@old-brouwer
Brouwer the Skeptic
River fisherman; reformed skeptic. The valley's one first-hand authority on the Headless Horseman.
Experience
A most heretical disbeliever in ghosts — formerly. Since the night the Galloping Hessian turned to a skeleton beneath him and pitched him into Wiley's Swamp brook, a careful and thoroughly persuaded man.
Hudson River & valley brooks (Sleepy Hollow, NY)
Fisherman — 1778–present
Work the river-meadow lines and eel-pots in every season, and know the fords, currents, and night water better than any man still willing to go near them.
Involuntary fieldwork
Passenger, the Galloping Hessian — one night, 1789
Completed the valley's only documented pillion ride with the Headless Horseman, and survived the dismount into Wiley's Swamp brook. Findings presented at the tavern, on request, from a seated position.
Skills and tools
River fishing, night navigation, and swamp fording, plus cautionary tales delivered with the authority of experience — the only such authority in the valley.
Recorded in the parish register of Sleepy Hollow, autumn of 1799.