Walter Scott, known as Death Valley Scotty, was a desert rat who duped wealthy easterners into investing in his “gold mine.” Scotty took the money and went on infamous spending sprees, never producing an ounce of ore. All but one investor pulled their funding. Albert M. Johnson, an insurance magnate, became friends with Scotty and funded construction of what is now known as Scotty’s Castle. Today, the house is a museum with regularly scheduled Living History Tours offered 365 days a year, usually given between 9:30am and 4pm, but hours vary seasonally. Tours cost $11/adult, $9/senior, and $6/child. Call (760) 786-2392 for current hours. Advance tickets may be purchased at www.recreation.org or by calling (877) 444-6777. Tours of Lower Vine Ranch (Scotty’s actual home • $15/adult), and an Underground Tour ($11/adult) are available daily, between November and April.