Edward R. (Edward Richard) Shaw
Legends of Fire Island Beach and the South Side
"Legends of Fire Island Beach and the South Side" by Edward R. Shaw is a collection of folk tales and legends written in the late 19th century. The book explores the folklore and traditions connected to the Great South Bay area, particularly focusing on the mysterious and often supernatural experiences reported by the seafaring community. It intriguingly blends fact, imagination, and superstition, weaving together narratives that highlight the romantic atmosphere of the coast. The beginning of the work introduces readers to the setting of Fire Island Beach, depicted as a wild and desolate place shaped by nature's forces. The protagonist, known as the Captain, is introduced as a man drawn to the beach in search of treasure and relics cast ashore by the sea. During the stormy night, the Captain’s routine patrol leads him to discover a buried jar, igniting his long-held hope for hidden wealth. As he opens the pot to uncover gold coins, Shaw establishes themes of treasure hunting intertwined with local folklore, setting the stage for the Captain’s adventures and the legends that follow. The detailed descriptions create an immersive sensory experience, encapsulating the allure and danger of the beach.