Daid Haid/Dead Head
Daid Haid was supposedly found in the Pemigewasset Wilderness by a hiker Goofer or a croo person while bushwhacking through the terrain. It was believed to be a skull of a Native American.The skull was dropped off at Zealand Falls hut until its demise when it showed up at Ann Dodge’s and Jack Middleton’s wedding. Purportedly, Joe Dodge had it destroyed and its remains returned to the Pemigewasset and placed where no remnants could ever be rediscovered.
The legend suggests that it was transported back and forth to be equally shared by Zealand and Galehead huts, to be placed on display as an object of interest and as a much prized and popular raid item.
Mostly Daid Haid was transported by unsuspecting Goofers. This method of delivery was frequently deployed to deliver various items from one hut to the other. The photo shows Daid Haid reposing on the front, spacious porch of Zealand Falls Hut.
Daid Haid was present when the Ashbook’s ran Zealand Falls Hut in the summer of 1942 on an extended honeymoon. Photo and story courtesy of Willy Ashbrook
Hanque Parker, Galehead Croo 1930s, has the whole story. He gave us the history of the Daid Haid, at the dedication of the rebuilt Galehead. He even packed in a plastic skull for the croo.
He can be reached at [email protected]. Do not have a phone number but he lives at the retirement village a Mary Sloat.
To paraphrase his comments:
It was found by one of the Galehead croo in an old Pemi logging camp and brought up to the hut. It was passed back and forth to Zealand, disguised as eggs, by unsuspecting goofers. It showed up at the wedding of Jack Middleton and Ann Dodge supposedly in the bottom of the punch bowl. Needless to say Joe was not pleased. After a good cussing out by Joe, it was returned to the Pemi.
Jack and Hanque can provide more details.
How about us creating an OH “Daid Haid” Tshirt?
I suggest everyone listen to Hanque’s presentation at last year’s Annual Meeting. He gives the history of the Daid Haid from A – Z.
The presentation is on our video page, along with the other presentations from the past annual meeting.