Lake goers will miss Crisco

A local legend has passed away.  

Crisco, the Table Rock Lake goat, watched over the lake and its activities from a cliff that overlooked the water. He considered the area of Backbone Bluff home, and the beloved feral goat was a familiar sight to boaters and skiers, as well as residents nearby. For many, a glimpse of Crisco and possibly a photograph was the highlight of their visit to Table Rock Lake.

• 

• 

No one knows exactly how old Crisco was, but he was estimated to be at least 15 years of age and had resided in the area for many years.

Observers had witnessed Crisco stumbling and panting on the day of his disappearance, presumably due to the effects of the extreme heat the Ozarks was experiencing. Later, on the evening of July 25, boaters reported seeing Crisco fall into the waters of Table Rock Lake and not resurfacing.

Several searched for signs of Crisco on Saturday evening and Sunday morning. The White Dive Company of Branson and Sea Tow of Hollister were on a recovery mission for Crisco on Sunday morning. His body was located through the use of GPS technology, about 40 feet from where he entered the water and in approximately 22 feet of water.

Eureka Springs Safari Park was given Crisco's remains and will handle cremation. 

Many memories of Crisco and tributes to the special animal were posted on social media, beginning on Saturday afternoon, several suggesting a monument to Crisco to be erected near the bluff or a memorial service to honor his memory

The Eureka Springs Safari Park noted that plans for a celebration of life for Crisco are underway and 

will be announced at a later date.