W-File: le_elephantrock.html

Type: Legend
Location: Wisconsin Dells

Source: Story submitted by John S. (GM) who cites Wisconsin Lore by Robert E. Gard and L.G. Sorden (published in 1962) page 43.

The Devil's Hitching Post

Once Elephant Rock near Wisconsin Dells was called the Devil's Hitching Post. Children were told that when a death occured in the community, a man on a coal black horse tied his mount there, and wandered over the hills and valleys, bringing the death angel. In very early days, tradition says, a man once saw the horse tied there and approached to investigate. The horse seemed friendly, and the stranger advanced to inspect and admire him. Suddenly a man appeared above on the cliff, and the horse turned and kicked, striking the curious man and killing him instantly.