Ghost Trackers Newsletter - Vol 07 No 3 - 1988 10

Magazine Overview

Title: GHOST TRACKERS NEWSLETTER
Issue: Vol. 7, No. 3
Date: October 1988
Publisher: GRS (Ghost Research Society)

This issue of the Ghost Trackers Newsletter focuses on paranormal investigations and related topics, featuring articles on a vigil at a museum, tips for spirit photography, and advice on psychic self-defense.

Editors Page

The editors welcome readers to a 'thick issue' and mention upcoming bus tours, 'Excursions Into The Unknown,' offering a variety of new and fascinating destinations, including a haunted restaurant. They thank several individuals for submitting unusual pictures for analysis, many of which were inspired by an article in 'The Sun' about strange mist at Gettysburg Battlefield. The page also acknowledges donations of books and clippings from various individuals, including Norma Edwards, author of "What You Should Know About Ghosts.... But Were Afraid To Ask." The newsletter announces the acquisition of new and used books for members, offering discounts and a search service for paranormal or UFO-related books. Readers are encouraged to submit clippings and articles for future editions, with contributors receiving credit or a free issue for their work.

Ghost Research Society Activities

The Ghost Research Society reports on a busy summer, including a two-week trip to England focusing on haunted locations in the South and West Country, and six days in London. Visited sites included the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the Tower of London, Highgate Cemetery, and areas associated with Jack the Ripper. The tour also covered Greenwich and the Cutty Sark. A second part of the tour explored locations such as Bath, Wells, Glastonbury, St. Ives, Southampton, Portsmouth, and Salisbury. A major disappointment was the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge, which was overrun by crowds and blocked off by police. The society has gained 7 new members and received renewals from 11 existing members. They also mention 'Voices From Spirit,' a newsletter from Spiritist Publications, and list new contributing members (Rev. Maria D'Andrea, Bob Barraco, Paul Miller) and sustaining members (Pamela Williams, Ralph M. Bird). The newsletter has expanded its length and includes 'How-to' articles, with a call for experts to submit articles. Maurice Schwalm's article is featured, and readers are asked to send newspaper clippings about themselves.

The Mysteries of the R.A.F. Museum at Hendon, London

This article, written by Tom Perrott, details a planned 'Vigil' at the R.A.F. Museum in Hendon, London, on March 19-20, 1988. The author agreed to participate in an operation to test his mental and physical powers against paranormal forces. The article provides historical context for the museum, noting its origins in 1909 with early aviation activities and its role as a Royal Naval Air Station during World War I and an R.A.F. station during World War II. The museum was established in 1963 and formally opened in 1972. Stories of inexplicable happenings at the museum include sightings of a ghostly figure, a pilot's face, and unexplained noises. Wing Commander W.G. Wood, then Head of Publicity, attributed these to tricks of light, while Group Captain Randall mentioned strange noises and glass cracking. Ron Russell and a colleague conducted preliminary reconnaissance, interviewing staff. The article lists the participants in the vigil: Ron Russell (Chief Co-ordinator), Mark Lyus (Technician), John Fay (Video Maker), Jack Pleasant (Journalist), Paul and Angie Clark (who claimed to be 'sensitive'), and the author. The team was dispersed in pairs to three observation posts within the building. Several incidents were reported during the vigil: Angie Clark felt a blow to the head; Mark heard a loud bang; the author observed a lit cockpit with a silhouetted pilot's head (later identified as a headrest); the Clarks felt a 'cold spot' with a tingling sensation; a vivid flash of blue light was seen; a non-metallic object was heard falling, followed by a metallic crash; a human figure was seen gliding; and a loud humanoid groan was heard. The author concludes by questioning whether these events were products of imagination or genuine paranormal manifestations, expressing a desire to solve the museum's mysteries.

Tips on Spirit Photography

Written by Dale Kaczmarek, this article offers advice on capturing paranormal phenomena on film. Kaczmarek states that any camera can capture a 'ghost on film,' but a 35MM SLR camera is recommended for its adjustable settings. Infrared film is highlighted as particularly effective due to its sensitivity to invisible light. The author suggests using two 35MM cameras, one with black and white infrared film and another with ordinary black and white high-speed print film, to compare results and distinguish between actual phenomena and light reflections or flash bounces. Key tips for using infrared film include: using only black and white infrared film, keeping the film refrigerated, loading and unloading in total darkness, using a red filter cautiously, avoiding flash photography, and using a steady tripod with time exposures. Kaczmarek also mentions that the Ghost Research Society offers free analysis of submitted photographs. The article concludes with a list of recommended books and magazines on spirit photography and related subjects.

Psychic Self-Defense

Authored by Rev. Maria D'Andrea, this section provides guidance on protecting oneself when working with spirits or dealing with psychic phenomena. D'Andrea emphasizes the importance of putting up a shield before engaging with psychic levels to avoid being too open. Psychic attacks are defined as the conscious or unintentional sending of negative vibrations. The article instructs readers to relax and visualize themselves in a white egg-shaped shield of 'Gods Shield of White Light of Love, Truth and Protection,' stating that 'Nothing negative or harmful can get in, only positive and good.' This shield is said to protect from negative spirits and tone down negativity from others, strengthening the aura. D'Andrea notes that this visualization can be learned quickly with practice. The section also includes a brief advertisement for Norma Edwards' book, "What You Should Know About Ghosts... But Were Afraid To Ask," detailing its content and ordering information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently promotes the Ghost Research Society's activities, including tours and research. There is a strong emphasis on practical investigation, as seen in the R.A.F. Museum vigil and the spirit photography tips. The editorial stance appears to be open to paranormal phenomena, encouraging readers to submit their own experiences and evidence. The publication also serves as a platform for promoting related books and services, fostering a community of interest in the paranormal and UFOlogy.

This issue of "GHOST LIGHT ROAD UNMASKED" by Milford Webster, published by Nu Atlantis BBS, delves into the persistent mystery of the "Ghost Light Road," also known as Old Railroad Road, near Hebron, Maryland. The phenomenon, which began over fifty years ago, has generated numerous legends and sightings, the origins of which are unknown. The article draws upon historical records and personal accounts to explore this enigmatic occurrence.

The Ghost Light Road Encounter

The narrative begins with an account from Frank Edwards' book "Strange World," detailing an encounter by Maryland State Troopers Bob Burkhardt and his partner. While on patrol on a quiet country road, they spotted a dim yellow light that approached their vehicle. The light, described as a glowing yellow ball, hovered about five feet off the ground, approximately twenty feet from their car, and remained stationary despite the headlights. When Burkhardt drove forward, the light zipped away and stopped again, maintaining a constant distance. It eventually blinked out, leaving the troopers shaken. Fearing ridicule, they initially made no official report, but later alerted fellow officers.

Official Sightings and Investigations

The issue highlights a report from the Salisbury Daily Times on July 10, 1952, detailing an encounter by Lt. C. C. Serman, Barracks Commander of the Maryland State Police, along with three other troopers. Serman described the light as shining like a "neon light." Trooper Burkhardt again described it as the size of a wash basin, the color of a headlight, and hovering in mid-air. A search of the wooded area yielded no explanation. The Daily Times article, "Spook Light Haunts Shore Roads," described the light as a "weird ball of light which grows bright as an automobile headlight, then vanishes as one comes close to it."

Public Interest and Proposed Explanations

On July 11, 1952, the Salisbury Daily Times reported a crowd of 200-300 people who gathered at Old Railroad Road hoping to see the light, but it failed to appear. A subsequent article on July 14, 1952, noted that Life magazine photographer Albert Fenn also visited the area for pictures, but the light did not manifest. A Johns Hopkins professor suggested that the "Ghost Light" might be gas generated by decaying vegetable matter, a theory that led state police spokesmen to decline further comment on the matter.

The Road's Transformation and Local Legends

Reports and sightings of the Ghost Light continued intermittently until the road was blacktopped. The Wicomico County Road Division records indicate the road was tarred and chipped in 1953, widened and rebuilt in 1958, and blacktopped in 1974. The article posits that dust from the old dirt road might have been reflected in automobile headlights, creating the illusion. Local legends offer several paranormal explanations: a murdered railroad worker whose ghost carries a lantern, the spirit of a murdered gambler, the ghost of a hanged black man seeking justice, or the spirit of a man who committed suicide.

Continued Media Interest

The local press and news media occasionally continue to publicize the "Ghost Light Road." Articles appeared in the Salisbury Advertisement on October 26, 1977, and a WBOC News Special was aired on October 30, 1984. The mystery continues to pique public interest, especially around Halloween, until it is definitively solved.

The Haunted Bookshop

This section, written by W. Ritchie Benedict, features several book reviews and short paranormal news items.

Class to Hunt for Ghost

An article from Calgary, Alberta, reports on a group of University students led by Mark Reimers, a scholar in residence at the University of Calgary, who are taking a class to study and hunt for ghosts. Reimers, whose specialty is mathematics, has been exploring the supernatural for over 10 years. The class of 32 students includes skeptics and believers, with Reimers expressing a desire to be persuaded of the existence of ghosts.

House of Blood Attracts Writer

A news item from Atlanta reports on police investigators at a home where human blood reportedly oozed from the floor and walls. Parapsychologist William George Roll, Jr. was called in to investigate the phenomenon at the home of William and Minnie Winston. The owner later denied the presence of blood, attributing it to red dye from a rug or rusty water.

Ghosts Pay Off in Lawsuit

A Reuters News Agency report from Houston, Texas, details a case reminiscent of the movie "Poltergeist." A jury awarded a couple $142,000 after they claimed their home, built over an abandoned cemetery, was the site of paranormal activity. The couple had unearthed human remains while installing a swimming pool in their backyard.

Book Reviews

Macabre Railway Stories

Reviewed by W. Ritchie Benedict, this book is a compilation of sixteen short stories related to rail travel and the supernatural. The stories range from classic tales to modern science fiction, covering various aspects of train travel and ghostly encounters. The reviewer praises the stories for their literary quality and entertainment value, noting that they illustrate how older tales could evoke fear without special effects.

The Haunted

Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book by Robert Curran details the "harrowing true story of demonic attack and intimidation" experienced by the Smurl family in West Pittson, Pennsylvania. The reviewer notes that while parts of the story are plausible, some aspects are "a bit too much to swallow," comparing it to "Amityville-ish" but still terrifying.

Opinion Polls

This section features comments from readers.

Chris Williams

Chris Williams from Russells Point, Ohio, expresses a desire to see more studies and investigations conducted by GRS (Ghost Research Society) and commends the newsletter for its progress.

Bob Barraco

Bob Barraco from Salem, Massachusetts, offers constructive criticism. He suggests avoiding tabloid articles to maintain credibility, including stories from places other than England (specifically mentioning Salem, Massachusetts, known for its Witch trials), and bringing a more scientific approach to the study of ghosts, possibly incorporating infrared film and reader discussions.

Editors Note

The editors acknowledge that tabloid articles were used as space fillers and state that this will not become a habit. They encourage submissions from readers and mention Tom Perrott as their overseas correspondent.

Classifieds

The classified section lists various publications and services related to paranormal research, occult studies, and New Age topics, including "Vortex: Journal of Anomalies and Oddities," "Excalibur Books," "PSYCHIC PRESS newspaper," "AMERICAN FORUM," "MARFA MYSTERY LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHS," "PSYCHIC/OCCULT Friendship Club," "SOURCEFINDER," "PSYCHIC PATHWAYS," "VOICES FROM SPIRIT MAGAZINE," "Annwyn Tradesman," and "COSMIC NEWS."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ghost lights, hauntings, paranormal investigations, and the exploration of the supernatural through various accounts and book reviews. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting different theories and anecdotal evidence while also encouraging a more scientific approach to the subject, as suggested by reader feedback. The publication aims to provide a platform for sharing paranormal experiences and research, while also maintaining a degree of credibility by acknowledging the limitations of tabloid sources.

This issue of STAR MAGAZINE, dated October 25, 1987, features an article titled "THE PHANTOM OF SAUER CASTLE" by John Hughes. The magazine explores alleged paranormal activity, focusing on the Sauer Castle in Kansas City, Kansas, and presenting both accounts of hauntings and skeptical viewpoints.

The Phantom of Sauer Castle

The article introduces the Sauer Castle as a property with a foreboding reputation, often featured in horror films. It details its history, including alleged deaths and a hermit who shot at trespassers. Cindy Jones, whose family purchased the property, shares her experiences and observations of paranormal phenomena. She recounts how a newspaper clipping of a woman in a wedding gown fell from the ceiling while the room was being renovated, and how coincidences, such as a family member's death anniversary aligning with a friend's wedding date, have occurred.

Jones describes feeling terrified, even during the day, and mentions her father-in-law's inexplicable experiences. She also recounts an incident where she was alone and heard noises from the attic, becoming frozen with fear until her husband returned. Psychics who have visited the castle believe the attic is the center of paranormal activity. The article also notes that the previous owner, Paul Berry, was known for his eccentric and potentially dangerous behavior.

Maurice Schwalm: Psychic Investigator

The magazine profiles Maurice Schwalm, a psychic investigator and photographer who claims to have documented paranormal activity through photographic slides. Schwalm has investigated numerous locations, including airports, historical houses, and private residences, and is working on a book titled "The Ghosts of Mid-America." He approaches his investigations with a detached, scientific-like methodology, stating, "These are just the facts." He claims his work is a "labor of love" and does not charge for his services.

Schwalm presents photographic evidence, such as swirls and lines of light in images of the Spanish Chapel at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which he interprets as spiritual activity. He also claims to have photographed a "dead frontiersman" at the Bent-Ward House and a "transformation effect" where a spirit shows itself where a person was seated. He has also investigated the Muehlebach Hotel, where a ghost named "Mrs. M" allegedly caused disturbances.

Maggie Lewis's Experience

The article includes a personal account from "Maggie Lewis," who wishes to remain anonymous. Lewis describes a series of unsettling events in her childhood home following her father's death and her mother's suicide. These experiences included seeing apparitions of her parents, objects moving inexplicably, and her dog reacting to unseen presences. A friend staying with her reported seeing her parents on the bed and having a conversation with them, who expressed concern for Maggie. A significant event was the delivery of a white dogwood sapling, which her mother had mentioned wanting, by a friend who claimed the parents wanted Maggie to have it. After these events, Lewis called Maurice Schwalm for assistance. Schwalm and a group of psychics visited the house, and one psychic reportedly saw a vision of Maggie's "bitter, hateful" grandmother. Following the psychics' visit, a loud boom occurred in the house, shaking it, which Schwalm interpreted as the spirits being angered by the investigation. This led Maggie to decide to sell the house.

Sam Gill: The Skeptic

Sam Gill, an instructor at Johnson County Community College and a member of the Show Me Skeptical Society, offers a counterpoint to the paranormal claims. Gill emphasizes the importance of logic and critical judgment, stating that "extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof." He views paranormal evidence as often lacking scientific rigor and being based on "wishful thinking." Gill is critical of psychic investigators who adopt the "trappings and prestige of science" without the necessary critical judgment. He likens believing in the paranormal without evidence to a religion, where faith supersedes reason.

Other Mentions and Themes

The article briefly touches upon other alleged hauntings, including the Epperson House, the UMKC Playhouse, the Gillis Opera House, and the Loretto School. It also mentions the "Legend of the Old Woman" at the Johnson County airport. The overall theme revolves around the nature of belief, evidence, and the human fascination with the unexplained, contrasting the experiences of those who believe in ghosts with the rational skepticism of others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are hauntings, paranormal investigations, and the dichotomy between belief and skepticism. The magazine presents a balanced approach by featuring both proponents of paranormal phenomena, like Maurice Schwalm and Cindy Jones, and a prominent skeptic, Sam Gill. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and presentation of different viewpoints, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions, while subtly highlighting the allure of the unexplained and the human desire to find meaning in mysterious events. The use of personal anecdotes and photographic 'evidence' alongside critical analysis suggests an engagement with the popular interest in the supernatural during the late 1980s.