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Cartoonist Kevin Zeigler’s 20-page original comic about The Mill Race Monster.
Forget Bigfoot.
There’s quite another big, hairy deal in Columbus.
The Mill Race Monster.
Who really knows if “Real” can be added to the Mill part of the name?
Yet, for roughly half a century, many residents have heard some form of a story of a supposedly green creature some people say they have spotted at the downtown park.
“The Mill Race Monster” is the new exhibit at 411 Gallery at 411 Sixth St. in downtown Columbus. The exhibit includes Columbus resident and cartoonist Kevin Zeigler’s 20-page original comic, longtime local artist Laurie Wright’s artwork, and three- dimensional works by mostly polymer coay artist Curtis Hartwell — all inspired by the half-century-old legend.
A public reception, street party and costume contest for the exhibition will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday on the colorful Sixth Street Arts Alley. The display began with an idea from Brooke Hawkins, executive director of the Columbus Area Arts Council, which operates the gallery.
“We’re especially trying to hit the staycation crowd with this (event),” Hawkins said.
Ziegler first heard of the monster while playing a localized role-playing game two years ago.
The game, the brainchild of Matt Shepherd, also included legends such as the alleged hauntings at Story Inn.
“Matt was the first one to pique my interest of the Columbus oddities,” Zeigler said.
He added that his research included The Republic clippings plus coverage from Indianapolis media.
“I think that was when the legend really caught fire,” he said.
His comic, “The Mill Race Monster” is available for purchase at the Columbus Area Visitors Center.
