S2025: EP 50 - Thomas Sewid

By Sasquatch Watch Radio | Jan 08, 2025
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In the depths of our forests, stories of Sasquatch linger in the air, waiting to be explored. These tales have captivated us for generations, intertwining with our collective cultural heritage. As we embark on this journey, we invite you to join us in uncovering the rich tapestry of Sasquatch lore and the personal anecdotes that breathe life into these legends.

This episode of Sasquatch Watch Radio promises insightful discussions with our esteemed guest, Thomas Sewid. With years of experience as a trophy hunting guide and his background in ecoculture tourism, he brings a unique perspective to our exploration of Sasquatch. Together, we'll delve into the cultural significance of these elusive beings and examine regional activities that keep the mystery alive.

Key Takeaways

  • Sasquatch legends are integral to our cultural history.
  • We will discuss personal stories related to Sasquatch investigations.
  • Regional activity continues to fuel interest and research on Sasquatch.

Show Overview

Sasquatch Watch Radio

We stand at the heart of the forest, where legends awaken and tales of Sasquatch echo through time. The mystery remains unsolved as we explore the depths of these woods. Our journey for truth begins here. Tonight, on January 27, 2025, we welcome our guest Thomas Sewid from Sasquatch Island. We look forward to an intriguing discussion.

Host Introduction

We introduce ourselves, with Billy Willard and Garry Kendrick at the helm. Gary shares that he's been working on drywall for his sister-in-law, which has left him with a bit of a cough. We dive into the evening's discussions, highlighting Thomas's background as a trophy hunting guide and his experiences with the Sasquatch legend. Garry, being part Native American, adds another layer to the conversation, making it even more compelling.

Guest Introduction

Thomas Sewid

We are pleased to welcome Thomas Sewid, a notable figure in the exploration of Sasquatch lore and culture. Thomas has an impressive background as a trophy hunting guide for black and grizzly bears and is the operator of the website SasquatchIsland.com. His experience also includes being a pioneer in boat-based whale watching and conducting Sasquatch tours. Additionally, he operates an ecoculture tourism company and has a history as a commercial fisherman.

Recently, Thomas made a transition from commercial fishing due to health concerns but continues to be actively involved in Sasquatch investigations on the Olympic Peninsula, renowned for its high concentration of Sasquatch sightings. He shares insights into the rich folklore surrounding these creatures, particularly focusing on the Zuniqua, the Wild Woman of the Woods, a central figure in his cultural heritage.

As members of the Quaak Iwok Indian tribe from Northern Vancouver Island, we embrace the stories and teachings that have been passed down through generations. For us, the Chun, or female Sasquatch, holds significant cultural importance, often represented in totem poles that tell stories of leadership, wealth, and the supernatural ties of our ancestry. Such stories shape our understanding of Sasquatch and its role within our community.

Sasquatch Investigations

Whale Watching and Sasquatch Tours

We pioneered boat-based whale watching and Sasquatch tours, offering a unique perspective on these majestic creatures and the legends surrounding them. Our tours provide an immersive experience in the heart of the Olympic Peninsula, where the natural beauty and mystery of the region converge. By combining wildlife observation with Sasquatch lore, we engage visitors in a profound exploration of the area’s unique ecological and cultural narratives.

Ecoculture Tourism Company

Our company operates within the ecoculture tourism sector, emphasizing sustainable practices and respect for the land. We aim to educate our guests on the crucial link between local ecology and Sasquatch mythology, revealing how these narratives are intertwined with the cultural heritage of the region. Through various activities and guided tours, we enhance the visitor experience while promoting the preservation of nature and cultural identity.

Sasquatch Legend Management

Sasquatch legend management is a vital part of our work. We strive to honor and share the rich tapestry of Sasquatch stories passed down through generations, especially from the Quaak iwok Indian tribe. By collaborating with local Native communities, we ensure that the legends are presented accurately and respectfully, fostering a deep connection between the Sasquatch lore and our visitors. Our efforts help keep these important cultural narratives alive, bridging the past with the present.

Personal Anecdotes

Commercial Fishing Retirement

Tom retired from commercial fishing at the end of April last year. His right leg gave out on him, making it clear that while his mind was willing, his body could no longer keep up. During this transition, he had the opportunity to teach Canadian native Indian youth how to utilize West Coast-style fish boats to catch the invasive Asian carp.

After arriving in Kent, Washington, he noticed a vehicle parked in his driveway, which belonged to Sasquatch Legend.com. His wife explained how their manager had to leave unexpectedly, leaving us to drive the truck back to Forks, a five-hour journey. We contacted the owners, our good friends, and proposed managing their store for a paycheck while we adjusted to this new chapter of our life.

Involvement with Sasquatch Legend.com

Our relationship with Sasquatch Legend.com began as we collaborated on West Coast native art for their merchandise, including T-shirts and murals. After three weeks at their company house, we proposed taking on the role of manager, needing a job to support us until we could access our full Canadian retirement.

Now, we find ourselves on the Olympic Peninsula, an area renowned for its high concentration of Sasquatch activity. We actively investigate reports and guide people on exploratory outings in one of North America's most significant Sasquatch hotspots. The abundance of sightings and stories in this region continues to fuel our passion and curiosity about these legends.

Cultural Significance of Sasquatch

Zuniqua and Her Basket

We speak of Zuniqua, known as the wild woman of the woods. In our culture, she embodies the essence of the female Sasquatch, a revered figure among our people. The Chun crest, representing her, holds the highest rank in our tier system of crests, symbolizing both respect and connection to the supernatural.

The stories of Zuniqua are deeply ingrained in our upbringing. As children, we learned to behave, for she watches us from the shadows. Tales circulated in whispers, warning us of her powers. Misbehaving children, we were told, risked being taken away in her basket, never to return.

This oral tradition binds us to our past. The significance of the Chun crest is reflected in our ceremonial totem poles, where its presence denotes wealth and respect. Such stories serve a purpose, instilling values and reminding each generation of the delicate balance between nature and our actions.

Community and Beliefs

Kwakwaka'wakw Tribe Stories

Within our community, stories from the Kwakwaka'wakw Tribe hold immense significance. These tales are more than just narratives; they embody our identity and cultural heritage. A prominent figure in our stories is Chun, the female Sasquatch, representing both the powerful and protective aspects of the natural world. Families have historically acquired the Chun crest through proper marriage arrangements, emphasizing the importance of respect and lineage in our traditions.

Each family carries stories passed down from generation to generation. Our elders often remind us of the lessons embedded within these tales, particularly those involving Chun. They reinforce the connection between our actions and the teachings from our ancestors. In our culture, these stories also serve to educate and guide our younger members on appropriate behavior and respect for the land.

Childhood Lessons and Fears

As children, we were often told tales of Chun to encourage good behavior. The fear of the "wild woman of the woods" served as a cautionary tale. We learned that if we misbehaved, Chun would come for us at night, using her long, hairy arm to take us away. This was not just a threat but a lesson instilled by our parents to guide us.

I recall a personal experience when I strayed too far from home as night fell. The fear of Chun's presence loomed large in my mind, and I rushed home, terrified of the consequences of my actions. These stories shaped our childhood experiences, teaching us the importance of listening to our elders while instilling a healthy respect for the mysteries of the forest and the unknown.

Regional Sasquatch Activity

Olympic Peninsula Hot Spot

We believe the Olympic Peninsula hosts the highest concentration of Sasquatch activity in North America. Our investigations reveal numerous reports and consistent sightings in this region. The local landscape enhances the likelihood of encounters, as the dense forests provide ample cover for these elusive creatures.

The community actively participates in investigations, sharing experiences and insights. We often organize excursions to explore potential hotspots, fostering a collaborative environment for enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Reports indicate that Sasquatch encounters are common, and we continue to gather accounts to track patterns and behaviors. Our work here is driven by curiosity and respect for the natural world, guiding us in our quest for truth.