Since the initial question was concerned with supernatural ballads in the American tradition, I didn't mention Archie Fisher's original ballad (on his Folk-Legacy CD-61) "Witch of the West-mer-lands," since it's neither traditional nor American. Good though, as Utah Phillips would say.

Jean reminds me of the supernatural element in "The False Knight on the Road" (the boy in contending with the Devil). There are three American versions on Folk-Legacy: Joe Hickerson sings "The Devil and the Schoolchild" on C-39 (soon to be re-issued as CD-39 -- I'm working on the notes right now), and Tony and Irene Saletan sing a lovely version on the sampler "The Continuing Tradition, Vol.I" (C-75). Betty Smith sings another fine one on her "Songs and Ballads Traditionally Sung in North Carolina" (C-53). Hedy West sings a wonderful "Wife of Usher's Well" on her "Old Times and Hard Times" (C-32).

I can't tell you how indebted I am to Karen K for the "Complete index of artists, songs, ballad, and tunes on Folk-Legacy" that she compiled into a database for me. What an incredible task! With my memory being what it is, especially when Caroline's asleep and I can't just holler down the stairs: "Hey, Caroline! What record is such-and-such on?", I find I use the index every day. These posts have relied upon it, believe me. Thank you, Karen!

Sandy