Father Struck It Rich

''Father Struck It Rich'' is a 1936 autobiographical memoir by American socialite Evalyn Walsh chronicling the true story of how her father, Thomas Walsh, discovered a massive gold vein at the Camp Bird Mine near Ouray, Colorado, transforming the family from humble beginnings into possessing unbelievable wealth. Upon confirming the secret assay results, her father famously whispered to her, "Daughter, I've struck it rich."

The memoir describes the family's transition to a life of boundless extravagance. Evalyn later married Edward Beale McLean, whose family owned The Washington Post. Together, they lived in grandiose estates, threw legendary parties, and entertained world leaders, kings, and U.S. presidents.

Edward purchased the famous, supposedly cursed Hope Diamond for Evalyn. The book explores her fascination with the gem, her dismissal of its superstitions, and how its dark reputation became intertwined with her family history.

True to the "curse" narrative, the family's incredible fortune eventually succumbed to heavy tragedy. The McLeans lost their firstborn son in a car accident, suffered severe financial ruin, and saw their family fortune entirely disappear.