Out of This World
- Visit North Central
The Michigan Dogman
Have you run into Bigfoot lately while hiking through local forests? Are you convinced that alien life forms have visited our planet? Do you feel a certain, unnerving, energy when you enter some buildings or pass by some objects?
Whether you’re a believer, or a skeptic, when it comes to paranormal experiences and the likelihood of extraterrestrial visitors, you’ll want to plan a stop at The Education Earth Museum in downtown Athol. Launched in May, 2024 by Storm Plains, a forensic psychologist with a background in archaeology and cryptozoology (the study of legendary, mythological, or unknown creatures and animals who are rumored to exist, but have not been proven to be real… yet!), the small but fascinating storefront museum has been attracting visitors from throughout New England and beyond since its grand opening.
And those visitors, Plains says, are often happy—even anxious—to share with her their experiences, from Bigfoot sightings to alien abductions and spottings of the “White Lady,” the subject of a ghost story shrouded in mystery and sorrow. “I had it in the back of my mind for about 12 years, to open a museum,” just happened upon the Athol location, and things fell into place, she explained.
Plains with Bigfoot
Over the years, Plains—who has also done paranormal and wildlife lectures, and works with rescue animals like snapping turtles and snakes—accumulated an assortment of interesting items. Animatronics, like Demogorgon and Michigan Dogman. A replica of the Annabelle doll that was housed at the Occult Museum of famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. A display representing the examination of an alien body in Hangar 18 at Area 51. And a back room of the museum is home to some live (and some preserved via taxidermy) animals.
Each exhibit is accompanied by an explanation, chart or other materials that add an educational component to the display. While the subjects, Plains notes, may not be suitable for very young children, older kids (and adults) are welcome to take selfies, turn on the animated figures, and ask lots of questions! Plains is already planning to bring more materials out of storage, offering changing exhibits to keep things fresh, along with lectures and podcasts.
Looking for something a bit unusual—even other-worldly—to do? Stop by the Education Earth Museum at 475 Main St. in Athol for an interesting experience! The museum is open Thursdays through Sundays, or by appointment.
