Merseyside UFO Bulletin - Vol 2 No 1 - 1969

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Merseyside UFO Bulletin, Volume 2, Number 1, dated January-February 1969, is edited by John Harney, with John A. Rimmer as Assistant Editor and Alan W. Sharp as Science Editor. The cover prominently features articles on the conceptual connection between fairies and UFO entities, the nature of reality, and a critical look at the interplanetary spaceship theory. It also includes correspondence related to the Maury Island incident.

Editorial: Amiable Eccentrics? - Yes!

The editorial addresses the common perception of ufologists as 'harmless, amiable eccentrics'. It posits that this perception stems not from the nature of the subject itself, but from the small number of people actively interested in it. The editorial proposes a 'law' stating that the degree of eccentricity of a spare-time pursuit is in inverse proportion to the proportion of the population actively pursuing it. It suggests that those who find this label bothersome should consider the 'dull, tedious creatures' who conform to popular pastimes, contrasting their unthinking conformity with the unusual nature of ufology.

On the Conceptual Connection Between Fairies and UFO Entities, and the Nature of Reality

By John A. Rimmer, this article explores the idea that the secret of UFOs might lie within the earth, moving away from the interplanetary vehicle theory. It draws parallels between UFO phenomena and ancient tales of underworld dwellers found in various cultures, particularly the Celtic fairy tradition. Rimmer discusses Cornish 'knockers', Scottish beliefs in an underworld without sun or moon, and Welsh myths of 'Annwn'. He suggests that these myths might originate from the neolithic inhabitants of the British Isles, who lived in semi-excavated dwellings and burial mounds. The small size of these dwellings and passages could have led to stories of a small, elusive, magical race. The article touches upon Walter Johnson's theory that fairy belief is a retention of folk-memory of these ancient peoples and introduces the concept of 'Race Memory' or Jung's 'collective subconscious'. It concludes by suggesting that creatures from the sky and underground are a consistent part of human experience, and that ufologists should perhaps focus on defining reality itself, even suggesting a reading of Bertrand Russell and Schopenhauer.

A Critical Look at the Interplanetary Spaceships Theory

By John Harney, this article critiques the persistent belief that UFOs are spaceships from other planets, a theory that gained traction after the 1947 sightings. Harney argues that scientists and politicians initially dismissed UFO reports, offering 'glib explanations' that often failed critical examination. This led many to believe in a conspiracy, with authorities hiding evidence of alien spacecraft. The theory was further bolstered by the fear of public panic, drawing a parallel to Orson Welles' 'War of the Worlds' broadcast. The article points out that while circumstantial evidence suggested technologically superior intelligences, convincing physical evidence was lacking. It discusses the 'ingenious' explanation of a worldwide conspiracy to conceal crashed saucers and alien bodies. Harney also examines theories for the disintegration of UFOs, such as 'inertia-less drives' or built-in 'destruct' systems. He highlights Major Donald E. Keyhoe's books as a major inspiration for the interplanetary theory, noting Keyhoe's narrative style and the belief that governments possess irrefutable evidence but withhold it due to fear of economic and religious upheaval. The article questions the lack of physical evidence, such as crashed saucers, and suggests that the focus on this theory has led to ufology being dismissed as a pursuit for cranks and science-fiction writers. Harney concludes that UFOs are a complex field of study involving physical and psychological phenomena, and the interplanetary spaceship theory should be set aside to study UFOs as they really are.

Some Interesting Correspondence Between Dahl and Crisman, and UFO Researcher Gary Lesley

This section details a series of letters exchanged between Gary Lesley, Harold Dahl, and F. Lee Crisman concerning the Maury Island incident of 1947. Gary Lesley, Director of UAPRO, met F. Lee Crisman at a UFO convention and obtained Harold Dahl's address. Lesley wrote to Dahl requesting his written testimony and photographs related to the incident. Dahl replied, expressing a desire to maintain a 'long and studied silence' due to past negative public and press treatment, and deferred to Crisman's decision on discussing the matter. Crisman, in a subsequent letter, strongly disapproved of Dahl's correspondence with Lesley, stating that he did not want the matter in public print and that the photos were unavailable. He expressed a low opinion of most UFO organizations, categorizing them as either attention-seeking fools or those seeking money, with only a small minority having a serious interest. Crisman affirmed that the Maury Island incident was not a hoax and that the FBI and Air Force knew this, with pieces of the UFO still in their possession. He stated that he and Dahl wished to avoid further publicity. Lesley then wrote an indignant letter to Dahl, questioning Crisman's objection to discussion after providing Dahl's address. Crisman responded again, reiterating his disapproval and stating that they had no information to provide. He also mentioned his work as an industrial psychologist and his association with Hal Dahl, emphasizing their shared desire to avoid publicity.

Dahl also sent a letter to Lesley expressing interest in sponsoring conferences with Dr. Frank E. Stranges, featuring an 80-minute color movie, and inquiring about UAPRO's interest in sponsoring such an event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the credibility of ufology, and the interpretation of evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning established theories like the interplanetary spaceship hypothesis and encouraging a broader, more philosophical approach to understanding reality and UFOs. There is a strong emphasis on the historical context of UFO research, drawing parallels with folklore and ancient beliefs. The issue also highlights the challenges of research due to perceived secrecy, skepticism, and the personal motivations of individuals involved in the field, particularly evident in the correspondence surrounding the Maury Island incident.

MUFOB, Volume 2, Issue 2, dated May 10th, 1970, is an English-language publication from the United Kingdom, published by the Merseyside UFO Bulletin. The cover headline is 'MUFOB 2', and the price is 3/-. The document type is a magazine issue.

Key Articles and Content

Correspondence Regarding Maury Island

The issue features correspondence from F.L. Crisman, who addresses public interest in the Maury Island matter. Crisman clarifies that he is not a 'mystery man' but had business dealings with people avidly interested in UFO reports. He explains that he gave away Hal's name and address to allow him to make statements, countering accusations of 'private censorship'. Crisman expresses frustration with being made a focal point for a matter that occurred twenty years prior, stating that public attention is detrimental to his business. He asserts that he has no secret facts beyond those suppressed in Project Blue Book. Crisman mentions keeping track of UFO trends and having files of material, encountering odd incidents during his travels. He notes that Hal feels it is time to cooperate with certain people, including the recipient of the letter, who may have been treated unfairly.

Crisman also recounts a recent trip back to Maury Island, where they discovered an area with no plant growth where material had fallen. The site was posted as a Federal project for removal and leveling. Upon investigation, it was revealed that government men had returned over the years to collect soil samples and take pictures. Crisman suggests this may be of interest.

Review of SPACELINK Magazine

Following criticisms of UFO magazine layouts in a previous issue, Lionel Beer, Managing Editor of SPACELINK, responds. He hopes his criticisms do not extend to SPACELINK, describing it as not 'design perfect' but also not crammed with excessive 'ornaments and arabesques'. He states they make the best use of space without adding decoration just to fill blank areas.

John Rimmer provides a critical review of SPACELINK's cover, which depicts the Post Office Tower transported to the Cheshire Plain with cows and UFOs. He acknowledges the printing and illustration quality as high, and the articles as clearly presented. However, he criticizes the magazine for using seventeen different kinds of rules and borders, and fifteen different typefaces in headings, which he feels produces a 'fidgety, unsure appearance' and suggests using less Letraset.

Despite these criticisms, Rimmer highly recommends SPACELINK, noting it is excellent value for money. He mentions it was originally published by the Isle of Wight UFO Investigation Society and has improved since being taken over and published independently by Lionel Beer.

Subscription Information

Subscription details for SPACELINK are provided for the UK, US, and Australia, including single copy prices and annual postal subscriptions.

Notes, Quotes & Queries

• Patrick Moore Visits Warminster: Arthur Shuttlewood reports that Patrick Moore, along with a BBC 2 Television team, visited Warminster on January 31st to film interviews on Cradle Hill for the 'One Pair of Eyes' series. Shuttlewood expresses satisfaction that the BBC team visited, despite Moore's typically negative attitude towards UFO research. There is speculation that the TV program will be a 'mickey-taking exercise'.
• Cambodia's Position on Suggested U.N. UFO Investigation: A reply from the permanent representative of Cambodia to an ICUFON petition indicates that Cambodia cannot fund a UN UFO investigation, suggesting industrial powers should lead. However, Cambodia is willing to provide land for an institute's headquarters and offer protection and concessions.
• Note For 'Allende Letters' Specialists: Diligent searches in 'Janes Fighting Ships' have failed to identify a USN ship named 'Andrew Furnseth'. Further details are requested.
• Note for John Keel Fans: A report mentions that Kansas City Council was considering a proposal for their police force to wear turtle-necked sweaters and berets.

Editorial: Amiable Eccentrics? - Yes!

This editorial, continued from page 1, discusses the perception of being eccentric. The author finds conversations boring and predictable, leading to a desire to leave. The editorial argues that there is no need to be upset about being regarded as eccentric, especially by those who are 'boring, stick-in-the-mud, mediocre, conformist, henpecked suburbanites'. It encourages readers to be aggressive in defending their interest in UFOs, to attack critics, and to embrace amiable eccentricity, dispelling boredom and spreading goodwill.

Merseyside UFO Bulletin Details

Contact information for the editor, assistant editor, and science editor of the Merseyside UFO Bulletin is provided, along with a note clarifying that it is an independent publication and not affiliated with the Merseyside UFO Research Group.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing public interest in the Maury Island incident, the critical review of UFO publications, and the personal experiences of individuals involved in UFO research. The editorial stance, particularly in the 'Amiable Eccentrics?' piece, is one of defiance and encouragement for UFO enthusiasts to embrace their interests and counter criticism with a positive and friendly approach, while also acknowledging the 'boring' nature of some within the field. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of accurate reporting and the challenges faced by researchers in dealing with media attention.