On Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at noon, the first official clue will be released in what has become the largest publicly organized treasure hunt in the region’s history.
The Newton Falls Treasure Hunt currently features over $28,000 in cash, gold, silver coins, and jewelry, with additional sponsorships still being accepted until the treasure is found. One winner will claim the entire prize.
Clues will be released every two weeks on Tuesdays at noon via Fieldview Acres Mercantile’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok platforms, and will also be available for public viewing at the store.
The hunt is free to participate in and open to the public.
But according to organizer Thomas J. Colosimo, owner of Fieldview Acres Mercantile and Split River Social, the treasure chest is only part of the story.
“This was never just about hiding a box of money,” Colosimo said. “It was created to bring families into Newton Falls, to encourage people to explore our historic downtown district, and to support small businesses that have been fighting to stay open. If we can increase foot traffic, increase tourism, and create energy around our town, that impact lasts long after the treasure is claimed.”
The hunt has already begun generating measurable attention. Businesses in the Newton Falls Historic District report increased visits from out-of-town guests scouting locations ahead of the launch. Restaurants, retail shops, and service businesses are preparing for sustained traffic in the weeks and months ahead.
The treasure itself has been intentionally placed in a specific location accessible from publicly available ground. The hunt does not involve digging, trespassing, climbing, entering water, or disturbing property. Participants are expected to follow clearly stated guidelines designed to ensure safety and preserve the integrity of the event.
“This is not a race and it’s not a stunt,” Colosimo said. “It’s built on observation, patience, interpretation, and context. It may take months to solve. That’s intentional.”
The Newton Falls Treasure Hunt is supported by more than 45 local and regional sponsors, including automotive dealers, restaurants, retail shops, construction companies, real estate professionals, service providers, and private donors. Their collective support has helped build the prize to one of the largest in Northeast Ohio.
Sponsors include: Sarchione Chevrolet, Fieldview Acres Mercantile, Split River Social, Hometown Hound, Broken Leaf Café, Salley Young – Key Realty, Cozy Investments LLC – We Buy Houses, Falls Home Oil Company, Auto Toys, James Funeral Home, Newton Falls Fitness Center, Broad Street Vintage, Clover Auctions, Kropp Photography, MF Dumpsters, Torin Litsinger Construction, Big D’s Newton Grill, Tiny Tots Preschool & Daycare, Sub Stop, Ronald Vincent – Coldwell Banker, Evenbay Real Estate, Mi Amigo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, Rood’s Wallpaper & Paint, A & G Market, Riverview Inn, Wayne & Elizabeth Kleinert, Five 4’s Distillery, Gun ‘N Hoses Café & Catering, Cole Valley Chevrolet, Shannan Jursa, State Farm Agent, Rabel & Sons Construction, Rustic Roots, City Water Delivery, Waterboy Pools & Supplies, Benson’s BS & Collectibles, Glass Act Stained Glass & Art Studio, Shop ‘n Save, Daystar Ford, New Wave Dance & Taekwondo, Falls Flea Market, Misc. – New – Used – Vintage, Direct International, Dairy Queen Grill & Chill – Newton Falls, Cadle Company, Coe’s Creations, repurposedMaterials, John Cope, Garrettsville Cinema, and Vinny’s of Newton Falls.
Organizers emphasize that no purchase is required to participate and no special equipment is necessary. When the treasure is found, the winner will undergo a brief verification process and the claim will be publicly confirmed.
As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, Colosimo says the spirit behind the hunt reflects something larger.
“Two hundred fifty years ago, this country began with belief and boldness,” he said. “This is our way of believing in Newton Falls. We want people to rediscover what’s already here.”
The first clue drops Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at noon.
For updates, follow Fieldview Acres Mercantile on social media or visit in person at the Newton Falls Historic District.
