The Bigfoot War of 1855 - Forgotten History

In 1855, a chilling tale emerged from Eastern Oklahoma, where a group of Sasquatch allegedly terrorized local communities. This story diverges from the typical shy and elusive nature attributed to Bigfoot, presenting a narrative filled with horror and violence.

Key Takeaways

• The Bigfoot War occurred in 1855 in Eastern Oklahoma.
• A group of Sasquatch was accused of kidnapping and murder.
• Local tribes and farmers banded together to confront the threat.
• The story raises questions about the truth behind Sasquatch legends.

The Mysterious Sasquatch

Bigfoot, often referred to as Sasquatch, is a large, hairy, human-like creature said to inhabit the forests of North America, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. This cryptid has become a cultural icon, deeply embedded in both American and Canadian folklore.

Most encounters reported by individuals describe Bigfoot as shy and timid, often fleeing at the sight of humans. However, the events of 1855 tell a different story—one of a murderous and cannibalistic group of Sasquatch.

The Beginning of the Terror

The tale begins in Laflor County, where a band of Chocktaw and Anglo farmers faced a series of unsettling events. Initially, the theft of crops and livestock seemed harmless. The thieves were stealthy, never seen, and always evaded traps set by the farmers.

• Theft of Crops: Quiet and cunning bandits stole food supplies.
• Disappearance of Women and Children: The situation escalated when women and children began to vanish, leading to panic among the locals.

The Search Party

As the kidnappings reached a boiling point, a group of 30 Chocktaw warriors, led by Joshua Laflor, set out to confront the kidnappers. Laflor, a respected leader of mixed Chocktaw and French descent, was joined by Hamas Tubby and his six sons, known for their impressive size and skill in mounted warfare.

• The Search Party:
  • Leader: Joshua Laflor
  • Notable Members: Hamas Tubby and his sons, all towering at nearly 7 feet tall.

Armed and determined, they ventured into the wilderness, where they believed the kidnappers were hiding.

The Horrific Discovery

After a long day of searching, the group arrived at a clearing where they encountered a horrific sight. They discovered a large earthen mound, littered with the bodies of women and children in various stages of decomposition. The stench of death filled the air, causing their horses to panic.

As they surveyed the area, they spotted three massive, hairy creatures—Sasquatch—emerging from the tree line.

The Battle

Realizing they were not facing human foes, Laflor charged at the nearest creature. In a fierce confrontation, he managed to shoot and wound one of the beasts. However, the battle took a tragic turn when one of the Sasquatch grabbed Laflor and killed him.

• The Fight:
  • Laflor engaged one Sasquatch, firing multiple shots.
  • The Tubby warriors finally joined the fray, using their rifles to take down two of the creatures.
  • The third Sasquatch fled but was later hunted down and killed.

Aftermath and Legacy

The warriors buried their fallen leader and the remains of the victims, while the bodies of the Sasquatch were burned. The gruesome events left a lasting impact on the survivors, who were haunted by nightmares for years.

Truth or Legend?

The story raises questions about its authenticity. Some researchers, like Jim King, believe it may be based on real events involving Sasquatch encounters. According to King, similar tales exist among Native American tribes, suggesting a long-standing belief in these creatures.

• Cultural Significance: The belief in Sasquatch predates modern sightings and is deeply rooted in Native American mythology.
• Gigantopithecus: Some speculate that the legend may have origins in real creatures like Gigantopithecus, a giant primate that once roamed the Earth.

Conclusion

The Bigfoot War of 1855 remains a captivating tale that blurs the lines between myth and reality. Whether entirely fictional or based on true events, it reflects humanity’s enduring fascination with the unknown. The fear of Sasquatch continues to captivate and terrify, reminding us of the mysteries that still lurk in the shadows of our forests.