Tradition / Region: Finland and Estonia (Viru coast, Lavassaare, Virumaa)
Alternate Names: —
Category: Sorcerer / witch
The Myth
A Finnish Tuuslar once fled across the sea to the island of Lavassaare, pursued by enemies who sought to destroy him. As he fled, he used his magic to defend himself. He transformed fish in the surrounding waters into terrifying sea monsters, hoping to frighten his pursuers away. Even so, they continued after him and reached the small island.
When the enemies landed, the Tuuslar took a handful of feathers from his beak and blew them into the air. At once, warriors fell from the sky like hail, filling the island and driving the attackers into panic. Terrified, they fled, leaving the Tuuslar alone on Lavassaare.
The Tuuslar remained on the island for many years. From there, he played tricks on the people living along the Viru coast, using his witchcraft to deceive and trouble them. At last, he departed, flying away on the back of a great northern eagle, and was never seen again.
After his departure, the island of Lavassaare stood empty for a long time. People feared to land there, believing the Tuuslar’s magic still lingered. Eventually, peaceful Finns arrived and settled the island. These settlers were said to have lost their witchcraft spells, and their descendants are believed to live on the island to this day.
According to the legend, children are sometimes seen playing and throwing feathers into the air, saying, “Let’s try—can we get shepherds?” remembering the Tuuslar’s magic.
Another tale tells that a Finnish Tuuslar once threw a stone at the sleeping Kalevipoeg, but missed. The stone was said to remain near the Suigu farm in Viru-Jaagupi, marking the place where the spell failed.