The Seatco – The Shadow People

The Seatco, also known as the Shadow People, are mysterious beings in Salish folklore, often described as wild, trickster-like entities that lived in caves and stole food from human settlements. Unlike Sasquatch, which is generally seen as a neutral or protective force, Seatco were often depicted as malevolent beings that could kidnap people who wandered too far into the wilderness.

Origins & Meaning

The name Seatco is believed to mean “spirit” or “wild Indians” in some Salish languages. These beings were said to live in remote areas, avoiding direct interaction with humans but occasionally stealing food, tools, or even people. Some legends describe them as hairy, humanoid creatures, while others suggest they had supernatural abilities, such as hypnotic powers, ventriloquism, and invisibility.

Seatco in Salish Legends

• Tricksters & Thieves – Seatco were known for stealing dried salmon and other supplies from indigenous villages. Some stories claim they would throw rocks at people to scare them away.
• Kidnappers of the Wilderness – Some legends warn that Seatco would abduct women and children, taking them deep into the mountains where they were never seen again.
• Supernatural Powers – Seatco were believed to have hypnotic abilities, allowing them to stun prey or confuse hunters. They could also imitate animal sounds, especially owls, to lure people into the forest.
• Fearsome Giants – Some versions of the legend describe Seatco as towering, powerful beings, capable of tearing up forests and changing the course of rivers.

Connection to Other Cryptids

The Seatco legend shares similarities with other cryptid stories, such as the Seeahtik, a group of wild forest beings that were said to live in caves and avoid human contact. Some tribes believed that Seatco were a separate species from Sasquatch, while others thought they were a more dangerous version of Bigfoot.

Modern Interpretations

While Seatco are less well-known than Sasquatch, their legend continues to intrigue researchers and cryptozoologists. Some believe that historical encounters with Seatco may have influenced modern Bigfoot sightings. Others suggest that the Seatco legend was a cautionary tale, warning people to respect the wilderness and avoid wandering too far from their villages.