White Lady

The White Lady - Captain Elin

In the 18th century, the noble family Stedt entered the history of Hooks Herrgård. Nicolas Stedt was also a judge at the Göta Court of Appeal.

The legend tells of a notorious witch in Jönköping during this time. She went by the name "Captain Elin," and stood in the Stora Torget practicing her spells. Against this presumed witch, judge Nicolas Stedt brought charges. The verdict was that she was sentenced to death. When she received her sentence, she pronounced her curse upon the judge and his descendants in the third line.

She also predicted that it would be the last time he would write his name when he signed the verdict. Judge Stedt is said to have become lame in his right arm, but the history does not tell how much time passed between that and the signing of the death sentence.

”Captain Elin” or as she is also called ”The White Lady” can still be seen at the Herrgård. In the staircase down to the restaurant via the manor, there is a bust sculpture of her.

It is said that one can sense her presence when a gentle breeze sweeps through the manor's salons at night. On the upper floor of the main building, one can see door handles pressed down, the floor creaks, and faint breaths can be heard. ”The White Lady” has, however, never harmed a fly. She enjoys being at Hooks Herrgård and watches over the guests.