Fortean Society Magazine - No 07

Magazine Overview

This issue of The Fortean Society Magazine, dated June 1943, serves as the official organ of the Fortean Society, founded in 1931. It is edited by the Secretary, Tiffany Thayer, and does not necessarily express the views of the other Founders, who include Ben Hecht, Booth Tarkington, Aaron Sussman, Burton Rascoe, John Cowper Powys, and Harry Leon Wilson. The magazine is priced at 25c and is based in New York City.

The Socratic Method or Please Pass the Hemlock

Tiffany Thayer presents a series of 100 questions designed to challenge the reader's assumptions about the ongoing war and societal structures. These questions probe the nature of 'emergency,' the possibility of New York City being bombed without Washington's knowledge, the validity of election counts, the end of the war, the whereabouts of James A. Farley during a specific period, the roles of political party chairmen, interactions with Hitler, the distinction between political parties, the difference between cyanide and bichloride, the renaming of the Bank of Italy, the influence of seagulls, the manipulation of public opinion polls by Gallup and Roper, Secretary Knox's ownership of the Chicago Daily News, James G. Stahlman's role, the perceived menace of newspapers owning radio stations, the reasons for radio announcers' warnings, and the strategic locations of fighting.

Further questions delve into the comparative casualty lists of white soldiers, the benefits of 'big steel' production, the role of organized charity and labor, the enforcement of price ceilings, difficulties in crewing oil tankers, state advertising for milk, the quality of New York City milk, reactions to air raid wardens, the nature of the United States as a Fascist country, compliance with government directives like buying gas masks, Japan's claim to the Philippines, the capacity of existing electricity plants, the cost of new generating plants, the fate of new plants after emergencies, the purpose of dim-outs, and the 'war aims' of combatant nations, including prosperity for survivors, increased tax rates, weakening of Russia and China, disorganization of labor unions, and imposition of restrictions.

Additional questions question the authenticity of 'shortages,' compare wartime events in Germany to testing dictatorial limits, ponder the knowledge of Webb Miller, define 'accident,' question the scapegoating of officers for 'Pearl Harbor,' and the reasons behind the 'air-marker hoax' accusations. It also questions Senator Burton K. Wheeler's and Lindbergh's 'isolationism,' the origin of the term 'Axis,' and the timing of war decisions and side selection. The issue references a statement from the Journal of Commerce regarding the 'rubber shortage' being a myth and questions the purpose of 'scrap' collection drives. It asks if people get the government they deserve, if England and the U.S. are being regimented like Germany, what one would do in a Fascist state, and if George Seldes believes certain newspapers are 'anti-war.'

Questions also arise about the $150,000 allocated for Admiral Byrd's expedition, its fate, and the whereabouts of the money. The issue queries the use of the 200-inch mirror for Palomar, potential political strategies involving Farley and Roosevelt, the planning of such strategies, the possibility of Norman Thomas winning an election, and the potential consequences of such an event, drawing parallels to Spain. It asks about the inevitability of revolution if a non-major party candidate wins, who would be blamed, who controls the guns, and whom the police work for. It questions the motivation for buying War Bonds and the ultimate aim of 'global' Fascism, its impact on individuals, thinking, and the arts. It also asks if poets are true prophets and if their business is to unscramble history, and if young soldiers are being taught to shoot their fathers if they strike. It questions the education of children about 'freedom,' the fate of mothers' associations opposing the war, and whether majorities prefer lies to truth. The question of 'Red Tape' is also raised.

Finally, it references an AP despatch about the British government in India using tear gas and gunfire, questions the conviction of Mrs. Edna Ballard and her son for fraud while Catholic priests and other religious figures continue their practices, and quotes Phyllis Bottome's assertion that England was 'already Fascist-in its sleep.' It asks about the number of Roosevelt family members who visited Europe in 1939 and their potential meetings with Hitler or his agents, and the number of secretaries in those parties. It also questions Henry Morgenthau Jr.'s trip to Europe and potential meetings with Hitler agents, and whether the African campaign can be considered a 'second front.'

Accident Prone

Abram Brooks supplies data on various subjects, including intelligent horses, time lapses, hollow snowballs, rain of birds, and mysterious wounds. A notable datum is a quote from L. Ron Hubbard in 'Unknown' magazine concerning 'accident prones' – individuals who, though innocent, seem to attract accidents. The article suggests that eliminating such individuals from industrial plants led to a decrease in accidents.

U.S.A. Kills Its Own Soldiers

Bart Reagan contributes a wealth of data on Fortean interests, including dust storms, the possible beatification of Pope Pius XII, restored sight, earthquakes, bureaucracy, jinxes, the Clan-na-Gael, strange shapes over Princeton, the Mary Celeste, censorship, the Johnstown flood, the true shape of the Earth, eclipses, a Roanoke 'dreamer' who anticipated Pearl Harbor, lightning strikes, fireballs, the N.Y. Sun's reaction to a suit against AP, a predicted tornado, mysterious coughing gas in Philadelphia, Bertrand Russell's persecution, sulfa drugs, morphine addiction, 'social illness,' bees, sunspots, meteorology, civilian plane crashes, volcanos, syphilis, rabies, a 'varmint' on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, a beetle plague, a new element ('eka-iodine'), devastating hail, Aurora Borealis, a mysterious 'critter' near Evergreen, Pa., 'mad' dogs, disappearing land in Alabama, a bottomless fissure in Kansas, 'thought waves,' train wrecks, and an explosion at Du Pont when no one was near. The section also touches on Christianity in public schools and 'freedom of the press.' It criticizes former Ambassador Davies for speculating on Hitler's 'death' and highlights an editorial from the Hornell, N.Y., Evening Tribune criticizing such speculation. It also mentions a one-legged veteran denied a government job as a printer due to his disability and an autographed B-24 bomber with a message to Adolph and Tojo. The section concludes by praising Bart Reagan's contributions and expressing a desire for more members like him.

"Light's Velocity"

Morris Ronyon seeks to champion the late Professor A. A. Michelson's figures on the velocity of light, adhering to the traditional 186,000 miles per second. The article discusses the experimental methods and costs associated with measuring light's speed, referencing experiments by Michelson and Dr. Wilmer C. Anderson.

Uncensored Letter From England

A letter from a Fortean in the British Army expresses concerns about the forces of reaction consolidating their power and the potential for defending 'dividends' and 'divine right of Big Bankers' against demobilized soldiers. The writer criticizes the suppression of public ambition as 'post-war indiscipline' and notes the retrograde nature of social reform hopes, citing the Beveridge Plan. The letter also mentions the 'Gestapo' and the delay of a letter containing an 'untoward remark.' The writer believes the public is being misled and that a significant explosion of public opinion is imminent.

Why Crehore

This section addresses inquiries about the Society's promotion of Albert Cushing Crehore's atomic theory. It clarifies that Crehore is not part of the 'physicists' union' and highlights his earlier work on the atom and a significant letter from H. A. Lorentz. The Society champions Crehore, suggesting that his 'preposterousness' is no sillier than that of other physicists, and that he deserves recognition, even if it comes through philanthropic means.

Get Off the Pot

This section criticizes the 'physicists' union' for sitting on a source of atomic energy that could equal the power output of millions of pounds of coal or gasoline. It questions the reaction of coal and oil magnates and suggests that Professor John R. Dunning and his team will lead sedentary lives. It also raises questions about who makes cyclotrons, their cost, and who pays for them, suggesting that widespread access to cyclotrons could reduce the need for tanks.

Bees Still Kill

This brief section reports on bees killing a female bee-keeper and a team of horses being stung to death. It also mentions bees continuing to sting the corpses of the horses.

"Scientifiction" Ascending

This section discusses the growth of 'Scientifiction' (science fiction) and its popularity, noting that many fans prefer these tales to whodunits or horror. It mentions that many admired members of the Fortean Society come from this genre and highlights the work of Eric Frank Russell, who addressed the Los Angeles Science Fantasy Society on Charles Fort's influence on literature.

3 Human Tinders

This section presents three cases of individuals found dead under unusual circumstances, involving fire and apparent unexplained burns. It questions the official explanations and the lack of prosecution in these cases.

Not the Stork?

This brief section speculates that life may have originated in volcanoes, citing a suggestion from Mexican biologist A. L. Herrera.

Rubbing It In

This section criticizes a National City Bank of New York advertisement in the New York Times that depicts soldiers and a tank in a war scene, with the headline "You can't see the Banker in this picture but he's there." The author interprets this as either naive frankness or gross braggadocio, suggesting it's a form of propaganda.

Jack's Last Jest

This section discusses the alleged 're-embracing' of the Catholic faith by John Barrymore in his last hours, which the author, who knew Barrymore, doubts. It suggests that Barrymore, like the 'King of Comedians,' likely left 'them laughing.'

Five Papers You Should Read

The magazine recommends five periodicals published in New York City: The CALL, IN FACT, BULLETIN, TRUTH SEEKER, and CONSUMERS' COOPERATION. It laments the lack of a readable daily newspaper that tells the truth.

Vail's Theory Continued

This section discusses the work of Donald Lee Cyr and Lawrence W. Smith, who are carrying forward the theories of Isaac Newton Vail. Vail's central idea was that Saturn's rings depict Earth's past and that all planets go through an 'annular' phase in their development. The article notes that while the tone of Cyr and Smith's work is decried, their effort to promote Vail's theories is commended.

Drayson-Fort Link

This section details the Society's ongoing inquiry into the 'Drayson Problem,' following the death of Alfred Henry Barley. Members were asked to check libraries for Drayson books to ascertain if they were ever consulted. The section also includes two letters from A. W. Drayson to Mrs. Moore, dated 1890 and 1891, discussing his views on 'True Science,' the obstruction of truth by 'Scientists,' and his own theories, including a '2nd Rotation.' The section connects Drayson to Charles Fort through the 'Bloomfield Moore library.'

Jesuits Give Up

This section reports on two instances where Jesuit seismologists, Rev. Michael J. Ahearn and Rev. Alphonse Schmitt, expressed surprise at seismograph records, one for fifteen minutes and another for four hours, indicating unusual seismic activity.

Now the Trick Is to Cure Sulfa

This section criticizes the promotion of sulfa drugs, questioning their safety and the medical profession's reliance on them. It highlights reports of 'proflavin powder' as an antidote to sulfa drug side effects in Libya and notes that the medical profession faces no effective legal control regarding diagnosis and prescription.

Sunspots

This section mentions that Dr. W. Gleissberg, a German refugee in Turkey, predicts that the sun will cause significant events in 1948. A chart is being prepared by Forteans to show authoritative hazards related to sunspot maxima.

Gray Snowfall

Gray snow fell in Basle, Switzerland, attributed to an oily substance from combustion at a great distance, with a speculative question about its origin being as far away as Mars.

Charge Roosevelt and Churchill Conspired

This section reports on a lawsuit filed in Pueblo, Colorado, alleging that President Roosevelt conspired to involve the United States in the European War through a 'private treaty' with Churchill. The defendants are named as General Lewis B. Hershey and Major Howard E. Reed, with George J. Knapp as the appellant. The Pueblo Star-Journal's editorial comment suggesting the suit be 'quashed without any consideration' is criticized as an advocacy for abolishing the Constitution.

Vitamin-D Kills

This section recounts the death of Mrs. Laura Bartels, 65, from arthritis after being prescribed vitamin D capsules. It contrasts this with William L. Laurence's announcement of the discovery of the 'chemical architecture of biotin,' which is expected to lead to 'super-vitamins,' questioning the safety of these new developments.

Speaking of Waldemar

This section praises Waldemar Kaempffert for featuring B. J. S. Cahill's 'Butterfly Map' in his New York Times column, noting that the Society has been promoting this projection since 1934. However, it expresses a humorous skepticism, suggesting that if Kaempffert and the Times endorse it, there must be something wrong with it.

Next Issue

Due to potential government suppression of publications by denying paper supply, the magazine cannot predict its next issue date. It expresses regret to Forteans whose contributions were not included in this issue.

One Doctor Admits He's Asleep

This section introduces Edgar Cayce, who diagnoses cases and prescribes remedies while in a sleep state. It mentions the book 'There Is a River' by Thomas Sugrue, which details Cayce's work.

Fort on the Air

This section notes that Arch Oboler mentioned Charles Hoy Fort on his 'LIGHTS OUT' program on December 15, 1942. Oboler describes Fort's fascination with the unusual and supernatural, his collection of unexplainable phenomena, and recommends 'THE BOOK OF THE DAMNED' for those who question the nature of reality.

British Correspondence

Eric Frank Russell has delegated some of his Fortean duties to Tom Elsonder, who has been assisting Forteans with data and news. This section lists several items of interest: a seal in the Thames, an egg with three yolks, a new 'planet' discovered by a Finn, and an incident at a Parish Church in Redcar where the headmaster allegedly spoke out against hypocrisy. It also mentions a 'South American beaver' shot by a willow worker and a swan found starving and frozen in Lewes, Sussex. It notes 'sea monsters' and an announcement from the Edinburgh Psychic College about an important event in Germany on March 26 or 27, 1942, that adversely affected the Nazi war program. It concludes by mentioning Dr. H. Spencer Jones's decision that the sun is 93,005,000 miles from Earth.

Continue Reading

This section presents a series of letters from the Secretary to various editors and publishers, concerning discrepancies in astronomical time calculations. The Secretary questions the World Almanac's statement about the longest apparent solar day occurring around December 23rd and contrasts it with Norton Wagner's book 'Unveiling the Universe,' which suggests the longest day occurs around September 18th. The World Almanac editor explains the discrepancy as related to the 'equation of time' and the sun's motion. The Secretary then writes to Mr. Wagner, seeking clarification, and also consults the Encyclopedia Britannica, finding further confusion. The section ends with the Secretary's letter to the Editor of Britannica, requesting clarification on the differing figures for the sidereal day.

Stop That Lie Detector

This section discusses the death of John Kocemba, 18, in a Buffalo police cell, and the subsequent 'lie-detector' tests administered to fifteen police officers. The article warns against the increasing reliance on 'lie detectors,' calling them a 'nefarious gadget' and an 'engine for the destruction of human reason.' It urges individuals to refuse such tests, as they are not admissible in court but could become so, and implicitly admit guilt.

The section also mentions the case of Edward Melendes, who died in a St. Louis police cell after allegedly being beaten, and the subsequent indictment and quashing of indictments against three detectives. It notes the case of Andrew Brinkley, who was indicted for the killing after a fight with Melendes, with the police claiming death resulted from a fall. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is quoted describing Melendes' severe injuries. The article questions the authorities' intent to make Brinkley a 'fall guy.' It also references the case of Dr. Allyn King Foster, who died in Bellevue psychiatric ward five days after admission, with the cause of death attributed to a 'crushed larynx.' The Society has no record of prosecutions in this case.

Pertinent

This section, intended to feature items of significant but currently unrevevealed importance, notes the discovery that the drug colchicine, used for gout, can double chromosomes in plants, potentially creating new species. It mentions that this effect on reproductive cells in seeds breaks the line of heredity and starts a new one.

Founder's Son Objects

Harry Leon Wilson Jr. was arrested for failing to report for army induction. He was a librarian and a conscientious objector. After his classification as 1-A was not changed, he chose jail over the army.

Astrology and the Common Cold

This section presents a letter from Mr. DaCosta Williams, a former practicing Astrologer, to the Secretary, suggesting that the common cold might not be caused by germs or viruses but by conditions in space that Earth's atmosphere encounters in winter. The letter proposes that astrologers, by charting space spots, could predict and perhaps prevent these 'epidemics.' The Secretary shares a personal experience of nasal irritation leading to a cold, linking it to the time of day and suggesting an inquiry into cosmic conditions. The section concludes by inviting other astrologers to contribute their suggestions.

DaCosta Williams's response elaborates on the theory that the sun's force influences all life and that disturbances in this flow, potentially from cosmic conditions, can lead to illness. He likens individuals to radio receiving sets, with birth determining their 'wave length' and sensitivity to external forces. He posits that the common cold is the simplest illness and a precursor to others, and that in a healthy body, functioning optimally, such illnesses are unknown. He suggests that excessive stimulation from heat, cold, or other factors can lead to overstimulation and excessive energy use.

This issue of THE FORTEAN, dated June 1943, features a blend of scientific and philosophical content, with a strong emphasis on unusual phenomena and critical analysis of societal structures. The magazine is divided into several key sections: an in-depth article on the concepts of enervation and toxemia, a continuation of 'The Notes of Charles Fort' cataloging historical events, and a review of James Burnham's book 'The Machiavellians.'

Enervation and Toxemia: The Root of Illness

The lead article explores the physiological concepts of enervation and toxemia. Enervation is described as overstimulation that leads to fatigue and exhaustion, caused by the body's inability to eliminate toxins as quickly as they accumulate. This toxin buildup, known as toxemia, is presented as the fundamental cause of all illness. The article explains that inflammation is the body's agency to eliminate these toxins, and the location and severity of this process determine the type and seriousness of the illness. Deficiencies in the body also play a role in how toxins are handled. The article notes that changes in toxic levels affect temperament, desires, and appetites, often manifesting as abnormal hunger before illness. A common cold is presented as a 'house cleaning time' for the system, eliminating toxins. Enervation is further defined as anything that strains the system, lowers resistance, and increases toxic levels. The article contrasts this with individuals who have better body resistance, suggesting that two-thirds of the population in a 1941 Gallup Survey were less enervated than the remaining third. The importance of understanding the body's requirements and efficiently handling food supply is stressed. The ideal individual is described as one who studies their body, heeds warnings, and maintains a balanced life, free from toxins, tension, and complexes.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section continues the extensive catalog of unusual events compiled by Charles Fort, covering the years 1821 through 1823. The entries are meticulously dated and located, detailing a wide range of phenomena:

• 1821: Reports include fireballs (Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, England), earthquakes (Peru, Italy, Japan, Iceland), volcanic activity (Iceland, Java), unusual atmospheric conditions (darkness in Ireland, blue sun in Essex and Sussex, purple sun in Bristol), hailstorms, tornadoes, whirlwinds, and strange falls of objects like snails (Tockington, UK) and ice (Trans-Bombay).
• 1822: The catalog continues with fireballs (Germany, France, Italy, England), earthquakes (Italy, Japan, Hungary, Savoy), volcanic eruptions (Iceland, Vesuvius), meteor events (Troy, Richmond), and unusual atmospheric phenomena like a 'great light like moon breaking through' (London).
• 1823: Further entries detail fireballs (Germany, France, Italy), earthquakes (Chile, Spain, Sicily, Asia Minor), volcanic activity (Iceland, Vesuvius), waterspouts, unusual sounds, and phenomena such as a 'serpentine meteor train' (Paris) and a 'ball of heavy material' falling in Suffolk.

These entries are often accompanied by references to scientific journals and publications, such as the 'British Association for the Advancement of Science' (BA), 'Phil. Mag.', 'London Times,' and others, indicating a rigorous effort to document and verify these occurrences.

Book Review: The Machiavellians: Defenders of Freedom

The magazine features a prominent advertisement and description for 'The Machiavellians: Defenders of Freedom' by James Burnham. The book is described as a study of the laws of politics, offering an exposition of Machiavellian thought and introducing modern Machiavellians like Gaetano Mosca, Georges Sorel, Robert Michels, and Vilfredo Pareto. Burnham contends that their writings provide the key to understanding politics and preserving political liberty. The book also analyzes the current crisis, the nature of societal revolution, and the prospects for democracy. It is presented as a work that will likely provoke controversy due to its unconventional approach to politics.

The Book of Charles Fort

Another significant feature is the promotion of 'The Book of Charles Fort,' a comprehensive single volume containing 'The Book of the Damned,' 'Wild Talents,' 'New Lands,' and 'Lo!' It is described as a 'MENTAL ANTITOXIN for the POISONED WORLD,' designed to liberate the mind from conventional scientific dogmas and market idolatries. Testimonials from Powys, Tarkington, Hecht, Rascoe, and Thayer praise Fort's work for its intellectual stimulation, unique writing style, and ability to encourage critical thinking.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unconventional phenomena (UFOs, geophysical events), a critical examination of established scientific and political orthodoxies, and the promotion of independent thought and critical inquiry. The editorial stance appears to favor a skeptical yet open-minded approach to unexplained events and a deep dive into the underlying principles of politics and human physiology, challenging conventional wisdom and encouraging readers to question established narratives. The emphasis on 'enervation' and 'toxemia' suggests a holistic view of health, while the inclusion of Charles Fort's work underscores a commitment to documenting and analyzing anomalous occurrences.