Altamaha-ha

In Georgia folklore, the Altamaha-ha (or Altie) is a legendary creature, alleged to inhabit the myriad small streams and abandoned rice fields near the mouth of the Altamaha River (after which it is named) in southeastern Georgia.[1] Sightings are particularly reported around Darien and elsewhere in McIntosh County.[2]

Altamaha-ha
Altamaha-ha depiction
GroupingRiver Monster
Other name(s)Altie
CountryUnited States
RegionGeorgia
DetailsAquatic

According to The Brunswick News, the legend has its roots in Muscogee tradition.[3] An alligator gar has been proposed as being a possible identity for recent sightings attributed to the creature.[4]

In 2018, decomposing remains were found on a beach in the Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge, causing speculation that it may be the body of an Altamaha-ha.[5][6] Performance artist Zardulu later claimed responsibility for the remains, which were created out of a stuffed shark and papier-mâché.[7]

Paleoartist, Rick Spears, created a sculpture of Altamaha-ha,[8] which is on display at the Darien-McIntosh County Visitor Center in Darien, Georgia.[9]

References
  1. Vivlamore, Barbara (August 29, 2006). "CLOSER LOOK AT ... State's 'Altie' tale". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. pp. 4E.
  2. Crenshaw, Holly (February 26, 2001). "eMETRO". The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. pp. 2B.
  3. Ferguson, Anna (May 13, 2009). "McIntosh showcases a new mascot". The Brunswick News. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
  4. Nead, Arthur (July 16, 2014). "Is the "Altie" a monster or fish?". Tulane News. Tulane University. Retrieved April 2, 2017.
  5. Gibbens, Sarah (March 21, 2018). "Strange Sea Creature Washes Ashore, Stumps Scientists". National Geographic. Retrieved October 19, 2018.
  6. Anderson, Bethany (March 29, 2018). "The legendary Altamaha monster wasn't found off the Georgia coast; here's why it's a hoax". firstcoastnews.com. Retrieved October 19, 2018.
  7. "Georgia Coast Altamaha-Ha Monster Discovery a Hoax". Valdosta Today. September 26, 2018. Retrieved October 19, 2018.
  8. "Altie History Part 1: An Interview with Rick Spears". MonsterTalk. September 3, 2023. Retrieved September 15, 2023.
  9. "Our Sea Monster". discoverdarien.com – Discover Darien, Small Town Georgia. June 20, 2021. Retrieved September 15, 2023.
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