Christopher Columbus Manatee Journal Entry

David Muir

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06-12-2024

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Entry: October 26th, 1492. The sea remains relatively calm this morning, though a persistent swell continues to rock our vessels. The men, though weary from the endless expanse of ocean, retain a cautious optimism. The discovery of land has undoubtedly bolstered their spirits, and provisions, while dwindling, are still sufficient for the time being.

A Curious Creature of the Sea

This morning, however, an unusual sight presented itself. While surveying the coastline from the Niña, I observed a large, placid creature moving slowly through the shallow waters near the shore. It possessed a remarkably smooth, grey hide, almost hairless, and its form was quite unlike any I have encountered before. It lacked the sleek, predatory grace of a dolphin or the fierce countenance of a shark.

This creature, appearing almost lethargic, moved with a deliberate slowness, its movements seemingly effortless. Its large, paddle-like flippers propelled it through the water with astonishing ease. Its head was broad and rounded, almost bovine in appearance, with small, dark eyes that seemed to observe us with an unperturbed gaze. It spent a considerable time submerged before surfacing again for air, a process it accomplished with remarkably little fanfare.

Initial Observations & Speculations

Its size was considerable, easily exceeding the length of our smallest longboat. I estimate its weight to be many hundreds of pounds. The men, naturally, offered various speculations as to its nature—some suggested a monstrous fish, others a type of sea-cow. I have recorded this in my log as an “animal marino,” pending further observation and a more thorough investigation.

I have instructed several of the more capable sailors to attempt a closer examination of the creature at a safe distance. Further information will be recorded here pending a successful approach. For the moment, this creature serves as another example of the unfamiliar wonders this new land provides. The diversity of life here surpasses anything previously recorded or imagined.

Addendum: October 27th, 1492. The attempt to approach the creature proved unsuccessful. Its apparent docility, however, suggests it is not a threat. Further observations will be made when conditions allow. The men remain captivated by the creature and have dubbed it "Manati" due to its apparent resemblance to a domesticated ox. This name shall be recorded as well.