The Story of Jolantha

A long time ago there lived a farmer on Kellogg Hill in Weston, CT who had a son called Simeon. This strapping young lad had fallen madly in love with the neighbor’s daughter Abigail. Unfortunately, Abigail’s father thought his daughter was far too young for any amorous entanglement and furthermore, he wanted her to marry another man. Therefore, Simeon and Abigail had to meet in secret.

One warm summer night when the two lovebirds were secretly meeting, they were surprised by Abigail’s brother who was known for his violent temper. He went into a dreadful rage and chased after the fleeing Simeon. Luckily Simeon had very fast legs.

Frightened for his life Simeon ran to the barns for cover. Out of desperation he jumped into the pig’s pen and crawled under the straw to hide. Furiously waving about his pitchfork, Abigail’s brother stormed into the barns when Simeon realized, to his horror, that his feet were still exposed.

Resigning himself to an inevitable death by impalement Simeon felt a sudden weight on his feet. It was Jolantha – the biggest sow in the pen – who had planted herself firmly on his trembling feet. Being now totally hidden, Abigail’s brother did not find him, and thus, his life was spared. 

As the story of Jolantha of Weston spread, people came from everywhere to take a look at this remarkable pig. Her piglets were in high demand and in no time Jolantha had become a symbol of good luck, love, joy and celebration. Eventually, Simeon and Abigail got married. They were so happy and grateful that they never turned Jolantha into bacon and sausages. 

In 2003 Hans Wilhelm created a sculpture in honor of Jolantha. Together with his artist wife Judy Henderson they make sure that she is always perfectly dressed up for any special occasions throughout the years. Here is a lovely article with pictures about their work.

Don’t forget to subscribe to this website and you will receive a pig-ture of all her future outfits.

You can visit Jolantha at 70 Kellogg Hill Road in Weston, Connecticut, USA.

Watch Jolantha’s Video