The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Did you know that the tales of the headless horseman have been around since the Middle Ages? It’s not until the Washington Irving’s 1820 tale of the headless horseman made its return. It’s the classic tale of a headless horseman who terrorizes the real-life village of Sleepy Hollow. The tale is considered to be one of America’s first scary stories. Tales of the headless horseman stretch back as for as the Dutch and Irish legend of the “Dullahan” or “Gan Ceann,” a grim reaper like figure that carries his head.
Irving’s inspiration likely came from Sir Walker Scott’s 1796 “The Chase.” However, others believe his inspiration for the tale came from a real life Hessian solider who was decapitated during a battle by a cannon ball in 1776 around Halloween. He also may had drawn inspiration while visiting Tarrytown region as a teenager. None the less, the story is still pretty scary even though it was written long ago. It’s the kind of story that keeps you looking out your windows, especially if you live a small town.
Check out the video to learn more and let us know your thoughts.
Source – Fortean Slip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2PzbGlWDds
