The Nantucket Sea Monster

Early in August 1937, a news flash came: a sea monster had been spotted lurking off the shore of Nantucket Island. Historically, the Massachusetts island had served as port for whaling ships. Eyewitnesses swore this wasn't a whale, but some new, fearsome creature. As eyewitness accounts piled up, newspaper stories of the sea monster spread quickly. Across the nation, people shivered in fear.

Then, footprints were found on a Nantucket beach. Photographs were sent to prominent biologists for their opinion. Discussion swirled about raising a hunting party.

On August 18th, news spread across the island: the sea monster had been captured. Islanders ran to the beach and couldn't believe their eyes.

Hardcover, 32 pages. Recommended ages 6 - 9 years, grade levels kindergarten - 6.

From the exhibition Tony Sarg: Genius at Play on view June 10 through November 5, 2023 at Norman Rockwell Museum.