The Devil You Don't
A history podcast about The Jersey Devil. Sort of.
Discover the surprising origins and intersections of the mythical creature who's crossed paths with some of the most fascinating people, debates, and scandals over 300 years of American history. Quakers, almanac-writers, dreamers, monstrous scientists, and maverick filmmakers all link up in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey, as a one-of-a-kind cryptid helps us to understand the birth of the modern world.
Written and narrated by Dylan Ferguson, with Sean O'Rourke, and original music by Rob What.
The Devil You Don't
Part One: A Trumpet Sounded Out of the Wilderness
Discover a bizarre story of dreamy Quakers, dueling almanacs, and New Jersey's first published author, a story that would - improbably - lay the groundwork for the Jersey Devil legend. In this first episode of a four-part history series, we encounter the Pine Barrens, we learn about the English Dissenters and why they fled for the New World, and we get to meet one of the most singular, overlooked figures from early Colonial America: Daniel Leeds, an airy ranter, a pioneering writer, a tempestuous shit-disturber, and a remarkable man who would inspire a legend. Plus, Ben Franklin shows up to hilariously clown on a rival author.
Written and narrated by Dylan Ferguson, featuring Sean O'Rourke. Original music is by Rob What.
Some of the main sources for this episode include:
Brian Regal & Frank J. Esposito, The Secret History of the Jersey Devil (2018)
Bill Sprouse, The Domestic Life of the Jersey Devil (2013)
Pekka Hämäläinen, Indigenous Continent (2022)
Daniel Leeds, The Temple of Wisdom for the Little World (1688)
Find Dylan at: dylan@bravooustsider.com
Find more of Rob's music at: robwhat.bandcamp.com