Nexus - Whole No 07 - Vol 02 No 01 - 1955 01 00

Magazine Overview

Title: NEXUS
Issue: TOME 2 BOOK
Date: January 1955
Publisher: Saucer and Unexplained Celestial Events Research Society (S.A.U.C.E.R.S.)
Country: USA
Language: English

Table of Contents

This issue of NEXUS features a variety of content related to flying saucers and related phenomena. Key sections include:

• News Stories: Current Saucer Reports, Two Meetings Held by Civilian Saucer Intelligence, Editorial, Letters to the Editor.
• Feature Article: Some New Facts about "Flying Saucers Have Landed".
• Current Saucer Reports: French and Italian Landings.

Current Saucer Reports: French and Italian Landings

The magazine reports a continuing epidemic of saucer landings in France, estimating between 75 and 100 incidents since late September. The situation has led to public hysteria, with some instances of misidentification, such as peasants mistaking a jack-o'-lantern for a saucer. In Haute-Garonne, a gendarme reported seeing Martians, but the alleged saucer and its occupants vanished, leaving behind Indo-Chinese documents that were later identified as belonging to students on a picnic. A more dramatic incident in the Cher Valley district involved Pierre Langlois shooting a man he believed to be a Martian with a death-ray gun; the man turned out to be a traveling salesman fixing his car.

The "War of the Worlds" phenomenon has also spread to Italy, with numerous sightings and alleged landings. One notable incident near Milan involved a bright light and small figures near a disc, which emitted strange sounds and disappeared after attempts to interact with it. The article notes that European landing reports are being investigated, and while some are explained, others remain mysterious.

Editorial: Pelley Again Advocates Fascist Uprising!

This editorial addresses the political activities of William Dudley Pelley, who, after serving a jail term for sedition, organized a cult called Soulcraft. NEXUS criticizes Pelley's publication "Valor" for its mixture of Fascist politics, spiritualism, and flying saucer theories. The editorial quotes passages from "Valor" that appear to endorse Senator McCarthy and suggest turning over government to the American Legion, drawing parallels to Fascist rhetoric of the late 1930s. The editor questions how long such writings will be tolerated before government intervention.

Two Meetings Held by Civilian Saucer Intelligence

This section details two meetings of the Civilian Saucer Intelligence Group (C.S.I.) of New York City. The first, on November 19th, involved the election of club officers, including James Moseley as President and Harold Oxenkrug as Vice President. Due to financial difficulties, annual dues were increased to five dollars. The second meeting, on December 17th, featured Dr. Leon Davidson as the guest speaker, who presented his theory that flying saucers are a secret project of the U.S. government.

Letters to the Editor

Several letters are included:

• A reader expresses frustration with "E. Rockmore" for failing to deliver subscriptions to his "Flying Saucer Review" after payment.
• A reader clarifies that he is a member, not the head, of the new Flying Saucer Club of Detroit.
• Fred Kirsch of the U.F.O. Research Organization in Cuyahaga Falls, Ohio, describes their observing group and their efforts to collect detailed reports on sightings.
• Clarence R. Pipher inquires about NEXUS's sources of information.
• John Otto of the Chicago Rocket Society announces streamlined membership qualifications and promotes the "C.R.S. Journal of Space Flight."
• Celia Block suggests incorporating humor into the approach to flying saucers.
• John P. Bessor defends his views on saucer areas and discusses the phenomenon of "saucer crewmen" adopting local characteristics.

Some New Facts About "Flying Saucers Have Landed"

This feature article by James W. Moseley examines the widely publicized accounts of George Adamski, particularly his book "Flying Saucers Have Landed." Moseley presents Adamski's story, which begins with his interest in astronomy and his alleged encounters starting in late 1949. Adamski claims to have been approached by individuals he believed to be military, who encouraged him to photograph flying saucers. He describes his persistent efforts to capture photographic evidence, enduring difficult conditions. The article details Adamski's alleged personal contact with a Venusian on November 20, 1952, near Desert Center, California. During this encounter, Adamski learned about concerns regarding atomic weapons and observed footprints with strange symbols. Later, on December 13th, Adamski's film pack was returned by a scout ship, revealing more symbols, and he also obtained several photographs of the "scout ship."

The article includes a comparison of two photographs: one alleged to be Adamski's flying saucer and the other a model made from common objects, highlighting their striking similarity. A footnote mentions that Al Bailey and George Williamson, who were present during Adamski's encounter, published their own book, "The Saucers Speak," based on alleged radio and ouija board contact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of NEXUS demonstrates a consistent focus on UFO sightings and related phenomena, particularly in Europe and through the accounts of individuals like George Adamski. The magazine also engages with political commentary, as seen in the editorial concerning William Dudley Pelley's potentially subversive activities. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on UFO events while also critically examining political and social implications, particularly those that might border on extremism or sedition. The publication also serves as a platform for communication among UFO enthusiasts through its letters section and coverage of organizational meetings.

Title: CURRENT SAUCER REPORTS
Issue: 18
Volume: NEXUS
Date: November 2023 (inferred from 'this month')

This issue of NEXUS's 'Current Saucer Reports' focuses heavily on dissecting the claims made in George Adamski's book "Flying Saucers Have Landed," primarily through the critical testimony of Jerrold Baker, a researcher who worked closely with Adamski during the period of his alleged encounters.

The Adamski Story: A Critical Examination

The article begins by referencing a photograph of a "scout ship" from Adamski's book, initially attributed to Sgt. Jerrold E. Baker. It notes that Adamski's account is further supported by sworn statements from six witnesses present at a November 20th contact. An appendix in Adamski's book discusses a meeting on June 1, 1953, featuring remarks from Al Chop and a statement from cameraman Pev Marley, who reportedly found Adamski's pictures remarkably convincing, even if faked.

However, the author expresses difficulty in presenting Adamski's account without bias due to a detailed study of the story. The article highlights that many researchers have studied the Adamski case, with varying conclusions. Jerrold Baker and John Pitt are cited as key researchers providing material for this analysis. The author claims to have conducted extensive interviews and correspondence to uncover the 'inside story' of Adamski's claims.

Point One: Misquotation of Mr. Bloom

Mr. Bloom of the Point Loma Navy Laboratory reportedly stated that he was grossly misquoted in "Flying Saucers Have Landed" and had no knowledge of a saucer landing in Mexico City.

Point Two: Copyright and Air Force Knowledge

Adamski argued that if his saucers were secret military devices, he wouldn't be allowed to copyright and mail his photographs. He sent them to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and they would have stopped him if they were secret craft. The article suggests that if Adamski were photographing extra-terrestrial craft, the Air Force might not want proof released, leading to a conclusion that Adamski might not be photographing any craft at all, and the Air Force is aware of this.

Point Three: Witnesses and Their Backgrounds

Initially impressed by Adamski's story being backed by four acquaintances, the author's investigation revealed that these witnesses were already 'believers' before the November 20th contact. They lacked particular educational advantages to be considered expert observers. Williamson, in particular, is noted for allowing himself to be called 'Dr. Williamson' without a degree, similar to Adamski being affectionately called 'professor'. The article points out that two witnesses were close personal friends of Adamski (one being the owner of the property where he lives, and the other his secretary), further questioning the impartiality of the group.

Point Four: The Photographs

The article discusses the authenticity of Adamski's photographs, with one being labeled 'phony' and another 'genuine'. It mentions that an eminent rocket engineer identified 'G.E.' (General Electric) letters on the 'landing gear' of a 'scout ship' photo, suggesting it might be a model. The author also notes that the 'landing gear' might be ping pong balls rather than light bulbs.

Point Five: Disagreement Among Witnesses

Mr. Al Bailey, a railroad worker from Winslow, Arizona, stated in a personal interview that he did not see the space man or the 'scout ship' that allegedly landed. He saw the 'mother ship' and flashes of light but believes no one else saw more than he did. Bailey also disputes a drawing in the book, claiming it could not have been made from the stated distance or on that day. While Bailey believes Adamski's contact might have occurred, he feels Adamski's account is not entirely true and that he himself was duped rather than being a co-conspirator.

Point Six: Misquoted Officials

Mr. Al Chop claims he was misquoted in the book's appendix and considered suing Adamski. Pev Marley also denied making the attributed statements and refuted a rumor that he had found a man's head in a blow-up of an Adamski photo.

Point Seven: Unanswered Questions

The article raises several questions: How did Venusian footprints appear on desert sand with no rain for months? Why were American aircraft, allegedly present during the contact, not reporting the saucers? How could a Venusian exist comfortably in Earth's atmosphere and look like a human? Why were no better pictures or movies taken of the saucers? And why did Adamski keep his companions at a distance during the contact, potentially to facilitate a hoax?

The Evidence Presented by Mr. Jerrold Baker

Jerrold Baker's account is presented through letters and documents. He claims he did not take the Brownie snapshot accredited to him, that Adamski was the photographer, and that other Brownie pictures were destroyed at Adamski's request. Baker states the photograph was not taken on December 13th as indicated, but on December 12th, 1952. He also claims the desert contact was pre-planned and that Adamski related the details to him beforehand. Lucy McGinnis reportedly purchased plaster of Paris, and Adamski carried it, not Williamson.

The author acknowledges not knowing Baker's motives but states Baker has received no inducement and gains nothing by admitting he was duped. Baker's evidence aligns with other reliable sources.

Baker's sworn statement from June 29, 1954, reiterates that he did not take the alleged photograph, which was taken by Adamski on December 12th, 1952, not the 13th.

In a letter dated November 18, 1954, Baker discusses his conversations with Adamski about his 'slipshod manner' of publishing photos. Baker suggested having multiple photographers, but Adamski later disclosed he had taken pictures with his Brownie camera on December 12, 1952.

Baker also mentions Mr. Detwiler, a professional photographer who processes Adamski's work, and Mr. Hal Nelson, a US Civil Service investigator, as individuals who could provide proof of his claims regarding the photographs.

Mr. Detwiler, when asked about Adamski's photographs, stated he does not engage in 'fakery' during processing and receives genuine negatives. However, he suggested that if the pictures are not genuine, the 'fakery' might involve the use of models, and he could not confirm whether Adamski used models or if the photographs were of genuine saucers.

Baker's letter to Frank Scully (January 31, 1954) describes Adamski's claims of taking hundreds of photos after untold hours of watching, which Baker refutes. Baker states Adamski knows when a ship is coming and is there to snap the picture, implying a planned, purposeful action rather than a chance encounter. Baker also calls the 'contact' story misleading and untrue, stating it was too purposeful and planned. He recounts purchasing photographic plates himself and accidentally hearing a tape recording of the planned desert event.

Baker's letter to Desmond Leslie (August 4, 1954) reiterates that he did not take the Brownie photograph and admits he fell victim to a hoax. He states he will no longer condone the erroneous stories or fabrications connected with flying saucers.

Another extract from a personal letter by Baker mentions Karl Hunrath and Jack Wilkinson, whose disappearance is noted as another interesting story.

Other Saucer Reports

Mr. Cedric Allingham

Cedric Allingham, described as the "British Adamski," claims to have seen a flying saucer in Scotland in February, with its occupant from Mars engaging in a chat. Allingham is writing a book titled "Flying Saucer from Mars: The Facts."

Jean Gérault's Hoax

Jean Gérault, a Frenchman, claimed to have taken close-up photographs of a saucer. A French newspaper, "Est Republicain," was convinced, but the story was later exposed as a hoax, with the photos being borrowed studio-made images taken as a joke.

Adamski's Next Book

News concerning George Adamski's upcoming book, a sequel to "Flying Saucers Have Landed," titled "Inside the Spaceships," is mentioned. This book will reportedly concern Adamski's supposed trips to Venus and will not be documented by photographs or witnesses, making it immune to further exposes.

Bulletin and Advertisements

A bulletin announces sensational new evidence concerning earth-made saucers, to be printed next month. It also mentions that the nucleus of this story was previously given in NEXUS (Page 8) in an article titled "Piloted Flying Saucer Flew Test in 1945." Several other articles are lined up for the February issue.

Advertisements include "The Saucerian," a publication by Gray Barker, and "The Little Listening Post," a saucer bulletin. James S. Rigberg, a publisher and bookseller specializing in occult and metaphysics, also advertises books and magazines on flying saucers.

Conclusion

The author states that the evidence regarding "Flying Saucers Have Landed" could be extensive, but due to space limitations, only the most sensational material is presented. The article concludes that while it is not stating Adamski's account is entirely untrue, the numerous flaws cast serious doubt on his veracity and sincerity. The author hopes the reader will re-evaluate the worth of Adamski's book based on the presented facts. The author emphasizes that their intent is not personal antagonism but to sift "saucer fiction" from "saucer facts."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes are skepticism towards UFO claims, particularly the Adamski case, the importance of verifiable evidence, the potential for hoaxes, and the critical analysis of witness testimony and photographic evidence. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, aiming to uncover the truth behind UFO phenomena by questioning established narratives and exposing inconsistencies.