Burma Shave

[DONJCH]

Of the various explanations for that figure, Melusine makes most sense to me.
You certainly have drawn some interesting connections there.

I also get what you say about semiotics, I recall one urban myth from childhood that stretched across at least two States for a period of at least two years. I won't bore you with the details but it was something every kid Knew and when I think back I wonder how widespread it was.