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Bear Lake monster legend traces to 1868 Deseret News report, remains part of local folklore and tourism
Summary
An 1868 Deseret News account first recorded reports of the Bear Lake Monster; folklorist Dr. Lynn McNeal says the story persists in local memory and contributes to tourism events such as Bear Lake Monster Winterfest.
Dr. Lynn McNeal, a professor of folklore at Utah State University, told listeners that the first documented report of the Bear Lake Monster appeared in 1868 when Joseph C. Rich, a correspondent for the Deseret News, published an account citing local sightings, including by members of the Shoshone community.
"Don't let these peaceful waters fool you," McNeal said, describing how stories of a creature…
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