Shetland Sea Monster Encounter
Out in the rugged waters southeast of Fetlar, a most unsettling encounter took place back in 1881 or 1882. The crew of the fishing vessel Bertie had a harrowing experience with a mysterious sea creature. As they sailed through these unforgiving seas, they spotted the beast and, understandably spooked, fired several shots at it. This only seemed to anger the creature, which then churned up the waters with such force that massive waves crashed over the boat. The crew watched in dismay as their fishing gear and other essential supplies were swept away. The creature continued to stalk them, its relentless pursuit only ceasing with the onset of night.
This remarkable incident falls under the category of cryptozoology, a field of study that deals with hidden or unknown animals. The Shetland Islands have a rich history of maritime folklore, with numerous tales of sea monsters and mysterious water creatures. The encounter by the crew of the Bertie is a well-documented case, showcasing the unpredictable nature of these waters and the creatures that inhabit them. The fact that multiple crew members witnessed this event lends credibility to the account, making it a fascinating piece of paranormal history.
The Shetland Islands have a long history of maritime folklore and cryptozoological sightings.
Location
Location Details
Nearby Haunted Places
Lerwick Ghostly Footsteps
Osla's Cafe, Lerwick
Osla's Cafe in Lerwick seems like a typical spot to grab a coffee and catch up on some work, but one former employee had a rather unsettling experience. They claimed to have heard ghostly footsteps on the staircase and the sound of someone unseen rummaging around through a trunk upstairs. It's not clear who or what was responsible for the strange noises, but it's enough to make you wonder if you're really alone in the cafe.
Lerwick Ghostly Footsteps
Old Radio Scotland building, Lerwick
The Old Radio Scotland building in Lerwick has a reputation for being haunted by the sound of ghostly footsteps. Employees working late would hear footsteps crossing the upper floor, even though they knew they were alone in the building. The eerie sounds were a regular occurrence, leaving staff with a sense of unease. It's said that as soon as the broadcasters moved out of the building, the haunting ceased, suggesting a strong connection between the paranormal activity and the people who worked there.
Lerwick Theatre Soldier Ghost
Garrison Theatre, Lerwick
The Garrison Theatre in Lerwick is home to a ghostly presence that's been making the rounds for years. They say an old soldier likes to hang out at the foot of a staircase near the performers' entrance. Another story claims the lighting area is haunted by something, but what that something is remains a mystery. The theatre's history is steeped in the local community, and it's possible that this ghostly soldier is a lingering spirit from a bygone era.
The Man in Brown Haunting
Shetland Library, Lerwick
Shetland Library in Lerwick is home to a rather intriguing ghost. Staff have reported that books have flown off shelves without being touched, and disembodied footsteps have been heard in the basement. The library's history as a former church may hold the key to these strange occurrences. A ghostly figure clad in a brown coat has been spotted, earning the nickname 'Man in Brown'. This eerie presence seems to be making its mark on the library, leaving visitors and staff alike with a sense of unease.
Friendly Ghost of Herrislea House
Herrislea House Hotel, Veensgarth
Herrislea House Hotel in Veensgarth is home to a rather unusual ghost - a friendly spirit that's said to roam the older part of the building. While there's no record of any specific sightings or encounters, the hotel's reputation for being haunted by a benign ghost has been attracting visitors for years. The atmosphere's certainly cosy and welcoming, so it's no surprise that the ghost is described as friendly - who wouldn't want to hang out in such a lovely setting?
Scalloway Castle Ghost Figure
Scalloway Castle, Scalloway
Scalloway Castle stands as a testament to the rich history of the Shetland Islands, its stone walls bearing witness to the passage of time. It was here, during a production of Macbeth, that a striking phenomenon occurred. A figure appeared on the castle wall, only to vanish into thin air. This unsettling event has contributed to the castle's reputation as a haunted location. Local folklore adds a layer of intrigue, suggesting that Earl Patrick Stewart, who commissioned the castle, insisted that the walls contain the hair and blood of locals, a claim that, while unsubstantiated, adds to the castle's mystique.