well i’ve been hanging here for nearly three centuries now and I can tell you the view is fine. at times i feel i’ve seen it all and I try not to stare. but it’s all i can do not to blink when i see and hear all that goes on in this cozy little tavern.

It is said I was a creature to be feared when captain nathaniel smith took aim and shot me so long ago. while I hold no grudge, (settlers were fighting for their lives then, and let’s face it, they weren’t the most sophisticated bunch), i do—and always did—feel somewhat misunderstood.

from my point of view, shirley is a lovely little hamlet, and i was happy living here. i never would have harmed anyone, though i suppose by just being different I did put the locals off. people were smaller then, and it’s a pleasure to see how we’ve all grown.

Lately there’s been lots of excitement and i can’t say i don’t relish the attention. i particularly enjoy listening to adults as they reason out my legacy for the edification of their little ones. children, of course, need no set explanation; their imaginations serve them quite well. and i, though perennially misunderstood, am at peace with my legend. it’s the grown-ups who are stumped.

So little is known about me and my kind now. i assure you, though stoic, an Egopantis can shed tears of joy. and i consider myself quite lucky to be hanging here, overseeing all the joyous betrothals, stolen kisses, and gleeful celebrations among family and friends. if i had a silver coin for every night of good food, good fun, & good fellowship seen from my view, Elizabeth Ryan’s trip could have been financed in style many times over.

Legends flicker, recede, and come to life again. the years have made me wiser, and one thing i am sure of is the authentic atmosphere in a tavern such as Bull Run. it cannot be replicated and its history connects us all. don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the legacy. it would truly be my pleasure to see you.

After all, SEEING IS BELIEVING...Since 1740.

Read the “Official Legend”