The Beast of Busco

One of the most famous cryptid sightings in Indiana is the encounter with the “Beast of Busco.” This story centers around a giant snapping turtle purportedly seen in Churubusco, Indiana.

The Legend of the Beast of Busco

The Initial Sightings

In 1898, a farmer named Oscar Fulk claimed to have seen a giant turtle in a seven-acre lake on his farm near Churubusco, Indiana. Describing it as being of enormous size, Fulk tried to capture the creature but was unsuccessful. The story of the giant turtle was largely forgotten until it resurfaced fifty years later.

The 1940s Sightings

In July 1948, a farmer named Gale Harris bought the farm that included the lake where the giant turtle was previously sighted. One day, Harris and a friend, Charlie Wilson, reportedly saw the giant turtle while fishing in the lake. The sighting of such a massive creature piqued the interest of the local community.

News of the giant turtle, which they began calling “Oscar,” spread quickly. The excitement grew, and many locals claimed to have seen the Beast of Busco themselves. The creature was described as being at least 500 pounds, with a shell the size of a dining room table.

The Capture Attempts

Gale Harris decided to capture the beast, hoping to prove its existence once and for all. Over several months, various attempts were made to capture Oscar. These included draining the lake, setting up elaborate traps, and even employing a diver to search for the creature underwater. Each effort ended in failure, with Oscar eluding capture and remaining a mystery.

During one attempt, Harris and others partially drained the lake, but the turtle escaped into deeper waters. On another occasion, a diver named Orville Bright entered the murky waters but found no trace of the turtle, only the muddy bottom of the lake.

The story gained widespread attention, attracting reporters, curiosity seekers, and even cryptozoologists. Despite the numerous efforts and the media frenzy, no definitive evidence of Oscar’s existence was ever found.

The Legacy

The Beast of Busco remains a part of local folklore and a celebrated aspect of Churubusco’s history. The town has embraced the legend, hosting an annual “Turtle Days” festival to commemorate the elusive giant turtle. The festival features parades, turtle races, and various other events that celebrate the town’s unique claim to fame.

Although the existence of the Beast of Busco has never been proven, the story continues to capture the imagination of those who hear it. It serves as a reminder of the mysteries that can exist in our own backyards and the allure of the unknown.

Conclusion

The legend of the Beast of Busco is one of Indiana’s most enduring cryptid stories. While the giant turtle has never been captured or definitively proven to exist, the sightings and subsequent attempts to find Oscar have left a lasting mark on the community of Churubusco. The tale of the elusive giant snapping turtle continues to be a source of fascination and a beloved piece of local folklore.