What Is Treasure of Matecumbe About?
The premise of Treasure of Matecumbe in 332 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the unsettled aftermath of the Civil War, the rolling hills of Kentucky hold more than lingering memories of conflict. Here, teenage David Burnic discovers a family secret—a weathered map tucked away in an old book that points to a cache of gold hidden on the remote Florida island of Matecumbe. The revelation sets a tone of restless curiosity, mixing the quiet desperation of a reconstructed South with the promise of untold riches waiting beyond the horizon. The world feels both gritty and expansive, a landscape where riverboats and frontier roads whisper of opportunity and danger in equal measure.
David’s journey quickly becomes a tapestry of unlikely companions. The stoic presence of his aunts, Aunt Effie and Aunt Lou, grounds him in the familiar while the enigmatic ex‑slave Ben offers the first glimpse of the map’s hidden past. Along the way he befriends Thad, a young boy with an unshakeable resolve, and encounters the spirited runaway bride Lauriette Paxton, whose daring spirit matches the open‑ended road ahead. Adding a touch of eccentricity, the charismatic snake‑oil showman Dr. Ewing Snodgrass brings a flair for spectacle, turning the plain map into a piece of embroidered art. Together, this rag‑tag band embodies the restless energy of a nation reshaping itself, each character carrying their own hopes, scars, and a shared yearning for something larger than themselves.
The tone of the tale rides a fine line between swash‑buckling adventure and wistful frontier drama. Sweeping river passages, bustling river towns, and the looming, untamed Everglades set a backdrop that feels as alive as the characters themselves. Hints of native legends and the ever‑present threat of nature’s fury—storms that roll across the Gulf—loom on the horizon, promising both wonder and peril. The story invites viewers to wander with David and his allies, feeling the pull of the unknown and the thrill of a quest that could reshape their destinies, all while the world around them sways between the past’s shadows and the bright, uncertain promise of the future.
What Happens in Treasure of Matecumbe?
The complete story of Treasure of Matecumbe, from the first scene to the last, in 773 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 12 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
In post-Civil War Kentucky, ex-slave Ben, Robert DoQui, arrives at Grassy, the decaying plantation where Davie Burnie, Johnny Doran, his aunts Aunt Effie, Jane Wyatt, and Aunt Lou, Virginia Vincent, and the young ex-slave Thad, Billy Pop Atmore, live. Ben reveals that Davie’s father hid a treasure map in a book in the home. That night, Northern carpetbagger Captain Spangler, Vic Morrow, and his men attack the plantation, but Effie helps the boys escape. Ben rips the map from the book and gives it to the boys before being shot and killed by Spangler.
The boys book cheap passage on a steamboat headed down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. They meet Lauriette Paxton, Joan Hackett, a “runaway bride.” She cheats a gambler, Dick Van Patten, out of $400 and a ring. One night, a thief steals Davie’s wallet (which has his money and map). When Lauriette tries to stop him, he pushes her overboard. The boys jump into the river and save her. Lauriette trades her ring for a mule and cart, and the trio make it to the next town. Lauriette turns the boys in as runaways, but they escape. Spangler hears of the jail break, and is back on the boys’ trail.
Davie and Thad meet snake oil salesman Dr. Ewing Snodgrass, Peter Ustinov, and join his show. In the next town, Lauriette sees the show. Spangler and his men also see the boys on stage, and Davie flees. Just as Spangler is about to push Davie over a cliff, Lauriette intervenes and drives him off with a gun. Lauriette and Dr. Snodgrass now realize that the boys’ tale of a treasure map is true. Based on Davie’s description of the map, Snodgrass embroiders a rough copy of the map onto a handkerchief.
Davie suggests they seek out his Uncle Jim, Robert Foxworth, whose home is downriver at a place called Friar’s Point. Using Snodgrass’ boat, they arrive at Jim’s home just as he is about to be lynched by the Ku Klux Klan for, or so their leader claims, interfering in the Klan’s business. Taking one of the Klansmen’s rifles, Davie shoots down the noose, while Thad and Dr. Snodgrass lob Molotov cocktails at the Klan, which drives them off. They continue downriver, and stop for the night with some rivermen. Lauriette’s dancing proves too provocative for the rough men, and Jim rescues her from their advances. At the next landing, they are suddenly attacked by Spangler and his men, who have caught up to them aboard a small steamboat. Fleeing into the woods, Jim leads Spangler and his men off and is seemingly killed by Spangler’s lieutenant, Catrell. Meanwhile, Snodgrass, Davie, Thad, and Lauriette double back and steal the steamboat, blowing up Snodgrass’ keelboat to prevent pursuit.
In New Orleans, the foursome boards a train headed for Florida, but are spotted by Spangler’s men. Reaching Tampa, Florida, the group hires a local guide, Cooter Skaggs, Don Knight to get them through the Everglades to Matecumbe. Skaggs betrays them and takes them to Spangler. Dr. Snodgrass turns his embroidered copy of the treasure map over to Spangler to save Davie’s life. Spangler and his men abandon the group in the swamp and head for Matecumbe. Hours later, Davie and the others are surprised to see Uncle Jim arrive in a boat, guided by his Seminole friend, Charlie, Valentin de Vargas. The group uses Charlie’s boat to head for the island and the treasure site even though Charlie says it is located in the territory of the dangerous “Cougar” tribe of Native Americans.
The group finds the buried treasure just as a hurricane hits. Snodgrass is swept out to sea by a giant wave. The others stumble into a Cougar burial ground, and take refuge in a chief’s tomb. After the hurricane passes, the group finds and digs up the treasure. Davie and his friends are spotted by Spangler and his men, and flee. Davie and Thad lead Spangler into the burial ground just as a large number of Cougars arrive. Spangler and his men desecrate several graves and structures as they chase Davie and Thad. Stopping when they see the treasure chest, Spangler and his men are caught by the Cougars. The Native Americans, uninterested in the chest, take the villains off to be made into “squaws”—slaves for the rest of their lives.
Davie and his friends take the treasure and head back to the beach, where they find Dr. Snodgrass injured but alive. Jim and Lauriette, now in love, agree to move to Grassy with Davie and Thad, and Davie invites Dr. Snodgrass to come live with them.
Treasure of Matecumbe Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
13 key events in the order they happen, from “Ben reveals treasure map and is killed” to “Return to shore and plans for the future”. 13 events name a place, across 13 locations.
- 1
Ben reveals treasure map and is killed
Ex-slave Ben arrives at Grassy and reveals that Davie's father hid a treasure map in a book at the plantation. He rips the map from the book and hands it to Davie and Thad, setting their quest in motion. Captain Spangler's men attack the plantation that night, and Ben is shot and killed as Effie helps the boys flee.
When:post-Civil War Where:Grassy, Kentucky plantation
- 2
Mississippi steamboat to New Orleans
The boys flee down the Mississippi on a steamboat headed for New Orleans, hoping to reach safety with the map. A stowaway named Lauriette Paxton hides aboard and soon becomes involved with their escape. Lauriette cheats a gambler out of $400 and a ring, signaling the start of her uneasy alliance with the boys.
When:on the river to New Orleans Where:Mississippi River steamboat
- 3
Wallet stolen; Lauriette pushed overboard
A thief steals Davie's wallet, which contains his money and the map, triggering pursuit. Lauriette tries to stop the thief and is shoved overboard; Davie and Thad jump in to rescue her, solidifying their bond. The trio continues downriver with Lauriette now officially along for the ride.
When:during the river journey Where:Mississippi River vicinity
- 4
Lauriette's mule ride and runaways
Lauriette trades her ring for a mule and cart to help the group travel more easily. In the next town, she betrays them by attempting to turn them in as runaways, but the boys manage to escape custody. The uneasy alliance between Lauriette and the boys continues as Spangler's men close in.
When:after the river journey Where:next town after the river journey
- 5
Snodgrass and the map on stage
Davie and Thad meet snake oil salesman Dr. Ewing Snodgrass and join his traveling show. Lauriette discovers them in the audience and Spangler's men recognize the boys on stage, forcing Davie to flee. Snodgrass and Lauriette realize the map is real when Davie describes it, and Snodgrass begins embroidering a rough copy onto a handkerchief to help them keep the legend alive.
When:during the traveling show Where:town with Snodgrass's show
- 6
Friar's Point and the Ku Klux Klan
They seek Uncle Jim, whose home lies downriver at Friar's Point. At Friar's Point, the Ku Klux Klan threatens Jim for interfering in their business, and Davie, armed with a rifle from a captured Klansman, shoots the noose; Thad and Snodgrass lob Molotov cocktails to drive the mob away. The crew escapes as the Klan is temporarily repelled.
When:after arriving downriver Where:Friar's Point
- 7
Spangler attacks at the landing
They press on with rivermen for the next leg of the journey. Lauriette's provocative dancing escorts the group into trouble with rough men; Jim rescues her from their advances. At the next landing, Spangler's men catch up aboard a small steamboat; Jim lures them away and is seemingly killed by Spangler's lieutenant, Catrell.
When:immediately after Friar's Point stop Where:Friar's Point / rivermen landing
- 8
Steamboat hijack and explosion
Davie, Thad, Lauriette, and Snodgrass double back and steal a steamboat to outrun Spangler. They blow up Snodgrass's keelboat to prevent pursuit, severing their ties to the villainous caravan. The quartet continues downriver, free but hunted, clutching clues to the treasure.
When:after the Friar's Point confrontation Where:on the river
- 9
New Orleans to Florida pursuit
In New Orleans, they board a train heading for Florida, but Spangler's men are on their trail. The chase tightens as the group heads toward safer territory, keeping the map's legend alive. Their pursuers remain determined to capture Davie and seize the treasure.
When:before reaching Tampa Where:New Orleans
- 10
Everglades crossing and betrayal
Facing the Everglades, they hire guide Cooter Skaggs in Tampa to lead them toward Matecumbe. Skaggs betrays them and leads them to Spangler, while Snodgrass quietly hands over the embroidered map copy to Spangler to save Davie's life. The treacherous route through the swamp becomes a deadly race with time.
When:Tampa to Matecumbe journey Where:Tampa and Everglades toward Matecumbe
Show the other 3 events of Treasure of Matecumbe Hide the last 3 events
- 11
Uncle Jim returns and love blooms
Uncle Jim arrives by boat, guided by his Seminole friend Charlie, to aid the group. Jim's arrival brings a moment of safety and leadership, and Lauriette reveals she and Jim are in love. The team presses on toward the treasure site, determined to outpace Spangler's men.
When:before reaching the island Where:Matecumbe area
- 12
Hurricane, burial ground, and the treasure
They reach the treasure site just as a hurricane strikes, sweeping Snodgrass out to sea. The group takes shelter in a Cougar burial ground and, after the storm, digs up the buried treasure. Spangler and his men pursue them into the burial ground, where the Cougars capture the villains to be slaves, allowing Davie and his friends to escape with the treasure.
When:during the hurricane Where:Cougar burial ground near Matecumbe
- 13
Return to shore and plans for the future
Back on the beach, they recover the treasure and tend to Snodgrass, who is injured but alive. Jim and Lauriette decide to move to Grassy with Davie and Thad, and Davie invites Snodgrass to come live with them. The adventure ends with plans for a safer life and the map’s legend carried forward by friends.
When:aftermath Where:beach near Grassy
Who Are the Main Characters in Treasure of Matecumbe?
11 characters, among them Davie Burnie (Johnny Doran), Lauriette Paxton (Joan Hackett) and Dr. Ewing Snodgrass (Peter Ustinov): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
- DB
Davie Burnie (Johnny Doran)
Played by Johnny Doran
A brave, resourceful boy who uncovers the treasure map and leads the cast on their journey. He remains hopeful and quick-thinking, often taking risks to protect friends. His discovery drives the quest and exposes him to the harsher realities of postwar America.
- 🧒 Protagonist
- 🗺️ Treasure seeker
- 🧠 Quick-witted
-
Lauriette Paxton (Joan Hackett)
Played by Joan Hackett
A runaway bride who joins the boys and becomes a fearless, street-smart ally. She uses wit and daring to navigate danger, and she evolves into a key partner in the treasure hunt. Her evolving feelings add a human dimension to the group's dynamics.
- 💃 Runaway
- 🧭 Quick-witted
- 💖 Romantic interest
-
Dr. Ewing Snodgrass (Peter Ustinov)
Played by Peter Ustinov
A flamboyant snake-oil salesman who unintentionally becomes a crucial ally. He embellishes a rough map onto a handkerchief and provides crafty, if opportunistic, solutions. His humor lightens the peril while his cleverness advances the treasure pursuit.
- 🪄 Quack doctor
- 🧠 Inventive
- 🧭 Enterprising
-
Uncle Jim (Robert Foxworth)
Played by Robert Foxworth
A steady, capable riverman who becomes a protector and guide for the kids. He leads from experience and courage, stepping up when danger arises. His presence brings a sense of familial loyalty to the voyage.
- 🧭 Guide
- 🛡️ Protector
- 🧑🔧 Resourceful
- CS
Captain Spangler (Vic Morrow)
Played by Vic Morrow
A ruthless carpetbagger and relentless pursuer, he embodies the film's antagonistic force. His schemes and hostility drive the conflict, making the road to the treasure perilous. His presence ensures that danger is never far away.
- 🗡️ Villain
- 🏃♂️ Pursuer
- 🧯 Ruthless
-
Ben (Robert DoQui)
Played by Robert DoQui
An ex-slave who reveals the treasure map's existence but is killed early in the pursuit. He embodies sacrifice and the legacies of slavery, offering a moral anchor for the journey. His actions catalyze the quest and its stakes.
- 🕊️ Survivor
- 🗺️ Map-bearer
- 🖤 Martyr
- T(
Thad (Billy Pop Atmore)
Played by Billy 'Pop' Atmore
A young ally and ex-slave who shows loyalty and courage. He stands by Davie and helps navigate through danger, often providing practical, brave support. His youth contrasts with the perilous world around him, highlighting resilience.
- 👦 Loyal friend
- 🛡️ Courage
- 🧭 Sidekick
- C(
Charlie (Valentin de Vargas)
Played by Valentin de Vargas
A Seminole guide and ally who helps navigate the Everglades. His knowledge of the land and his friendship provide essential guidance for reaching Matecumbe. He adds cultural depth and a cautious, respectful approach to the journey.
- 🧭 Guide
- 🐾 Native ally
- 🛶 Navigator
- C(
Catrell (Mills Watson)
Played by Mills Watson
A lieutenant aligned with Spangler, he helps coordinate pursuit and conflict. His presence amplifies the danger and showcases the organized, brutal side of the antagonists. He is a foil to the protagonists’ improvisational resilience.
- 🗡️ Henchman
- 🧭 Prowler
- 🧯 Antagonist
- AE
Aunt Effie (Jane Wyatt)
Played by Jane Wyatt
Davie and Thad’s aunt who anchors the family’s life at Grassy. She embodies the domestic resilience of the Reconstruction era and provides emotional grounding for the boys. Her presence emphasizes the stakes of home and family.
- 👵 Family anchor
- 🛡️ Protector
- 🏡 Home base
- AL
Aunt Lou (Virginia Vincent)
Played by Virginia Vincent
Davie and Thad’s aunt who keeps the family together at Grassy. She contributes practical wisdom and steadfast support during the perilous journey. Her role underscores community and survival in harsh times.
- 👵 Community pillar
- 🧭 Practical
- 🛡️ Supportive
Where and When Is Treasure of Matecumbe Set?
Treasure of Matecumbe is set in Grassy plantation, Kentucky, Mississippi River, New Orleans, Friar's Point… (Post-Civil War era). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Post-Civil War era
The events unfold in the years immediately after the Civil War, during the Reconstruction period. The narrative spans a short, danger-filled journey as ex-slaves, freed youths, and travelers chase a legendary treasure. The era’s social tensions—carpetbaggers, white supremacist threats, and fragile family ties—shape the risks and decisions the characters face along the trail.
Where
Grassy plantation, Kentucky, Mississippi River, New Orleans, Friar's Point, Tampa, Everglades, Matecumbe, Florida
The story centers on the Grassy plantation in postwar Kentucky, a decaying southern home where a hidden treasure map sets the plot in motion. The journey then follows the Mississippi River toward New Orleans, into Florida's Everglades, and finally to Matecumbe. The varied locations—river towns, plantations, swamps, and coastal islands—establish a restless, adventure-filled backdrop reflective of Reconstruction-era America.
- 🏚️ Decaying plantation
- 🚤 River journey
- 🗺️ Post-Civil War South
What Are the Themes of Treasure of Matecumbe?
4 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Adventure, Friendship & Resilience and Racial Tensions.
-
01
Adventure
A treasure map drives the plot, sending Davie, Thad, Lauriette, and Snodgrass on a perilous voyage from Grassy to New Orleans and beyond. The pursuit by Captain Spangler injects constant danger and tests the group’s wits. The quest pushes the characters to rely on unlikely allies and make tough choices under pressure. Ultimately, the treasure becomes a catalyst for growth and loyalty.
-
02
Friendship & Resilience
Amid the aftermath of slavery, the group forges a surrogate family, sharing risks and resources. Bonds form across ages, races, and backgrounds as they navigate deceit, danger, and rough terrain. The alliance with Lauriette and Dr. Snodgrass demonstrates that trust and cooperation can outlast fear. The journey tests their resolve but also reinforces communal strength.
-
03
Racial Tensions
The pursuit unfolds in a society still reeling from slavery, where threats from virtue to violence loom large. Encounters with the Ku Klux Klan and the burdens of racial hierarchy color decisions and dangers along the way. The characters’ courage often comes into conflict with bigotry and lawlessness. The film uses these tensions to critique injustice while highlighting perseverance.
-
04
Nature's Fury
Storms and a hurricane become pivotal plot forces, altering routes and endangering the group. The environment shapes the suspense—swamps, coastlines, and burial grounds become stages for peril and escape. The wild weather tests nerve and ingenuity, forcing quick, improvised solutions. In the aftermath, nature’s power underscores the fragility and resilience of the travelers.
What Kind of Film Is Treasure of Matecumbe?
Hopeful in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Hopeful
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
An adventurous and hopeful journey following a determined teenager and his allies through dangerous swamps and confrontations with villains, creating a fast-paced and tense but ultimately rewarding coming-of-age experience.
- adventurous
- hopeful
- dangerous
- persevering
- youthful
- tense
- treasure hunt
- coming of age
- found family
- betrayal
Content notes: murder, lynching, child endangerment, home invasion.
Quiz
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