Guest Author - Cindy Kessler

From the moment it left Washington Irving’s pen, millions have been in love with the story of Ichabod Crane, Katrina Van Tassel, Brom Bones, and a mysterious headless horseman that rode through the night in search of heads to replace the one taken from him.

But, for the people of Sleepy Hollow, New York, these aren’t fictional characters, but threads in a richly woven history that dates back to the earliest days of America. When crossing the Tappan Zee bridge, it’s hard to imagine the humble beginnings of this small settlement. While travelling North on Hwy. 9, it’s easy to feel as if you’re being transported – back to a simpler time, and far away from the bustling metropolis just minutes away.

Most of the year, this town seems as any other: small homes and shops, quaint inns, and lots of beautiful old trees and green spaces that line the river banks.

But, even during the brightest of seasons, the remnants of the past still haunt our present. Just on the north end of town, there is a bridge – so completely absorbed into modern society, it would be easy to pass over it without ever realizing – except for the plaque. It’s a simple thing, but it states that this bridge was the one made famous by the Flight of the Headless Horseman.

And, just past this bridge stands the Old Dutch Church, and next to it, a cemetery that stretches far across the countryside. You won’t find the grave of Ichabod Crane here, but the models for Katrina Van Tassel and many of her kin, Washington Irving and many other historical figures – including Andrew Carnegie and Elizabeth Arden – are buried amongst those from families long tied to this land.

To trace the possible route Washington Irving had in mind when imagining Ichabod’s race to escape the headless horseman, you may want to visit http://www.sleepyhollowcemetery.org/sleepy_country.html - for a much deeper look.

But the real magin in this normal town creeps forth during September and October. As the leaves begin to change, so this town turns towards the macabre and the supernatural. From events like The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor to Legend Days and Nights at the Philipsburg Manor and Sunnyside, it’s easy to find yourself swept away in the spirit of the season. Boofest at Lyndhurst is also a favorite – featuring barn dancing, story telling, trick or treating, and tours of the 19th century manor and exhibit featuring 600 scarecrows.

I highly recommend visiting Sleepy Hollow at any time of year – the people of Sleepy Hollow also do a wonderful job of celebrating the winter holidays if you’re willing to brave the cold! But, for those willing to brave something a bit more sinister… Try Halloween instead!