Charles Montgomery Skinner (1852-1907) was an American writer who published collections of myths and legends. His dream was to glorify America's folklore heritage. Skinner's writings were wide ranging. His career in literature and journalism included editorship of the Brooklyn Eagle. His study of the famed Walt Whitman appeared in the Atlantic Monthly. He also commented on turn-of-the-century America's turbulent economy in Workers and the Trusts and American Communes.
This short piece of prose represents a bright example of Skinner's writing style - it is laconic and clear. This mysterious story features one of the most famous fictional characters: the Headless Horseman!