Time to take a look at the Pale-crawlers..or the Ash-Men. Or, as some of the tribes called them the Ghu-Got (pronounced Goo-Go). It seems to be a pretty popular idea that these things are either A.- A newer internet creation or B.- The Rake. The truth is, the history of these Pale-Humanoids/Pale-Crawlers goes back farther back than most would like to believe. According to the oral traditions of some of the tribes, These were what they called "The people before the people". In that, they believe that these were the ancient tribes that first settled in the states. Other stories maintain that they are inhabitants of the dream world, and cross over into our Earthly realm through portals. I often see that these Pale-Humanoids are labelled as Wendigo. While that might not be entirely true, I DO feel that there's some merit to this line of thinking.

Allow me to paint a picture for you:

Someone whose never heard of these happens across one in the dead of Winter. Shocked and mystified at the sight, the high pitched scream, the chalk-white skin, the sallow, sunken black eyes would appear inhuman---almost spiritual. Thus, the witness MIGHT believe they've encountered a Wendigo. While they may not be the entire basis for the Wendigo belief, I do believe that some of the encounters with Pale-Crawlers might have been interpreted as Wendigo encounters. One train of thought I can't wholly support is that they are also responsible for the Yee Naadlooshii belief. That seems rather far off the mark. Especially if you've done any sort of deep dive into the Yee Naadlooshii leged. While there might be "similarities"...all of the alleged similarities are nothing more than internet based, mostly by people who have either forgotten or neglected the tale of the Skinwalkers.

As for them being the "new kids on the block"? No. Not at all. In fact, an interesting little tidbit. For those who know me, You're aware that I am a HUGE fan of those old radio horror plays. There was a particular show that went by the name of "Lights out". Written and directed by Arch Oboler, these tales were usually a trip into the macabre. In one particular episode, A young man accompanies his old college professor as they seek old treasure in the caverns of the Grand Canyon. While searching for this lost treasure, they find they aren't alone---Pale-Humanoids--Cave Dwellers are stalking their every move. Keep in mind some of these shows date as far back as 1934. So, the tales and knowledge of these Pale-crawlers actually PREDATES the Rake.