Trinity County, California
1960

Mr. Hill was a miner and had a mining claim in Trinity County California on the Trinity River in 1960. His home was in Redding, Calif. I grew up with his daughter. This very fine family would never lie or exaggerate the truth. This story was told by Mrs. Hill. It was during the summer of 1960 that Mr. Hill was away from home working his mining claim along the Trinity River.

It was a warm summer day. Mr. Hill had worked his claim earlier in the day and was napping that afternoon under a tree along the river. He awoke to see a creature standing in the river looking at him.

The river was approximately 6 ft. deep and the water reached the creature's chest. The hairy creature stared at him for a moment and then walked back to the opposite side of the river. It then crouched behind a bush and continued it's stare at the miner. Then it would change locations along the bank and just stare.

The apelike creature finally walked into the timber. Mr. Hill went to his home in Redding and was so terrified that he did not leave the home for almost two weeks before returning to the claim. He related his experience to his wife.

It's alright to upload the story. I have two brothers that live in southeastern Alaska where there is apparent activity. Maybe they will have some reports. I am 56 yrs. old and have hunted and fished all my life in remote areas of northern California and Oregon. Never have I seen a track or had any kind of encounter. However, the credibility of some of the sightings has my interest. I just hope there is some proof of this creature during my remaining years.

I enjoy your website. You sure come in contact with a fair share of crackpots. Best to you,
Dick Dunbar
Monday, December 09, 2002 6:52 AM