Wendigo: Undead Legend of the North

It's October, and that means it's time for some shows that will raise the hair on the back your neck. In this episode, we discuss the fascinating Native American legend of the Wendigo. 

Stories of the Wendigo originate from Algonquian people of the Great Lakes region such as the Cree and Ojibwe. The cannibalistic creature is said to haunt the cold, northern woods, where it cannibalizes people at night, and uses supernatural powers and trickery to turn others into Wendigoes. 

We discuss the origins of the legend, and some historical accounts such as the strange events of La Pointe (now Madeline) Island in Lake Superior, as well as the story of Swift Runner in Alberta, Canada.

We also touch on modern depictions, such as The Wendigo by Algernon Blackwood, the novel Pet Semetary by Stephen King and why the legend has so much staying power and cross-cultural appeal.

Listen to the very end if you want to know how to survive your own Wendigo encounter!

Pairs well with trips to the north woods - places like northern Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin; as well as Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta i Canada. Goes well with Halloween anywhere, or as part of a binge on topics related to Native American history and culture. 

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Deep Dives:

Moose Meat & Wild Rice - Basil Johnston

The Wendigo - Algernon Blackwood