The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is an 1820 short story by American author Washington Irving contained in his collection of 34 essays and short stories titled The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent. Irving wrote the story while living in Birmingham, England. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is among the earliest examples of American fiction with enduring appeal along with Rip Van Winkle. Irving's early literary success with The Sketch Book established his career, providing the financial means to support himself and his family as a professional writer. The Legend has remained continuously in print since its initial publication and is one of Irving's most popular works. It has been adapted for the screen several times, including a 1922 silent film and a 1949 Walt Disney animation as one of two segments in the package film The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.