Facial carvings on walking sticks sometims are known as woodspirits – also sometimes spelled as two words. Their origins lie in ancient lore, folktales and pagan legends.

The concept of the woodspirit is thought to have originated in Europe, though Americans seem to have popularized their carving; woodspirits can be found here on trees, walking sticks, fireplaces, bowls and myriad other locations. The most common version of the legend explains the fear of the forest from early times to the mid-19th century.