ANCIENT SKIES

Magazine Overview

Title: ANCIENT SKIES
Issue: Volume 5, Number 3
Date: July-August, 1978
Publisher: Ancient Astronaut Society
Theme: Exploration of ancient mysteries, human origins, and extraterrestrial influences.

The Carboniferous Five: Challenging Human Origins

The lead article, "The Carboniferous Five" by Emil T. Olakowski, presents a controversial thesis that mankind may have existed on Earth for as long as three hundred million years, coexisting with early reptiles. Olakowski, a metals inspector and amateur anthropologist, argues that the "experts" and the fossil record do not support the theory of human evolution from lower life forms. He asserts that mankind is not a modified primate and owes no gratitude to amphibians for its origin.

Olakowski details his personal discoveries in the Carboniferous stratum, approximately 300,000,000 years old, found in the strip-mine area of Braidwood, Illinois, about 55 miles south of Chicago. These finds, which he dubs the "Carboniferous Five," include:

• July 1970: A pyritized cast of what appears to be a humanoid jawbone.
• September 1972: A pyritized fossil of a nearly hatched reptile, still in its shell.
• July 1973: A pyritized cast of a human footprint, described as well-arched and capable of supporting a good walking gait.
• May 1974: A small pyritized object believed to be the skull of a small humanoid or monkey-like creature.
• June 1974: A small pyritized heart, which medical doctors have confirmed could be of biological origin.

Olakowski recounts his attempts to share these findings with anthropologists at a world conference in Chicago, but claims he was ignored, attributing this to the "experts" unwillingness to learn new information. He criticizes the evolutionary theory's explanation for human origins, particularly the idea of gradual evolution from reptiles to mammals and then to humans over millions of years, calling it "more a miracle, than evolution."

He also addresses the concept of vestigial organs, such as the coccyx, arguing that they are often misinterpreted and are still functional. He dismisses the "Nebraska Man" case as a "figment of the imagination of some 'expert'," highlighting how scientific consensus can be overturned by later discoveries.

Olakowski concludes by suggesting that advanced extraterrestrial intelligences may have visited Earth in the remote past, leaving behind evidence of their presence, and that open-mindedness is key to understanding the origin of mankind.

Tribute to Robert Charroux

The issue includes a brief note regretting the death of Robert Charroux, a member of the Ancient Astronaut Society and a prominent writer in the ancient astronaut field, at the age of 68. His notable books are listed.

Book Review: Secrets of the Stones

A review of "Secrets of the Stones" by John Michell is presented. The book explores astro-archaeology, linking megalithic sites to celestial observations. The review discusses the conflict between the modern view of civilization as a recent phenomenon and the older idea of cyclical civilization. It highlights how the acceptance of ancient astronomical science challenges modern scientific achievement and suggests a shift in historical paradigms.

Recommended Reading

A list of recommended books on Mayan ruins and related topics is provided.

Expedition to Labna and Back

Gene M. Phillips, Founder of the Ancient Astronaut Society, recounts an expedition to Mayan ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula during Thanksgiving Week 1976. The trip involved visiting Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Labna. The journey to Labna and surrounding ruins was undertaken in old World War II vintage Jeeps and British Land Rovers, described as being held together by "wire, string, and mostly love." The travel was arduous, with the vehicles navigating extremely rough terrain, including deep ruts, stone outcroppings, and tree trunks. The expedition faced challenges such as vehicles getting stuck in mud holes and mechanical issues, emphasizing the adventurous and sometimes difficult nature of the society's member expeditions.

Despite the hardships, the group explored the ruins, including the famous arch at Labna, described as an architectural gem, and a large pyramidal structure. Phillips notes the loneliness of the remote location but also the sense of wonder. He speculates about ancient communication systems based on the alignment of structures. The picnic lunch provided was described as basic but filling. The return journey was equally challenging, with further mechanical problems encountered by the vehicles.

Phillips concludes by encouraging readers not to be discouraged by the report, stating that "getting there is half the fun!" Upcoming expeditions to Guatemala, Egypt, and England are announced.

New World Headquarters and Correction

An announcement is made regarding the Ancient Astronaut Society's move to new offices in Highland Park, Illinois, effective August 1, 1978. A correction is also noted regarding the address of Josef F. Blumrich.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly promotes the ancient astronaut theory, challenging conventional scientific and historical narratives, particularly concerning human evolution and the origins of civilization. It emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness in exploring these mysteries and highlights the adventurous spirit of the Ancient Astronaut Society through its expedition reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards established "expert" opinions and a belief in the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on ancient human history and development.