Dead of Night - No 02 - 1994

Magazine Overview

Title: DEAD OF NIGHT
Issue: 2
Date: October 1994
Publisher: Quinta-Essensia
Editor: Lee Walker

This issue of 'DEAD OF NIGHT', described as Merseyside's ONLY publication dealing with ALL aspects of Strange Phenomena, focuses heavily on Halloween, exploring its origins, customs, and associated folklore.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Lee Walker, welcomes readers to the second issue and expresses gratitude for the positive response to the inaugural one. Walker encourages reader contributions via letters to foster debate and guide future content. He addresses the magazine's use of humor, stating it's not intended to be dismissive but rather to make serious subject matter more accessible and appealing to a wider audience, avoiding the dry tone of some publications. The editorial highlights the magazine's commitment to a quirky, colloquial style unless reader feedback suggests otherwise.

Special Features

• HALLOWEEN: THE FESTIVAL OF THE DEAD: This feature delves into the origins and customs of All-Hallow's Eve, tracing its roots to the Celtic festival of Samhain, meaning 'The Lord of the Dead'. It explains how the festival was influenced by the worship of the Babylonian Sun-God, Bel or Baal, and the practice of lighting Beltane fires to honor the sun and ensure its survival through winter.
• THE SHIP ON THE MOUNTAIN: This article poses the question of whether Noah's Ark has been found on 'The Doomsday Mountain'.
• THE LINCOLN IMP: A personal account of the famous demonic entity.
• SLAUGHTER OF THE INNOCENTS: The editor shares his tale of animal mutilation and an encounter with 'The Impossible'.
• A CARNIVAL OF MONSTERS...PART 2: This is part two of a special pull-out feature.

Regular Features

• EDITORIAL: (Already summarized above).
• CHASING THE UNKNOWN: A compilation of recent press cuttings related to unexplained phenomena.
• REFLECTIONS IN A GOLDEN EYE: Explores unexplained phenomena in the 20th century, specifically the period of 1901-03.
• THE ROAD OF DREAMS AS MIRRORS: Presents a collection of classic 'Cosmic Jokes'.
• DARK VISIONS: A review and analysis of video and TV programs dealing with the unknown.
• SWAPPING TALES IN DREAMLAND: A section for letters and stories from readers.

Halloween: The Festival Of The Dead (Detailed)

The article 'Halloween: The Festival Of The Dead' begins by noting that for many, October 31st is associated with harmless frivolity like fancy dress parties and trick-or-treating. However, it also acknowledges concerns from teachers and clergy about the occult and supernatural. The piece emphasizes that few are aware of Halloween's true origins and significance. It explains that 'Samhain' is a Celtic word meaning 'The Lord of the Dead' and marked the end of summer. The article references Dr. Sam Loomis from 'Halloween II' as a point of cultural reference.

Season of the Witch

This section details the historical and cultural context of Halloween. It highlights the contrast between the popular perception of Halloween and its deeper, more ancient roots. The article discusses the ancient worship of the Sun-God, Bel or Baal, and how this influenced Celtic traditions, including the lighting of 'Beltane Fires' on hilltops. These fires were meant to regenerate the Sun's heat during winter and were part of a religious practice that favored open-air ceremonies over temples. The conflagrations occurred three times a year: May Day eve, Midsummer eve, and the last day of October, marking the transition of seasons and celebrating harvest and the Sun God's influence.

Remembrance of Things Past: (The Origins Of Halloween)

This section further elaborates on the origins, linking Halloween to the worship of the Babylonian God, BEL, or BAAL, the ancient Phoenician Sun-God. It explains that the practice of lighting fires on hilltops was to honor the Sun God and help regenerate its heat during the winter months. The fires were lit on May Day eve, Midsummer eve, and the last day of October. The Spring and Summer fires celebrated rebirth and growth, while the Autumn flames were for thanksgiving for the harvest and honoring the God believed to be looking after their interests. The article notes that these dates are not tied to equinoxes or solstices, suggesting a connection to cattle, which were a primary food source. Samhain marked the end of summer, when cattle were brought in from fields. November 1st was considered the start of a new year, and the festivities began on the eve of November 1st, with embers burning for a week. The ashes were symbolically consumed, and households would rekindle fires from these embers for prosperity.

Dispelling a Few 'Bonnie Night' Myths

This section debunks myths surrounding bonfires, particularly those related to Guy Fawkes Night. It clarifies that bonfires were originally called 'BONE-fires' and were associated with sacrifices to Old Gods, including animals and humans. The article describes the practice of dancing around bonfires in an anti-clockwise direction. In North Wales and Scotland, families built bonfires, and individuals would throw marked white stones into the ashes; a missing stone was believed to portend death. Young boys would also ask for 'a peat to burn the Witches' and shout 'Fire! Fire! Burn the Witches!!!'. The ashes were scattered after the fire died down, and the cry 'The Devil take the hindmost' was raised as people dispersed. Bonfires were also linked to the concepts of Death and Rebirth, kindled to aid departed souls imprisoned in Purgatory.

The Festival of The Dead

This part discusses how Christianity attempted to suppress Samhain, eventually incorporating it into its calendar as 'All Hallow's Eve' (the night before 'All Hallows' or 'All Saints' Day'). The date was shifted from May 13th to November 1st to coincide with Samhain. Despite these efforts, the connection to death and rebirth persisted. The article notes that the short daylight hours and long nights of winter evoked images of the grave, leading to the belief that spirits of the dead were free to roam on this night. It quotes Sir James Frazer's 'The Golden Bough', describing how souls were believed to revisit their homes. The origins of 'Trick or Treat' are traced to the tradition of leaving food and drink offerings for spirits. The article also mentions the presence of 'Faerie' creatures, who were believed to cross into the human world on Halloween, luring people into revels with promises of wine and gold, but often revealing their true, often sinister, nature.

Satan's Disciples

This section focuses on the association of Halloween with witches. It explains that witches viewed death not as an end but as a transition to another life, making Halloween one of the four Great Sabbats. These Sabbats were ancient feasts celebrated by Druids and Celtic ancestors, including Candlemas, May Eve, and Lammas. The article notes that the Church eventually succeeded in rendering the festival obsolete, though it was reintroduced into the Church of England calendar in 1928. The fear of witchcraft led to the burning of effigies on bonfires long before the idea of committing 'A Guy' to the flames emerged. At Sabbats, covens would pay homage to Old Gods with dancing and feasting, often involving meat, cakes, wine, and beer. The leader, 'The Man In Black', would preside over the feast, which concluded with dancing and instruction in 'The Black Arts', including how to make wax images and bewitch crops. A greenish ointment, likely made from narcotic herbs, was used to anoint attendees, leading them to believe they could fly.

Halloween Games and Customs

This section discusses the popular custom of carving pumpkins and turnips into scary faces, which originated as a way to frighten away those who might spy on secret witch meetings. These carved objects served as lanterns to light the way across fields and woodlands and were believed to ward off evil spirits, similar to gargoyles on church roofs. The article includes a photograph of American forces in Britain during World War II celebrating Halloween with carved pumpkins and lit candles. It also mentions the Welsh tradition of 'Three Spirit Nights' and the Lancashire ceremony of 'Leeting The Witches', where a candle's flame was used to determine the presence of witchcraft.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, folklore, ancient beliefs, and the occult. The editorial stance, as expressed by Lee Walker, is to approach these subjects with a degree of humor and accessibility, aiming to engage a broad audience rather than alienating them with overly academic or dogmatic presentations. The magazine positions itself as open to various beliefs, not subscribing to any single one, and actively encourages reader participation through letters and shared stories.

Title: CHASING THE UNKNOWN
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: 1994
Publisher: Fortean Times
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of 'Chasing The Unknown' is a compilation of "very latest press clippings" from 1994, focusing on unusual, unexplained, and Fortean phenomena. It aims to counter criticisms of a lack of up-to-the-minute 'Fortean news' in its previous issue by presenting a diverse collection of bizarre events and alleged occurrences from various sources.

Halloween Traditions and Divination

The issue delves into the origins and traditions of Halloween, particularly focusing on love divination. In Cheshire, 'Nutcrack Night' involved naming hazelnuts for prospective partners; if they burned together, the relationship was deemed well. Girls also used mirrors and apples to glimpse their future spouses. The game of 'Duck Apple', where a partner's initial was revealed by catching an apple, is also discussed, linking apples and hazelnuts to the Tree of Paradise and Wisdom, respectively. The article concludes by emphasizing that Halloween is more than just 'Trick Or Treat', calling it 'The Season Of The Witch'.

Mysterious Creatures and Unexplained Phenomena

Several reports highlight mysterious creatures and sightings. The 'Tizzie-Wizzie', a supposed cross between a hedgehog and squirrel, is reported to be lurking near Lake Windermere. A 'Water Monster' sighting in China is also mentioned, with descriptions varying from a 'blond-headed creature' to a large black 'thing'.

Weird Medical Phenomena

One peculiar medical case from Southern China involved a man who developed a severe headache after eating rotten food, leading to the discovery of over 120 worms inside his skull. Another report details a "mad spirit" exorcism in China where a man killed his sister by jumping on her stomach, believing he was expelling worms and snakes.

Cannibalism and Bizarre Human Behavior

The issue features disturbing accounts of human behavior. Five gangsters in South Korea turned to cannibalism, consuming parts of kidnap victims to enhance their courage. In a separate report, a villager in India beheaded his daughter after a dream of making a human sacrifice. Another incident involved a man in Peru who was arrested for demanding women snip their toenails, possibly due to a bizarre perversion. The issue also revisits the story of two brothers surviving in an Italian forest for 32 years after being abandoned as children.

Animal Mutations and Environmental Concerns

Concerns about animal mutations and environmental pollution are raised. Greenpeace claimed that cod in fish and chip suppers could be riddled with cancerous growths due to North Sea pollution. The rediscovery of a 'Wart-Eating Insect', thought to be extinct, in Wiltshire is also noted.

Paranormal Activity and Hauntings

Several reports touch upon paranormal activity. Security cameras at a primary school in Warrington captured unexplained apparitions, including a strange mist and a pulsating ball of light. A woman in Kent believes a 'randy ghost' is trying to seduce her, leading her husband to call for church intervention. Additionally, a "bleeding" statue of Jesus Christ in Italy prompted a bishop's inquiry.

Satanism and Killer Clowns

The issue touches upon satanic activities, including a report of a man jailed for eating a pet hamster and drinking children's blood during a satanic ritual in Germany. It also references the 'killer clown' phenomenon, linking it to the spirit of 'Pennywise' and a drawing of a clown mask used by a killer in Weddington, Warwickshire.

Real-Life Vampires and Halloween Horrors

A case of a drug-crazed teenager who slashed a boy's neck and sucked his blood, claiming it was to find strength, is detailed. The teenager, Benjamin Peck, also admitted to arson and assaults. Another report describes a naive teenager who was allegedly raped as part of a "satanic ritual" by a man who told her she had to lose her virginity to save her from evil spirits.

Noah's Ark and Ancient Mysteries

The article "The Ship On The Mountain" by S. Griffiths explores the global accounts of a Great Flood and the various beliefs surrounding Noah's Ark. It discusses different theories on its landing place, including Mount Ararat, Mount Nisir, and Djudi, and debates its size based on biblical descriptions and historical measurements. The article also mentions expeditions to Mount Ararat and the findings of Ark hunters like David Fasold, who identified a potential site near Mount Mahser Dagi, translating to 'Doomsday Mountain'. Fasold's team found carved stones believed to be anchor or drogue stones, raising questions about their presence miles from the sea and at high altitudes.

Other Strange Reports

Other miscellaneous reports include a 'rotten headache' case, a 'Panther' sighting explanation, a man drinking himself to death over his dog, and a report on earthquakes in Britain being more common than often supposed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, the bizarre, and the Fortean. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these unusual events and phenomena as evidence that the world is stranger than often perceived, challenging skepticism and highlighting the continued belief in the supernatural and the unusual across various cultures and traditions. The magazine seems to embrace the idea that "whatever the massed hordes of detractors may say to the contrary, the type of stuff we report occurs with just the same degree of frequent regularity as during the more 'innocent (aka Gullible) days of yesteryear.".

Title: Strange Phenomena Of The 20th Century
Issue: THE BEST OF THE REST FROM 1901: THE BEST OF THE REST OF 1902
Date: March 1901 (with entries extending into 1902)
Publisher: Strange Phenomena
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of 'Strange Phenomena' presents a collection of intriguing and often baffling accounts from the early 20th century, spanning themes of ancient mythology, unexplained deaths, meteorological anomalies, paranormal encounters, and maritime mysteries. The content is drawn from various sources, including historical records, scientific journals, and anecdotal reports.

Gilgamesh and the Flood

The issue begins with an article by S. Griffiths titled "Gilgamesh and the Flood," which explores the Babylonian epic of Gilgamesh and its striking parallels with the biblical account of Noah. The article highlights the discovery of twelve clay tablets at Nineveh detailing Gilgamesh's exploits. It recounts the creation of Enkidu by the goddess Aruru to distract the tyrannical Gilgamesh, their subsequent friendship, and the tragic events involving Ishtar and the Bull of Heaven. The core of the narrative focuses on Gilgamesh's quest for eternal life, leading him to Uta-Napishtim, the Babylonian Noah. Uta-Napishtim recounts the divine decision to destroy mankind with a flood, the instruction to build an ark from a reed hut, and the survival of his family, possessions, and animals. Similar to the biblical story, Uta-Napishtim releases a dove, swallow, and raven to ascertain when the waters had subsided. He then makes a grateful sacrifice to the gods, who grant him and his wife immortality. The article also mentions Uta-Napishtim's tale of a magical plant for everlasting youth, which Gilgamesh loses to a serpent.

Archaeological Investigations and Theories

A section discusses the archaeological site related to the Ark, mentioning radar imagery that suggested deck planks. It presents the theory of archaeologist Fasold, who believes the Ark was constructed from reed bundles covered with a waterproofing layer of pumice and bituminous substance, rather than wood. The idea that the original organic fabric might have been fossilized is also put forward. The Turkish government has restricted Fasold's work on the site due to its politically sensitive location, allowing only minor drillings, which have been insufficient to confirm or disprove the theories. A full excavation is deemed necessary for resolution.

Strange Phenomena from 1901

Mysterious Death in Cambridge

An account from March 1901 details the bizarre case of Lavinia Farrar, found dead in her Cambridge, England, kitchen. Her face was beaten, her nose broken, and a bloodstained knife lay beside her. The pathologist determined she had been stabbed to the heart, but remarkably, there was no damage to her four garments, and the wound was entirely bloodless. The blood found on the floor was later determined not to have originated from the stab wound. The case is presented as a puzzle, with the victim being 72 years old and blind, making suicide highly unlikely. The inquest returned an open verdict.

Ball Lightning in Liverpool

On March 28th, in Liverpool, England, two witnesses observed a thunderstorm. A 'red-hot bolt, the size of a small rocket,' entered a kitchen window, followed by bright sparks, and then exploded with a spectacular flash and crack. Later, two more similar bolts entered the house through the back and front doors. The witnesses reported no smell or after-effects.

UFO/Entities in Bournebrook

During an English summer, a ten-year-old boy in Bournebrook, West Midlands, England, encountered a strange object in his garden, described as about 4ft high and 5-6ft long, with a central turret. Two tiny entities emerged from the object, one of which waved its arms, seemingly warning the boy away. The entities wore grey-green uniforms and 'Darth Vader'-type helmets. After they re-entered the object, the garden and surrounding area were illuminated by an incandescent glow before the craft suddenly streaked away.

Strange Phenomena from 1902

Poltergeist Outbreak in Germany

From December 4th, 1901, until February 1902, a poltergeist outbreak occurred in Gerolstein, West Germany.

Giant Squid Sightings

Numerous sightings of 'Kraken,' the mythical name for the Giant Squid, were reported in the coastal areas of White Bay and Trinity Bay, Newfoundland, during the early part of the century.

Out-Of-Place Animal in Oklahoma

A four-and-a-half-foot-long crocodile was found and killed near Norman, Oklahoma, USA, in November. The article notes that crocodiles are not native to the area, posing the question of its origin.

Sea Monster in New York

On August 10th, Captain Alexander S. Banta reported seeing a black sea monster, larger than a whale, on two occasions near City Island, New York. The creature became aggressive and attacked his ship before being distracted by a passing steamer.

Sea Monster in Norway

On October 4th, in Oslofjord, Norway, a group of people in a yacht spotted a 60ft long, humped sea monster.

Mysterious Fires in Merseyside

On June 5th, in Plundellsands, Merseyside, England, witnesses reported seeing wispy smoke with frequent jets of fire bursting from the mud of a shallow canal. A sulphurous smell was detected, and small tongues of fire danced at the edges of the smoke haze, accompanied by a hissing sound. The flames were described as impossible, tiny flames popping up over an area of approximately 40 yards, with a bluish hue on the water's surface. Another observer poked the mud, causing large yellow flames to burst forth. The phenomenon continued until the tide came in, leaving a sulphurous odor.

Spook Light in Maryland

Janet and Colin Bord mentioned that in 1902, a 'Spook Light' was often seen one mile west of Hebron, Maryland, USA.

Ghost in Transvaal

W.T. Stead recounted a letter from an Englishman hunting in the South African Transvaal. The hunter reported seeing an eerie white horse with an unearthly rider emerge from trees and chase him. Later, local guides told of a previous safari where an Englishman who owned a white horse shot seven elephants in the same copse and was never seen again. The white horse returned to camp alone and died 24 hours later.

The Bermuda Triangle

The Last Crew of 'The Freya'

The issue addresses the 'Bermuda Triangle,' described as a trapezoidal area in the Western Atlantic. It notes that while authors like Charles Berlits and Richard Winer associate it with mysterious disappearances, skeptics like Paul Begg have attempted to debunk the phenomenon. The article presents the case of 'The Freya,' a 625-ton German barque that sailed from Manzanillo, Cuba (though later corrected to Manzanillo, Mexico), carrying ballast. The ship was reported missing in October 1902. A search found the vessel lying on its side, appearing to have been caught in a storm. However, investigators noted that only light winds prevailed at the time of its disappearance. An article in the journal 'Nature' in 1907 proposed the 'Mexican Earthquakes' theory, suggesting the crew abandoned ship due to a sea-quake caused by submarine volcanic activity. This theory is questioned due to the ship's actual departure port and the location where it was found (the Pacific, not the Atlantic or 'Limbo of the Lost'). The author suggests that the 'Freya' incident, and many other 'Triangle' cases, have been sensationalized, and that a mundane explanation likely exists for most, though the essential question of what happened to the ship and crew remains unanswered.

Cases Cited in the Triangle Legend

A list of cases most often cited in the Bermuda Triangle legend is provided, with summaries and explanations, many of which are attributed to research by Lawrence Kusche. These include shipwrecks, disappearances of planes, and other maritime incidents, with some cases marked as still mysterious or disputed by later researchers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and paranormal events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness, presenting various accounts and theories, while also acknowledging skeptical viewpoints and the need for evidence-based explanations. There's a clear interest in folklore, ancient myths, and historical oddities that challenge conventional understanding. The inclusion of detailed case studies, like the Gilgamesh epic and the Bermuda Triangle incidents, suggests a desire to connect historical narratives with contemporary mysteries. The publication seems to aim at informing and intriguing readers about the strange and unusual aspects of history and human experience.

This issue of 'The Lincoln Imp' magazine, likely from the 1980s, presents a collection of unexplained phenomena and folklore. It details several unusual events, including poltergeist activity, anomalous falls of animals from the sky, and a series of mysterious animal deaths. The magazine also features an article on the history and legends surrounding the Lincoln Imp statue.

Poltergeist Outbreaks and Anomalous Falls

The issue begins by recounting three short-lived poltergeist outbreaks that occurred in the years 1903 and 1904, and a further outbreak in the current year. These incidents involved anti-social behaviour such as the brewing of strong winds within houses and the causing of loud crashing noises.

Following this, the magazine details several specific incidents:

• 1st October: In Newburyport, Massachusetts, USA, a poltergeist phenomenon was reported.
• 15th May: In Tiller's Ferry, South Carolina, USA, a 'Fish Fall' occurred. Hundreds of fish, including Perch, Catfish, and Trout, fell from the sky during a heavy shower, later found swimming in puddles.
• 2nd July: In Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, a 'Frog/Toad Fall' took place during a severe storm. An eyewitness described a large green mass descending, followed by a peculiar patter. Upon investigation, an incredible number of frogs and toads, stacked deep and covering several blocks, were found.

Poltergeist/Invisible Assailants in Harrisonville

The issue then describes an incident in Harrisonville, Ohio, USA, on 26th October, involving 'Poltergeist/Invisible Assailants'. A section of houses were pelted with stones by an invisible assailant. The event began with a large boulder shattering the front room window of Zach Dye's house. When the family rushed outside, no one was found. The phenomenon escalated the following day, with stones falling in the centre of the village, smashing the plate glass door of a local store. Despite a large number of townsfolk gathering, no culprit was identified. The stones continued to fall, described as a 'giant-sized hail-storm', injuring some individuals. The event concluded with the entire population searching for the culprit, confirming it was not a resident.

The Lincoln Imp: Folklore and Cathedral Visit

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a personal account of a visit to Lincoln, England, and the exploration of the legend of the Lincoln Imp. The author, travelling with his wife Melanie, visits Lincoln Cathedral, described as the third largest in England, founded in 1072.

The author recounts the history of the Cathedral, including damage by fire in 1141 and an earthquake in 1185. He describes the journey through the town, including a street named 'The Strait' and 'Steep Hill'. The main focus is the search for the Lincoln Imp, a small stone figure located high up on a pillar above the shrine of St. Hugh.

Two legends are presented regarding the Imp:

1. The Devil's Demons: This legend tells of young demons playing, with one jumping into the sea, another playing in a furnace, and another with forked lightning. One Imp allegedly rode the breeze to Lindom (Lincoln), where it rushed about the Cathedral, teasing vergers and knocking down the Dean. When it started smashing windows, an angel cried out, and the Imp was turned to stone.
2. Hindering Construction: Another story suggests the Imp hindered the construction of St. Hugh's shrine. An angel threw a stone at it, hitting its leg and turning it to stone. This is believed to be why the Imp sits cross-legged, nursing its wound.

The author notes that the town had suffered bad luck, with rumours linking it to the statue. The Imp was even removed from Lincoln City's football kit due to poor performances, believed to be caused by the Imp bringing bad luck.

The author purchased a brass door knocker of the Imp and reflects on the attraction of the statue and the nature of the legends.

SLAUGHTER OF THE INNOCENTS (The Editor's Tale)

This section, presented as 'The Editor's Tale', details a disturbing series of events involving the death of pet rabbits. The editor begins by stating that everyone experiences 'SOMETHING' in their lives that cannot be dismissed as a hoax or misperception, but few admit to it due to fear of challenging their belief systems.

The narrative focuses on a series of rabbit deaths that occurred in the early 1980s. The editor's father kept rabbits in a secure, 'predator proof' hutch. In the spring of 1982, a pair of Dutch Dwarf rabbits produced eight offspring. These baby rabbits were subsequently found dead, with their bodies unmarked but their heads crushed flat, as if paper-thin.

Initially, the father suspected a weasel, but the editor harboured doubts due to the lack of entry signs and the peculiar nature of the head injuries. The deaths continued, with two more baby rabbits found dead in the same manner. The father's conviction remained, but the editor's reservations grew.

The editor describes the psychological impact of these events, including the difficulty in accepting the reality of the flattened heads. He questions how such injuries could have been inflicted and by what means.

Further incidents of rabbit deaths occurred, with two more victims found dead. The family implemented a round-the-clock vigil to protect the remaining rabbits. Despite these efforts, another victim was discovered dead in an identical manner.

The family then considered the possibility of human involvement, with the editor's brother Grant's name appearing in connection with the events. The narrative describes a shift in the family's approach, moving from a focus on animal predators to suspecting a 'sick individual'.

The editor recounts a period of intense vigilance, with men-folk watching through the night. However, after a fortnight without further attacks, they became complacent.

Tragically, the attacks resumed, with two more baby rabbits found dead, their heads flattened. The editor then noticed writing engraved on a concrete washing line post, including signatures and the number '666'. This event deeply unsettled the editor, who felt a sense of dread and heard distant laughter.

In a subsequent development, the two remaining babies were brought into the house at night. However, the family was divided on the cause, with some suggesting the mother rabbit might be the killer. The narrative describes a chaotic discussion, a 'latter-day Tower Of Babel', where the family quickly accepted the idea of the mother being responsible, driven by a desire for a 'normal way out' of the abnormal situation.

They decided to place a dividing wall between the mother and the remaining babies within the hutch to prevent contact. This measure was intended to allow them to 'sleep easier'. However, the following morning, another rude awakening occurred, with only one baby rabbit left alive, the other dead within the 'Sleeping Area'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of 'The Lincoln Imp' consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the paranormal, and the mysterious. It presents a range of phenomena, from poltergeist activity and anomalous falls of animals to the unsettling deaths of rabbits and the ancient folklore of the Lincoln Imp. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these events and allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions, as indicated by the phrase, "We leave it to YOU to make up your own mind regarding any supposition that may inadvertently sneak its way in..." The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the uncanny and the unexplained, presenting cases that challenge conventional understanding of reality.

Title: Dead Of Night
Issue: 1
Date: October 10th, 1994
Type: Fanzine/Magazine

Main Feature: The Woodshed Incident

The issue opens with a chilling personal account of an incident involving the author's sister, Kearry, and a baby rabbit. After a litter of eight rabbits was reduced to one, the remaining male baby was placed in a locked woodshed for safety. That evening, Kearry became increasingly anxious and went to check on the rabbit. She reported a thick, heavy atmosphere in the shed, describing it as a 'dreamscape realm of waking nightmare.' She claimed to have seen a two-foot-high, cloaked figure with a wrinkled face and malignant eyes, holding a lump hammer stained with blood and bone fragments. This creature was described as a 'goblin-like creature.'

Initially, the family dismissed Kearry's account as an overactive imagination due to poor lighting and fear. However, upon returning to the shed to bring the rabbit indoors, they discovered the bricks used to secure the cage lid had been moved, the lid was ajar, and the baby rabbit was found dead with its head crushed, as if by a blunt object like a lump hammer.

The author notes that Kearry now refuses to discuss the event, denying she saw anything stranger than a rat, and the fate of the rest of the litter remains unknown.

Letters Page: Swapping Tales In Dreamland

The 'Letters Page' section features several contributions detailing unexplained phenomena and strange occurrences:

A Ghostly Visitation

Ian Doyle recounts an experience his grandparents had in Liverpool in the late 1960s. Two strangely dressed ladies, aged between 60-70, visited his grandparents, addressing them by their childhood names. They were invited in for a meal and discussed old times and acquaintances. The ladies described how the grandmother was dressed in a particular outfit when she was a child, a detail she had not recalled. After announcing they had to visit someone else, they left, but 'simply vanished' and never emerged from the maisonette's exit. The grandparents later discovered that the ladies had indeed visited the person they mentioned, who lived nearby, and that this person knew of them, though they did not know her.

Historical Unexplained Events

The magazine presents a series of historical incidents, posing them as evidence of unexplained phenomena:

• Binbrook Farm, Lincolnshire (January 1905): 225 chickens were killed in a 'horrible way,' with their necks skinned and windpipes removed.
• Llanelly, Wales (1919): 'Something' entered hutches and broke the backs of rabbits.
• Alphamstone, Essex (late 1940s): A 'Greyhound' was seen moving through a secure, wire-enclosed paddock of chickens, disappearing through netting without a trace.
• Caracas, Venezuela (1954): A man named Gustavo Gonzalez claimed to be attacked by a 'hairy Dwarf' with glowing eyes, which was unaffected by his knife.
• Orkney Islands, Scottish Coast: The headless corpses of thirty seals were found on beaches, their heads 'cut off almost surgically.'

The author of this section admits to not knowing what happened to the baby rabbits but suggests the cause may lie outside 'normal' human experience.

Viking Probes on Mars

Richie White contributes an article questioning the official conclusion that Mars is a dead planet. He points out that the Viking probes' descent, slowed by 50ft parachutes, would have been insufficient given the thin Martian atmosphere. He suggests that the probes' landing rockets would have sterilized the ground, and that the analysis of soil samples, which found no life, might be misleading. He implies that 'powers that be' do not want people to discover the truth about strange objects seen on Earth.

Other Contributions and News Snippets

Feedback from 'The Fortean Times'

Paul Sieveking, Co-editor of 'The Fortean Times,' provides feedback on 'Dead Of Night.' He praises the magazine as a 'commendable first effort' but suggests improvements in printing clarity, type size, and the inclusion of more graphics. He also notes minor points regarding the singular/plural of 'Phenomenon' and the spelling of 'Millennium.' He emphasizes the importance of building a subscriber base and encouraging feedback.

'The Road of Dreams As Mirrors' - Part 2

This section presents a collection of bizarre and unusual news items from 1994, sourced from various newspapers:

• Warsaw: A man was shot by his own dog when the animal knocked over his rifle.
• Lima, Peru: Three sailors survived for 26 hours after their boat sank, thanks to a blow-up sex doll.
• Ohio, USA: A naked man painted with zebra stripes, wielding a rifle, was arrested after a police dog bit his bottom.
• Sheffield, England: Twin sisters gave birth to baby girls on the same day in the same hospital.
• Oregon, USA: A bullet fired accidentally by a man unloading his rifle killed a woman in her bed in an adjacent flat.
• Churchdown, Gloucestershire: A teacher named Suzanne Blewitt teaches flute lessons.
• Ventnor, Isle of Wight: Police found a Mr Blobby balloon while searching for a crashed pink hang-glider.
• Milan, Italy: A police officer accidentally shot two colleagues while playing a prank.
• Genoa, Italy: A woman was killed by a tree branch she had pointed out as dangerous.
• Oslo, Norway: A woman committed suicide because she ran out of toilet paper.
• Benidorm, Spain: British tourists were angered when villagers praying for rain due to drought received buckets of it, which also ruined crops.
• Melbourne, Australia: A woman, Jane Eldridge, reportedly leapt from her coffin during her funeral and ran a short distance before collapsing, with doctors attributing it to a misdiagnosis of her heart defect.
• Sapporo, Japan: A police officer committed suicide after losing his handcuffs.
• Virginia, USA: Mildred Foxwell sold an old book for £650, unaware her husband had hidden that amount inside it.
• USA: A competition for people with appropriate names working for American law firms included Ivor Case and Sue M. Good.
• Hove, Sussex: A 'sex pest' whistling at schoolgirls was discovered to be a large crow.
• Adelaide, Australia: A convicted bank robber was granted a second trial, with the judge suggesting the jury might have been biased by his name, 'Rob Banks.'
• Moreton Valence, Gloucestershire: The Summerhouse Equestrian Centre is run by Helen Gallop and her parents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine 'Dead Of Night' appears to focus on the unexplained, the paranormal, and bizarre occurrences. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-mindedness towards phenomena that defy conventional explanation, encouraging readers to question official narratives and explore alternative possibilities. The inclusion of personal accounts, historical oddities, and speculative articles on topics like Mars exploration suggests a fascination with mysteries and the fringes of accepted reality. The 'Letters Page' serves as a platform for readers to share their own strange experiences, contributing to a collective exploration of the unknown.

Title: Dark Visions
Issue Date: October 7, 1994
Publisher: BBC
Content Type: Magazine Issue

Review of BBC's 'Out Of This World' TV Show

The issue begins with a review of the BBC 1 television program "Out Of This World," which premiered on October 7, 1994. Hosted by Sue Cook, the show aimed to explore paranormal and unknown phenomena. It featured two resident experts: Dr. Lyall Watson, an enthusiast of the paranormal willing to explore unconventional explanations, and Dr. Susan Blackmore, a psychologist who acted as a skeptic.

The program's format consisted of four filmed reconstructions of paranormal events, drawing parallels to Sue Cook's 'Crimewatch' show.

Investigation 1: Past-Life Experience of Liz Howard

The largest segment, approximately 25 minutes, focused on Liz Howard, a housewife and former ICI scientist, and her past-life experiences. This included recurring dreams, hypnosis-induced regression, and investigations of locations from her alleged past lives. Dr. Lyall Watson theorized that Liz might have accessed a collective human memory database. Dr. Susan Blackmore, however, questioned the nature and storage of such information, dismissing the concept.

Investigation 2: The Cursed Foetal Skeleton

The second segment dealt with a foetal skeleton that its owner believed was cursed, citing a series of misfortunes befalling friends and family since its acquisition. The skeleton was not brought into the studio. Sue Cook appeared fearful, while Susan Blackmore offered to touch it. Psychic investigator Graham Wyley, protected by his 'psychic gift,' was allowed to handle the item. Medium Margaret Barrett was then consulted to ascertain the skeleton's identity, but her prognosis was deemed "farcical" by the reviewer.

Investigation 3: Premonitions Bureau

A brief segment on premonitions was presented, culminating in Sue Cook's announcement that the BBC was establishing the first "Premonitions Bureau" to record viewer premonitions. The reviewer expressed skepticism about this initiative, anticipating potential issues with subjective dream interpretations.

Investigation 4: 'The Ghost Of Bluebell Hill'

The final segment focused on sightings of 'The Ghost Of Bluebell Hill' in Kent. It detailed two similar accounts from an experienced coach driver and a younger driver, both describing hitting a young girl without causing damage to their vehicles. A computer-generated map indicated nearby historical and mystical sites, but their relevance was not fully explained. Susan Blackmore attributed the experiences to "hallucinations," which the coach driver refuted by stating his profession required a clear mind.

#### Reviewer's Critique of 'Out Of This World'

The reviewer, Paul Williams, found "Out Of This World" to be adequate in achieving its aims but criticized its superficial approach, likening it to "fast food" for paranormal enthusiasts. He argued that the investigations lacked depth and minimal opportunity for expert debate, suggesting that viewers seeking serious paranormal research should consult books instead.

Video Review: 'Messengers of Destiny'

The issue also includes a review of the video "Messengers of Destiny," which compiles UFO footage from the 1991-1992 UFO flap over Mexico. The reviewer, David Williams, praises the video for its substantial evidence and numerous eyewitness accounts, including actual video footage captured by various Mexican television networks.

Key Content of 'Messengers of Destiny'

The video connects the UFO sightings to ancient Mayan prophecies concerning solar eclipses and natural disasters. It highlights the total solar eclipse of July 11, 1991, which was prophesied to herald "COSMIC AWARENESS" and "EARTH CHANGES." During this eclipse, a silver rotating disk was filmed hovering over Mexico City for 23 minutes from multiple locations, featuring an "UFO 'Hyper jump'." The video is noted for showcasing clear footage of daylight disks, including one scene of a disk travelling across the Mexico City skyline and gliding behind a tower block.

Production and Value

"Messengers of Destiny," produced by Genesis 111, is described as a thoroughly stimulating film containing approximately 75 minutes of UFO footage. It is available for £19.99.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Dark Visions" appears to focus on paranormal phenomena, including UFO sightings, ghosts, past-life experiences, and psychic events. The editorial stance, as reflected in the reviews, seems to lean towards an interest in these subjects but also acknowledges the need for serious investigation, with a critical eye towards superficial presentations. The reviewer of the BBC show clearly advocates for in-depth research through books rather than television programs.