The Dewey Lake Monster
Bigfoot is about to be dethroned as the king of cryptids.
As we all know, Bigfoot is not the only bipedal cryptid lurking in the woods and hiding from us. There is the Yeti, Yowie, and Orang Pendek. While these monsters are more well known, Michigan has it’s own Bigfoot-like creature roaming around Dewey Lake in Cass County.
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The Dewey Lake Monster is a massive beast at 10 feet tall and 500 pounds, sporting dark fur and massive bear-like claws. Images show a cone-shaped head and long arms. It is said to be more aquatic, enjoying a dip in the lake’s sparkling waters. There are also claims the monster gives off a foul odor, similar to a skunk.
DEWEY LAKE MONSTER-MANIA
The Dewey Lake Monster became national news in the summer of 1964. Residents of the area reported seeing a large creature with glowing eyes. When some news outlets shared the location, people decided upon the fifteen miles between Dogwagiac and Decatur in hopes of catching a glimpse of the monster. That had the unfortunate effect of some people faking evidence.
CREDIBLE ENCOUNTERS
Still, there were notable and credible encounters.
Such as that of Evelyn Utrup. She reported a roughly nine foot tall creature had chased her into her farmhouse. Another, John Green claimed to see the beast while fishing on Dewey Lake. He described an eight foot tall monster with dark fur and a human-like face.
Other patterns in sightings are consistent as well. Along with the height and fur, the Dewey Lake Monster is often seen in the summer months. Strange, guttural noises are regularly heard as well.
Over all, there have been 30 credible reports, but outside of footprints, there is little concrete evidence. I didn’t see any reports of photographs or videos. Wendy Alexander, a Cass County native who grew up hearing the legend wonders if more people have seen the monster but are embarrassed to admit it. She also thinks because of CGI and how realistic it can be, video and photographic evidence may not cut it anymore.
"I don't think video in this day and age, it just gets better. CGI is so realistic, it would take an actual specimen," Alexander said.1
Wendy Alexander, a Cass County native who's interested in the legend.
But whatever the truth may be—an urban legend or an flesh and blood monster—the Dewey Lake Monster has made its mark Cass County. The Sister Lakes Brewing Company hosts a Dewey Lake Monster conference every year and it draws in visitors from all over. There is also a Dewey Lake Monster Festival with a parade, carnival ride, and craft fair.2
The Dewey Lake Monster, in a way, is very real and not going anywhere.
DID YOU ENJOY UNCOVERING THE DEWEY LAKE MONSTER?
Do you think the Dewey Lake Monster is real? Or is it, as skeptic claim, a misidentified bear or other animal?
My next email will drop on the 28th. Keep your eyes peeled because I will be sharing some new inspiration!
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Until next time, stay spooked!
~Patricia J.L.
Source of quote: https://wwmt.com/news/local/michigan-monsters-dewey-lake-monster-legend-comes-to-the-surface
Yes, I will totally see if I can find vendor info and if I can afford to go to it. That would be amazing!