Ogopogo Photo [20k]
OGOPOGO

OGOPOGO(39k) is not an Indian name for the world-famous, friendliest inland sea monster. The name is derived from a music hall song that was popular in the 1920's.
     
Indians referred to Ogopogo as N'HA-A-ITK which when translated means "Lake Demon". Legend explains that the creature was actually a demon-possessed man who had murdered a local known as Old Kan-He-K. (Lake Okanagan was named in his honor). As punishment, the native gods turned the murderer into the giant sea serpent so he would remain at the scene of the crime for all eternity. Hence Ogopogo's longevity.
To appease the monster N'HA-A-ITK (Ogopogo), the Indians offered small animals at it's legendary lair/submarine caves off Squally Point near Rattlesnake Island. 

Ogopogo frequents the waters between his favorite island and Mission Valley and has made journeys to both ends of the lake, often times seen resting off Kalamoir Park in Lakeview Heights. Recorded sightings date as far back as the early 1800's. In 1860, John McDougal lost his team of horses when they were pulled under as he was swimming them across the lake in a canoe....never to be seen again.

As seen in the photo, Ogopogo is dark green in colour, estimated at one to two feet in diameter with a length ranging between 15 to 50 feet. Ogopogo's head is said to resemble that of a horse or goat head with a beard. Ogopogo is often mistaken for a log, boat wake, large sturgeon and other floating mysteries.

The government, in 1926 announced that the new ferry being built for travel across the Okanagan Lake would also be equipped with special "monster repelling devices." Since the construction of the floating bridge, it is assumed that the bridge has enough support and strength to withstand any nuzzling or advances of Ogopogo. Travelers safety while crossing the floating bridge is assured as maintenance crews are often seen checking for and repairing any damage possibly made by our amorous Ogopogo.