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Indrid Cold: The Eerie Legend of The Smiling Man
Is he an alien, a specter, or something else entirely?
Among the many unsettling figures in paranormal lore, few are as enigmatic as Indrid Cold, often referred to as The Smiling Man. Known for his eerie grin and uncanny presence, Indrid Cold has been linked to UFO sightings, strange encounters, and unexplained phenomena. His story first gained notoriety in the 1960s, but his legend continues to intrigue and terrify those who hear it.
The First Encounter: Woodrow Derenberger’s Story
The legend of Indrid Cold began on the night of November 2, 1966, near Point Pleasant, West Virginia. Woodrow Derenberger, a sewing machine salesman, was driving home when he encountered a strange, unidentified flying object that landed in front of his truck. From the craft emerged a tall man with a wide grin, dressed in a dark suit.
According to Derenberger, the figure introduced himself as Indrid Cold and communicated telepathically. Cold reportedly assured Derenberger that he meant no harm and asked about the local area before departing in his strange craft. Derenberger later recounted the experience to authorities and in public interviews, sparking widespread curiosity — and skepticism.
