The
Jersey
Devil

Fact or Fiction?  If you have seen him, you know the "legend" is true!

    If you live in southern New Jersey, then you must know about the Jersey Devil.  The story, which dates back to 1735, says that it lives in the area known as the Pine Barrens.  This area comprises nearly two thousand square miles of wooded area.  The eastern half of Winslow Township, our community, is located within the Pine Barrens.

    While there are many versions of how the legion began, the most accepted version of the story dates back to the 18th century when "Mother Leeds," a poor women who lived with her twelve children, learned that she was pregnant with her thirteenth and unwanted child.  She was reported as saying that she did not want any more children and "Let it be a devil."

    When the child was born, Mrs. Leeds was said to have smiled when a handsome baby boy was placed in her arms.  However, she apparently got her wish about the child becoming a devil.  Suddenly before their eyes, the beautiful baby began to transform into a tall, hideous  creature with a large hideous head shaped like a horse, two horns protruding from its forehead, bat shaped wings spanning two feet, yellow teeth, and an eerie, yellow glow.  Finally, when it had taken on its new look and shape, it climbed from the bed as a creature more powerful than several grown men.  It then turned to the fireplace, flew up the chimney, and disappeared into the vast wooded Pine Barrens.

    Since that time, it has haunted the area and  was believed to feed on small children and livestock.  It is reported that the Jersey Devil still lives in the wetland area of the region and, when it ventures out into the area during the hours of darkness, it scares humans and animals with its piercing screams and grotesque appearance.  Legend says that it has been shot with guns and canons and even electrocuted at no avail. 

    Over the years, many sightings of the Jersey Devil have been documented even though no physical proof has ever been found.  Many animals have been found mutilated in the area and these events have all been attributed to the devil.  At night, strange screams can be heard in the Pine Barrens which cause the animals to run for cover and dogs to howl in fear.

    If you have ever camped in the Pine Barrens, you know the strange feelings that come over you when you hear noises outside your tent in the still of the night.  Furthermore, while many believe the Jersey Devil to be a legend, anyone who has seen him will tell you differently--very differently.