I am not a huge fan of this particular Cryptid, but it holds a place for me for a few reasons. First, I am from Indiana…so I almost have to include it in any list of cryptids I am involved in. The other big one is the fact that this one is probably real, if not a bit exaggerated. It wouldn’t be the first time a fisherman told a tale that made something much larger than it actually was.
At any rate, here is the basic story of the Beast of Busco.
Known Origin and Basic Lore:
- The legend of the Beast of Busco centers around the purported existence of a gigantic snapping turtle named Oscar.
- The story began in 1949 when local farmer Gale Harris reported seeing a massive turtle in the waters of Fulk Lake on his property.
- Harris claimed that the turtle, which he dubbed Oscar, was so large that it could potentially weigh hundreds of pounds and had managed to evade capture despite numerous attempts.
- The legend quickly spread throughout the community, capturing the imagination of locals and attracting attention from the media.
Significant Sightings:
- Following Gale Harris’s initial report, numerous sightings of Oscar were claimed by residents and visitors to Churubusco.
- Efforts to capture the elusive creature included draining parts of Fulk Lake, setting traps, and even offering a reward for its capture.
- Despite extensive searches and media coverage, Oscar was never captured or definitively proven to exist.
Legacy and Cultural Impact:
- The legend of the Beast of Busco has become an integral part of Churubusco’s folklore and cultural identity.
- The town hosts an annual Turtle Days festival, which celebrates the legend of Oscar and includes various events and activities for residents and visitors.
- The story of Oscar has been immortalized in local artwork, literature, and even a sculpture of a giant turtle erected near Fulk Lake.
- While the existence of Oscar remains unconfirmed, the legend continues to be passed down through generations, serving as a source of pride and amusement for the people of Churubusco.
Likelihood of Existence:
- The likelihood of the Beast of Busco’s existence is a subject of debate and skepticism.
- While common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) can grow to impressive sizes, reaching weights of over 50 pounds, the reported size of Oscar far exceeds typical measurements for the species.
- Some skeptics believe that the legend of Oscar may have been exaggerated or fabricated for publicity or entertainment purposes.
- Nevertheless, the legend of the Beast of Busco persists as a beloved part of Churubusco’s history, reminding us of the enduring power of folklore and the human imagination.
