Rolling Calf

The Rolling Calf is a malevolent creature from Jamaican folklore, often described as the spirit of evil butchers or those who were wicked in life.

The Legend

According to folklore:

The Rolling Calf is:

• A large, fearsome creature
• Often a bull with chains
• Sometimes with fiery eyes
• Makes terrifying sounds
• Appears on dark roads at night

Origin

The creature is believed to be:

• The ghost of a wicked person
• Often associated with butchers
• Those who committed evil in life
• Condemned to wander as a monster

Description

Witnesses describe:

• A bull-like creature
• Dragging clanking chains
• Fire shooting from eyes or nostrils
• Horrible bellowing sounds
• Blocking roads and attacking travelers

Protection

To ward off a Rolling Calf:

• Turn your pockets inside out
• Drop items to distract it
• Stand in a crossroads
• Use biblical verses
• Light matches or fire

Cultural Significance

The Rolling Calf represents:

• Consequences of evil deeds
• African spiritual traditions in Jamaica
• Fear of the night
• Moral cautionary tales

Sources

• Jamaican folklore documentation