Headless Horseman Bridge Sleepy Hollow, New York

While attempting to flee from the path of the Headless Horseman, Ichabod Crane took a route through the Old Dutch burial grounds. It was in these grounds where the final showdown between the two took place. Ichabod felt if he could cross the bridge spanning the Pocantico river he could escape the ruthless horseman who was hot on his tail. Others who had encountered him had declared the horseman would vanish in a ball of fire if this occurred.

As the two raced toward the diminutive structure the headless horseman quickly gained ground. When Ichabod's horse hit the rustic bridge the lumber boards rattled below. The simpleton glanced behind him in anticipation of seeing his pursuer burst into a ball of flames. Instead he saw the horseman's steed rise up on two legs while the decapitated goblin hurtled his head at his unsuspecting victim. Many believe this was the end of Ichabod Crane's life.

The bridge where these two dueled has been debated for centuries by historians. Whatever small truss spanned this narrow body of water has since decayed into nothing. One thing they all agree on is that a covered bridge never crossed these waters. Both Tim Burton's and Disney's adaptations of the story include a final showdown in a covered bridge.

The four lane modern bridge on route 9 is named the Headless Horseman bridge and was constructed by William Rockefeller, who founded Standard Oil with his brother John. This bridge is in close proximity to the one Ichabod and the horseman had their final confrontation.

 But those who are looking for a more authentic replica head into the Sleepy Hollow cemetery gates and discover the rustic beauty they have hidden away. It may not have a cool sign near it, but it makes for an awesome souvenir photo. Get yours here!

On one side of the church extends a wide woody dell, along which raves a large brook among broken rocks and trunks of fallen trees. Over a deep black part of the stream, not far from the church, was formerly thrown a wooden bridge; the road that led to it, and the bridge itself, were thickly shaded by overhanging trees, which cast a gloom about it, even in the daytime; but occasioned a fearful darkness at night. Such was one of the favorite haunts of the Headless Horseman, and the place where he was most frequently encountered.   The Legend of Sleepy Hollow