Parkersburg Sea Serpent

ChatGPT's interpretation of the
Parkersburg Sea Serpent

When you hear the term 'sea serpent,' I'm guessing the Ohio River doesn't necessarily come to mind, especially since it's an inland river and not a sea. But, the Ohio River is FULL of strange creatures, spanning its entire length.  In 1893, it was the Parkersburg, WV area that would become the focus for some Ohio River weirdness.

In late June/early July, a 'sea serpent' was seen in various places between Neale's/Neal Island (about two miles above Parkersburg) and Blennerhassett Island (about two miles below the city). For a couple of weeks, multiple witnesses, many young people out on social boating outings, described an encounter with a long, snake-like creature, floating on the surface of the water. 

This creature was black in color, and anywhere between 8-15 feet long, with an estimated 10 feet long being the average reported length. The creature had a broad head as big as a barrel and bulging eyes that were almost canine in appearance. Although spotted floating atop the water, when approached by a boat, the creature would then quickly dive, causing dangerous waves. 

Many locals believed the tales, with some citizens reporting that they, too, had seen the serpent almost on a daily basis. It was said that the witnesses were reliable and truthful---a belief that was reiterated over and over in newspaper reports. However, out of state newspapers who covered the story were a little less impressed and accused the witnesses of lying, being drunk, etc. 

Was the Parkersburg Sea Serpent simply a hoax by some bored kids trying to liven up their summer festivities, or was it a simple misidentification? Or, was there really a monster living in the Ohio River in 1893? 

Location of Neal Island and Blennerhassett Island

The Cincinnati Enquirer
02 July 1893