West Virginia has a rich tradition of folklore, with stories deeply rooted in its Appalachian heritage. Here are five of the most well-known folklore tales from the state:

1. The Mothman

• One of the most famous cryptid legends in the U.S., the Mothman was first spotted in Point Pleasant, WV, in 1966. Witnesses described it as a humanoid creature with large wings and glowing red eyes. Some believe the Mothman was a harbinger of doom, as its appearances were followed by the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967. The legend persists today, with Point Pleasant hosting an annual Mothman Festival.

2. The Flatwoods Monster

• Also called the Braxton County Monster, this creature was reportedly sighted in Flatwoods, WV, in 1952. Witnesses described a tall, humanoid figure with a spade-shaped head, glowing eyes, and a metallic suit. Some believe it was an extraterrestrial visitor, while others think it was simply an owl misidentified in a moment of panic. The story remains one of West Virginia’s most famous UFO-related legends.

3. The Greenbrier Ghost

• The Greenbrier Ghost is the only case in U.S. history where the testimony of a ghost helped convict a murderer. In 1897, Zona Heaster Shue was found dead under mysterious circumstances. Her mother, Mary Jane Heaster, claimed Zona’s ghost appeared to her at night and revealed that her husband, Erasmus Shue, had strangled her. A second autopsy confirmed signs of foul play, and Erasmus was convicted.

4. The Legend of the Snarly Yow

• This tale describes a phantom black dog that haunts the roads and mountains of West Virginia. The Snarly Yow is said to be a large, wolf-like creature with glowing eyes and a menacing growl. Many travelers and hikers have reported sightings, but the creature always vanishes without a trace. Some believe it’s an omen of bad luck or even death.

5. The Sheepsquatch

• A bizarre and lesser-known cryptid, the Sheepsquatch is described as a large, woolly beast with goat-like horns, sharp teeth, and a foul odor. Sightings have been reported throughout the Appalachian wilderness, particularly in Boone County, WV. Some believe it’s a mutated creature, while others think it’s a supernatural being linked to the region’s folklore.

West Virginia’s folklore is filled with eerie and mysterious stories, making it a fascinating place for paranormal enthusiasts and storytellers alike. Have you heard of any of these before?