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The Legend of the Snallygaster
Muggles Beware or Maryland Folklore
In her book, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the famous author of the Harry Potter series, J.K. Rowling, describes the Snallygaster as a creature that is part-bird and part-reptile. It is considered to be a relative of the dragon but does not breathe fire. With fangs like serrated steel, it effortlessly slices through its prey. It has a curious disposition and bulletproof hide. According to Harry Potter lore, the Snallygaster heartstrings are used for wand cores.
But did you know that the Snallygaster is based on Maryland folklore?
The Snallygaster is a mythical creature introduced to Maryland by German immigrants during the 18th century. The new immigrants brought more than their customs, food, and clothing. They also brought their legends and myths. In German, the Schneller Geist, which means “quick spirit” or “fast ghost,” was said to swoop from the sky and carry off its victims like small game, farm animals, inattentive pets, and even young children. Legend believes that the only way to ward off the creature was to paint a seven-pointed star on barn sides.
Over the years, the description of the Snallygaster changed. In 1973, instead of a dragon-like being, Sykesville residents reported the creature…
