BLOODY BONES

ORIGIN: English and American folklore.

This legend is often used to scare misbehaving children. 

The creature is known by many names such as "Rawhead and Bloody Bones" or simply "Rawhead." 

… And is said to lurk and hide in dark places, waiting to snatch those who misstep. 

The tale's origins can be traced back to 16th-century Britain, where parents would tell the story of Bloody Bones to keep their children obedient.

It is a skeletal looking being with exposed, bloody flesh and a damaged skull-like face.

Bloody Bones is said to hide under stairs, in cupboards, or beneath floorboards. 

His favourite place to stay is near water— murky ponds or deep, still bogs— where he sits and waits in silence. 

Those who get too close, usually disobedient or curious children, are dragged into his watery house. 

Once there, they are never seen again.

The legend serves as a warning tale against recklessness and disobedience. 

Over time, the story of Bloody Bones crossed the Atlantic with European settlers, digging itself into American folklore, particularly in the Appalachian regions.