Americana: The Champ of Champlain

Not many people are aware that Nessie, the serpentine monster that is said to inhabit Scotland's Loch Ness, has an American cousin cruising the depths of Lake Champlain between Vermont and New York. Champ, as the lake monster is called, was first reported in 1609 by the French explorer Samuel de Champlain. Since then there have been some 100 purported sightings of the serpent, which is said to measure anywhere from 10 ft. to 45 ft. and to have a horse-shaped head bearing two tiny horns. Over the centuries, Champ has managed to take...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!