| Random files - Death Valley |

Scott,_Walter_E__03.jpgWalter E. Scott 03The plaque on a monument next to the grave site.thomascanty
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Scott,_Walter_E__01.jpgWalter E. Scott 01While he never owned it, the famous mansion in northern Death Valley is named for him. It was actually built and owned by Chicago insurance magnate Albert Johnson, whom Scotty conned into investing in his non-existent gold mine. After investing for years in this mine, Johnson eventually decided to take a trip west to see the mine in person. He found out there was no mine, yet he ended up becoming best friends with Scotty anyway. Johnson also fell in love with the desert and he and his wife returned frequently to visit. He decided to build the castle so they wouldn't have to sleep in a tent during their visits. Ever the con man, Scotty told everyone that the castle belonged to him. Johnson let Scotty have his fun and went along with the lie. Any time someone asked Johnson who he was and why he was always in Scotty's home, Johnson would simply reply, "I'm his banker".thomascanty
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