Sleepy Hollow characters

Appears from the start

A lanky Connecticut schoolmaster who teaches the children of Sleepy Hollow and supplements his income by leading the church choir and helping local families. Educated but highly superstitious, he eagerly collects ghost stories and frightens himself while traveling after dark. His interest in the wealthy Katrina Van Tassel is both romantic and tied to the comfortable life he imagines her inheritance could provide.

Appears from the start

The eighteen-year-old only child of prosperous farmer Baltus Van Tassel. Sociable, attractive, and aware of the attention she receives, she becomes the focus of Ichabod's courtship and of his rivalry with Brom Bones.

Also known as Brom Bones

Appears from the start

A strong, confident local horseman known for practical jokes and bold adventures. He is Katrina's most formidable suitor and first tries to drive Ichabod away through ridicule and mischief rather than an open confrontation.

Appears from the start

Katrina's father, a contented and hospitable Dutch farmer whose substantial house, fertile land, animals, and abundant table represent prosperity to Ichabod. He hosts the autumn gathering that brings Ichabod's courtship to a decisive evening.

Also known as The Galloping Hessian

Appears from the start

The most feared figure in Sleepy Hollow's local folklore, said to be the ghost of a Hessian soldier killed by a cannonball during the Revolutionary War. Residents believe the headless rider searches the roads at night and must return to the churchyard before dawn.

Appears from the start

The irritable farmer with whom Ichabod is lodging at the time of the Van Tassels' party. He lends Ichabod an old, awkward horse for the evening and later joins the search after the schoolmaster fails to return.

Appears from the start

Hans Van Ripper's aging, bony horse, loaned to Ichabod for his ride to the Van Tassel farm. Though once spirited, he is now difficult to control and makes Ichabod's night journey especially precarious.