Object Catalog Record
Images
Additional Images [9]
Metadata
Title |
Old Groaner skull |
Object # |
66.11.1.1 A&B |
Object Name |
Bone, Skull |
Date |
1900-1935 |
Description |
Old Brown Bear skull of "Old Groaner" from the Unuk River. Shot by Bruce Johnstone in early November 1935 Century - 20 A. Skull B. Lower jaw |
Provenance |
The event of Bruce Johnstone shooting Old Groaner is a well-known local harrowing tale. More information can be found in the museum's Research files and an article in The Alaska Sportsman Magazine, March 1953. Old exhibit Label: In 1935, Ketchikan prospector Bruce Johnstone killed the massive brown bear, "Old Groaner," with three shots fired from his .38-72 Winchester Rifle. Bullets from earlier encounters with man had cost the bear one eye and the right hinge of his jaw. Half-blind for years, he carried five bullets in his head. As he moved through the dense southeastern rainforest, he emitted weird, spine-chilling groans, thus earning the nickname "Old Groaner." |
Material |
Bone |
Dimension Details |
A. Skull: 16" D x 10" W x 6.5" H B. Lower jaw: 11" L x 9" W x 6" H Old dimensions: 16.00 cm x 25.00 cm x 42.00 cm |
People |
Johnstone, Bruce Tobin, Emery F. |
Search Terms |
Nature Hunting Trapping Bear Unik River Unuk River |
Credit line |
Ketchikan Museums: Tongass Historical Society Collection, THS 66.11.1.1 A&B |