barghest

A spectral hound which roams areas in Cornwall and northern England. It is regarded as a death omen and often manifests itself as a large dog or a bear with large saucer eyes. According to local legend, the streets of Newcastle upon Tyne were formerly haunted by a nightly guest, which appeared in the shape of a mastiff dog. Some variations add that these spectral hounds, which prowl about in the night, drag heavy chains behind them.

See also Black Shuck, whisht hounds, Rongeur d'Os, Moddey dhoo, Striker.

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References

Sources

  • Guiley, Rosemary Ellen. (2007). The Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Spirits. New York: Facts On File, Inc.
  • Harland, J.; Wilkinson, T.T. (1867). Lancashire Folklore.
  • Hazlitt, W. Carew. (1905). Faith and Folklore. 2 vols. London: Reeves and Turner, pp. 1:27-28.
  • Jamieson, J. (1880). An Etymological Dictionary of the Scottish Language. Vol. 4. Paisley: Alexander Gardner.