OCEANVILLE (GALLOWAY TWP.), NJ –The Noyes Museum of Art of Stockton University presents an evening with local author William Sprouse on Sunday, July 12, 3-5pm. Sprouse, who grew up in Egg Harbor Township, is believed to be a descendant of the infamous Leeds family of lore. His self-published book, The Domestic Life of the Jersey Devil; or, BeBop’s Miscellany, is available for purchase in the Noyes Museum Gift Shop.
The Jersey Devil is an enduring legend in the Pine Barrens’ rich folklore tradition. The alleged thirteenth child of Mother Leeds, the Jersey Devil is claimed to be a winged, horned creature that has plagued the Pine Barrens for the past 300 years. A supposed distant relative of the beast, Sprouse created a meticulously researched book to discover the origins of the familiar tale. He was interested in discovering not only the truth, but why the tales have persisted through the years. Sprouse’s curiosity was first sparked by his grandmother, Helen Leeds, or “BeBop” of Northfield, who claimed that they are directly related to the Leeds family of legend. In addition to the great oral accounts, passed down through his family over generations, Sprouse collected information from historical documents, maps and local residents. The hour-long presentation will be followed by a question and answer period. For more information call (609) 652-8848 or visit www.noyesmuseum.org. General museum admission applies.
Here is a link to the NJ.com article on Bill’s book.
