Geoffrey Holt was a rather unassuming person. He lived in Hinsdale, New Hampshire, USA. There, he maintained a mysterious house that he used for surveillance. Despite his low profile, the man’s life was full of curiosity.
Dressed in worn-out clothes, Holt would wander around the city of Hinsdale. He would joyfully ride his grass-cutting machine in whichever direction pleased him. He would stop by the side of the main road to read newspapers or sit and observe the traffic of other vehicles.
While Holt did some small tasks for others, he rarely ventured outside the city. Despite learning to drive a car from high school students, he eventually abandoned the car to ride a bicycle. Later, he started mowing grass with his machine. His eccentric house in the park lacked modern amenities like television and computers. His living conditions were not ideal either.
Edwin Smith, Holt’s closest friend, believed that Holt got whatever he wanted. However, he never desired much. In the beginning of the past year, Holt passed away. After his death, a secret was revealed: he owned properties worth about 3.8 million dollars (approximately 42 crore 59 lakh rupees). He had bequeathed all his wealth to the 4,200 residents of the city.
Steve Diorio, the chairman of the city’s election board, expressed disbelief at Holt’s immense success, saying, “I don’t think Holt realized how successful he was. I know he didn’t have a family. Yet, the fact that he left this for the people of the city… it’s a fantastic gift.”
Various proposals are being considered for the use of this money. Some suggest hiking, fishing, and small business ventures. Others propose improving the city’s clock tower, renovating buildings, or investing in a new voting machine in honor of Holt, who always wanted to ensure a secure vote. Another suggestion is an online course for driving.
City administrator Catherine Lynch emphasizes the need for careful and thoughtful spending of Holt’s bequest.
