Meadow Lake Gazette: Issue 3
September, 1991
The Meadow Lake Monster was first spotted in the early 1950s by a father and son enjoying a bright summer day fishing out on the lake. What was supposed to be a day of fun, quickly turned to horror as a large shadow passed under the small row boat. The creature was so large, it caused the boat to rock. Before the pair could turn back to shore, the creature turned around, passing under the boat a second time. This time, though, the creature hit the boat, causing the young boy to fall into the water.
The father waited for his son, a usually strong swimmer, to resurface. When precious seconds passed, and the boy was still under the water, the father dove in after him. Somehow, the boy had been tangled in some plants on the floor of the lake. The father was able to pull him free and return to the boat. The pair returned to shore. Luckily the boy survived, but was shaken.
Three more sightings were reported that summer, one individual managed to take a photograph, but it was so blurry it is difficult to tell what is supposed to be the monster, and what is the lake and surrounding land. Since that first sighting, word has spread among the town and become a local legend. Even the tourists love talking about the monster.
Drownings in the lake have been attributed to the monster. As well as a few missing persons cases. It’s easier to blame a mysterious monster no one can get a clear picture of, let alone catch, than to suspect a neighbor of wrongdoing or accept that accidents happen. I have never seen the monster myself, though I’m not much of a swimmer and prefer to stay on the shore.
The lake has been dredged a couple of times since the initial instance and one particularly hot summer caused the water level to drop so low it was hard to believe anything bigger than fish could hide in the water. I’m not a skeptic. I know strange things happen in this town, but the lake monster I’m not so sure about. Still, I am a cautious person and I advise other to be cautious as well.
Summer is over, and there won’t be much more swimming in the lake this year, so that shouldn’t be of much concern. However, if you do go out swimming, fishing, or just to enjoy some time on the lake before it freezes over for winter I ask that you all practice at least the most basic of safety precautions.
When boating, wear a life jacket. Especially children. It doesn’t matter how strong of a swimmer you are, drowning is quick.
Enjoy the lake in pairs or a group. It’s hard to be rescued when you’re alone.
Bring a camera. We all want to know the truth. And if you do get a picture, leave me a copy.
If you have your own story of the lake monster, or any of the other strange things our town experiences, don’t forget to leave it in the tin box behind the wolf statue at the nature museum.
Alicia Coast 