Classification: Divine & Demonic Forces

Temporal Range: Reported 1880s to present but stories suggest even earlier

Geographic Range: Detroit, Michigan, USA

Diet: Anything alcoholic

Horde: North American

Also known as “the Demon of the Strait,” the Nain Rouge has been a feature of life in Detroit since the 1880s. His tales go back to the city’s founder, Antoine de La Mothe Cadillac, who was warned by a fortune teller not to enrage a red demon. Cadillac failed to heed this warning, and when he did encounter the Nain Rouge, he shook his cane at it and yelled, “Stay away, imp.” A series of bad luck then befell Cadillac, and we’re sure it was incredibly difficult for the fortune teller not to say, “I told you so.”

Over time, the Nain Rouge has been blamed for all kinds of misfortune to befall the city, whether riots, fires, or blizzards. Some say he appears at these catastrophic events, much like he supposedly did during battles between settlers and Indigenous people many years before.

Described in many accounts as having red skin, wickedly sharp teeth, and sparkling eyes, he has become a prominent feature in Detroit. He’s had many alcoholic beverages named after him, and we hope revellers always offer a toast to keep him happy. Wisely, locals have a yearly parade to chase the creature away and avoid his bad omens. To stay on his good side and avoid calamity, just be sure to offer him a drink or two and always listen when a fortune teller gives you a warning.