everyone dreams of one day having a place to call their own. Well, one fire department captain finally got his opportunity and bought his forever home. However, little did he know that when he purchased his home, there was something unexpected his new property, giving more than he originally bargained for. Follow the story of the John Sims who got the surprise of his life when moved to Tuscon, Arizona.
When John Sims was looking for a new change, he thought that moving to a midtown neighborhood of Tuscon, Arizona would be the ideal spot to start anew. When he bought the house, he saw it as a new opportunity. Little did he know that along with his new property were rumors that would spark a curiosity in him. According to the previous owners of the home, there was supposedly something buried in the backyard, but no one knew what it was exactly. Of course, with a rumor like that, there was no way that John could resist the temptation of looking into the rumor further and knew that he had to unearth this decade-old mystery.
When John Sims was looking for a new change, he thought that moving to a midtown neighborhood of Tuscon, Arizona would be the ideal spot to start anew. When he bought the house, he saw it as a new opportunity. Little did he know that along with his new property were rumors that would spark a curiosity in him. According to the previous owners of the home, there was supposedly something buried in the backyard, but no one knew what it was exactly. Of course, with a rumor like that, there was no way that John could resist the temptation of looking into the rumor further and knew that he had to unearth this decade-old mystery.
John was fortunate enough to have purchased his new home from a friend. He felt comfortable that his friend would inform him of any problems that the house had. When first reviewing the home, there was no issue with the property whatsoever, and his friend didn’t inform him otherwise, so, seeing no down side, he went forward with buying the house. Almost immediately upon getting the keys to his new abode, John was told by his friend who finally revealed that the house he purchased held a secret. He began to go into how there were odd rumors surrounding the house, all of which led to it being said that there was something buried in the backyard.
John was fortunate enough to have purchased his new home from a friend. He felt comfortable that his friend would inform him of any problems that the house had. When first reviewing the home, there was no issue with the property whatsoever, and his friend didn’t inform him otherwise, so, seeing no down side, he went forward with buying the house. Almost immediately upon getting the keys to his new abode, John was told by his friend who finally revealed that the house he purchased held a secret. He began to go into how there were odd rumors surrounding the house, all of which led to it being said that there was something buried in the backyard.
Though John’s friend revealed the creepy tale that surrounded the home, he confessed that he never actually took time to discover if the rumor was true. The deal was singed and everything was finalized, and soon the two friends parted ways. Now being able to settle into his new household, John couldn’t help but repeat over everything that his friend told him in his mind. Every time he would look out into his backyard, he wondered if the rumors were true. And, if they were, what is it that could possibly be buried?
Though John’s friend revealed the creepy tale that surrounded the home, he confessed that he never actually took time to discover if the rumor was true. The deal was singed and everything was finalized, and soon the two friends parted ways. Now being able to settle into his new household, John couldn’t help but repeat over everything that his friend told him in his mind. Every time he would look out into his backyard, he wondered if the rumors were true. And, if they were, what is it that could possibly be buried?
After obsessing over the mystery that laid right outside his back door, John knew that he had to figure out the secret before he would lose his mind. So, he went to work. Luckily, he already asked the previous owner if he could borrow a shovel. He never really intended to use it for this purpose, but stranger things have happened. Of course, after a short while, he realized that he needed more than a shovel to get a job like this done. The thing was, he honestly had no idea where to start. So, he decided to do some research.
After obsessing over the mystery that laid right outside his back door, John knew that he had to figure out the secret before he would lose his mind. So, he went to work. Luckily, he already asked the previous owner if he could borrow a shovel. He never really intended to use it for this purpose, but stranger things have happened. Of course, after a short while, he realized that he needed more than a shovel to get a job like this done. The thing was, he honestly had no idea where to start. So, he decided to do some research.
John knew that this great mystery in the backyard could be nothing more than a giant hoax, and, overall, a waste of his time. Nevertheless, he had to give it a try, mainly for his sanity so that he could stop obsessing over this and get on to enjoying his new house. John knew that in order to quench his curiosity, he needed to start with a plan. At once, he got his shovel and did the only thing he knew how to do – dig.
John knew that this great mystery in the backyard could be nothing more than a giant hoax, and, overall, a waste of his time. Nevertheless, he had to give it a try, mainly for his sanity so that he could stop obsessing over this and get on to enjoying his new house. John knew that in order to quench his curiosity, he needed to start with a plan. At once, he got his shovel and did the only thing he knew how to do – dig.
However, once John started working, there was already difficulties arising for him. For starters, the Arizona heat alone proved to be a major obstacle. With the degrees reaching even triple digits. Regardless of the heat, John was not deterred. He continued in his mission, even under the blazing sun, and just kept digging.
However, once John started working, there was already difficulties arising for him. For starters, the Arizona heat alone proved to be a major obstacle. With the degrees reaching even triple digits. Regardless of the heat, John was not deterred. He continued in his mission, even under the blazing sun, and just kept digging.
When he began digging, John really didn’t have a plan. He just figured that if he started digging then he would eventually find what it was that he was looking for. After four holes dug and finding nothing, John was ruining his yard more than uncovering treasure. With his yard almost in ruins, John was getting concerned that he might have taken his obsession too far. After a series of failures, John was starting to wonder if this venture was worth it. After a while, he thought it would be best to put away the shovel and stop pursuing this crazy goal.
When he began digging, John really didn’t have a plan. He just figured that if he started digging then he would eventually find what it was that he was looking for. After four holes dug and finding nothing, John was ruining his yard more than uncovering treasure. With his yard almost in ruins, John was getting concerned that he might have taken his obsession too far. After a series of failures, John was starting to wonder if this venture was worth it. After a while, he thought it would be best to put away the shovel and stop pursuing this crazy goal.
Though discouraged from his mission, John used the time to reflect on the mission at hand. After a while, he came up with a new plan, one that would have a better chance at finally, once and for all, uncover the mystery. He decided that the best avenue to go down was to Tuscan’s municipal records. After some heavy research, he discovered more and more clues, one that would reward him for a long time.
Though discouraged from his mission, John used the time to reflect on the mission at hand. After a while, he came up with a new plan, one that would have a better chance at finally, once and for all, uncover the mystery. He decided that the best avenue to go down was to Tuscan’s municipal records. After some heavy research, he discovered more and more clues, one that would reward him for a long time.
When looking over the municipal records, John reviewed information about his new house that he already knew – the year, the size, and all that jazz. However, there were some rough sketches of the house that revealed information about the house that he never knew before. The records revealed that in 1961, more than 50 years earlier, a company called Whitaker Pools applied for a permit in order to work on the property. Usually this wouldn’t cause much concern, except for the fact that John’s home didn’t have a pool. So, what did the company work on in 1961? The answer was something that no one, especially John, saw coming.
When looking over the municipal records, John reviewed information about his new house that he already knew – the year, the size, and all that jazz. However, there were some rough sketches of the house that revealed information about the house that he never knew before. The records revealed that in 1961, more than 50 years earlier, a company called Whitaker Pools applied for a permit in order to work on the property. Usually this wouldn’t cause much concern, except for the fact that John’s home didn’t have a pool. So, what did the company work on in 1961? The answer was something that no one, especially John, saw coming.
With now the blueprints of the home in his hand, John had a better understanding of where to begin searching. No more mindless digging – now, John had a plan. Instead of taking on this venture alone, like he attempted before, John got a little wiser and turned to a team of consultants to help him out with this strange undertaking. In no time at all, the specialist arrived to his home, each with their own metal detectors. Properly equipped, John and the team were prepared to uncover this mystery.
With now the blueprints of the home in his hand, John had a better understanding of where to begin searching. No more mindless digging – now, John had a plan. Instead of taking on this venture alone, like he attempted before, John got a little wiser and turned to a team of consultants to help him out with this strange undertaking. In no time at all, the specialist arrived to his home, each with their own metal detectors. Properly equipped, John and the team were prepared to uncover this mystery.
John was sure that this time he finally got it right, and soon they would discover what the secret that was rumored to be in his backyard. However, as the team roamed over his yard with metal detectors in hand, John became nervous when everything was silent. As the tension built, John grew more and more anxious. After all this time and effort, he put into this scavenger hunt, could he possibly be wrong? John was going over the possibility in his mind when suddenly the detectors went off. As the bells chimed, John regained his confidence and his excitement sparked alive once more.
John was sure that this time he finally got it right, and soon they would discover what the secret that was rumored to be in his backyard. However, as the team roamed over his yard with metal detectors in hand, John became nervous when everything was silent. As the tension built, John grew more and more anxious. After all this time and effort, he put into this scavenger hunt, could he possibly be wrong? John was going over the possibility in his mind when suddenly the detectors went off. As the bells chimed, John regained his confidence and his excitement sparked alive once more.
Just as John was ready to shout for joy, another ping of the metal detectors went off. John was in disbelief – not only was there one spot of interest but there was to. John was overjoyed to know that his efforts were not in vain and that there was actually something under there. Now, with the locations flagged, John advanced to the next step in his grand plan. If helped tremendously that John now knew exactly where he needed to focus his energy on. No more days digging mindlessly in the Arizona heat. No more questioning if he was insane or not. It was finally confirmed that there was in fact something in his backyard. What exactly it was, John couldn’t wait to discover.
Just as John was ready to shout for joy, another ping of the metal detectors went off. John was in disbelief – not only was there one spot of interest but there was to. John was overjoyed to know that his efforts were not in vain and that there was actually something under there. Now, with the locations flagged, John advanced to the next step in his grand plan. If helped tremendously that John now knew exactly where he needed to focus his energy on. No more days digging mindlessly in the Arizona heat. No more questioning if he was insane or not. It was finally confirmed that there was in fact something in his backyard. What exactly it was, John couldn’t wait to discover.
At once, John grabbed his trusty old shovel and returned to his backyard. He went about digging up his yard yet again, but this time he knew exactly were to spend his effort. This time around, there was no guessing. As John was digging furiously under the scorching sun in the second location that was flagged, John, almost immediately, hit something hard. When he jabbed his shovel back into the dirt, the tell-tale sound of metal hitting against metal sounded clear and true. John finally struck gold.
At once, John grabbed his trusty old shovel and returned to his backyard. He went about digging up his yard yet again, but this time he knew exactly were to spend his effort. This time around, there was no guessing. As John was digging furiously under the scorching sun in the second location that was flagged, John, almost immediately, hit something hard. When he jabbed his shovel back into the dirt, the tell-tale sound of metal hitting against metal sounded clear and true. John finally struck gold.
Though elated at first that he had proof that something was hidden underneath his yard, Jon quickly began to doubt his find. His first thought was that he was just digging up his septic tank rather than some great mystery. If that were to be the case, John would have felt extremely disappointed and also extremely embarrassed. He also worried that if he continued to dig, he would damage the tank, which would come with its own set of problems. He wondered, should he take the risk?
Though elated at first that he had proof that something was hidden underneath his yard, Jon quickly began to doubt his find. His first thought was that he was just digging up his septic tank rather than some great mystery. If that were to be the case, John would have felt extremely disappointed and also extremely embarrassed. He also worried that if he continued to dig, he would damage the tank, which would come with its own set of problems. He wondered, should he take the risk?
After thinking about it, John decided that this mystery was worth the risk and kept on digging. He was much more careful as he went about his work this time, but soon he discovered that what he was digging up was no septic tank, to his great relief. No, this was something way more bizarre. With every shove of dirt, John got closer and closer to the object that laid underneath. His curiosity grew to exponential heights, and he couldn’t put down his shovel until he knew exactly what was beneath his feet.
After thinking about it, John decided that this mystery was worth the risk and kept on digging. He was much more careful as he went about his work this time, but soon he discovered that what he was digging up was no septic tank, to his great relief. No, this was something way more bizarre. With every shove of dirt, John got closer and closer to the object that laid underneath. His curiosity grew to exponential heights, and he couldn’t put down his shovel until he knew exactly what was beneath his feet.
As John continued to dig, his fears that he was digging up his septic tank quickly dissolved. However, has he begun to unearth the object; more questions rather than answers meet him. John finally ended up unearthing a concrete form that looked to be an entryway. John became even more confused. Was this an entryway? If so, where did it lead to? Well, John certainly didn’t come all this way to give up now.
As John continued to dig, his fears that he was digging up his septic tank quickly dissolved. However, has he begun to unearth the object; more questions rather than answers meet him. John finally ended up unearthing a concrete form that looked to be an entryway. John became even more confused. Was this an entryway? If so, where did it lead to? Well, John certainly didn’t come all this way to give up now.
John was completely taken by surprise when he discovered the entryway. A portal into somewhere unknown was the last thing that he was anticipating, and it didn’t do much to quench his curiosity. In fact, it only added to the disturbing mystery. Immediately, John got to work and cleared away the dirt that covered the entryway so that he could better inspect this strange discovery. Once clear of debris, he was able to pry open the lid, revealing a dark and looked to be bottomless pit. With his occupation being a fire department captain, John was well aware that it would be safe for him to enter the opening… no yet, anyway.
John was completely taken by surprise when he discovered the entryway. A portal into somewhere unknown was the last thing that he was anticipating, and it didn’t do much to quench his curiosity. In fact, it only added to the disturbing mystery. Immediately, John got to work and cleared away the dirt that covered the entryway so that he could better inspect this strange discovery. Once clear of debris, he was able to pry open the lid, revealing a dark and looked to be bottomless pit. With his occupation being a fire department captain, John was well aware that it would be safe for him to enter the opening… no yet, anyway.
Though part of him wanted nothing more to jump into the opening and be done of this mystery, John knew that he had to wait. As a fire department captain, he had to not only enforce the rules but also abide by them. Even though he was off the clock, he knew that the same rules applied, even at his home. He knew that the opening could be filled with many dangers, such as mold or toxic fumes, to just name a few. John also wanted a few more people to be with him when he went down, just to assist him in case the structure was not secure and there was a sudden collapse. With all this mind, John thought it best until he had reinforcements.
Though part of him wanted nothing more to jump into the opening and be done of this mystery, John knew that he had to wait. As a fire department captain, he had to not only enforce the rules but also abide by them. Even though he was off the clock, he knew that the same rules applied, even at his home. He knew that the opening could be filled with many dangers, such as mold or toxic fumes, to just name a few. John also wanted a few more people to be with him when he went down, just to assist him in case the structure was not secure and there was a sudden collapse. With all this mind, John thought it best until he had reinforcements.
After about an excruciating day of waiting until assistance arrived, a team appeared to lend him the helping hand that he needed. Now that he followed all the safety precautions to the letter, John felt more confident about taking the plunge into the dark hole that was in his backyard. John sat on the edge of the entryway, prepping for his descent. When he looked down, he saw something that he would have never dreamed to see!
After about an excruciating day of waiting until assistance arrived, a team appeared to lend him the helping hand that he needed. Now that he followed all the safety precautions to the letter, John felt more confident about taking the plunge into the dark hole that was in his backyard. John sat on the edge of the entryway, prepping for his descent. When he looked down, he saw something that he would have never dreamed to see!
Looking over the entry’s edge, John saw large metal blades that would up the tunnel beneath him. Completely astonished at such a sight, it only made him wonder what the blades purpose was. After giving more time for his eyes to adjust to the dark space, he was able to make out his surroundings more clearly. The objects he thought were metal blades at first were actually steps on a staircase. The winding staircase began at the top of the entryway and wound down deeper into the earth.
Looking over the entry’s edge, John saw large metal blades that would up the tunnel beneath him. Completely astonished at such a sight, it only made him wonder what the blades purpose was. After giving more time for his eyes to adjust to the dark space, he was able to make out his surroundings more clearly. The objects he thought were metal blades at first were actually steps on a staircase. The winding staircase began at the top of the entryway and wound down deeper into the earth.
Normal people would have probably hesitated after seeing staircases that ran down into what looked to be the middle of the earth. That was not the case for John. He wanted nothing more than to jump right in. Thankfully, his training in the fire department prevented him from making rash decisions like that. Instead, he allowed his common sense to take over and be a little more cautious.
Normal people would have probably hesitated after seeing staircases that ran down into what looked to be the middle of the earth. That was not the case for John. He wanted nothing more than to jump right in. Thankfully, his training in the fire department prevented him from making rash decisions like that. Instead, he allowed his common sense to take over and be a little more cautious.
Many are probably wondering, well what was the big deal? It is just a set of stairs. In reality, the set of stairs was built over 50 years ago, meaning that the stability of each step was highly questionable. Not willing to take the risk and venture alone, John turned to others. He assembled a team and together they came up with a plan that would allow John to enter in the hole safely.
Many are probably wondering, well what was the big deal? It is just a set of stairs. In reality, the set of stairs was built over 50 years ago, meaning that the stability of each step was highly questionable. Not willing to take the risk and venture alone, John turned to others. He assembled a team and together they came up with a plan that would allow John to enter in the hole safely.
Though the find in his backyard was exciting, John didn’t allow that to mess with his common sense. Besides, though he treasured this find, he still valued his life over this discovery, meaning that he wouldn’t go down into the depths without proper help and safety precautions. This is exactly why John called on the help of some of his most trusted friends to come up with a strategy. They all worked together and eventually came up with a brilliant plan. Little did they know that all their hard work was going to pay off in a big way. And throughout the next steps, someone was smart enough to capture the entire experience.
Though the find in his backyard was exciting, John didn’t allow that to mess with his common sense. Besides, though he treasured this find, he still valued his life over this discovery, meaning that he wouldn’t go down into the depths without proper help and safety precautions. This is exactly why John called on the help of some of his most trusted friends to come up with a strategy. They all worked together and eventually came up with a brilliant plan. Little did they know that all their hard work was going to pay off in a big way. And throughout the next steps, someone was smart enough to capture the entire experience.
John had no idea what decades of being unused has done to the structure, and he didn’t want to find out when he was already down there. So, in order to prevent a catastrophe, John instructed his friends to fix and support the structure wherever necessary. The first point of concern was, of course, the staircase. Without a stable staircase, they couldn’t possibly reach the bottom, and the stairs needed some serious attention. The metal was completely rusted and in some spots were being stripped away to nothing but the bare bone. This made John worry, for if anyone tired to step on one, it was highly likely that it would collapse underneath their weight, making it a hazard for anyone to venture down.
John had no idea what decades of being unused has done to the structure, and he didn’t want to find out when he was already down there. So, in order to prevent a catastrophe, John instructed his friends to fix and support the structure wherever necessary. The first point of concern was, of course, the staircase. Without a stable staircase, they couldn’t possibly reach the bottom, and the stairs needed some serious attention. The metal was completely rusted and in some spots were being stripped away to nothing but the bare bone. This made John worry, for if anyone tired to step on one, it was highly likely that it would collapse underneath their weight, making it a hazard for anyone to venture down.
John and his team went to work at once. They first went about widening and reinforcing the entryway around the stairs with new rebar and multiple layers of concrete. This was done to ensure that the structure was stable enough for people to start going inside and fixe the other numerous problems this hole had. This was a critical step to ensure that everyone would be safe. As they tirelessly worked on the entryway, the team were starting to slow down due to the blazing Arizona heat. The high temperatures started to not only take a tole on the team but also the project as a whole. In order to prevent the sun from running their work, the team put a tent over the site to help the team members find some escape away from the burning sun.
John and his team went to work at once. They first went about widening and reinforcing the entryway around the stairs with new rebar and multiple layers of concrete. This was done to ensure that the structure was stable enough for people to start going inside and fixe the other numerous problems this hole had. This was a critical step to ensure that everyone would be safe. As they tirelessly worked on the entryway, the team were starting to slow down due to the blazing Arizona heat. The high temperatures started to not only take a tole on the team but also the project as a whole. In order to prevent the sun from running their work, the team put a tent over the site to help the team members find some escape away from the burning sun.
John has proven over and over that he is a man who likes to think ahead and he wasn’t about to quite this habit now. This is why when he was finally able to uncover the mystery structure that he had been obsessing over for some time now, he wanted to be able to see and a simple flashlight just wouldn’t do. The next task at hand for John and team was to install an electrical line, which would allow the space down below to be illuminated. Having the space would not only allow John and the team to see what is truly down there, but it would also enable them to bring their power tools along, just in case.
John has proven over and over that he is a man who likes to think ahead and he wasn’t about to quite this habit now. This is why when he was finally able to uncover the mystery structure that he had been obsessing over for some time now, he wanted to be able to see and a simple flashlight just wouldn’t do. The next task at hand for John and team was to install an electrical line, which would allow the space down below to be illuminated. Having the space would not only allow John and the team to see what is truly down there, but it would also enable them to bring their power tools along, just in case.
As was stated previously, John worked as a firefighter for many years, making him aware of the dangers that come along with tight, enclosed spaces. For example, he knew early on that mold and gas leaks were a major concern, especially in a structure that is roughly 50 years old. Before he entered, John made sure to take the proper precautions. John and his friends went to work and added a pipe in the entryway. This would allow for a fresh passage of air to filter down in the space. With the pip installed, everything was finally ready for the much-anticipated descent down into the hole. Finally, John would be able to see the secret that he has obsessed over for quite some time.
As was stated previously, John worked as a firefighter for many years, making him aware of the dangers that come along with tight, enclosed spaces. For example, he knew early on that mold and gas leaks were a major concern, especially in a structure that is roughly 50 years old. Before he entered, John made sure to take the proper precautions. John and his friends went to work and added a pipe in the entryway. This would allow for a fresh passage of air to filter down in the space. With the pip installed, everything was finally ready for the much-anticipated descent down into the hole. Finally, John would be able to see the secret that he has obsessed over for quite some time.
Unfortunately, this was one minor obstacle that was standing in John’s way to finally be able to solve the mystery – the staircase. With the step’s brittle, making it too risky to put weight on it, there was no way that anyone could get inside. They weren’t even able to repair them from the outside. The only option was to go inside. When all seemed lost, John had an idea. Always ready with a solution, John ran inside his house and came back outside with a ladder. He placed it in the opening and, viola! They now had a safe way to reach the bottom. At long last, John could see what was inside.
Unfortunately, this was one minor obstacle that was standing in John’s way to finally be able to solve the mystery – the staircase. With the step’s brittle, making it too risky to put weight on it, there was no way that anyone could get inside. They weren’t even able to repair them from the outside. The only option was to go inside. When all seemed lost, John had an idea. Always ready with a solution, John ran inside his house and came back outside with a ladder. He placed it in the opening and, viola! They now had a safe way to reach the bottom. At long last, John could see what was inside.
After long hours digging in the sun, intense research, and tireless effort: John was finally able to uncover the secret that his friend first revealed to him once he bought the home. He had work so hard for this moment, and he was ready to seize. As he started to climb down the ladder, a sudden thought came upon him. He realized then, in the darkness of the hole, that he was probably the first person to have been there in the last 50 years! He couldn’t contain his excitement any longer and practically flew down the ladder. Just what was waiting for him below?
After long hours digging in the sun, intense research, and tireless effort: John was finally able to uncover the secret that his friend first revealed to him once he bought the home. He had work so hard for this moment, and he was ready to seize. As he started to climb down the ladder, a sudden thought came upon him. He realized then, in the darkness of the hole, that he was probably the first person to have been there in the last 50 years! He couldn’t contain his excitement any longer and practically flew down the ladder. Just what was waiting for him below?
As fast as he possibly could, John raced down the ladder and finally made it to the bottom. He stepped off the ladder and came upon an unbelievable sight. He couldn’t believe his eyes! There he was, standing in a vast room that was buried deep underneath his very own backyard! He looked in every direction and noticed that for being buried for a couple decades everything was in good shape. What really took him by surprise was that not only was there a single room, but, in fact, there was an entire system of tunnels connected underneath, forming a complex!
As fast as he possibly could, John raced down the ladder and finally made it to the bottom. He stepped off the ladder and came upon an unbelievable sight. He couldn’t believe his eyes! There he was, standing in a vast room that was buried deep underneath his very own backyard! He looked in every direction and noticed that for being buried for a couple decades everything was in good shape. What really took him by surprise was that not only was there a single room, but, in fact, there was an entire system of tunnels connected underneath, forming a complex!
John couldn’t wait to tell his friend, the former owner of the house, that the secret he had told him turned out to be true. He was standing in the middle of the mystery and everything was starting to make sense. After his research, John figured that the Whitaker Pools company were the ones to build this unique structure. However, from what John could see, there was no pool in sight. None of it was adding up. That was until John remembered that it was constructed in 1961, giving a gigantic hint as to the purpose and reason behind the creation of this structure.
John couldn’t wait to tell his friend, the former owner of the house, that the secret he had told him turned out to be true. He was standing in the middle of the mystery and everything was starting to make sense. After his research, John figured that the Whitaker Pools company were the ones to build this unique structure. However, from what John could see, there was no pool in sight. None of it was adding up. That was until John remembered that it was constructed in 1961, giving a gigantic hint as to the purpose and reason behind the creation of this structure.
After a couple minutes of inspection, and with the year it was built in mind, John knew exactly why this structure was built. If anything, the fiberglass ceiling was a huge giveaway. Unfortunately, fiberglass can be extremely toxic to people if they were to breathe it in, and it is also an irritant to bare skin. To make matters worse the ceiling was coming apart. Luckily, the ceiling was something that could be easily fixed and didn’t cause John much concern. Besides, after all the work he put to discovering this place, he wasn’t just about to back out because of some fiberglass.
After a couple minutes of inspection, and with the year it was built in mind, John knew exactly why this structure was built. If anything, the fiberglass ceiling was a huge giveaway. Unfortunately, fiberglass can be extremely toxic to people if they were to breathe it in, and it is also an irritant to bare skin. To make matters worse the ceiling was coming apart. Luckily, the ceiling was something that could be easily fixed and didn’t cause John much concern. Besides, after all the work he put to discovering this place, he wasn’t just about to back out because of some fiberglass.
As the clue started to pile up – the fiberglass, the year it was made, the layout of the structure, and the lack of décor – John came to the conclusion that he was standing in what once was an underground bunker that was built to be a nuclear fallout shelter. This all took place during the Cold War, which was a period of hostilities between the Soviet Union and the U.S. Due to the rising fear that the Soviet Union could bomb America at any time, many Americans built bomb shelters to protect themselves. Though everything was finally falling into place, one thing still didn’t make sense - why had a company called Whitaker Pools built a nuclear bunker?
As the clue started to pile up – the fiberglass, the year it was made, the layout of the structure, and the lack of décor – John came to the conclusion that he was standing in what once was an underground bunker that was built to be a nuclear fallout shelter. This all took place during the Cold War, which was a period of hostilities between the Soviet Union and the U.S. Due to the rising fear that the Soviet Union could bomb America at any time, many Americans built bomb shelters to protect themselves. Though everything was finally falling into place, one thing still didn’t make sense - why had a company called Whitaker Pools built a nuclear bunker?
After some researching, John eventually discovered that back in the day Whitaker Pools constructed bomb shelters. Since more people in that time was interested in building bunkers rather than buying pools, the company did this as a way to help meet the high demands. In fact, they were not the only company to have done this, but was actually one of the many across the country that changed their mode of sales in order to build bunkers. This was easily done because many of the pool companies realized that building a bunker wasn’t all that different from building an inground pool. As a result, many of the companies turned to manufacturing nuclear fallout shelters. By 1961, one Los Angeles company called Catalina Polls had built 500 shelters!
After some researching, John eventually discovered that back in the day Whitaker Pools constructed bomb shelters. Since more people in that time was interested in building bunkers rather than buying pools, the company did this as a way to help meet the high demands. In fact, they were not the only company to have done this, but was actually one of the many across the country that changed their mode of sales in order to build bunkers. This was easily done because many of the pool companies realized that building a bunker wasn’t all that different from building an inground pool. As a result, many of the companies turned to manufacturing nuclear fallout shelters. By 1961, one Los Angeles company called Catalina Polls had built 500 shelters!
Now that John was fully aware of what was buried in his backyard, the only thing to deal with was now deciding what to do with it. His friends made plenty of suggestions, such as converting the shelter into a cigar bar, wine cellar, or a “man cave”. Believe it or not, they were not the first to come up with these ideas. Bomb shelters have been uncovered all across the world and many of the owner have converted them into wonderful things. For example, some have been turned into modern homes, art galleries, recording studios, and even hotels. The possibilities are truly endless. And although he valued his friends’ suggestions, John had another idea in mind for his backyard treasure.
Now that John was fully aware of what was buried in his backyard, the only thing to deal with was now deciding what to do with it. His friends made plenty of suggestions, such as converting the shelter into a cigar bar, wine cellar, or a “man cave”. Believe it or not, they were not the first to come up with these ideas. Bomb shelters have been uncovered all across the world and many of the owner have converted them into wonderful things. For example, some have been turned into modern homes, art galleries, recording studios, and even hotels. The possibilities are truly endless. And although he valued his friends’ suggestions, John had another idea in mind for his backyard treasure.
Just any rational man would do with his discovery, John turned to the Internet to post about his recent discovery. Quickly, he realized that he was not alone. His post on Reddit ended up going viral, allowing others to share their experience about discovering their own bomb shelters. This process only added to the interest he had in bomb shelters and the Cold War era in general. As his love for this time period grew, so did his obsession. Later on, he finally decided to convert his bomb shelter to a museum. With a new plan in the works, John went back to work.
Just any rational man would do with his discovery, John turned to the Internet to post about his recent discovery. Quickly, he realized that he was not alone. His post on Reddit ended up going viral, allowing others to share their experience about discovering their own bomb shelters. This process only added to the interest he had in bomb shelters and the Cold War era in general. As his love for this time period grew, so did his obsession. Later on, he finally decided to convert his bomb shelter to a museum. With a new plan in the works, John went back to work.
John knew that his bunker needed was major renovation. Coincidentally, with renovation also comes serious cash, which is something John did not have a lot of. So, he turned to the Internet yet again and started a GoFundMe page, which he wrote, “Hi, I’m John and I need some help restoring a vintage Fallout Shelter that I have uncovered in my back yard.” He went on to elaborate that, “the upper entry needs a large concrete pour to secure the entry and the metal circular staircase needs to be replaced.” John knew that if he could get the entryway and the staircase repaired then he could easily start work down below. After some calculation, John estimated that the project would cost around $2,000.
John knew that his bunker needed was major renovation. Coincidentally, with renovation also comes serious cash, which is something John did not have a lot of. So, he turned to the Internet yet again and started a GoFundMe page, which he wrote, “Hi, I’m John and I need some help restoring a vintage Fallout Shelter that I have uncovered in my back yard.” He went on to elaborate that, “the upper entry needs a large concrete pour to secure the entry and the metal circular staircase needs to be replaced.” John knew that if he could get the entryway and the staircase repaired then he could easily start work down below. After some calculation, John estimated that the project would cost around $2,000.
John’s GoFundMe campaign took off and was shared by many. Sadly, though many people supported him, he only managed to have raised several hundred dollars, falling short of his $2,000 goal. But, like everything else he has faced so far, John was not willing to give up and managed to raise the rest of the money on his own. To meet his goal, he even took off from work to repair the staircase. Now that is commitment! After a lot of hard work and a series of updates, John was finally able to post: “Stairs are finished! Now it’s easy and safe to climb in and out.” In addition to the caption, he also posted this picture of the completed stairway, which he decided to paint a pleasing shade of blue.
John’s GoFundMe campaign took off and was shared by many. Sadly, though many people supported him, he only managed to have raised several hundred dollars, falling short of his $2,000 goal. But, like everything else he has faced so far, John was not willing to give up and managed to raise the rest of the money on his own. To meet his goal, he even took off from work to repair the staircase. Now that is commitment! After a lot of hard work and a series of updates, John was finally able to post: “Stairs are finished! Now it’s easy and safe to climb in and out.” In addition to the caption, he also posted this picture of the completed stairway, which he decided to paint a pleasing shade of blue.
Though finishing the stairs was a major part to the process of renovating the bunker, after it was completed there was still a lot to be done in order to complete the vision of a museum that he had. All along the way, he makes sure to keep his audience updated on Reddit. “My plans are to clean up the interior, repaint it and turn it into a really cool man cave, HAM shack, and Civil Defense Museum.” He goes on to say, “Once I started this project, I researched a bunch about the Cold War period and how the civilian fears prompted many people to build these shelters.” It is clear that discovering this shelter has made a significant impact on John’s life. So much so, that he wants nothing more than to share it with others.
Though finishing the stairs was a major part to the process of renovating the bunker, after it was completed there was still a lot to be done in order to complete the vision of a museum that he had. All along the way, he makes sure to keep his audience updated on Reddit. “My plans are to clean up the interior, repaint it and turn it into a really cool man cave, HAM shack, and Civil Defense Museum.” He goes on to say, “Once I started this project, I researched a bunch about the Cold War period and how the civilian fears prompted many people to build these shelters.” It is clear that discovering this shelter has made a significant impact on John’s life. So much so, that he wants nothing more than to share it with others.
In order to achieve his new goal of building a museum within the bunker in his backyard, John has already started to gather a mass supply of props. He has reported that he has already found artifacts such as water supply barrels, HAM radios, Geiger counters, and sanitation kits to display. All of this and more are from the Cold War era and help the audience to see what it was truly like to live back in that time. Pictured above are just some of the items that John has amassed to put on display at his treasured backyard museum. Today, he continues to build and continues to find more artifacts for the museum, and he does this all because not only is it his passion but it is also his hope that he could teach others about this crazy period in American history.
In order to achieve his new goal of building a museum within the bunker in his backyard, John has already started to gather a mass supply of props. He has reported that he has already found artifacts such as water supply barrels, HAM radios, Geiger counters, and sanitation kits to display. All of this and more are from the Cold War era and help the audience to see what it was truly like to live back in that time. Pictured above are just some of the items that John has amassed to put on display at his treasured backyard museum. Today, he continues to build and continues to find more artifacts for the museum, and he does this all because not only is it his passion but it is also his hope that he could teach others about this crazy period in American history.