A giant octopus attacked the Staten Island Ferry in 1963, except not
Have you heard about the most tragic giant octopus attack of all time?
Well, the Staten Island Ferry Disaster occurred on Nov. 22, 1963, it killed 400 people, and oh yeah – it's all fake.
According to the NY Post, artist Joe Reginella is responsible for an elaborate prank, claiming there is a museum on Staten Island in memory of a disaster, in which a massive octopus devoured a Staten Island Ferry.
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Reginella's hilarious con was made possible by way of a few sculptures, a website, a social media page, a mockumentary and pamphlets.
His sculpture of a giant octopus devouring a ferry is pretty convincing.
It reads:
Dedicated in loving memory to the passengers and crew of the Cornelius G Kloff who lost their lives on Nov. 22, 1963 in one of the most mysterious and tragic maritime disasters in American History.
Erected by the Staten Island Ferry Memorial Foundation and Chemical Bank
Reginella created a detailed website for the fictional Staten Island Ferry Disaster Memorial Museum. The website features a dramatic tale of the fictional tragedy (which supposedly occurred in the early morning hours on the day of President John F. Kennedy's assassination), fabricated newspaper clippings from decades ago, memorial T-shirts and the museum's hours, admission prices and transit directions (including getting off a bus at "Smug Harbor").
The website also links to two "documentaries" – one about the disaster, and one about giant, killer octopi.
The fake museum also has a Facebook page, which features photos of rubble from the disaster and mourning patrons.
Reginella also created pamphlets so people visiting the ferry can educate themselves on this very serious tragedy.
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We wouldn't be surprised if Reginella actually rents a space and puts together a full museum dedicated to the Staten Island Ferry Disaster – and we would totally go visit.
Topics Animals New York City
Sophie was a Viral Content Intern for the Watercooler channel. More writing and other stuff by Sophie can be found at www.sophiehirsh.com.
