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Maryland Saucer Mag vol 1 no 1
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AI-Generated Summary
This issue of "Maryland Saucer Mag," Volume 1, No. 1, dated October 1955, is published by the "CIVILIAN RESEARCH SOCIETY OF MARYLAND" and aims to provide the news and views of its members. The publication focuses on the origins and early organization of this flying saucer club…
Magazine Overview
This issue of "Maryland Saucer Mag," Volume 1, No. 1, dated October 1955, is published by the "CIVILIAN RESEARCH SOCIETY OF MARYLAND" and aims to provide the news and views of its members. The publication focuses on the origins and early organization of this flying saucer club based in Baltimore, Maryland.
How Did It All Begin?
The lead article, "HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?", details the story behind the formation of the Civilian Research Society of Maryland. It highlights Murray Shockett as the driving force behind the club's inception. Shockett, described as a substantial grocer, family man, ex-GI, and devoutly spiritual individual, was motivated by reports of flying saucer sightings dating back to the 1940s. His personal journey involved reading extensively on the subject, including works by Major Donald E. Keyhoe, L. H. Stringfield, and Harold T. Wilkins. Convinced that saucers were real, Shockett took action by placing a classified advertisement in the "Baltimore Morning Sun" in July 1955, seeking interested individuals.
The advertisement attracted over fifty respondents, including individuals like George Buschman, Edward G. King 3rd, Miss Marie Dixon, and Mr. and Mrs. Leo H. Martin. The network of interested parties grew through referrals. Shockett, along with Clarence M. Koehler, Edward G. King 3rd, and H. Charles Robertson, recognized the need for a structured approach to studying the phenomenon. Clarence M. Koehler offered his home as a meeting place and opened his extensive library to members. H. Charles Robertson volunteered to draft bylaws.
The official organization meeting took place on Thursday evening, September 22, 1955, at Mr. Koehler's home at 1836 West Baltimore Street. Thirteen individuals attended: five women and eight men, ranging in age from their 30s to 60s. These founding members represented a diverse group of professions, including a librarian, bank investigator, draftsman, photographer, oil executive, artist, security guard, night school student, government worker, CPA, detective, and business professionals, with various religious affiliations.
Organization and Bylaws
During the founding meeting, the name "CIVILIAN RESEARCH SOCIETY OF MARYLAND" was formally adopted. The members also discussed and approved the proposed objects and aims, constitution, and bylaws. Murray Shockett proposed membership dues of $5.00 annually for regular members and $2.50 for associate members, which were approved. The dues for the remainder of 1955 were to be prorated for charter members.
The nominating committee, comprising the four founders, recommended the following officers, who were unanimously elected: H. Charles Robertson as President, Leo H. Martin as Vice President, Clarence M. Koehler as Treasurer, and Mrs. Dutton Hackett as Secretary. Mrs. Anne Schultz was subsequently approved as Co-secretary, and George G. Bushman was elected Sergeant-at-Arms.
Future Meetings and Membership
An informal discussion was held regarding strategies for acquiring new members, preventing subversive infiltration, and planning future meetings, publications, and public relations. A tentative list of standing committees was also prepared, including Auditing and Finance, New Business, Grievance, Membership, Legal Action, and Standard Practices, with members volunteering for each.
The next meeting was scheduled for Thursday, October 20, 1955, at 8 p.m. at Mr. Koehler's clubroom. Members were encouraged to bring interested guests. The president stated that membership forms and copies of the proposed bylaws would be prepared for the upcoming meeting.
Spirit of the Organization
The issue emphasizes a spirit of unanimity and a serious consideration of the subject matter. The members expressed a general feeling that they were part of a historic meeting in Maryland, significant for the development of important research. It was firmly stated that their search was for "TRUTH and only the truth," with self-seeking and profit motives discouraged. The overall consensus was optimistic.
Potential Members and Contact Information
The magazine includes a list of other individuals who expressed interest in joining the group, providing their names and addresses. It also features a note to readers, clarifying that the people named are not necessarily believers in flying saucers but are interested in knowing the facts about the subject.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the founding of a civilian research organization dedicated to the study of flying saucers, the importance of seeking truth objectively, and the diverse backgrounds of individuals interested in the phenomenon. The editorial stance is one of earnest inquiry and a commitment to uncovering facts, underscored by the biblical quotes from Zechariah 8:16 and John 8:32, and the closing oath, "SO HELP US, GOD!" The publication positions itself as a platform for sharing information and fostering a community of researchers in Maryland.