The Iron Hodag: New Sculpture in Rhinelander

The Hodag is arguably Rhinelander’s most notable resident. And a new sculpture pays homage to the local legend is made from parts salvaged from the town itself.

“The Iron Hodag” was unveiled recently at the intersection of Anderson and Brown Streets. It was created by Eau Claire artist Don Gaber and made from interesting pieces of scrap metal donated by area residents and businesses, coming together in a unique collage of civic history.

If you’re new to Wisconsin and/or mythical creatures from American folklore, the Hodag dates back to 1893, when a well-known land surveyor, timber cruiser, and prankster named Eugene Shepard reported the discovery of a creature with “the head of a frog, the grinning face of a giant elephant, thick short legs set off by huge claws, the back of a dinosaur, and a long tail with spears at the end” to local newspapers. And the editors, apparently being gullible suckers, ran with the story.

The ruse continued in 1896 when Shepard displayed a “live” Hodag, which he claimed to have captured, at the Oneida County Fair. In reality, it was an exercise in crude puppetry. While he managed to fool some locals, the added attention brought an end to the hoax when some curious scientists wanted to examine the creature.

Ahh, those were simpler times. Before you needed AI deepfakes to deceive the public.

It may have been a prank, but the Hodag’s legacy was cemented in Rhinelander. It became the official symbol of the town, with the Hodag lending its name to businesses, drinks, sports teams, and more. And Hodag art also dots the landscape in the area.

You can find additional sculptures, depictions, and souvenirs all over town. But the new figure is the belle of the ball for now.

Need proof? There is an ongoing scavenger hunt in celebration of The Iron Hodag. If you’re able to identify all the local contributors to the sculpture, the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce will give you a Hodag-related prize.

Pick up a game sheet at their offices at 450 W. Kemp St., follow the clues, then come back and claim the spoils.

Check out the Rhinelander site if you’re ready to plan your visit to see The Iron Hodag and its kin. And if appreciating art isn’t your thing, know that you can also find a few Hodag-themed beverages around town to keep you occupied.