Headless Horseman
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The Headless Horseman is an archetype of mythical figure that has appeared in folklore around Europe since the Middle Ages. The figures are traditionally depicted as riders upon horseback who are missing their heads. These myths have since inspired a number of stories and characters in popular culture, including The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
Cover page to Mayne Reid's version of the legend, published in 1865
US postage stamp, 1974
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
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"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is an 1820 short story by American author Washington Irving, contained in his collection of 34 essays and short stories titled The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. Irving wrote the story while living in Birmingham, England.
Ichabod Crane pursued by the Headless Horseman, by F.O.C. Darley, 1849
The Headless Horseman Pursuing Ichabod Crane (1858) by John Quidor
Ichabod Crane, Respectfully Dedicated to Washington Irving. William J. Wilgus (1819–53), artist Chromolithograph, c. 1856
Will Rogers as Ichabod Crane in The Headless Horseman (1922)