Discover Jacksonville Gold

For Kids Only

The Kicking Donkey: A Wild Little History Hunt. For kids who’d rather explore than follow all the rules.

Let’s be honest—sometimes kids (and donkeys) don’t feel like doing what they’re told. And we get it. That’s why The Kicking Donkey isn’t your average history lesson—it’s a town-wide scavenger hunt full of clues, surprises, and just a little mischief.

All around Jacksonville, local shops are joining the fun by putting up special Kicking Donkey posters. Each one has a barcode that reveals a clue, a piece of town history, and maybe even a hint at a hidden reward—like candy at the sweet shop, an ice cream cone, or a cool art piece at Rosie’s.

Kids follow the hoofprints through town, scanning codes, solving riddles, and collecting clues to discover where our legendary donkey has wandered off to. Along the way, they’ll learn real gold rush history, explore historic streets, and pick up fun treasures (and maybe a little dust on their boots).

Here’s a detailed stop-by-stop version of The Kicking Donkey scavenger hunt, specifically designed to include Jacksonville shops like Miner Bazaar, Violet & Cream, The Toy Store, Churro Rush, and Bella Union. This version blends local history with shop-based clues, turning town businesses into part of the treasure trail.

🐴 The Kicking Donkey: A Wild Little History Hunt Through Jacksonville

A scavenger hunt that’s part gold rush, part sugar rush—and all fun.

💡 How It Works (for Shopkeepers)

Local shops post Kicking Donkey posters with a QR code kids can scan to reveal a clue, challenge, or activity. Some stops include a small reward (like candy, art stickers, or a treat). Clues are connected to Jacksonville’s history, but with a mischievous, kid-friendly twist. You don’t need to run anything—just display the poster at your shop and be part of the fun!

🎯 Mission: Find where the Kicking Donkey (a.k.a. Buster’s cousin) is hiding by following clues, collecting codes, and solving silly historical mysteries!

🗺️ Stop-by-Stop Shop Adventure

Stop 1: Miner Bazaar – Artful Beginnings 🎨

Poster Location: Front window or near the art supplies section
Clue:
“Gold miners used pickaxes, but I prefer paintbrushes! Create your mark like they did—with color, not dirt!”

Kids’ Challenge:

  • Draw a “gold rush” creature (like a donkey with goggles!)
  • Find the poster to scan for your first clue

Reward (Optional): A sticker or small art stamp

What They Learn:
Even miners made their own maps, labels, and markings—art was survival!

Stop 2: Violet & Cream – Sweet Victory 🍦🍬

Poster Location: Inside, near the ice cream counter or candy shelves
Clue:
“When mules got tired, they got sugar cubes. When YOU get tired… try a scoop instead!”

Kids’ Challenge:

  • Find a candy or ice cream flavor named after something historic
  • Scan the poster for your next clue

Reward (Optional): A small candy or mini cone

What They Learn:
Miners and animals needed energy to work hard—sweets were fuel (and still are!).

Stop 3: The Toy Store – Time Travelers’ Toolbox 🧸⏳

Poster Location: Near the building blocks or puzzle toys
Clue:
*”In 1851, toys were handmade. No batteries. No screens. Just imagination. Find a toy that *could* have existed back then!”*

Kids’ Challenge:

  • Spot an old-fashioned or wooden toy
  • Complete a mini puzzle or riddle on the poster

Reward (Optional): Temporary tattoo or toy-themed sticker

What They Learn:
Gold rush kids made their own toys from scraps—play has always mattered.

Stop 4: Churro Rush – Gold Dust & Cinnamon 🍩✨

Poster Location: Counter or near order pickup window
Clue:
*”They searched for gold dust. I searched for *cinnamon dust.* Which one smells better to you?”*

Kids’ Challenge:

  • Count how many churro toppings there are
  • Scan to get your next clue

Reward (Optional): A sample churro bite or sweet sticker

What They Learn:
Miners cooked with basic ingredients—but you’ve got it sweeter!

Stop 5: Bella Union – Rest for the Rebel 🪑🍽️

Poster Location: Waiting area or entrance
Clue:
“After a long haul, even a stubborn donkey needs a break. This was once a place to eat, meet, and plan the next wild idea.”

Kids’ Challenge:

  • Spot the oldest-looking item or decor in the restaurant
  • Take a short “rest stop” and scan your final clue

Reward (Optional): Honor badge sticker or a mini “Kicking Donkey” coin/token

What They Learn:
Historic buildings like Bella Union were key gathering spots for miners, travelers, and mischief-makers alike.

🎯 Final Reveal:

At the Jacksonville Visitor Center or Historic Museum, kids scan their final QR code and show proof of their clues. They receive:

  • A “Kicking Donkey Explorer” certificate
  • A bag of fool’s gold (pyrite)
  • And maybe even a high-five from the donkey himself (in plush form)

🧭 Additional Notes for Shopkeepers

  • QR posters will be provided—designed, printed, and ready to hang.
  • Participation is simple: just display the poster during the event window.
  • Optional: offer a small giveaway or prize (or none at all—your stop can still be part of the story).
  • Each clue is designed to connect history to something fun and tactile for kids.
  • Want to add your own twist or bonus clue? Go for it! The Kicking Donkey doesn’t always play by the rules 😉

Would you like me to format this into a printable PDF for shopkeepers or create individual posters with QR placeholders and the clues?