Rhinelander, Wisconsin…Home of the Hodag
Embracing your Local Cryptid
“Cryptids” are legendary animals (such as Big Foot) whose existence is yet to be substantiated. Not surprisingly, the hometown of said cryptids tend to take advantage of their cryptid by commercializing and promoting all aspects of their cryptid. In all my cryptozoological travels, I have never seen a town exploit their cryptid better than Rhineland, Wisconsin…Home of the Hodag.
The Basics on the Hodag
The legend of the Hodag originated in the lumber camps of Wisconsin’s Northwoods in the late 1800s. The Hodag is born from the reincarnated spirit of the oxen used to haul timber around the lumber camps. Based on my research, the Hodag is about the size of an English bulldog with a longer tail, razor sharp claws and spikes on their head and back.
In 1896, the Hodag went from Wisconsin northwoods legend to reality. Eugene Shepard and his drunken buddies were finally able to find and capture the first Hodag. The pictures above are the only non-scientifically authenticated evidence of this historic moment. Yes, lots of alcohol was involved.
Celebrating the Hodag
Pursuing our passion for cryptozoology, I traveled to Rhinelander, WI, with a Minor Public Official. Our goal was to get a better understanding of the Hodag legend. Unfortunately, we were not equipped for an extended Hodag hunt deep in the northwoods wilderness. Instead, we focused on the town of Rhinelander. We wandered the town to experience the many ways that Rhinelander celebrates the Hodag.
All Hodag research should start at the edge of town at the Rhinelander Vistor Center. The grandest of all the Hodag monuments draws in tourists outside of the visitor center. So, after this mandatory photo stop, we ventured inside where the the nice lady gave us Hodag stickers and refrigerator magnets. Furthermore, she help lay out our plan to find all the Hodag highlights within Rhinelander.
The tourism lady recommended a visitor to the Pioneer Park. At the park, they have all sorts of family friendly Hodag fun. But, most importantly, the park has the only known taxidermy of the Hodag.
Hodag Chamber of Commerce
Examples of the Hodag endorsing local business and municipal buildings are pervasive throughout Rhinelander. First, there is the Hodag trail. These are custom painted, Hodag statues located on the sidewalk in front of some prominent businesses or city buildings.
Now, my favorite two Hodag buildings are adjacent to each other and provide the maximum immersion into the Hodag culture. First, the Hodag Store is a must visit. Beyond being the home of the Hodag mobile, the store offers all manner of Hodag products. Naturally, I purchased a Hodag bourbon glass. If that’s not enough you can stay at the Hodag House.
The House of Hodags Is on Airbnb…check me. You and your Hodag enthusiasts can stay here for the bargain price of $189/night. Lastly, as one final demonstration to this town’s total commitment to the Hodag…their high school is the Rhinelander Hodags…
Wrap It Up
I would be remiss if I forgot to mention that there is a big Hodag Country Festival every July. This is a huge event that draws in thousands from all over Wisconsin. On more than one occasion, I have visited Point Pleasant, WV, that celebrates the Mothman. These two towns really embrace their cryptids. But, for today, its all about Rhinelander, Wisconsin…Home of the Hodag. Have a wonderful day. PT
I hope you have enjoyed “Rhinelander, Wisconsin…Home of the Hodag“ on Traveling with PugsleyTonks.
Here was my Mothman trip to Point Pleasant, WV https://travelingwithpt.com/point-pleasant-wv/
Here’s a link to the Hodag Country Festival https://www.hodag.com/country-music/
Please buy something on my sponsor link…so I can get a commission…
https://usghostadventures.com/?ref=ytmxmtg
