Oscar the Turtle of Churubusco

In the summer of 1948, farmer Gale Harris spotted an enormous snapping turtle in Fulk Lake on his Indiana property. What followed was one of the most unusual cryptid hunts in American history, drawing national media and thousands of curious spectators.

The Sighting

Gale Harris first spotted the turtle while fishing. He estimated its shell was about four feet across, far larger than any snapping turtle on record. He named the creature Oscar and began attempts at capture.

The Hunt

Harris initially tried to catch Oscar with bait and nets. When these failed, he attempted to drain the lake. Pumps ran continuously. The water level dropped. Oscar was spotted multiple times but never caught.

The Circus

Media descended on the small Indiana town. Thousands of spectators arrived daily. Vendors sold food and turtle-themed souvenirs. The hunt became a summer festival. Churubusco embraced its newfound fame.

The Failure

Despite all efforts, Oscar was never captured. The lake could not be completely drained due to underground springs. Divers searched without success. Eventually, interest waned and the hunt was abandoned.

The Legacy

Churubusco now calls itself “Turtle Town USA.” An annual festival called Turtle Days celebrates Oscar. A concrete turtle statue honors the beast. The town’s identity remains shaped by the turtle that got away.

Assessment

Whether Oscar was an unusually large normal turtle, an undiscovered species, or a case of misperception, the hunt became a genuine cultural phenomenon. The town’s commitment to the legend ensures Oscar will never be forgotten.