Oak Island S12 E18: Rick Lagina, Katya Drayton, Jack Begley, and Tom Nolan Uncover Vault Clues in Swamp Dig

In Episode 18 of The Curse of Oak Island Season 12, titled “If the Shoe Phips”, the team—led by Rick and Marty Lagina—continues a focused excavation in the northern region of the swamp, where cobblestone pathways and wooden survey stakes suggest the presence of more hidden structures. Guided by metal detector readings and careful digging, cast members Katya Drayton, Jack Begley, and Tom Nolan uncover a series of striking clues that could reshape their understanding of the island’s mysterious past.

Survey Stakes, Chisel, and Spike: Man-Made Clues Surface

The episode starts with another discovery of axe-cut wooden stakes, similar to those previously aligned with the cobblestone path. These repeated finds point toward deliberate survey work, likely tied to a larger operation.

Soon after, Katya picks up a strong metal detection hit, leading to the unearthing of an iron spike and what appears to be a hand-hammered chisel—both potentially used in constructing or uncovering vault-like features in the swamp. Rick Lagina observes the lack of corrosion, indicating it might have been buried under favorable conditions or more recently introduced.

Leather Fragments Reveal 19th-Century Footwear

Perhaps the most intriguing find is fragments of thick, oak-tanned leather—later identified as parts of heavy-duty boots, likely from the 1830s to 1900s. Leather expert Joe Landry confirms the robust stitching and tanning technique, suggesting they were likely worn by laborers or possibly military personnel.

This revelation aligns with earlier discoveries in the same area and hints at sustained activity around the suspected vault zone. The age of the leather points to the period when Anthony Graves owned the land—adding a compelling historical layer to the find.

Anthony Graves Connection: A Silent Landowner With a Silver Secret

Anthony Graves, who purchased much of Oak Island in 1857, never took part in Money Pit digs. Yet, historical accounts note he later spent Spanish silver coins on the mainland, despite no known sources of such wealth. This episode revives speculation that Graves may have discovered a vault, kept it secret, and slowly used its riches—possibly tied to the very vault site now under investigation.

The Cast’s Dedication Continues: “Eyes and Boots”

As the team prepares to take their artifacts back to the lab for further study, the prevailing sentiment is clear—every artifact, from iron to leather, is part of a bigger puzzle. Rick, Craig, Gary, Charles, and others remain focused on extracting meaning from these finds. For Rick, each clue is a thread leading toward a fuller story of the swamp—and maybe, to the elusive treasure itself.