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Snallygaster
German immigrants brought tales of a dragon-like beast to Maryland. In 1909, it terrorized the area—newspapers reported it daily. Teddy Roosevelt almost canceled a safari to hunt it. Part dragon, part bird, all terror.
1700s - Present
Maryland, USA
100+ witnesses
The Snallygaster is Maryland’s oldest monster.
The Origins
German settlers:
- “Schneller Geist” (quick spirit)
- Brought legend
- 1700s arrival
- Protected with hex signs
- Fear was real
The Description
What it looks like:
- Dragon-like body
- Huge wingspan
- Metallic beak
- Tentacles
- One eye
The 1909 Flap
Media frenzy:
- Daily newspaper reports
- Multiple sightings
- Widespread panic
- National attention
- Month-long terror
Teddy Roosevelt
Presidential interest:
- Almost canceled Africa trip
- Wanted to hunt it
- Smithsonian involved
- Added to excitement
- Never happened
The End
How it stopped:
- Reported to have fallen
- Into moonshine vat
- Exploded when lit
- Revenue agents involved
- Convenient ending
Modern Times
Still reported:
- Occasional sightings
- Part of culture
- Festival mascot
- Craft beer named for it
- Legend lives