Doubt - No 28

Magazine Overview

This issue of DOUBT: THE FORTEAN SOCIETY MAGAZINE, Volume II, Whole Number 28, edited by Tiffany Thayer, is dated 1931 AD, which is designated as year 1 FS (Fortean Society). The cover features a cartoon by Castillo with the headline 'LIGHT'S MYTHICAL VELOCITY' and caricatures of 'Meticulous Mike (R.I.P.)' and 'Modest Al (S.T.B.)'. The price is 35c. in the USA and 2/- in Great Britain.

First Prize Contributions

The magazine highlights three top performers for the last session: Elsender and Russell from England, and Hoernlein from Seattle. Each submitted a set of three winners.

Elsender's Contributions:

1. Buzzard over Big Ben: A report from The London Naturalist and The London Bird Report about a buzzard over Big Ben.
2. Canadian Blizzard: A report from Ottawa via the Newcastle North Mail about a severe blizzard, with a Canadian scientist predicting wild weather following a Russian atomic explosion.
3. Uranium Mine Fire: A fire in a uranium mine at Johanngeorgenstadt, Saxony, reported to have killed 2500 people according to a local British paper, though the mayor's office stated only 4 died. The mine is in the 'Soviet Zone'.

Russell's Contributions:

1. 'Our Lady of Fatima' Plane Crash: A Reuter despatch to the Daily Herald reported a plane carrying a doll named 'Our Lady of Fatima' crashed near Bogota, Colombia, with all nine passengers and crew believed killed. No report reached Western Hemisphere correspondents.
2. Edward R. Stettinius Suspicion: The Manchester Guardian quoted the Berliner Zeitung am Abend suggesting Edward R. Stettinius may have been killed because he 'knew too much', along with other friends of Roosevelt like John Winant and Laurance Duggan, who also died mysteriously. No such suspicion reached US correspondents.
3. Nightingale Sleep Study: The Liverpool Echo reported on a Finnish ornithologist, Dr. Pontus Palmgren, who studied how nightingales sleep by placing them in cages with iron bars and giving them electric shocks when they slept. The magazine proposes a modification to this experiment as part of the 'Fortean Society Perpetual Peace Plan', involving electrocuting ornithologists.

Hoernlein's Contributions:

1. Cosmic Explosion: Science Service reported to the Seattle Times about U of Calif. astronomers observing a violent explosion on a star ('Cin 20') near the sun, which mystified them. The explosion increased the star's light 2,800 times and its temperature to 20,000 degrees Centigrade. A similar event was observed by Dr. W. J. Luyten.
2. Bodyless Fish: Intelligence from Sydney, Australia, reported a fish with a five-inch head, two fins, and no body, caught alive and in an aquarium, baffling experts who are investigating the possibility of a species of bodyless fish.
3. Pepper for Flies: Following the old trick of sprinkling salt on tails to catch larks, A. S. Perry of U of Calif. has found that black pepper extract blocks the DDT-transforming mechanism in house-flies, suggesting it can be used to catch them.

Other Notable Items

• DDT and Flies: A Seattle Times report mentions using DDT on flies, with the implication that it is effective.
• Bible Test Acquittal: A Charleston, S.C., Magistrate, Gene Herron, uses a 'Bible test' for acquittals, where the Bible is tied shut, and if it falls when the accused recites a passage, it signifies innocence.
• San Bernardino County Hospital Death: MFS Herbert notes a suspicious death of a woman in the San Bernardino County Hospital, who allegedly ran barefoot for seven hours in freezing temperatures after entering a cabin. Her toes were amputated due to gangrene, and she died.
• Ancient Iron-Smelting Furnace: A Washington engineer, A. H. Mallery, claims to have discovered an ancient iron-smelting furnace near Clarksville, Va., dating back to before 1 A.D. However, Raymond S. Baby, curator of the Ohio State Archaeological & Historical Museum, dismisses Mallery's claim, stating it is not supported by scientific research.
• Clay Ballots in Athens: Dr. Marie Farnsworth's analysis of clay 'ballots' from the Agora, Athens, showed identical handwriting on up to 50 ballots, suggesting ancient ballot box stuffing.
• Mars Explosion: An 'explosion' reported on Mars by a 'Dirty Yellow Belly' has led to a world-wide watch being ordered, concentrated in Western Germany. The magazine expresses skepticism about being 'ordered' around by scientists.
• Electric Shock Treatment Death: An inmate at the California State Mental Hospital, Stockton, died during an electric shock treatment, described as a 'normal dosage' by AP but 'accidentally electrocuted' by UP.
• Immune Super Flies: A race of 'super flies' immune to insecticides has developed in Australia.
• Black Snow: Reported in Oil City, Penna., police assumed it was soot but could not locate the source.
• Pyrotic Incident: In Manchester, N. H., Mrs. Ellen King Coutres was found dead in her smouldering clothing, with no apparent source of ignition.
• Algiers Tremor: Algiers experienced a three-hour tremor on the night of December 23-49.

To Obtain Credit

Contributors are urged to submit data with their name, the publication name, and the date of issue clearly indicated. Clippings should be folded so headlines are visible. Scotch tape should not be used.

Our Little Brother

The Republic of India's Independence Day (January 26) coincides with the founding anniversary of The Fortean Society (nineteen years previously).

"Damned" Cheap Edition

A popular priced edition of Charles Fort's 'The Book of the Damned' is in preparation, with a new preface by YS, intended to introduce Forteanism to a new generation at an affordable price.

In Giles' Crystal

• H. W. Giles offers predictions for 1950:
• Stock market fluctuations.
• General prosperity, but domestic finances will be tight for lower incomes.
• Tense international situation, possibly eased by a threatened alien invasion.
• The rich will get richer, the poor poorer.
• Unbalanced budget.
• Vast strides in science.
• People seeking housing will cover much territory.
• Suicide rates will remain consistent.
• The arts will remain deplorable.
• Women's styles will be becoming to some, moderately so to others, or not at all.
• The Church will gain membership, especially in larger cities.
• The State and Church will foster the fiction of their distinctness.
• Life insurance companies will have mixed blessings, with low mortality but reduced borrowing from companies.
• World population will continue to increase.
• Advertising will become more widespread and blatant.
• Education will increase to improve advertising comprehension.
• Occult matters will likely remain hidden.
• Weather will be disappointing.

Los Humanistas

H. W. Giles announces an essay titled 'Charles Fort and the Religion of Self-Respect' to appear in 'The Humanist' quarterly, Number Two, 1950. It aims to explain Forteanism as a way of life and suggests a book is needed to explore the subject further.

Government is Counterfeiter

This section introduces the Valun Institute and E. C. Riegel's book 'The New Approach to Freedom', which proposes restoring minting power to those who bestow value upon currency.

More Respectability

The author expresses concern that Forteanism might lose its esoteric distinction as it becomes more mainstream, citing the inclusion of Fortean-related content in publications like the SATEVEPOST and HARPER'S.

Let 'Em Eat Cake Department

This section lists a Federal Security Agency notice of judgment regarding the adulteration of pretzels with insect fragments and rodent hair.

Nominations

• Donald E. Keyhoe is nominated for a contribution to TRUE magazine.
• Col. James P. Cooney, a physician and medical advisory staff member of the atomic energy commission, is nominated for an article in a technical journal.

Hindu Wonet

A ten-year-old girl in New Delhi, India, experienced inexplicable fires where clothing and fabrics reportedly burst into flame spontaneously.

No More Pinco

Italian Forteans are cautioned that Pinco Pollini has no official standing with The Fortean Society and that his 'BIMANTIC Universe' and other theories are not sponsored by the Society.

Our Nandor

This section discusses MFS Fodor's radio program applying psychoanalysis to popular songs, with commentary from radio columnists John Crosby and Harriet van Horne. The magazine expresses skepticism about the benefits of psychoanalysis.

MFS Hall Writes

This section contains a letter from MFS Hall discussing a letter sent by his relative, Chas. L. Hall, to the Saturday Evening Post, which was heavily edited and distorted by the Post's editors. Hall expresses his preference for a middle road in Forteanism, avoiding excessive skepticism or blind faith.

Man vs Nature

1. Radar and Ducks: Dr. H. A. Albert Hochbaum observed radar beams influencing the flight of wild ducks, causing them to flare and break as if shot.
2. Water Shortage Theory: Capt. H. E. Raabe wrote to the editor of the N.Y. Daily News suggesting that radio broadcasting causes New York's water shortage by using up atmospheric static electricity needed for rainfall.

Dirty Yellow-Belly

Dr. Minoru Inuzka, a Tokio physician who treats patients regardless of their ability to pay, has been served with an income tax demand for 200,000 yen on uncollected medical fees.

Damned Reds

Reports of grapefruit-sized hailstones in Rome in September and white ants invading the Vatican in October, eating through walls, ceilings, beams, books, and a cardinal's cape.

Protestants Flop

A report on a Church of England reverend who attempted to exorcise a ghost from the Baber household in Bristol, England, but the ghost returned after the family moved.

Heavy Traffic

Reports of three airplane collisions in November 1949: two U.S. Marine fighters east of Hawaii, two Royal Indian Air Force fighters in Calcutta, and two B29 Superfortresses over Stockton, Calif.

More Threes

• Disappearances on Liner Orcades: Three persons disappeared from the British liner Orcades in eight months.
• Bernard Rose Steward: A steward on the Orcades vanished early one morning.
• John W. Bond Assistant Butcher: An assistant butcher on the Orcades vanished after being called for duty.
• Gwenda McCallum Stowaway: An Australian girl vanished after a champagne party at Sydney, last seen about 2:30 a.m.

Our Good Fellow

The Duke of Bedford is reported to be renting rooms for $35.28 per week in one of his mansions and is working with Guy Aldred towards a 'perfect lawless community' and monetary reform.

Best Moon Book

Recommends 'Moons, Myths and Man' by H. S. Bellamy, which is being reissued in England with augmentations and illustrations.

Nylon in Florida

Notices of nylon evaporation continue to be received, primarily from Jacksonville, Florida.

More Green Hair

Cincinnati investigators of 'chemical mist' may get a tip from London, Ontario, parents about what turns children's hair green, as observed in children who swam in the East Side Silverwood Park swimming pool.

Now Is The Time

This section discusses the law prohibiting advising men to refuse military service and mentions the book 'The Challenge of Conscience' by Denis Hayes, which tells the story of Conscientious Objectors in England during World War II. It contrasts the quality of the English publication with a projected American version being produced under difficult conditions.

MFS Noble Writes

This section addresses a 'ghost ship' problem reported in DOUBT No. 18. The author suggests the ship was the STRATHELLA, a trawler type, towed to St. John's and then to Scotland. The theory of what happened to the crew remains unexplained.

No Jesus Cards

The magazine will not publish projected Jesus cards drawn by Castillo, as it aims to avoid forcing personal atheism upon members and acknowledges that Jesus Christ is considered more than a myth by many Forteans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of DOUBT reflects a strong Fortean perspective, emphasizing the investigation of unexplained phenomena and a skeptical approach to conventional scientific and societal narratives. The magazine actively encourages reader contributions and highlights unusual events from around the globe. There is a consistent theme of questioning authority, whether it be scientific, governmental, or religious. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to doubt and investigate rather than blindly accept. The magazine also demonstrates a critical view of established institutions and practices, from psychiatry to the military and the justice system.

This issue of DOUBT magazine, identified as Volume II, Issue II, appears to be from 1949. It is published by The Fortean Society and focuses on unexplained phenomena, historical curiosities, and satirical commentary.

Cover Story: Jesus Christ Wanted

The striking cover features a 'REWARD' poster for the apprehension of 'JESUS CHRIST'. He is described as wanted for 'SEDITION, CRIMINAL ANARCHY- VAGRANCY, AND CONSPIRING TO OVERTHROW THE ESTABLISHED GOVERNMENT'. The description notes he 'Dresses poorly, said to be a carpenter by trade, ill-nourished, has visionary ideas, associates with common working people the unemployed and bums.' He is identified as 'ALIEN - BELIEVED TO BE A JEW' and by aliases such as 'PRINCE OF PEACE, SON OF MAN', and 'LIGHT OF THE WORLD'. Further details include a 'RED BEARD, MARKS ON HANDS AND FEET THE RESULT OF INJURIES INFLICTED BY AN ANGRY MOB LED BY RESPECTABLE CITIZENS AND LEGAL AUTHORITIES.' The artwork is attributed to 'tYoung'.

Unexplained Events and Phenomena

Power Failures

• The magazine reports on two significant power failures:
• SW Ohio (November 1, 1949): Power failed in 24 counties, covering an area of 6,000 square miles, from 9:17 a.m. to about 10:35 a.m. No explanation was found, and the generators reportedly failed and then worked again without apparent reason.
• Los Cruces, New Mexico (December 21, 1949): Power failed for 35 minutes. The official explanation given was that a cat 'crawled on the wires atop an electric company sub-station and short-circuited 24,000 volts'. Repairmen claimed to have seen the cat jump up and run away 'minus all its hair'.

Science "Stumped"

An article highlights the Jenolan Caves in New South Wales, Australia, where tiny blind spiders build perfectly formed webs despite the apparent lack of other insect life in the mile-long, 200-feet caves. The purpose of these webs is presented as a scientific mystery.

No Fingerprints

A case from Springfield, Massachusetts, involving a man arrested for 'worthless check passing' (later changed to 'vagrancy') is detailed. Initially, police reported the man had no fingerprints. However, the story evolved, with the Chief stating the prisoner did have fingerprints, but they were temporarily obscured by 'eczema'. The jail doctor was reportedly going to cure him with an ointment, prompting curiosity about a potential cure for a condition that had stumped specialists.

Atmospheric Anomalies

• Several reports describe unusual atmospheric events:
• Cincinnati, Ohio (October 12): Following smog in Reading, Pennsylvania, a 'chemical mist' in the suburbs of Cincinnati damaged paint on houses and turned children's hair greenish-yellow.
• Long Beach, California (October 19): A wave of 'garlic gas', described as acrid, hung in pockets over the business district, originating from the west and worsening throughout the morning.
• Monroe, Michigan (November 11): 'Mysterious fumes' affected five pupils in a rural school near Grape, causing illness in twenty others. Firemen and doctors could not identify the cause.
• Webster, Pennsylvania: Similar to the Donora smog incident, a record number of complaints were received regarding conditions that 'actually equal pre-disaster levels'.
• Richmond, California (December 21): A thick fog accompanied by 'smarting fumes' affected lungs, eyes, and mouths. Police efforts to find a source failed, and the mist dissipated within two hours.
• Edmonton, Alberta (December 31): A smell of 'natural gas' panicked 300 people, though no gas leak was found. An oil company denied it originated from their operations.
• Los Angeles, California (January 13, 1950): Five people were overcome by 'almondlike fumes' and 'mysterious, noxious odors'.

Historical Fortean Records

Doc Cook Rides Again

This section revisits the controversy surrounding the Cook-Peary 'race for the Pole' in 1908-1909. It notes that despite Cook being widely labeled a 'confidence man' and 'nature faker', Hubbard, described as a 'Glacier Priest', claimed that 300 trips over the pole confirmed Cook's description of the area, though not Peary's.

More Notes of Charles Fort

This ongoing series transcribes Charles Fort's notes, presented chronologically. The material is drawn from 32 boxes, alternating between records of non-human phenomena and records of persons. The notes are often difficult to read due to handwriting, symbols, and code.

• 1856 Entries:
• August 9 (Bedford, England): A fire occurred in the butler's pantry of a vacant house, with no light having been used in six weeks. The cause was speculated to be mice nibbling matches.
• August 9 (Glenescko Mountains): A large number of sheep (at least 100) were reportedly killed by foxes over a few nights.
• August 9 (Crocodile): A preserved specimen of a young crocodile, about 14 inches long, was examined. Reports from the woods near where a crocodile was killed mentioned one being seen occasionally. A young crocodile killed by laborers was found running from a wood stack, and another was reportedly killed in Staffordshire about 40 years prior. A person near Over-Norton had been pursued by a young crocodile about a foot long, which they then killed.
• August 10 (Dorking, England): An explosion occurred, with the origin unknown but suspected to be from an escape of gas.
• August 11-15 (Wendover, England): A mysterious fire occurred in a farmhouse occupied by Edward Collins. Later, Elizabeth Chapman was charged with setting fire to property of Mr. Juson, but there was no evidence against her. She was suspected due to previous fires where she had lived. The fire near the oven reportedly began in the roof above it, though the oven had not been used for 30 hours.
• August 12 (Bedford, England): A series of mysterious fires occurred in the house of Morton and Moulton. The first fire involved 'dirty linen' in a closet, which burst into flames. This was followed by numerous other fires in rooms, closets, and bureaus. The fires were investigated, with one witness testifying that a candle had fallen into turpentine in the cellar, causing a fire. Another witness described a pillow bursting into flames after being examined. The property was uninsured. The fires were speculated to be related to spontaneous combustion or a 'spirit-pryomaniac'.
• August 16 (Rouen, France): An immense cloud of small white moths burst over the town at night, covering the ground and found dead in the morning.
• August 17 (Messina, Italy): A severe hailstorm occurred, with hailstones weighing up to 20 'stoli' (approximately 20 lbs) or the size of oranges.
• August 17 (China): A great earthquake occurred, following several days of minor quakes.
• August 21 (Arequipa, Peru): A comet was observed nightly for several hours over several weeks.
• August 21 (Algeria): Violent shocks and earthquakes destroyed several villages.
• August 22 (Dridrelly, Algeria): An earthquake destroyed the town.
• August 24-26 (Spain): Reports of 'insane mischief' involving incendiarism in Andalusia, affecting towns like Buendia, Andujar, Cordova, Lucena, Seville, and Jaen.
• September 1 (St. Ives, England): A curious 'met' (meteorological event?) was listed by Lowe.
• September 1 (Ormesby St Margaret, England): During a storm, a column of water fell.
• September 6-7 (London and Essex, England): All day and night fires occurred in London. An account from Essex Herald described a fire at Castle Hedingham, possibly related to the Moulton fire, with speculation about spontaneous combustion from matches or a smoldering spark from a candle.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The editorial stance, as expressed in the 'REPLIES' section concerning Fortean University, emphasizes a methodology of study rather than dogma. The university 'does not teach, it studies', presenting each subject as a field for investigation and further development, posing questions rather than asserting truths. This aligns with the Fortean philosophy of examining unexplained phenomena without imposing pre-conceived notions or seeking definitive, orthodox explanations. The recurring themes include unexplained fires, atmospheric anomalies, strange animal behavior, historical curiosities, and the critical examination of official explanations. The satirical cover story also suggests a critique of established authority and belief systems.

Publications Advertised

• The back pages advertise several books and reprints available from The Fortean Society:
• 'Order Glacial Period and Drayson's Hypothesis' by JOHN MILLIS ($1.00).
• 'America NEEDS Indians' (425 pages, illustrated, with folding map) ($7.00).
• 'RAPED AGAIN' by Chakotin ($2.50).
• 'The Books of CHARLES FORT' (4 volumes in 1, 1151 pages, indexed) ($5.00).
• 'The Book of the Damned', 'New Lands', 'Lo!', 'Wild Talents' (with introduction by Tiffany Thayer) ($5.00).