Insomniacs: The Podcast

34: The Mothman

Ashley & Char Episode 33

The Mothman is a cryptid often associated with sightings in the Point Pleasant area of West Virginia, USA, in the 1960s. Descriptions of the Mothman vary, but it is generally depicted as a large, winged creature with glowing red eyes. Witnesses claimed it could fly at high speeds and emit a screeching sound. Some reported him as being headless or having two eyes protruding just above the torso with bright red glowing eyes. Specifically, two young couples by the names of Roger and Linda Scarberry and Steve and Mary Mallette were driving down State Route 62 near an abandoned National Guard armory building and power plant.  They reportedly saw a dark, very large humanoid figure, with glowing red eyes, standing around 6-7 feet tall, and witnessed it flying after them when they sped off into the night to get away.

The most famous Mothman incident occurred in 1966-1967, leading up to the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge in Point Pleasant in December 1967, leaving dozens dead. Some believe the Mothman sightings were a premonition or warning of the disaster, although there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim. Additionally, there is no evidence that the Mothman is here to harm us, but some believe it is inherently evil.

In any case, the myth surrounding the Mothman is a fascinating story to hear!!


Stay Spooky, Stay Safe, and Sweet Dreams!!

A huge thank you to Sean!! He makes these episodes amazing!

SOURCES:

An Ode to a Hometown Creature: Mothman of Point Pleasant, West Virginia | Folklife Magazine (si.edu)

List of Mothman references in popular culture | Cryptids and Myths Wiki | Fandom

Welcome To The 'TNT Area,' Home Of The Mothman : The Picture Show : NPR                                                                                                                                       
MOTHMAN FESTIVAl® - HOME

Mothman - Wikipedia

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