The Strange Case of Jonathan Swift and the Real Long John Silver

A real Long John Silver? Could this most famous of fictional pirates be actually based on the life of a real man? And could that man be one Jonathan Swift of Alexandria, Virginia, an enigmatic merchant whose legendary silver mines have enticed and eluded treasure hunters for over two centuries? From ancient maps, documents and charts, to personal diaries and secret Masonic archives, author Robert Prather boldly delves into both the mystery and legend of Swift, as well as the probable connections with Robert Louis Stevenson's classic adventure, Treasure Island. Filled with intrigue, deception, murder, cryptic codes and buried treasure, this provocative look into a fascinating segment of literary and American history will ready even the casual reader to set sail for plunder and riches."A fascinating, thought-provoking look at the legendary lost Swift mine and its possible parallel to Robert Louis Stevenson's classic, Treasure Island. Put aside everything you've come to believe and allow Prather (the author) to expand your thinking. A thoroughly enticing read for inquisitive treasure hunters everywhere!" -Carla Short, Managing Editor Lost Treasure magazine "The Strange Case of Jonathan Swift and the Real Long John Silver is an intriguing narrative, fully researched and illustrated, setting in motion a provocative tale of lost treasure and encoded clues contained in Robert Louis Stevenson's epic tale. Robert Prather has shed new light on Treasure Island and will be the topic of much debate." Keith Decker, Chairman The Robert Louis Stevenson Club This intimately researched work results in a fascinating and spellbinding trip beginning before the birth of America and drops the reader in the present day thirsting for the future. I was convinced and find myself looking to buy a metal detector to roam the hills of Kentucky in search of Long John Silver's trove.William DeVries, MD Pioneer Artificial Heart Surgeon

Robert A. Prather and his wife Karen live outside the small town of Garrett, near Fort Knox, Kentucky, and for the past twenty-five years have owned and operated a small business there. He is an ongoing student of history and pre-history, and is a member of the Falls of the Ohio Archaeological Society. Mr. Prather is a 32nd degree Mason and past D.D.G.M. He is an amateur investigator and research scientist. This is Mr. Prather’s first book.