Back to Events
Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow
A Hessian soldier lost his head to a cannonball in the Revolutionary War. Now he rides through Sleepy Hollow each night, searching for his missing head—and taking others' heads as substitutes.
1790 - Present
Sleepy Hollow, New York, United States
500+ witnesses
The Headless Horseman is America’s most famous ghost.
The Legend
According to Washington Irving’s account:
During the Revolutionary War:
- Hessian soldier killed
- Cannonball took his head
- Buried in Old Dutch churchyard
- Rises each night
- Searches for his head
The Story
Irving wrote in 1820:
- “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”
- Ichabod Crane encounters horseman
- Chased from town
- Never seen again
- Shattered pumpkin found
The Location
Sleepy Hollow:
- Real place in New York
- Known for ghostly atmosphere
- Old Dutch Church
- Ancient cemetery
- Deeply atmospheric
The Chase
Witnesses report:
- Rider at full gallop
- Black horse
- No head
- Carrying jack-o’-lantern
- Impossible speed
Historical Basis
The Hessian soldier:
- German mercenary
- Fought for British
- Died at Battle of White Plains
- Or nearby engagement
- Buried quickly, unmarked
Tourist Attraction
Today:
- Major destination
- Halloween celebrations famous
- Cemetery tours
- Horseman sightings reported
- Irving’s grave there
Lasting Impact
Cultural influence:
- Films and television
- Annual events
- American Halloween tradition
- Literary classic
- Enduring legend