AI Magazine Summary
Dead of Night - No 07 - 1995
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Title: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE Issue: 7 Date: November/December 1995 Publisher: Quinta-Essentia Country: United Kingdom Focus: Paranormal Phenomena
Magazine Overview
Title: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE
Issue: 7
Date: November/December 1995
Publisher: Quinta-Essentia
Country: United Kingdom
Focus: Paranormal Phenomena
This issue of Dead of Night Magazine, number 7, published in November/December 1995, presents a diverse collection of articles and news items centered around the paranormal, the unexplained, and the bizarre. The cover features a striking illustration titled "The Wanderer Of The Waste," hinting at themes of occultism and dark fantasy, with the magazine proclaiming itself "Merseyside's Only Publication Dealing With All Paranormal Phenomena!!!"
Contents Overview
The magazine is divided into "Special Features" and "Regular Features." Special Features include:
- The Wanderer of the Waste: A review by Steve Griffiths of the life and times of Aleister Crowley, "The Great Beast 666."
- Thunder in God's Country: An overview of the infamous "Roswell Incident" and the associated autopsy footage.
- Dry Bones: Roy Kerridge offers a personal look at West Indian/African Witchcraft in the Heart of England.
Regular Features include:
- Editorial: "Halloween: Season of the Missed" by Lee Walker.
- Chasing the Unknown: A collection of the latest press-clippings of Anomalous Phenomena.
- Keep Watching the Skies!!!: Reports on the latest U.F.O. sightings from Britain and around the world.
- A Carnival of Monsters: The fifth part of an ABC covering weird and wonderful creatures from cinema, legend, and demonology.
The editorial team includes Lee Walker as Editor and Cover Illustrator, and Steve Griffiths as Editorial Assistant. Contributors also include Jonathon Dillon and Roy Kerridge, with Grant Walker as an Art Contributor.
Editorial: Halloween: Season of the Missed
Lee Walker's editorial laments the perceived lack of attention given to Halloween in 1995, describing it as a "Season of the Missed" in both senses: missed opportunities and a sense of lost, irretrievable memories. He notes a distinct lack of media coverage, TV specials, and horror movies compared to previous years. To counter this, the magazine staff visited Pendle, Lancashire, the traditional "Witch Country." However, their experience was disappointing, as they learned the festival was effectively banned in the area due to local football hooligans using the occasion for gang fights. Walker recounts a dispiriting evening in Pendle, including a visit to a pub and a damp excursion towards Pendle Hill, feeling a sense of loss and anticlimax. He likens the year's Halloween to a reverse of Tim Burton's "Nightmare Before Christmas," where the spirit of the holiday seemed to have been "kidnapped."
Special Features in Detail
The Wanderer of the Waste (Page 26) delves into the life of Aleister Crowley, a figure synonymous with occultism. Thunder in God's Country (Page 32) revisits the enduring mystery of the Roswell Incident and the controversial autopsy footage, promising a definitive overview. Dry Bones (Page 44) by Roy Kerridge explores the presence and practice of West Indian/African Witchcraft within England, offering a cultural and anthropological perspective.
Regular Features in Detail
Chasing the Unknown (Page 4) presents a compilation of "Weird And Wonderful News-Clippings From Around The World," covering a wide range of unusual stories including "Beastly Hoaxes, Cannibal Holocausts, Lost TRIBES, MILK MIRACLES, Bala Lake Monsters, Ghostly Tales, Jack The Ripper," and more.
Keep Watching the Skies!!! (Page 46) focuses on the latest U.F.O. sightings from both Britain and globally, suggesting an ongoing interest in aerial anomalies.
A Carnival of Monsters (Page 50) continues its exploration of mythical and cinematic creatures, this installment being the fifth part of an "ABC of all kinds of weird and wonderful Creatures from the World of Cinema, Legend and Demonology."
"Days Of Strange Fortune" - A Collection of Bizarre Incidents
This section compiles numerous short, often darkly humorous, news items detailing unusual and unfortunate events:
- The Dance Of Death: Boris Heriman died in Frankfurt, Germany, when a stripper fell off a table and hit his head during a stag party.
- A Killer Stripper: Angelina Salvatore in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, shot dead three men during a routine, claiming the gun was loaded with blanks.
- The Secret's Out: In Gloucester, UK, secret council files containing sensitive tenant information were found scattered on a housing estate.
- Fatal Attraction: In Ohio, USA, Daisy Gladden was trapped for four days beneath her deceased lover's body after he died during sex.
- Beach Deathguard: Lorenzo Trippi lost his lifeguard job in Ravenna, Italy, after accidentally hitting three drowning people with life preservers.
- The One That Didn't Get Away: Claude Bresson's car rolled into water in France while fishing; it was recovered with a fish under the bonnet.
- Un-Allied Carpets: Sandra Robertson in Buckinghamshire, UK, received the wrong carpet delivery due to a fitter's error.
- Don't Drink And Ride: John Forno was fined in Brisbane, Australia, for riding a skateboard while heavily intoxicated.
- Off On The Wrong Foot: A shocking medical mix-up in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA, resulted in the amputation of the wrong foot.
"Weird Human Behaviour" - Disturbing True Stories
This section highlights unsettling accounts of human actions:
- The Mad Axe-Man Cometh: Richard Rosenthal in Framingham, USA, murdered his wife by battering and disemboweling her, impaling her heart on a wooden spike, reportedly because she overcooked his pasta.
"Ghostly Tales" - Encounters with the Supernatural
This section focuses on alleged hauntings and spectral encounters:
- The Incubus: Two women, Mrs Pamela Day and Ms. Kathleen Dallaway, claim to have been sexually assaulted by an "icy-fingered Spirit/Demon" in their beds. They sought help from a "Ghostbuster."
- The Incubus 2: Pauline Hooper in Sydney, Australia, reported a "sex-crazed Spook" ripping off her bedclothes and having sex with her.
- The Living Dead: Erna N. in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, was declared dead but later moved in the morgue, leading to potential charges against the hospital.
- 'WILD WILLY' - The Friendly-Ghost: The Spirit of William Williams is said to haunt Mount Snowdon, Wales, switching lights on and off and reportedly speaking to people.
- Family Quits Ghost House: A family in Birkenhead, Merseyside, UK, is leaving their home due to a Ghost they call "Spooky," which they believe is the restless spirit of a youth who hanged himself.
- American Civil War Ghosts: Nanette Morrison discusses her research and encounters with Civil War Ghosts, detailing cold spots and the cessation of natural sounds. Actor Michael Flood recounts seeing a Confederate soldier on horseback during the filming of "Gettysburg."
- Another Liverpool Pub Ghost: "The Four Crosses" pub in Liverpool, UK, is reportedly haunted, with doors slamming and mysterious footsteps heard. A "Ghostwatch" is planned.
- ART THIEVES CURSED: The portrait of Henrietta Nelson, stolen from Bryan Hall in Norfolk, UK, is believed to be haunted by her Ghost, which may follow the thieves.
Other Notable Articles
- The Riddle Of The Phantom Jelly-Man: A mysterious individual leaves pots of jelly and symbolic items on doorsteps in Boscastle, Cornwall, UK.
- The Chocolate Pervert: In Hungary, a perverted individual leaves chocolate penises on doorsteps; one 86-year-old woman ate one.
- Walk This Way: A 63-year-old man in Indonesia has been walking diagonally backwards since March 1995, after being cured of an illness.
- WHO WANTS TO LIVE FOREVER?: Rodney Hine in Chico, California, USA, snorted human ashes, believing he had found the secret to eternal life, leading to his arrest for theft of urns.
- CANNIBAL HOLOCAUSTS: In St. Petersburg, Russia, Oshat Kuzikov was arrested for cannibalism and murder, with police finding human remains and blood-filled Pepsi bottles. Separately, Muslim rebels in the Philippines were alleged to have massacred and cannibalized a teenage hostage.
- The Incredible Sulk: Lui Jiaman in Japan barricaded himself in his room for 25 years because his parents refused to buy him a motorbike.
- THE DREAM CATCHER: An artist in Urbana, Illinois, USA, faces fines for using illegal feathers in a "Dream Catcher" made for Hilary Clinton.
- Back From The Brink Of Death: Dr Fiona Smith in Lanark, Scotland, miraculously came out of a coma after life support was withdrawn.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
This issue of Dead of Night Magazine strongly emphasizes the unexplained, the supernatural, and the macabre. Recurring themes include ghosts, hauntings, witchcraft, bizarre crimes, and unusual occurrences. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and a willingness to report on phenomena that fall outside conventional understanding, even if some of the reports are presented with a degree of dark humor or sensationalism. The magazine aims to cover a wide spectrum of the paranormal, from historical occult figures and UFO sightings to local ghost stories and unsettling human behavior. The "Halloween: Season of the Missed" editorial suggests a slight frustration with mainstream society's perceived disinterest in the paranormal, positioning Dead of Night Magazine as a dedicated platform for these topics.
Title: DEAD OF NIGHT
Issue: 7
Volume: 6
Date: August, 1995
This issue of DEAD OF NIGHT delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, ranging from religious miracles and ancient mysteries to cryptozoology and bizarre animal behavior.
The 'Milk Miracles' of September 1995
The magazine opens with a detailed account of the 'Milk Miracles' that captivated the world in September 1995. What began as a trickle of reports from India soon became a global flood, with similar accounts emerging from Hindu communities worldwide. People flocked to temples, offering milk to statues of deities like Nandi and Ganesh, which were reported to absorb the liquid. The phenomenon inspired a surge of religious fervor and a willingness to believe in the impossible. While scientists offered explanations like capillary action and surface tension, and some pointed to the Indian Ultra-Right exploiting the situation, the article suggests the phenomenon is worthy of serious investigation. The piece notes the historical significance of fluids in miracles, referencing weeping or bleeding religious images and the use of Holy Water in Hinduism, where milk is both a source of nourishment and a religious offering.
Reports detail events in various locations, including Hong Kong, Southall, Bangkok, Leeds, Singapore, and Liverpool. The 'quality' press, including 'The Daily Telegraph', reported on the dramatic displays of religious passion, particularly at the Vishwa Hindu Temple in Southall, where crowds gathered to offer milk to a Nandi statue. Eyewitness accounts describe the statues drinking the milk, convincing devotees. The speed at which the news spread, likely amplified by telecommunications, is highlighted as a remarkable feature, making it possibly the first instance of global religious fervor propagated this way.
The Search For The Holy Grail
The issue then shifts to the enduring mystery of the Holy Grail, with an article detailing the Nanteos Cup. This small wooden object, kept for centuries at Nanteos Mansion in Wales, is believed by some to be the authentic Holy Grail. The legend traces its origins to the Last Supper, with Joseph of Arimathea supposedly bringing it to England. The cup was historically lent to the sick for its miraculous healing powers. Its whereabouts became uncertain after the 1960s, but recent information suggests it is about to resurface and was to be filmed for a documentary. Historians are puzzled by the lack of early written evidence, but experts suggest that if the Grail exists, it is more likely to be a humble vessel like the Nanteos Cup than the elaborately jewelled claimants.
Cryptozoology: Orang Pendek and Giant Frogs
The magazine explores the realm of cryptozoology with two main features. The first focuses on the search for the 'Orang Pendek', a mysterious ape-like creature reported in the remote jungles of Sumatra. Described as a powerful, short-haired hominid, it is said to walk upright and move with remarkable stealth. Despite numerous sightings and footprints, no definitive proof has been found. British companies are sponsoring expeditions, and researchers like Debbie Martyr are dedicating their lives to finding evidence. The article highlights the challenges of locating the elusive creature and the importance of its discovery for understanding evolution and conservation. The second cryptozoological piece reports on the invasion of giant Bullfrogs from North America into Britain. These large amphibians, introduced by garden centers, are now considered a threat to native wildlife as they have few natural predators in the UK.
Weird Animal Behavior and Other Anomalies
A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a collection of 'Weird Animal Behavior' stories and other unusual incidents. These include:
- Killer Whale: Four people feared drowned after their boat was capsized by a Bowhead Whale in the Eastern Arctic Ocean.
- My Savage Little Pony: A horse-loving girl was kicked to death by a pony, and another young girl was previously bitten by a pony.
- Horse-Crushing Incident: A 10-year-old boy was crushed to death by a horse.
- Bull Attack: A farmer was killed by a bull.
- The Pigeons From Hell: A woman was attacked by pigeons attracted to her suntan lotion.
- Battle With The Loch Long Conger: Diver Cameron Bell was dragged to the bottom of Loch Long by a conger eel after becoming entangled in its fishing line.
- Killer Fish: Nicholas Cossner was killed by a Wolf Fish he had speared while scuba diving.
- Killer Snakes: A man died after being bitten by a rattlesnake he brought to church, and a python killed a rubber tapper in Malaysia.
- For The Sake Of A Hen: Six people drowned attempting to save a chicken from a well.
- Insects Back On The March Again: Reports of a severe reaction to a spider bite and warnings that spiders are increasing and biting more frequently in Britain.
- The Cockroach Fires Back: An incident where a cockroach, sprayed with insecticide, led to a husband being injured when his wife's attempt to kill it with a cigarette lighter caused an explosion.
- Killer Bees and Wasps: Numerous incidents of people being stung by bees and wasps, with some resulting in death or severe reactions.
- A Truly Mad Cow: A Friesian Cow ran amok on a motorway, causing traffic chaos.
- A Car-Eating Rat: A rat infested a car, causing extensive damage.
- A Drunken Seagull: A seagull was found 'drunk and disorderly' and had to be locked up.
- A Hare With A Death-Wish: A real hare disrupted a greyhound race by leaping onto the track.
- Suicidal Fish: A salmon jumped into a canoe, killing itself.
- And One Who Refused To Succumb To Death: A goldfish was eaten by its owner but later reappeared.
Archaeological Anomalies
- Ancient Tomatoes: Chinese archaeologists successfully grew tomatoes from 2,000-year-old seeds found in a tomb.
- Footprints In Time: Fossilized footprints suggest giant sea creatures lived on land 30 million years earlier than previously thought.
Other Reports
- The Tribe That Time Forgot: An unknown tribe was discovered in the Amazon Rainforest.
- A Beastly Hoax: The 'Beast Of Bodmin Moor' skull was revealed to be an imported leopard trophy.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, the mysterious, and the unusual, maintaining an open-minded approach to phenomena that defy conventional explanation. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the Fortean and the paranormal, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond the mundane. The publication presents a wide array of anecdotal evidence and reports, often sourced from local newspapers, suggesting a broad interest in the fringes of science and belief. The recurring theme is the inherent strangeness of the world and the enduring human fascination with miracles, mysteries, and the unknown, whether in the realm of faith, ancient history, or the natural world.
This issue of the DAILY SLUR, dated 22nd September, 1995, is a collection of miscellaneous news items, often focusing on the unusual, the unexplained, and the bizarre. It covers a wide range of topics from animal rescues and strange animal behavior to cryptozoological sightings and in-depth explorations of occult figures and phenomena.
Animal Antics and Rescues
The issue opens with a lighthearted report titled "COP CAT," detailing how a cat named Mooca was suspected of making an emergency phone call to the police in Aberdeen, Scotland. The "Dogs Once More To The Rescue" section highlights several instances of canine heroism: a Yorkshire Terrier in Berlin saved its sleeping master from a house fire, a dog named Sandy woke a family in West Sussex to escape a blaze, and a German Shepherd named Argo performed a similar rescue in Oslo, Norway.
More peculiar animal stories include "MAD PIGS AND 'POTTY' RABBITS." A pig named Chi-Chi had to be physically removed from a Harley-Davidson motorbike in Key West, Florida, after attempting to "make love" to it. In another incident on the Isle of Wight, rabbits were found to have consumed an illegal cannabis plantation.
Sightings of Rare Creatures and Alien Animals
Under the heading "SIGHTINGS OF RARE CREATURES AND ALIEN ANIMALS," the magazine reports on a sighting of a rare, protected north-eastern Tiger by two lumberjacks in Heilongjiang Province, China. The article notes that these tigers were once common but have rarely been seen in the past 20 years.
"Mythical Creature May lurk In The Amazon Basin" details the investigation by ornithologist David Oren into the existence of the "Mapinguari." Oren believes this creature, described as having a giant bear's body and a monkey's face, might be a species of giant Ground Sloth believed extinct for 8,500 years. Scientists are conducting DNA tests on collected samples.
The "New Book Of 'Caddy' Sightings" introduces a book by Paul H. LoBlond and Edward L. Bousfield titled "CADBOROSAURUS: SURVIVOR FROM THE DEEP." The book compiles sightings of "Caddy," a creature believed to inhabit the waters around Victoria, Canada, and attempts to piece together its lifestyle. The article notes that while evidence is presented, the existence of 'Caddy' remains in doubt.
Further cryptozoological interest is found in "More News Of The Bala Lake Monster." Scientists from Liverpool University are investigating "Teggie," a mysterious entity in Lake Bala, Wales. While initial sonar scans found no sign of the monster, researchers acknowledge the possibility of its existence, describing it as about 4ft long with an alligator-like appearance and a hump.
General Weirdness
This section covers a variety of unusual news items:
- VINDICTIVE VIRGIN MARY: A 400-pound statue of the Virgin Mary fell on a teenager in Groton, Connecticut, pinning him for two hours. The teenager was charged with trespassing.
- Swedish Think Minks Were Phantom Subs: Swedish Defence Ministry analysts suggest that many naval buoy signals, previously thought to be foreign submarines, were actually the sounds of swimming minks.
- SCIENTISTS FIND MOON AFFECTS TEMPERATURES: Climatologists have found a significant empirical relation between lunar phase and daily planetary temperature, with the warmest temperatures coinciding with the full moon, though the fluctuation is small.
Puzzling Cosmic Rays and Celestial Events
"PUZZLING COSMIC RAYS" reports on scientists at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory investigating mysterious high-energy cosmic rays that defy known physics. The rays possess energies millions of times greater than those produced by the accelerator.
"Moment The Moon Swallowed The Sun" describes the total solar eclipse on October 24th, noting the varied reactions of people across Asia, from cheering to praying.
"Giant Sea Waves Puzzle Scientists" discusses the formation of 100ft waves in the North Atlantic during winter storms, leading scientists to question if storms are intensifying due to climate change. The article mentions that these waves were significantly higher than previously recorded 100-year wave estimates.
Jack The Ripper: New Suspect
This article revisits the Jack the Ripper case, with two men from East Anglia proposing that the killer was an American doctor named Francis Tumblety, based on an unpublished letter from a Chief Inspector. The theory suggests Tumblety was arrested after the killings but fled to the U.S., and the killings stopped after his departure.
The Wanderer of the Waste: Aleister Crowley
The latter half of the magazine is dedicated to an extensive biographical account of Aleister Crowley, titled "THE WANDERER OF THE WASTE" by Steve Griffiths.
- Early Life and Influences: The article traces Crowley's life from his birth in 1875, his upbringing in a strict Christian sect, his early fascination with the occult, and his difficult relationship with his mother. It highlights his studies of the Bible, particularly the book of Revelation, and his early experiences with sports and relationships.
- Magical Pursuits and Societies: Crowley's journey into the occult is detailed, including his study of the Hebrew Caballah, Tarot, and the Tree of Life. He joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1898, adopting the magical name Brother Perdurabo. The article describes the Order's roots in ancient Egypt and its amalgamation of various magical beliefs. Crowley's association with figures like MacGregor Mathers and Alan Bennett is mentioned.
- Key Events and Beliefs: The narrative covers Crowley's alleged homosexual activities within the Golden Dawn, leading to a split. It details his attempts to take control of the London Headquarters and his eventual ousting. His studies in the Highlands, including attempts to evoke spirits and his practice of Magik in Mexico, are described. His initiation into a Scottish Rite Freemasonry Lodge and his mountaineering expeditions with Oscar Eckenstein are also noted.
- Personal Life and Later Career: The article touches upon Crowley's marriage to Rose Kelly, their honeymoon in Egypt, and the birth of their daughter. It also mentions the failure of his marriage, Rose's struggles with dipsomania, and their eventual divorce. Crowley's formation of the Silver Star (Argenteum Astrum) society, with its slogan "The method of Science. The Aim of Religion," is presented as a significant development.
- Travels and Publications: Crowley's travels to China and his subsequent return to England are recounted, along with the tragic death of his daughter. His work on "The Book of Lies" and his role in the German Masonic order Ordo Templi Orieentis are discussed. The article also mentions his publication of "The Equinox" and his controversial offer to help British Intelligence during World War I, which was refused.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, the bizarre, and the occult. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on unusual phenomena and individuals without necessarily endorsing them, presenting accounts of alleged sightings, rescues, and esoteric practices. There's a clear interest in cryptozoology, paranormal events, and the lives of controversial figures like Aleister Crowley, suggesting a readership drawn to the fringes of conventional news and belief systems.
This issue of the Roswell Daily Record, dated Tuesday, July 8, 1947, features a prominent headline announcing the capture of a "Flying Saucer" on a ranch in the Roswell region. The newspaper also includes articles on domestic and international political matters, including a tax slash, the Security Council's path to arms reductions, and details about ex-King Carol's wedding.
The Story of the Roswell Incident
The main narrative of the issue delves into the alleged UFO crash and recovery of alien occupants in 1947 near Roswell, New Mexico. The article acknowledges that the story has been recounted numerous times in books, documentaries, and films, but aims to provide a comprehensive overview for those with a 'passing interest in strange phenomena.' The author states a desire to cover the infamous 'autopsy footage' and recent media coverage with the benefit of hindsight.
Birth Of A Legend: July 2nd, 1947
The story begins on the night of July 2nd, 1947, amidst a thunderstorm in the New Mexico badlands. Rancher Mac Brazel, at his ranch, reportedly heard a crash audible above the thunder but paid it little heed at the time. The next morning, while checking the pasture with a young neighbor, Timothy Proctor, they discovered a field scattered with what appeared to be various-sized chunks of debris.
According to authors Kevin Randle and Donald Schmitt, the wreckage extended over a small circle of hills and down an arroyo. The debris had a dull metallic appearance, some shiny and reflective, and was packed so densely that sheep refused to cross it. The material was described as being strong and difficult to bend or cut.
Brazel, perplexed by the debris, contacted Sheriff George Wilcox of Chaves County. Meanwhile, Frank Joyce, an announcer for KGFC Radio, called the sheriff for newsworthy items and was put through to Brazel. Sheriff Wilcox later expressed anger and regret at being excluded from the subsequent investigation.
The military responded swiftly, with Major Jesse Marcel, Colonel William Blanchard, and a Counter Intelligence Agent arriving on the scene. Wilcox noted the army's rapid arrival, suggesting they were already aware.
Brazel and Proctor concluded that an aircraft had exploded, but were puzzled by the absence of passengers or flight crew. The material proved resistant to bending, cutting, or burning. Floyd and Loretta Proctor also examined the debris, with Floyd unable to scratch its surface.
The Investigation and Cover-Up
On July 6th, Brazel drove to Roswell to report the find to Sheriff Wilcox. The police and army examined the debris, but could not provide a satisfactory explanation. Major Marcel and the C.I.C. agent then went to Brazel's ranch. Unknown to the military, Sheriff Wilcox dispatched deputies to Corona, who reported finding an area of blackened ground and baked earth, suggesting a landing.
By July 7th, the debris was spread over an area estimated to be three-quarters of a mile long and two to three hundred feet wide. Marcel, familiar with foreign aircraft, could not identify the wreckage, which included foil-like material, I-beams, and parchment-like paper. He noted symbols on the beams that appeared to be geometric shapes. A deep gouge, 500ft long and 10ft wide, was also observed.
Marcel showed fragments to his wife and son, Jesse Jr., who noticed writing on one of the beams, described as purplish, geometric symbols. The wreckage was stored in The Intelligence Shop. The crash site was cordoned off by the military, and Brigadier General Roger Ramey was involved.
Photographs were taken, and debris was gathered. Aerial reconnaissance was conducted to find additional wreckage. The material was unlike anything expected from a conventional aircraft crash. A message indicated a second crash site had been located.
On July 8th, First Lieutenant Walter Haut issued the press release: "RAAF CAPTURES FLYING SAUCER ON RANCH IN ROSWELL REGION." This announcement led to widespread public attention and calls from around the world. The article suggests this dramatic announcement may have been a tactic to divert attention from the true nature of the event.
Debunking and Censorship
Sheriff Wilcox was visited by military officers who insisted that all calls regarding the wreckage be forwarded to their base and that he remain silent. Mac Brazel was brought to Roswell Town to speak to reporters, but his story changed. He claimed to have found the debris on June 14th and described it as "smoky, grey rubber," with Scotch tape and tape with flowers. He stated it resembled weather balloon wreckage.
Walt Whitmore Sr. of KGFL Radio recorded an interview with Brazel, but was warned by the military that airing it would result in the loss of their license. The military released photographs of General Ramey and Colonel Thomas J. Dubose holding what appeared to be the remains of a weather balloon, a "Rawin Target Device," which bore no resemblance to the material described by witnesses.
Mac Brazel was then taken to KGFL Radio, where he told Frank Joyce the story about it being a weather balloon, despite Joyce's attempts to question the change in his account. Brazel reportedly said, "It will go hard on me," suggesting he was not telling the truth.
The 'Alien Bodies' and Cover-Up Theories
The article discusses the possibility of 'alien bodies' being recovered from a second crash site, though this has gained less credence than the disc itself. It mentions the 'autopsy footage' revealed by Ray Santili.
Sgt Melvyn Brown's daughters, Beverley and Henrietta, pieced together their father's past, revealing he guarded wreckage and kept a secret about Roswell. They found a book mentioning the incident and realized their father's Major was Jesse Marcel. Sgt Brown reportedly told them he once guarded a hangar where a crashed saucer was stored and saw two alien bodies under a tarpaulin.
Glenn Dennis, a local mortician, was questioned by base officers about preparing bodies exposed to elements and burned bodies. He was told by a nurse to leave the Base due to excess activity. Dennis later heard stories of autopsies performed on alien corpses.
Congressman Steven Schiff investigated the case, encountering stonewalling from the Department of Defense and National Archives, leading him to believe there was a cover-up. He theorized the craft could have been a secret U.S. military device.
'A Less Than Grand Unveiling'
The issue then transitions to a review of the 'autopsy' sequence, noting the skepticism surrounding it. Ray Santilli, who obtained the film, claims it was shot by an anonymous cameraman and explains the poor quality due to the circumstances. The article promises a dissection and critique of the footage in a future section.
The Roswell Incident ('UFO'S: No Defence Significance' - 'SKY NEWS SPECIAL', 1994)
This section reviews a documentary that opens with a computer graphic reconstruction of a saucer crash. It features eyewitness accounts and a brief history of Mac Brazel's encounter. Ufologist Timothy Good suggests Walter Haut, the Roswell Press Officer, acted under orders to change his story.
'INCIDENT AT ROSWELL' (CHANNEL FOUR PRODUCTIONS; 1995)
This segment reviews a video production that includes dramatic thunderstorms and eyewitness testimony. It features Jesse Marcel Sr.'s revelations from 1978 and an interview with General Brigadier DuBose, who confirms a cover-up regarding the balloon story. Frank Kaufman, a former Master Sergeant, claims to have been part of a secret Counter-Intelligence Unit and describes seeing a strange craft and bodies at a crash site near the Foster Ranch.
Kaufman recounts seeing a craft possibly 20-25ft in length, embedded in an arroyo, with bodies nearby. He describes panels of controls and octagonal cells on the underbelly. He claims the craft and five bodies were taken to Hangar 84.
Other witnesses, including Ruben Anaya and fireman Dan Dwyer, reported seeing "little people" or "little people with large heads." Phyliss McGuire, Sheriff Wilcox's daughter, heard a similar story from her mother. Kaufman states the case went up to President Truman.
The article then presents the 'autopsy' sequence, noting that the alleged alien bodies in illustrations based on eyewitness testimony bear little resemblance to Whitley Strieber's 'Greys' or the entities in Ray Santili's footage.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the Roswell UFO incident, the alleged military cover-up, the controversy surrounding the 'weather balloon' explanation, and the debate over the authenticity of 'alien bodies' and related footage. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories while acknowledging the persistent questions and the possibility of a significant event having been deliberately obscured. The author encourages readers to form their own conclusions.
This issue of "Frontiers of Belief and Disbelief" from October 1995, with the cover headline "Examining The Bodies Of Evidence," delves into a variety of paranormal and unexplained phenomena. It features extensive coverage of the controversial "Alien Autopsy" footage, the enduring mystery of the Roswell Incident, recent UFO sightings across the UK, and the practices of West Indian/African witchcraft.
The 'Alien Autopsy' Footage and Roswell
The issue begins by discussing the "autopsy footage" which allegedly fades out before detailed study. It then shifts to the Roswell Incident, noting the US government's shifting explanations, from a weather balloon to a 'Project Mogul' balloon. The possibility of a catastrophic experiment with a V-2 Rocket is also explored, with footage of a V-2 crash at a testing site illustrating the dangers. Ray Santilli, associated with the "Alien Autopsy" footage, is featured, with the cameraman reportedly referring to the beings as "freaks" and not aliens, suggesting they might be the result of experiments. The footage itself is analyzed, with comparisons made to witness descriptions of the Roswell crash.
Congressman Schiff's efforts to liase with the GAO regarding official Roswell records are mentioned, with the GAO reporting that the Airforce had destroyed its records. Frederick Durant, former head of the CIA's UFO investigation, believes that if the Roswell incident had occurred in '47, it would have been known by '52 or '53. Frank Kaufman provides a strong personal conviction about his testimony.
A "CHANNEL FOUR" source suggests that secret Pentagon documents may soon reveal more about strange bodies, hinting at a potential "Cosmic Watergate."
Witness Descriptions of Roswell Bodies
According to Randle and Schmitt's book "UFO CRASH AT ROSWELL," Dr. Jesse Johnson, the base pathologist in 1947, described the bodies as being between 3.5 to 4.5 feet tall, weighing about 40 pounds, with large, almond-shaped eyes, indistinct noses, and small mouths. They were hairless, with long arms and four digits on their hands. The legs were short, and the feet were covered. The skin was pinkish-grey and tough. A strong, unpleasant odor was noted. There were no apparent reproductive organs. The bodies showed signs of predation, with a colorless liquid but no red blood cells. No digestive system or intestinal tract was found.
These descriptions are compared to the "creatures" in Santilli's film. A discrepancy in height is noted (4 feet vs. 5 feet). While the almond-shaped eyes and slit-like mouth are consistent, the film's creatures have six digits, unlike the four described by witnesses. The absence of sexual organs and bodily hair is consistent. Ufologist Jenny Randles suggests the creatures are "not Alien enough to be regarded as an ET, but not human enough to be obviously identifiable as a known genetic mutation."
Expert Opinions on the Footage
Forensic pathologist Dr. Ian West expressed strong skepticism, stating that "98% certain that this is a man-made hoax," citing unusual blood patterns and the lack of recognizable organs. Special effects director Bob Keen also believes it's a hoax, estimating the cost at hundreds of thousands of dollars and suggesting it could have been made in the sixties. Other experts have claimed to detect a seam on the alien's arm.
Kodak has indicated that the film stock used is likely from 1947, but the possibility of older film being used for a later shoot is considered. However, Jenny Randles argues that if the film is verified as being shot 50 years ago, the odds against it being a hoax decrease significantly due to the lack of available technology.
The cameraman, reportedly named Jack Barnett, Jack Bennett, or Jack Barrett, died on July 5th or August 4th, 1995. Conspiracy theories suggest he may have been silenced. He allegedly claimed to have shot the film near Socorro, not Roswell, and saw the entire craft, not just debris.
Wreckage and Inscriptions
The footage of the wreckage is described as looking like cast metal, cumbersome and poorly designed, not resembling the "flimsy, yet unbreakable material" reported by witnesses. The mysterious writing/inscriptions on the metal are vaguely consistent with Dr. Jesse Marcel Jr.'s memory, but the size and raised nature differ. The similarity to 'VIDEO OTV' is noted, with Santilli claiming it's an illusion.
Investigators generally accept that Santilli is not intentionally behind a hoax, but may be overwhelmed. Photographs showing the head of an 'alien' being airbrushed were sent to "CHANNEL FOUR," "THE FORTEAN TIMES," and Union Pictures, attributed to "Morgana Productions," a parody of Santilli's company.
Dry Bones: West Indian/African Witchcraft in England
This section, written by Roy Kerridge, explores the practices of West Indian and African witchcraft, referred to as "Obeah," in England. It features an encounter with Levi Smith, a Romany Gypsy, and Brian Brame, a "Greengrocer Poet." Brame shares a folk tale about a "Suffolk Punch Man" who used a "Toad's Bone" to control horses, which is compared to the "Black Cat Bone" used in the West Indies and American South to keep partners at home.
The article describes the "Mohan Brother's Emporium," a shop selling "Obeah" items, including "John The Conqueror" products. These items are used for various purposes, such as controlling sweethearts, money, enemies, and fate. The "John The Conqueror" figure is depicted as an arrogant king, and his lore is sometimes associated with Red Indian traditions.
The author notes the continued belief in superstitious practices and the fear of dark forces, suggesting that despite modern advancements, people still hold onto these old ways.
UFO Updates
Golden UFO Filmed Over Norfolk
On November 3rd, 1995, Glenn Webster filmed a "golden UFO" from his bedroom window in Norwich. The object, described as having an axe-head shape in three segments, moved very fast. Great Yarmouth Police received similar reports that evening.
UFO Seen/Filmed Over Nellis Air-Force Base
A remote-controlled camera at Nellis Air-Force Base reportedly filmed four globes of light approaching the base. US TV program "SIGHTINGS" aired footage showing balls of light merging and parting.
UFO/RAF Jet Incidents
In October 1995, a large circular UFO was spotted hovering over an underground reservoir at Sowerby Bridge, West Yorkshire, pursued by fighter aircraft and helicopters. RAF West Drayton reported no radar contact initially, later attributing it to low-level training exercises. However, witnesses claimed the lights were not aircraft. In Scarborough, a large cigar-shaped ball of light appeared, engaged in a "cat and mouse" game with an R.A.F. Tornado and helicopters.
UFOs Over York and Derbyshire
On October 27th, 1995, an orange ball of light was reported over York, followed by a jet fighter and helicopters. In Derbyshire, a farmer reported a huge, triangular-shaped UFO causing a power outage.
Mysterious Finds in Yorkshire
An archaeologist discovered a carving of an 'Alien Grey' head in a burial urn near Staxton, Scarborough, estimated to be 2-3,000 years old. A pristine key with ancient hieroglyphic-type writings was also found.
Rare Meteor Sighting
A rare meteor illuminated the night sky over North West England, described as bright blue, green, and white lights, with sounds like thunder. Astronomers suggest it was a rare type of Bolide meteor.
More on Fylingdales
This section revisits the "Fylingdales Affair," noting its cult status. A contact from Brighouse reported a meteor shower followed by a large blur of light shooting up and then descending, pulsating and glowing. The R.A.F. Police insisted the witnesses leave the area due to snow.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, from alleged alien encounters and government cover-ups to folklore and witchcraft. There is a clear interest in UFO phenomena, with a focus on eyewitness accounts, expert opinions, and official records. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various theories and evidence while acknowledging skepticism. The "Dry Bones" section highlights the enduring influence of traditional beliefs and superstitions in modern society. The recurring theme is the exploration of the "Frontiers of Belief and Disbelief," encouraging readers to question and examine evidence from diverse sources.
Title: DEAD OF NIGHT
Issue: A-Z
Volume: 1
Date: 1990s (estimated)
This issue of 'DEAD OF NIGHT' presents an extensive alphabetical guide to various film monsters and cinematic aliens, alongside entries on folklore creatures. It serves as a reference for horror and science fiction enthusiasts, detailing the plots, origins, and notable aspects of numerous films and mythical beings.
Film Monster and Alien Entries
The Blind Dead
This entry details the 1972 film 'The Blind Dead', released by Hallmark Films, also known as 'Tombs of the Blind Dead'. The film features mummified, bloodthirsty skeletons on horseback, representing a 13th Century religious sect called 'The Templarios'. After being blinded by crows and executed for alleged ritualistic killings, they return from their graves to exact revenge by murdering Spanish women. The movie is noted for its creepy atmosphere and spawned two sequels: 'Return of the Blind Dead' and 'Horror of the Zombies'.
The Blob
Described as an 'Alien gelatinous mass that absorbs all forms of life into its own 'form'', 'The Blob' is a classic 1958 Paramount film. The story begins with a bright red blob inhabiting a falling meteorite, discovered by a tramp. The entity attaches itself to the tramp and moves into 'Small-Town', Middle America, destroying icons like a cinema, diner, and supermarket. Steve McQueen stars as the hero who tries to warn the populace, but is not believed by authorities. A memorable scene involves the Blob emerging from a projectionist's booth. The film's effects are considered above-average for its time, and it inspired numerous imitations, while also owing a debt to earlier gelatinous monsters from films like 'The Quatermass Experiment'. It also had a sequel, 'Beware the Blob!', and a 1987 remake.
The Blood Beast Terror
This entry discusses a film inspired by John Keel's reports of the 'Mothman'. It describes a 'Moth-Woman', a bloodsucking creature originating from swamps in Africa or India. The film's plot involves a 19th Century entomologist whose daughter becomes a giant moth that craves human blood. The scientist hides her in a remote village and attempts to create a mate for her. Peter Cushing stars as the hero who battles the creature. The monster is depicted as a literal Death Head Hawk Moth and is eventually destroyed.
The Bloodrinkers
This entry covers 'The Bloodrinkers', a 1966 film by Hemisphere Films (US/Philippines). It features Filipino vampires with prominent fangs. The story concerns Marco the Vampire, who, to save a woman he loves from death, kidnaps her twin sister to perform a heart transplant.
The Bloodeaters
Inspired by George A. Romero, this film features Zombies. The plot involves government agents using a revolutionary weed killer on marijuana crops, which transforms young drug dealers into crazed, cannibalistic Zombies who attack with machetes.
Blood Monsters
This is described as a generic term for various entities, including 'Snake Men', 'Bat Demons', and 'Claw Creatures'. The film, from Independent International Pictures (1970), is a 'Bottom-Of-The-Barrel Cinematic Monster' film. It tells the story of astronauts stranded on a distant planet, menaced by aliens. The use of footage from Filipino movies is explained by the filmmakers as the planet being poisoned with 'chromatic radiation' that alters colours, a concept advertised as 'Spectrum X'.
The Bloody Apes
This film from Jerand (Mexico) Films (1968) features muscle-bound, simian-like creatures. A scientist transplants a gorilla's heart into his dead son's body, resulting in a sadistic maniac who rapes and murders young women.
The Bodysnatchers / Invasion of the Bodysnatchers
'Invasion of the Bodysnatchers' is highlighted as one of the most genuinely scary cinematic creations. The horror begins in the peaceful town of Santa Mira, USA, where people report that their relatives and friends are not who they seem. Aliens duplicate humans while they sleep, creating an atmosphere of pervasive tension. The article notes that this is based on Jack Finney's novel and that a full synopsis will appear in a future issue of 'DEAD OF NIGHT'. The entry also mentions Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter in relation to the film.
The Bodystealers
Described as a poor man's 'Invasion of the Bodysnatchers', this film involves human-impersonating Aliens that capture parachutists using a mysterious red mist. The victims are kept in suspended animation, and duplicates are substituted in their place.
Boggart
This entry describes the Boggart from Lancashire Folklore. When visible, it is humanoid, knee-high, with a wizened face and scrawny neck. It is a frightener used to scare children, related to the 'Brownie'. Boggarts can be sly and mischievous but rarely cause serious harm, and were sometimes helpful. They could become contorted with rage or grin with impish glee. Its close kinsmen include Puck, Robin Goodfellow, Hobgoblins, Imps, and Brownies. King James VI believed in them, stating that a house was tidier when such spirits resorted there. They were also believed in by children and adults from Lancashire to Scotland.
Boggle
The Boggle is described as a vague, faceless creature from British Folklore that can manifest as a light, a ball of fire, a ghostly shape, a phantom hound, or various animals. They are known to keep watch over hidden treasure and uncover graves. Travellers were often at their mercy, and they could pass through solid objects.
Bogey/Bogie/Bogy
This entry defines the Bogey as an indefinable 'something' that gibbers and capers in the dark corners of a child's bedroom, a terrifying spirit of English folklore, likely of Hobgoblinish nature. It is often invoked to frighten children and is compared to Stephen King's 'IT'. The term 'Bogey-man' is common worldwide. The word 'Bogey' is 19th Century, derived from terms meaning 'terror' or 'ghost/hobgoblin'.
The Bogeyman
This entry refers to 'The Shape' and Michael Myers. It is a cinematic ghost/demon.
The Boogeyman
This entry describes 'The Boogeyman' as the dark, vengeful spirit of a woman's lover. In this context, it is personified as a spirit that can manifest in a piece of broken mirror, which follows people and incites them to kill. It is characterized as a 'stalk and slash epic' and a 'video nasty'.
Book Promotion
The issue concludes with a promotion for John Inman's book, 'The Moron's Guide to the Paranormal: John D. Inman's Hilarious A-Z Adult Guide to All Aspects of the Supernatural World'. The book is priced at £3.99 and available from 'ID ENTERPRISES' in Scarborough.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme throughout this issue is the exploration and cataloging of horror and science fiction film monsters, as well as various folklore creatures. The editorial stance appears to be informative and somewhat critical, often using humorous or dismissive language ('Bottom-Of-The-Barrel', 'Pretty bloomin' awful!!!', 'Wotta cheek!!!') when describing less esteemed films, while acknowledging the impact and scariness of others ('genuinely scary cinematic creations'). The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive reference for fans of the genre, covering a wide range of cinematic and folkloric entities.