Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, has long been a part of Appalachian folklore.
While some remain skeptical of its existence, others are convinced that this mysterious creature roams the forests and mountains of the region.
In this article, we will explore the history, evidence, and cultural significance of Bigfoot in Appalachia and consider the arguments of both believers and skeptics.
History of Bigfoot in Appalachia
Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch, is a large, ape-like creature that has long been a part of Appalachian folklore and has captured the imagination of believers and non-believers alike.
The origins of Bigfoot in Native American mythology go back centuries, with stories of large, ape-like creatures.
Micah Hanks writes in an article on Mysterious Universe about the legend of Bigfoot-like creatures in the Southeastern United States, specifically in North Carolina.
He states that one of the earliest stories of such an animal appeared in the Statesville Landmark on Thursday, January 3, 1878.
“[The wild man] started toward the party a few steps, stopped still and began to pound himself in the breast with his ponderous fists. There he stood for two minutes, evincing no power of speech. Suddenly he turned and bounded off with the speed of a deer. The party then repaired to the house of one of the men, secured a gun, pistol, and other articles of warfare, and went in pursuit of the strange being. They searched the balance of the day, but nothing could be seen of the object of their pursuit. During the search, they ascended the crags of Blowing Rock and discovered a small cave, in which was found a bed of leaves and many bones resembling those of the opossum. It is supposed this cave has afforded this wild man a home for many years.”
Statesville Landmark, Thursday, January 3, 1878
I also came across this newspaper sighting from 1878….
Since then, there have been numerous reported sightings and encounters with Bigfoot in the Appalachian region, particularly in the states of West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
In addition to the encounter above, there is a variety of evidence that has been presented as proof of Bigfoot’s existence in the Appalachian region.
This includes eyewitness accounts from individuals who claim to have seen the creature, as well as physical evidence such as footprints and audio recordings.
While many Bigfoot believers point to this evidence as proof of the creature’s existence, skeptics argue that it can often be explained by natural or human causes.
The Evidence for Bigfoot in Appalachia
Over the years, a variety of evidence and encounters have been presented as proof of Bigfoot’s existence in the Appalachian region.
This includes eyewitness accounts from individuals who claim to have seen the creature, as well as physical evidence such as footprints and audio recordings.
One report from WCHS mentions Les O’Dell, who is an investigator of Bigfoot cases that received eyewitness accounts from residents of West Virginia.
He states that One witness in Braxton County, WV, reported hearing something moving and then seeing a creature walk a short distance in front of them before it moved away quickly, crashing through the brush.
While many Bigfoot believers point to this evidence as proof of the creature’s existence, skeptics argue that it can often be explained by natural or human causes. For example, some argue that eyewitness accounts can be influenced by the power of suggestion or by the individual’s desire to believe in Bigfoot. Similarly, footprints and audio recordings can be easily faked or misinterpreted.
The Bigfoot Community in Appalachia
Despite the skepticism surrounding Bigfoot, there is a dedicated community of researchers and enthusiasts in the Appalachian region who are committed to seeking out and studying the creature.
There is plenty to explore if you want to get in on the action.
For instance, the West Virginia Bigfoot Museum in Sutton, West Virginia is the only museum in the state dedicated to Bigfoot.
Located in Braxton County, the museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the legendary creature.
If you’re interested in learning more about Bigfoot in West Virginia, this museum is worth a visit.
Check out the quote below found at Phillymag.com, which was the result of a compilation of data by the Travel Channel and the BFRO:
“Not surprisingly, the Appalachian range has a high number of Bigfoot sightings. With hundreds of miles of connected forestlands, it’s a prime space for a large animal to go undetected. One of Pennsylvania’s most interesting cases involves a mountain biker who, while taking a rest, thought he was watching the back-end of a bear as it rummaged through a downed-tree. The biker’s curiosity turned to shock when the animal stood up. What he thought was a bear was actually a giant 7-foot bipedal creature covered in black hair.”
Another such example is the group Bigfoot 911, based in Marion, NC.
Bigfoot 911 is a research team that investigates Bigfoot sightings, primarily in McDowell County and Western North Carolina. It was founded by John Bruner in 2015.
In addition to following up on leads and tips, they also use game cameras and various tools and techniques, including thermal imaging and night vision, to conduct their research in the woods.
Groups like Bigfoot 911 often use a variety of methods in their search, including setting up cameras and audio equipment in areas where Bigfoot is known to be active and conducting field research to gather evidence and analyze it for signs of the creature.
While some of these groups are more serious in their approach, others take a more lighthearted and recreational approach to Bigfoot research.
The Skeptics of Bigfoot in Appalachia
While there are many individuals and organizations dedicated to researching and seeking out Bigfoot in the Appalachian region, there are also those who are highly skeptical of its existence.
Skeptics argue that there is a lack of concrete, scientific evidence for Bigfoot’s existence and that the majority of reported sightings and encounters can be explained by natural or human causes.
They also point out that no physical evidence of Bigfoot, such as bones or DNA, has ever been found.
The Future of Bigfoot in Appalachia
It is difficult to predict the future of Bigfoot research in the Appalachian region, as it is a subject that is steeped in controversy and debate.
However, it is likely that Bigfoot will continue to capture the imagination of people around the world and that sightings and encounters will continue to be reported in the region.
With the advancement of technology and scientific techniques, it is possible that we may see new discoveries and developments in the field that could shed more light on the existence of Bigfoot in the Appalachian region.
Conclusion
While the existence of Bigfoot in the Appalachian region remains a topic of debate, it is clear that the creature has had a significant impact on the culture and folklore of the region.
Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, it is impossible to deny the allure of Bigfoot and the mystery that surrounds it.
As we continue to search for answers and try to understand this enigmatic creature, it is important to approach the subject with an open mind and respect for different viewpoints.