“It’s not just about finding treasures; for me, it’s about connecting with the past and sharing those connections with others.” — Alex Osterhoudt
The Live Show with Mr. Bucketlister
Alex Osterhoudt, known as @historyrecoveries across social media platforms, recently took center stage on Andrew Aures’ TikTok live talk show. Aures, popularly known as Mr. Bucketlister, brought Alex on to discuss his passion for metal detecting and the remarkable artifacts he’s uncovered over the years. What unfolded was a captivating journey through history, told through relics that have lain hidden for centuries beneath the soil.
From his first find—a clad quarter unearthed with a Bounty Hunter Gold Digger—to swinging a top-tier Minelab Manticore, Alex’s journey into metal detecting is as rich as the treasures he uncovers. His passion is driven by a deep curiosity for history and a relentless desire to explore the “non-obvious” sites that others might overlook.
“I really try to look for the spots that people wouldn’t think to check…not obvious. That’s where you find the real treasures.”
The Treasures Uncovered
During the live show, Alex shared stories of his most memorable finds, and they are nothing short of breathtaking:
- 1827 Cap Bust Dime — Found perfectly preserved in a patch of grass, off the beaten path, near a militia training ground, a site few would have thought to check.
- Spanish Silver Reales — Including an 1801 two-reale and an 1831 one-reale, each symbolizing a piece of colonial history.
- Civil War Artillery Buttons — Buttons from the War of 1812 and the Civil War, delicately preserved and rich with historical significance.
- Colonial Era Relics — Crotal bells, musket parts, and militia buttons—all remnants of America’s formative years.
One of the standout moments of the live stream was Alex’s recounting of his South Carolina expedition, where he unearthed two half reales back-to-back and a Hibernia coin from 1769—a rare find that left fellow detectorists in awe. His display case, filled with colonial relics and perfectly preserved coins, serves as a visual reminder of the hidden stories buried beneath our feet.
A Natural Teacher and Storyteller
What became abundantly clear during the live show was Alex’s natural talent for storytelling. His passion for history and deep knowledge of the artifacts he finds is undeniable. Fellow detectorists on the live show noted his knack for educating others about historical relics and how to identify their origins. For Alex, it’s more than just finding treasures; it’s about honoring the past and preserving its stories for the next generation.
“For me, metal detecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a way to bring history back to life.”
The Secret to Finding History
One thing that sets Alex apart is his methodical approach to metal detecting. His strategies include:
- Researching Historical Maps — Alex digs into historical records and maps to identify forgotten homesteads and long-lost taverns.
- Hunting Non-Obvious Sites — He avoids the obvious places, opting instead for locations that others might overlook.
- Swing Speed and Sensitivity — Understanding that slowing down and listening to faint signals can be the difference between a surface penny and a centuries-old coin.
- Relentless Persistence — Alex’s record of unearthing over 100 large cents in a single season is proof of his tenacity and dedication.
Looking Ahead: Big Dreams and Bold Adventures
When asked about his aspirations, Alex shared his dream of one day detecting in St. Augustine, Florida, one of the oldest cities in the United States. His ambition is to uncover Spanish treasures and relics from the 1600s—pieces of history waiting to be brought back to life. He also hinted at plans to explore sites out West and in Canada, continuing his journey of unearthing history across state lines.
“There’s so much left to discover. I’m just getting started.”
A Rising Star in the Metal Detecting Community
With over 22,000 followers on TikTok and a growing presence on Instagram and YouTube, Alex is rapidly becoming a well-known figure in the metal-detecting world. His ability to narrate his adventures with authenticity and passion has garnered a loyal audience eager to watch his next big find. His recent live show with Mr. Bucketlister only solidified his place as one of the most promising young detectorists in the community.
As Alex Osterhoudt continues to dig, discover, and document his finds, it’s clear that his journey is just beginning. His passion for history and his relentless pursuit of hidden treasures are inspiring a new generation of detectorists to pick up their machines and uncover the past, one signal at a time.
About the Host – Andrew Aures (Mr. Bucketlister)
Aures, known as Mr. Bucketlister, is the host of the live show. He hails from the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York and is 34 years old.
Although relatively new to metal detecting, having started just three years ago, Andrew has made a significant impact in the community. His passion for the hobby goes beyond the thrill of discovery; it’s about honoring the artifacts he finds. Andrew showcases his finds proudly in his home and donates significant local history pieces to his local historical society museum. His commitment to preserving history and
building connections through group digs has made him a respected figure in the metal-detecting community.
Follow Alex’s Journey:
- TikTok: @historyrecoveries
- Instagram: @historyrecoveries
- YouTube: History Recoveries
MC Writes and Snaps 
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