The Curious Creature of Yale

One summer's day in the 1880s, a number of railroad workers stumbled upon a mysterious creature sleeping on the track. After a brief chase, they captured the beast and carried it to town, where it was examined by the local doctor and declared to be a new species of ape. That's the legend, at least. The story of Yale's "wild man" or "Jacko," as he would come to be called, caused a slight stir in 1880s British Columbia, but that would pale in comparison to its rediscovery in the late 20th century by cryptozoologists. Could this forgotten story be a powerful piece of evidence that proves the existence of the elusive Sasquatch or Bigfoot? And what are its connections to a local First Nation's chief and a famous American showman?

Fireside Canada is a podcast about Canadian legends, lies and lore. Focused on both the storytelling and the historical aspects of folklore, each episode includes a creative retelling or story inspired by the folklore as well as an exploration and analysis of its history and cultural significance: the story behind the story. You can learn more at FiresideCanada.ca. 

David Williams is the host, writer and researcher behind the show. You can find him on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).