Roy,
The post by Starman pretty much answers your questions.
The specific illusion of the maps is that the were created by the same folks. They were not. A lot of work has been done in the Superstitions and elsewhere to help that illusion. Trails, signs, etc., all created with a purpose.
Of course Somehiker`s solution is correct. Most are.
To understand this you need to understand the Trail Maps tapped into a Trail system not just a trail. The witch map was created to lead one on a merry chase. Pretty much has.
If you are interested in the trail of trails spend time in the Fish Creek area. There are still legitimate clues there that no one has been able to find.
Now that Oz is gone, we really have no interest in the range. Enjoy the various trails.
Goodbye Roy,
Ben
Just as an aside Martin was exactly who he said he was. Damn waste.
Arizona Hiker,
Don Shade wrote a book titled Esperanza. On the cover is the statement, "This is an anthology of the travels of man through the Valley of Illusions". The history of the Superstitions is a Valley of Illusions. The real question is why?
One illusion on top of another until even asking a question is impossible because the question is imbetted with assumptions that themselves are illusions. That is what lies at the heart of your question. An illusion.
Jacob Waltzer was the dutchman. He came to America from South Africa. His descendants still live there. His journey to Arizona was the adventure of a meloncholy man who lost the only woman he ever loved. In part he came to Arizona to protect and preserve. He also came to America to make amends for his inability to save his wife.
That is the truth. You and many others have been spun like tops and placed in a house of mirrors. Your illusions were created by some of the most honorable individuals to ever set foot in those mountains. The truth is in a small museum in South Africa.
Their work is not limited to the Superstitions but covers a significant amount of history in the Southwest.
Shade was an honorable man. He told the truth. He also created illusions. At least they were his own.
Martin Waltzer