Spring-Heeled Jack

Spring-Heeled Jack, a creature from 19th century London, still frightens all who know this truly terrifying bogeyman story.

The story of Spring-Heeled Jack began in 1837 when, late one evening, a businessman saw a dark, mysterious figure leap over a cemetery railing and land upon his path. The man described the creature as man-like with devilish facial features. That same year, a young girl named Mary Stevens was attacked by a dark figure that leapt at her from a dark alley. Her screams were quickly heard by persons nearby- causing the mysterious attacker to flee. The following night, a coachman was attacked and severely injured when a dark figure leapt out in front of his carriage causing it to crash. A number of witnesses saw the figure effortlessly jump over a 9 foot wall and out of sight. Word and fear quickly spread throughout London and the name Spring-Heeled Jack was born.

Mike Dash, contributing editor to Fortean Times, began researching the case of Spring-Heeled Jack in 1982. His research is some of the best out there. "The legend of Spring-heeled Jack"

After reading about this mysterious creature, I believe that it was a man dressed in elaborate costume.