Bigfoot Rocks; Solved!

Magazine Overview

Title: Bigfoot Rocks; Solved!
Issue: Chronicles
Date: May 6, 1982

This issue of Chronicles delves into the mystery surrounding peculiar round rocks found in the Cascade Mountains, often linked to Bigfoot sightings. The article aims to provide a definitive explanation for their origin and debunk sensationalized theories.

The Geological Explanation: Spheroidal Weathering

The primary focus of the article is to explain the geological formation of these spherical rocks. The author recounts a previous discussion about these rocks and notes that two researchers have published conjecture about their origin. Upon investigation, it was determined that the rocks are made of sandstone, ruling out igneous rock due to their texture. The discovery of a plant fossil inside further supported this conclusion. To test their durability, one rock was split in half after being heated and then rapidly frozen, and another was thrown from a two-story building, only denting concrete.

Seeking a scientific explanation for the roundness, the author consulted his brother, Tom Schaffner, a geology student at U.C. Tom provided a brief explaining 'spheroidal weathering,' a process described by two professors from the University of Cincinnati. This process involves the physical and chemical decomposition of rocks exposed to water and air. While running water typically wears away sharp edges to create a rounded shape, in some rocks, this process is more pronounced. The weathered outer layer slowly breaks apart, exposing a fresh surface that also erodes, akin to peeling an onion. Over extended periods, this process results in sandstone becoming spherical.

Tom Schaffner emphasizes that these spherical rocks have no inherent connection to Bigfoot and are commonly found. He notes that people often bring these rocks to geologists, mistaking them for 'fossil cannon balls.'

Debunking the Laser Theory

The article addresses a printed theory suggesting that strange symbols or 'glyphs' found carved into some of these rocks were the result of a laser. To test this claim, the author conducted simple experiments. They discovered that any sharp object could easily cut through the outer layer of the rock. The author's hunting knife penetrated over 3 mm deep, leading them to conclude that the laser theory is absurd, as a simple human tool can achieve the same result.

Sasquatch and the Rocks

While debunking the laser theory and providing a geological explanation, the article does not dismiss the possibility of Sasquatch (referred to as 'manimals') using these rocks. The author acknowledges that these rocks could serve as effective weapons due to their weight, ranging from 5 to 40 pounds. The article mentions that there have been documented cases where these creatures have thrown rocks at witnesses.

Conclusion

The article concludes that the 'Bigfoot Rocks' are a natural, earthly substance and are essentially a geological wonder. The author, identified as 'RS,' suggests there is nothing unusual about them beyond their geological formation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Chronicles takes a rational and scientific approach to a topic often associated with the paranormal and sensationalism. The editorial stance is to investigate claims, apply scientific principles (in this case, geology), and debunk unsubstantiated theories. The magazine prioritizes factual explanations over speculation, as evidenced by the detailed explanation of spheroidal weathering and the experimental debunking of the laser theory. While acknowledging anecdotal evidence related to Sasquatch, the article firmly grounds the phenomenon in natural geological processes.