Episode 4

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Published on:

15th Jun 2026

The Legend of Sinkhole Sam

For this episode of Midwest Shadow Files, we dive into the murky waters of Kansas' most famous cryptid: Sinkhole Sam. Said to inhabit the Big Sinkhole near Inman, Kansas, this mysterious serpent-like creature first captured headlines in the early 1950s when local fishermen reported seeing a massive, worm-like beast rising from the water. Described as anywhere from 15 to 30 feet long and as thick as a car tire, Sam quickly became a regional legend, drawing curious onlookers, monster hunters, and skeptics alike.

Join us as we explore the eyewitness accounts, folklore, and enduring mystery surrounding the creature Kansans call the "Foopengerkle"—and ask whether something truly lurks beneath the waters of the Big Sinkhole.

The Citation for Dewey's article:

Dewey, E. A. (1952, November 23). The Foopengerkle of the Big Sinkhole. The Salina Journal.

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About the Podcast

Midwest Shadow Files
a podcast about the paranormal, dark history and oddities in the Midwest - New episodes Mondays and Wednesdays.

About your host

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Daniel Cline

Dan is the host of "Midwest Ghost Town"/ Now Merged with "Midwest Small Town" - and the Midwest Oddities and Dark History Podcast "Midwest Shadow Files"

With an interest in Midwest History - and telling the story of the heartland - Each podcast offers their different blends of interest - but the story telling remains the same. Consider following along or subscribing for new episodes weekly.