Rolling Head

The Rolling Head is a terrifying monster from Midwestern and Plains Native American legends (Cheyenne, Ojibwe, Cree), depicting a disembodied, undead head with tangled hair that rolls in pursuit of humans. It usually originates from a violent murder—often a husband killing his wife—or self-cannibalism. It seeks vengeance or flesh, often terrorizing the children of the deceased. 

Key Aspects of the Legend

• Origin: In many versions, a husband murders his wife (often due to infidelity or witchcraft) and her head detaches and comes to life.
• Behaviour: The head rolls across the ground, or in some Iroquois variations, flies through the air, pursuing people to devour.
• Characteristics: It is often described as having long, tangled hair and being nearly indestructible by normal weapons.
• Variant (Self-Cannibalism): Some tales, such as those from the Wintu, describe a person who begins to eat themselves, eventually becoming a rolling head.
• Defeat: In some stories, the head is defeated by tricking it into eating hot coals or, in a Cheyenne version, the children it pursues escape by creating a deep chasm. 

Regional Variations

• Cheyenne/Algonquian: Focuses on the murdered wife’s head hunting her children or husband.
• Iroquois: Known as "Flying Heads," these are often portrayed as giant, ravenous spirits rather than specifically murdered individuals. 

These stories often serve as cautionary tales regarding taboo, violence, and the disruption of community balance.