HESSLETTER

Magazine Overview

Title: HESSLETTER
Issue: 119
Date: October 1993 (Oct, '94)
Publisher: NESS INFORMATION SERVICE
ISSN: 0264-7001

This issue of HESSLETTER, dated October 1993, focuses on recent reports and investigations concerning the Loch Ness Monster and other mysteries, including an update on Bigfoot research.

Lochside Encounters and Investigations

The issue begins with an account from a member who visited the loch in May. Mr. C. Mitchell reported seeing what he described as a small black head, resembling a seal's head, at the lochside. He observed it through binoculars and estimated it to be about two feet wide, moving at a curious angle. He attempted to get closer by driving down to the loch but found the water calm upon arrival.

Andreas and Angela Trottmann from Switzerland also visited the loch in May. They experienced cool, windy conditions but managed sonar searching in various areas. While they didn't find large objects, they did detect fish targets. Andreas now uses a night vision device, finding it effective but tiring for continuous use.

A significant event detailed is the Trottmanns' submarine dive on May 12th. They transferred to a submarine from the Clansman Hotel and were briefed by the pilot. Despite the cramped space, the submarine was designed as a rescue vessel. The dive offered limited views due to peat particles, primarily showing the silt bottom and lights.

Andreas also took photographs and a video during the dive, recommending the experience for its unique opportunity to explore the loch.

Historical Accounts and Further Sightings

Andreas heard a rumor about monks at Fort Augustus Abbey keeping a log book of sightings. He spoke with an older monk who provided some information, though Andreas did not get his name. The monk had participated in a BBC TV documentary about the subject in the 1950s. Andreas also learned of two interesting sightings from the Abbey in 1911 and 1926.

Valery Ann Moffat reported a sighting of a large black cat near Castle Urquhart in late October 1993. The cat was illuminated by security lights before disappearing up the hill.

Another witness, from Drumnadrochit, reported two possible Nessie sightings. The first, in mid-September 1992, involved seeing a large dark hump, like an upturned boat, submerged without leaving waves, estimated to be about 8 feet above water. The second sighting, in the summer of 1993, described a dark object moving very fast from the open loch into Urquhart Bay, which the witness believed was not a boat but possibly the head and neck of a creature.

Doug Macfarlane, experienced in sonar, discussed potential sonar contacts concerning the submarine, including a large target that moved quickly out of range and contacts made by the 'Jacobite Queen' at depths of 600 feet and 400 feet.

Bigfoot Research Initiative

Peter Byrne is leading a new initiative in Bigfoot research. After years of keeping a low profile, he is now actively involved, having made trips to Nepal to research Yeti phenomena. The Bigfoot Research Project aims to find and preserve the species, utilizing technology such as satellite navigation and night-vision scopes. They have established a toll-free number for new information. Peter has also reported a significant sighting in Washington state and other sightings in California.

Film and Exhibition News

A film titled 'Loch Ness', a romantic comedy directed by the same person behind 'Four Weddings and a Funeral', is in production. The film features a cynical American scientist who goes to the loch to disprove the legend but changes his mind after meeting a local hotelier and her daughter.

An exhibition set up by Tony Harmsworth at the Benedictine Abbey at Fort Augustus is mentioned.

Personal Accounts and Contributions

Henry Bauer and his wife Virginia Barbara spent time at the Ross chalet and noted the importance of preserving the history of the Loch Ness hunt. They invite contributions of personal reminiscences for potential publication in the Nessletter.

Brian Herring, a volunteer with the Loch Ness Project, finds his work with enthusiastic students rewarding. He also visited the new exhibition at the Abbey and noted the presence of film crews interested in the subject.

Robert Caprini-Hood reported on his recent visit to the loch, staying at the Foyers Hotel. He also mentioned a film in production and a local hotelier's connection to the monster legend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are eyewitness accounts of unexplained phenomena, particularly concerning Loch Ness, and the ongoing scientific and historical investigation into these mysteries. There is a clear interest in documenting personal experiences and preserving the history of these investigations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting various reports and research efforts without definitive conclusions, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of information. The inclusion of Bigfoot research broadens the scope of unexplained mysteries being covered.