The Captain's Anchorage
The historic restaurant known as the Captain's Anchorage in Big Bear Lake has a fascinating past. The restaurant was originally called the Sportsman's Tavern, it was under the ownership of Andy Devine. Back then, a man named George served as the tavern's accountant. However, tragedy struck when George met an untimely and mysterious end, leaving behind unanswered questions and a cloud of suspicion.
Who is Andy Divine
Andy Devine was an American actor born on October 7, 1905, in Flagstaff, Arizona, and he passed away on February 18, 1977. He was known for his distinctive raspy voice and jovial personality, which made him a beloved character actor in Hollywood.
Devine appeared in numerous films, often portraying sidekick or comic relief characters. Some of his notable film credits include "Stagecoach" (1939), directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, where he played the role of Buck, and "How the West Was Won" (1962), where he portrayed the character of Uncle Zeb.
He also made appearances in various television shows throughout his career, including "The Andy Devine Show" and "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok." Devine's voice became well-known to a wider audience through his work as a narrator and voice actor in animated films and TV shows, most notably as Friar Tuck in Disney's "Robin Hood" (1973).
Haunting Tale of George
While some theories suggest that George took his own life, local legends weave a different tale. According to the lore, George was suspected of embezzling a significant sum of money before his demise.
To this day, the truth behind his death and the whereabouts of the missing funds remain shrouded in uncertainty. It is said that George's spirit lingers within the Captain's Anchorage, caught in a state of limbo between this world and the next.
Former and current employees of the Captain's Anchorage have shared spine-chilling encounters attributed to George's ghostly presence. They recount hearing the distinct clattering of pots and pans, as if he continues to toil away in the unseen realm of the kitchen. Additionally, loud footsteps and thuds emanating from the upper floors have startled many. Yet, it is George's playful mischief that can be particularly exasperating at times.
Reports reveal that George has a penchant for hiding silverware, glasses, and various other items throughout the restaurant. Employees have often found themselves searching for misplaced objects, only to discover them in unexpected and obscure locations. It seems that George's mischievous actions serve as a constant reminder of his lingering presence.
Despite the mysteries surrounding George's life and his spectral activities, the Captain's Anchorage continues to operate as a beloved dining establishment in Big Bear Lake. Visitors can indulge in delicious cuisine while soaking up the nostalgic atmosphere, always aware that the restaurant holds a ghostly secret connected to its intriguing past.
