The hodag is a legendary creature associated with Wisconsin and may have been inspired by Native American mythology. Its appearance varies, but a hoax in the late 19th century cemented its popular image. Despite being a practical joke, the hodag remains a beloved part of Rhinelander’s history and folklore. Legends suggest it is fearsome but not a threat to humans, and may use its spikes for protection during harsh winters.
The hodag is a legendary creature that appears to have first developed from stories told by lumberjacks. Today, the creature is particularly associated with Wisconsin, and some legends say that when Paul Bunyan’s ox died and was burned, the hodag rose from its ashes. The Hodags are particularly connected with Rhinelander, Wisconsin, which is called “The Home of the Hodags” on the city’s website. Rhinelander High School even has a Hodag mascot.
Hodag legends may be related to Native Americans, especially the mythology of the Ojibwe tribe. A creature called Mishepishu, or sea panther, was said to have antlers, feathers, scales, and yet be shaped like a mountain lion. Several myths show that Mishepishu is useful for humans and sometimes quite dangerous. Since the Ojibwe tribe was located near the Great Lakes, the idea of an animal with multiple animal parts may have inspired hodag legends.
There are different opinions on the physical appearance of hodags. Some suggest that they have lizard-like bodies, horns on their heads, and are covered in spikes. A hoax perpetuated by Eugene Shepherd in the late 19th century cemented the idea of what this mythical creature is like in many minds. Claiming to have caught a wild hodag, he displayed the beast at the 19 Oneida County Fair, held in Rhinelander.
In truth, the beast on display was carved in wood, covered with an ox skin and horns of cattle and/or oxen. However, from a distance, the animal appeared to move (using ropes) and growl, actually noises provided by Shepherd’s children. Shepherd later took his pet on tour. Shepherd’s hoax is said to have helped Rhineland, bringing in a population needed to help turn Rhineland into a bustling city.
Even though the Shepherd hoax was later dismissed as a major practical joke, the legends of the hodag persist. The beast is considered fearsome, potentially dangerous, and somewhat grumpy. However, its lead to Rhinelander in increasing population means it is also viewed very favourably. It’s not specifically a threat to humans, even though it looks dangerous with all its spikes.
Some legends suggest that hodags use these spikes well for protection during the harsh Wisconsin winters. First they scrub the bark off the trees and get covered in sap. When they’re sticky enough, they roll up in fallen autumn leaves to provide an extra layer of warmth and ward off the cold.
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