North American BioFortean Review - Issue 04

Magazine Overview

Title: North American BioFortean Review
Volume: II
Issue: 2
Year: 2000
Publisher: Zoological Miscellania
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of the North American BioFortean Review features a cover illustration of a leaping feline-like creature and includes a quote from Herbert Spence on the importance of open-minded investigation. The editors, Chad Arment and Brad LaGrange, introduce the newsletter as an outlet for their investigations, emphasizing that sharing research and maintaining open communication is key, even if conclusions are not definitive. They also solicit submissions and illustrations.

Contents

The issue contains a variety of articles on cryptozoological and Fortean topics, including:

• The Gowrow vs. Occam's Razor; an exercise in folklore (Brad LaGrange)
• The Santer: North Carolina's Own Mystery Cat? (Angelo Capparella III)
• A Pennsylvania "Gorilla” Flap (Chad Arment)
• Strangest of All (Matthew A. Bille)
• Cryptonotes with “Grizzly” Adams (Chad Arment)
• Dinos in the U.S.A. (Brad LaGrange)
• An Old Black Panther Report (Chad Arment)
• More Odd "Wildcat" Reports (Brad LaGrange)
• My Two Fortean Experiences (Chad Arment)
• Lying Eyes (Brad LaGrange)
• Devil Monkeys or Wampus Cats? (Chad Arment)
• A New Urban Myth (Chad Arment)

Additionally, a "From the Past" section revisits older accounts: A Strange Beast, A Petrified Man, A Giant Snake, A Giant Eagle, and Horned Skeletons.

The frontpiece image is noted as being provided by a witness from near Roanoke, Virginia, related to the article "Devil Monkeys or Wampus Cats?"

Fair Usage Policy

The newsletter states its policy on using images, noting that original images are preferred but that images published elsewhere may be used for criticism, comment, education, and research under Title 17 of the United States Code.

From the Editors

The editors explain that the newsletter was started to provide an outlet for investigations that may not have clear resolutions. They believe that sharing research helps connect with others who have similar experiences or can offer supporting arguments. They acknowledge that busy schedules limit their ability to pursue investigations extensively but enjoy sharing their findings. They encourage submissions and illustrations, noting a need for clip art. They express particular interest in reprinting classic cryptozoological material, citing Angelo Capparella's article on the Santer as an example, which was originally published in Shadows in 1977. Capparella is noted as having become a well-known ornithologist and was on an expedition to Peru as of June 2000.

Distribution Policy

The North American BioFortean Review is available as a free PDF download from the Zoological Miscellania website (www.herper.com). Print copies are not provided, but readers are encouraged to share the URL or electronic copies. Downloading copies directly helps gauge distribution numbers.

The Gowrow vs. Occam's Razor; an exercise in folklore

This article by Brad LaGrange explores the legend of the "Gowrow," a giant lizard purportedly up to 20 feet long, said to inhabit the Ozark/Oauchita mountains of northern Arkansas. The name derives from the sound young pups make when hatching. The author notes that while movies often depict giant lizards meeting their match, cryptids are not always so easily explained. The Gowrow is described with "tusk-like" teeth and makes groaning and hissing sounds.

LaGrange found only two reported sightings before WWII, both near the Missouri border in Boone and Searly counties. One account from before 1935 (or possibly 1900) places a sighting in a cave called "Devils Hole" on E. J. Rhodes' land. Rhodes investigated a commotion and heard hissing, but a subsequent attempt to lower a rope resulted in it being chewed.

A second account from 1897 describes a traveling salesman named Bill Miller claiming to have killed a Gowrow in Searly county, with its remains supposedly sent to the Smithsonian Institution, which has no record of them. The legend also appeared in Southern carnivals as a sideshow attraction.

LaGrange proposes that the Gowrow legend stems from the alligator. He notes that alligators are large, hiss, groan, and can bark when hatching, and they inhabit Arkansas. He suggests that the poverty and isolation of the northern Ozark mountain people at the time led to the development of a unique folklore. They may have encountered alligators or alligator hides in the southern parts of the state, or seen pickled alligators or postcards brought north by traveling peddlers. This idea is supported by Shuker's suggestion that medieval dragon reports might have originated from preserved monitors brought from the Mediterranean.

The author concludes that while the Gowrow is part of the region's folklore, it has few modern sightings, suggesting it is likely a legend based on the alligator.

The Santer: North Carolina's Own Mystery Cat?

This article by Angelo Capparella III investigates the "Santer," a creature reported in western North Carolina during the 1890s by newspapers like "The Chronicle" and "The Statesville Landmark." The Santer was described as a large cat with a fondness for cat and dog meat, and sometimes for pigs, cows, sheep, and even "negro children" (though the Chronicle emphasized cats and dogs). The creature was said to be "terrorizing" communities.

Capparella notes that the Santer first appeared in the Statesville Landmark on August 28, 1890, with more detail and a drawing in the September 4, 1890 issue. A summary from "The Carolina Watchman" on September 11, 1890, described the beast as having an "abnormal capacity for food" and a weakness for livestock and children, with its name having an "indefinite significance." The Watchman suggested the Santer was a journalistic gag created by J.P. Caldwell, the Landmark's editor, possibly due to dull news or to scare local blacks.

However, the Santer continued to be reported throughout the 1890s, sometimes in a joking manner but often seriously, leading Capparella to question if all reports were fabrications. An October 9, 1890 article in the Watchman distinguished between the Landmark's Santer and a different, "real" varmint with a chain around its neck, which made unearthly noises and was seen near woods. This creature was described as not quite as big as a cow, and it was heard growling and its chains were heard.

Further reports from the Chronicle in 1897 and 1899 describe the Santer as a "cat eater," resembling a lynx or a large shepherd dog, and sometimes grey and between the size of a cat and a dog. It was reported to have destroyed chickens.

Capparella presents five possible explanations for the Santer reports:
1. Journalistic hoax.
2. Misidentification of familiar animals (wild dogs, wildcats, bears).
3. Reports of cougars (panthers, catamounts).
4. A mixture of explanations 1, 2, and 3.
5. Reports of a genuine "mystery cat."

The author argues against a pure fabrication explanation due to the serious nature and persistence of the reports. While misidentification is possible, the descriptions and behavior (e.g., lack of fear of humans) make it unlikely for known animals. The cougar explanation is difficult to evaluate as panthers were rare in the area by that time, and sightings were uncommon. However, the Santer's behavior, particularly its lack of fear of humans, contrasts with the shy nature of cougars. The article notes that a large catamount (panther) was caught in 1893, but it was identified as such, not as a Santer.

Capparella concludes that explanations 1-4 may not fully account for all Santer reports, leaving the possibility of a genuine mystery cat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue prominently features themes of cryptozoology, folklore, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance, as expressed by the editors, is one of open inquiry and the sharing of information, even in the absence of definitive conclusions. They advocate for a non-dismissive approach to unusual reports, encouraging readers to consider evidence and maintain an "open mind." The reprinting of historical accounts and the exploration of legends like the Gowrow and the Santer highlight a focus on the historical and folkloric aspects of Fortean phenomena. The magazine appears to lean towards presenting evidence and possibilities rather than asserting firm conclusions, inviting readers to participate in the ongoing investigation of mysteries.

Title: The CryptoGRAM
Issue: Vol. II, no. 2
Date: May 1973
Publisher: The CryptoGRAM
Price: $1.00
Cover Headline: The Santer

This issue of The CryptoGRAM features two main topics: the "Santer" creature and the "Pennsylvania Gorilla Flap" of 1920-1921. The magazine includes a detailed examination of these cases, drawing from historical newspaper accounts and referencing other relevant publications.

The Santer

The article begins by comparing reports of the "Santer" with more recent mystery cat sightings, noting similarities in appearance (a large cat) and behavior (terrorizing communities, unknown identity). While acknowledging that definitive placement within the category of mystery cats requires more evidence, the author finds current explanations unsatisfactory. The issue highlights a report from the "Statesville Landmark" dated May 28, 1934, which indicates the Santer, or its offspring, reappeared. A "Mooresville news" report describes considerable excitement over a ferocious wild animal roaming Shinnsville and other places in South Iredell. Local residents believed it to be an offspring of the Santer that had terrorized natives around Statesville and Amity Hill decades prior, reportedly devouring livestock and carrying off children.

The article references two sources for mystery cat reports: "On the Trail of Pumas, Panthers and ULAs" by Jerome Clark and Loren Coleman, published in FATE magazine in June and July 1972, and "The Eastern Panther" by Bruce S. Wright, published by Clarke, Irwin & Company Ltd in Toronto, Canada, in 1972.

A Pennsylvania "Gorilla" Flap

The second major section of the magazine focuses on a series of newspaper articles from central Pennsylvania dating from late 1920 to early 1921, which formed the basis for the "Shoemaker folktale" published in a previous issue of The CryptoGRAM. The author, Chad Arment, notes that these reports are valuable for understanding historical accounts of animals resembling Bigfoot, even if they cannot serve as definitive biological evidence.

Snyder County Weekly Herald, December 15, 1920

This article, titled "Is There a Wild Beast in County?", reports rumors of a supposed attack on a 15-year-old lad south of Globe Mills by a "gorilla, or other 'man-like' wild beast." Despite skepticism from many, the creature was reportedly "seen or heard" south of Globe Mills, north of Middleburg, and in Lewistown. Hunters were preparing to track the beast. One local man noted that only three gorillas were known to be in captivity worldwide, questioning the possibility of one being in the local climate. The animal was described as ranging from the height of an undersized man to over seven feet, and was "hairy" and "strong."

The Selinsgrove Times, December 16, 1920

Under the headline "Gorilla Affair Seems Good Story at Least," this report details how brave men scoured the hills near Globe Mills following the sensational report of a youth being attacked. The story, originating from the Charles Bolig home, described a hairy animal grabbing the 13-year-old son, Samuel, and squeezing him tightly. The animal then used its claws to dislocate the boy's knee.

Snyder County Weekly Herald, December 22, 1920

This article, titled "Now Its Called the 'Missing Link'," notes the widespread nature of the sightings, with the "wild beast" appearing simultaneously in Northumberland, Snyder, Union, Mifflin, Juniata, Perry, Centre, and Blair counties. The consensus among those who had seen it was that it did not belong in the area. The article suggests that the story may have gained impetus in Lewistown and speculates that a correspondent might have exaggerated the tale for financial gain, comparing it to a past incident involving gold discovery near Beavertown.

Gettysburg Times, January 21, 1921

"Gorilla Story No Longer A Myth" reports that residents of Idaville and vicinity conducted a chase for a "huge gorilla" on Thursday night. Initial reports from northern county residents were disbelieved but later deemed authentic. The animal, described by some as a gorilla and by others as a kangaroo, was first seen at Snyder's hill. A chase ensued, with about fifty men attempting to capture or shoot it on Pike hill, but the creature escaped. The theory was advanced that it escaped from a circus train during a railroad wreck. The only damage attributed to the animal was the robbery of a smoke house.

Waynesboro Press, January 21, 1921

This paper reports "Gorilla Bobs Up Near Gettysburg," noting the creature's progression eastward. An unfounded report mentioned a gorilla sighted on a rock near Mount Rock. A Gettysburg citizen commented wryly, "It is evident that some of my Mount Rock friends are seeing more peculiar visions now than they did before the advent of the Eighteenth amendment."

Waynesboro Press, January 22, 1921

Under the headline "That Pesky Gorilla May Have Robbed the Chamberlin Meathouse," this article links the robbery of eight hams to the escaped gorilla. It reiterates the Gettysburg Times report of the chase in Idaville and the theory of a circus escape.

Waynesboro Press, January 24, 1921

"Sunnyside Party Needs Commission" describes the escaped circus gorilla as having "ubiquity," appearing everywhere. While no one actually saw the "man-eating monster" at Sunnyside, the report suggests "gorilla dementia."

Waynesboro Press, January 26, 1921

"Car Barn Worker Chased by Gorilla" recounts Harry Shindledecker's encounter near the E.-B. baseball grounds, where he saw an object with the "ear marks" of the gorilla. The animal was described as about his height and ran westward.

Waynesboro Press, January 27, 1921

"Gorilla has Rouzerville in Complete Upset; Big Armed Posse Gives Chase" details the creature's invasion of the west slopes of the Blue Ridge. The ape from South Africa was reportedly seen by Shindledecker again. The excitement moved to Rouzerville, where a "grisly ingeena" was discovered in a yard. Hunters, including "Bid" Whitmore and "Pinty" Naugle, pursued the creature, which escaped into the bushes. A large campaign was organized, with members of a deer club and other marksmen forming a circle. Some hunters mistook black dogs for the gorilla and shot them.

Waynesboro Press, January 28, 1921

"Gorilla Was Brot to Rouzerville for a Purpose" notes that the "war on the gorilla" did not resume as expected, with scouts finding no trace. The belief was that the animal had moved back into Adams County. "Gorilla Was Imported" presents a speculative theory that the gorilla was imported by "reform interests" to discourage young ladies from being out late at night. "Scared Up in the Corner" reports that the scare spread to Glen Furney, causing women to be afraid to sleep.

Waynesboro Press, January 28, 1921 (continued)

"Gorilla is Only a Matter of Moonshine" quotes Farmer John A. Johnston, who suggested that sightings depended on the quality of "moonshine" consumed, implying that some people were seeing gorillas due to intoxication.

Waynesboro Press, January 28, 1921 (continued)

"Town in Panic" describes the panic in Rouzerville, with residents believing they saw the "crouching monster" in their yards. John Monigan claimed to have seen it run past his house. Young ladies and women sought refuge in houses, and escorts were in demand. The night was described as one of terror.

Seen at Monterey

This section reports that the gorilla was seen by two young men, William Flohr and Maurice Molesworth, near the golf links at Monterey. They described the animal as approaching on all fours, making gurgling sounds, and being about five feet in height. They fled due to fear.

Frank Goetz Saw Him

Frank Goetz of Rouzerville reportedly swore he saw the gorilla in the bushes behind his house.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained "mystery cat" phenomenon, exemplified by the Santer, and the widespread panic and speculation surrounding the "Pennsylvania Gorilla Flap." The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting historical accounts and evidence, while also acknowledging skepticism and offering potential explanations, ranging from misidentification and folklore to more sensational theories. The inclusion of multiple newspaper reports from the era suggests an effort to provide a comprehensive overview of the events and public reaction. The comparison of the Santer to modern mystery cat reports and the discussion of the Pennsylvania Gorilla Flap's origins indicate an interest in the historical context of cryptid sightings and their place in folklore and popular culture.

This issue of the Gettysburg Times, dated January 28, 1921, and subsequent reports from other publications, details a series of unusual events and alleged creature sightings from late 1920 and early 1921. The primary focus is on a widespread panic caused by a supposed escaped circus gorilla in Pennsylvania and Maryland, alongside other cryptid and unexplained phenomena.

The Rouzerville Gorilla Scare

The lead story, "Chase Gorilla To Mountains," from the Gettysburg Times on January 28, 1921, describes a "gorilla warfare" that began in Idaville and escalated in Rouzerville, Pennsylvania. Residents, armed with rifles, formed a posse to hunt an animal believed to have escaped from a wrecked circus car. The animal was discovered in an alley at dusk, prompting a village-wide hunt. A large group of marksmen mobilized and advanced up the mountain in battle formation. Despite shots being fired, the chimpanzee, as it is later referred to, escaped into the brush. The hunt involved forming a large circle around the foothills where the animal was last seen.

During the hunt, a black dog was mistaken for the ape and killed by an excited hunter. Reports also circulated that the town was in a turmoil, with young women needing escorts due to the "panic." The gorilla was later reportedly seen at Monterey Golf Links by two young men who described a figure approaching on all fours, which then rose and made gurgling sounds.

Further Sightings and Incidents

Subsequent reports from the Snyder County Weekly Herald (February 2, 1921) and Waynesboro Press (February 10, 1921) continued the narrative. The "phantom gorilla" was reported to have invaded Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, where a posse of twenty-five rifle shots pursued it into the foothills, losing the trail. Abraham Lau of York County, Pennsylvania, excited by these tales, mistook his neighbor's mule for the gorilla and shot it.

On February 1, 1921, the Gettysburg Times reported "Saw Gorilla in Daylight," stating the gorilla had been wandering in the mountains of southern Pennsylvania for weeks and reappeared near Pen Mar. John Simmons reported seeing a strange, unlikely object in a field, which he identified as the "gorilla."

The Gorilla's Demise

The Waynesboro Press (February 21, 1921) reported that the "famous gorilla" had finally met its fate in Queen Anne's County, Maryland. Farmer Wm. B. Quimby choked the creature into insensibility and then kicked it to death. This incident occurred on the Walnut Ridge farm and was preceded by rumors and sightings by local negroes and fox hunters.

Other Strange Encounters

Ape-Man of Pittsburgh

The Waynesboro Press (January 4, 1921) detailed the capture of an "ape-man" in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who had terrorized the countryside for over two weeks. The man, described as nearly nude with matted hair, resembled his simian ancestors. He was captured sleeping by a fire and attacked the arresting officer, Constable Risenbarth, before being subdued.

Strange Beast of New Jersey

From the Waynesboro Press (January 6, 1921), a report described a strange animal captured in the Cohansey River, New Jersey. It had the head of a raccoon, the tail of a cat, and a body about a foot long covered in gray and reddish-brown fur. The newspaper editor noted it was likely a coatimundi.

The Oregon Critter

An article by Chad Arment presented a report from an individual who claimed to have seen a large, black, tentacled animal with an orange, shell-like center rise out of a pond in Oregon about 35 years prior. The witness described unusual changes to the pond over time, including its apparent movement. The author speculates on natural hydro-geological explanations and potential connections to Native American lore about "skookums."

Lovecraftian Beasts in the Gulf of Mexico

A posting to an internet newsgroup, shared by George Hale, described an undersea welder's experiences working on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. The welder reported seeing "giant headless glowing living firehoses" moving at incredible speeds. He eventually saw a "predator" that was enormous, with a pallor and skin texture like a sea anemone, possibly resembling a starfish or pond hydra, which was consuming the "firehose" entity.

A Petrified Man

From the Snyder County Weekly Herald (June 1, 1921), the story of gravediggers Forest Aikens and Roy McKinley uncovering a petrified body of A. Jones from an old cemetery is recounted. The body's legs were drawn up, and the knees were petrified. The grave contained two feet of water, and the entire body was found to be stone, attributed to the high lime content in the water over eleven years.

Cryptonotes with "Grizzly" Adams

An article by Matthew A. Bille discusses accounts related to John "Grizzly" Adams. One story from California around 1854 describes Adams narrowly missing a bizarre animal that looked like a hedgehog with the head and feet of a bear. Another incident near Nevada's Walker River involved Adams seeing an immense animal that turned out to be a mirage of a normal-sized horse.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue is dominated by reports of unusual and unexplained phenomena, primarily focusing on alleged encounters with unknown animals. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these accounts, sometimes with a degree of skepticism or by offering potential explanations (like misidentification or natural causes), but also by presenting them as intriguing cases worthy of consideration within the field of cryptozoology and unexplained mysteries. The inclusion of "From the Past" sections suggests an interest in historical accounts of strange occurrences. The publication seems to lean towards the sensational and the unexplained, reflecting a popular interest in such topics during the early 20th century.

This issue of Strange Magazine, likely from the 1990s given the references, focuses on reports of bipedal, lizard-like creatures and alleged "dinosaurs" within the United States. It compiles various accounts from different regions, examining their details and offering potential explanations.

"From the Past: A Giant Snake"

This section recounts a sensationalized event from the Waynesboro Press (PA) on January 24, 1921. A boy named Gerald Grimmer from Logan, Ohio, reported being chased by a 40-foot long snake near Snow Fork. The village was roused, and approximately 200 men armed themselves to confront the reptile. After an exchange of gunfire, the "snake" was killed. However, the article reveals the anticlimactic truth: the "snake" was a swarm of bees inhabiting an old, perforated hose, likely damaged by buckshot from previous encounters. The story highlights the community's reaction and the eventual debunking of the monster.

"Dinos in the U. S. A. - A Summary of North American Bipedal 'Lizard' Reports" by Chad Arment

This lengthy article by Chad Arment compiles and analyzes various reports of large, bipedal, lizard-like creatures across North America, particularly the United States. Arment begins by quoting John Keel, who suggests that investigating local lake monsters or cryptids might be as fruitful as searching in exotic locales.

Arment states his intention to summarize published reports of bipedal lizard-like animals, excluding "scaled primate-like creatures" and "oversized quadrupedal lizards." He emphasizes that while he doesn't personally believe these are proof of extant dinosaurs, he finds the reports interesting and deserving of more investigation.

The Ohio River Region

1. Warren County, Ohio (late 1800s): Based on newspaper accounts, two boys fishing were attacked by a "snake" with legs that tried to drag one into a hollow tree. Rescued by men, the creature later emerged from the tree and was described as 30-40 feet long, with lizard-like features, scales, and a long forked tongue. Arment notes this might have been a newspaper hoax.
2. Trimble County, Kentucky (1975): Sightings of a large lizard-like animal near an auto body shop are detailed. Descriptions included a red forked tongue, large eyes, and stripes. While most reports indicated a quadruped, some witnesses described it as bipedal. Arment notes similarities to a previous report from Ohio and questions if it was an amphibian, concluding that more investigation is needed.
3. New Kensington, Pennsylvania (1981): Four boys reported seeing a "baby dinosaur" near a sewer drain. An 11-year-old caught it but dropped it when it squealed. It was described as a 2-3 feet tall green lizard with two arms and a tail, walking bipedally. Arment suggests the size was exaggerated and that it might have been a green basilisk lizard, a popular pet at the time.

The Texas Tales

4. West Texas (Jimmy Ward, 1993): Ward reported tales of a "giant lizard" called the "Mountain Boomer," described as greenish or brownish, with small forelegs and large hind legs, about 5-6 feet tall, eating roadkill and running with its tail out. Arment is skeptical, noting the lack of similar folklore from experienced snake hunters in the area. He also mentions John Keel's brief note of a "dinosaur" running a car off the road in Texas in the early 1970s.

Other Reports

5. Unspecified Location (Nick Suzik, post): Suzik shared a story about a TV program (possibly *Unsolved Mysteries* or *Sightings*) that featured a cattle farmer who found a dead "baby dinosaur." The creature looked like a toy and was limp. The couple sold the story, but it was met with disbelief. The location was assumed to be Texas or Arizona.
6. Pagosa Springs, Colorado (Clark, 1993): Clark documented a report from a woman who saw "baby dinosaurs" in May 1935. A local farmer shot one a few months later, described as seven feet tall, gray, with a snake-like head, short front legs, and stout back legs. The woman also reported seeing a dark green one in a cave in 1937 and another in 1978.
7. Pueblo, Colorado (Ron Schaffner, email): An individual reported seeing a three to four feet long, greenish creature with black markings and a yellowish-orange belly walking on hind legs near the Fountain River. It had smaller front limbs and made a high-pitched screech. Tracks were photographed with a cigarette for scale. The sender provided photographs, which Arment and Schaffner believed could be models due to their vagueness and the growing hobby of realistic dinosaur models.

Arment concludes that while the photos are the clearest of their type he has seen, they are still circumstantial evidence and could be faked. He notes issues with the "lizard's" appearance in the photos, such as the tail and open mouth. He also mentions the term "river dino" being used for similar creatures.

Arment expresses interest in hearing about other tales of bipedal "lizards" in North America, particularly from South Carolina or the Ozarks, and stresses the importance of collecting such reports for research.

"An Old Black Panther Report" by Brad LaGrange

This brief report details a sighting from around 1959-1961 in Florida, near Ft. Meyers. The author's uncle and aunt saw a large, long, black cat leap across a private road in the scrub forests. They described it as quite black and very large, with a long tail, but could not determine if it had spots like a leopard. The author suggests it could have been a feral leopard, given Florida's history with exotic pet owners.

"From the Past: A Giant Eagle"

This is a historical account from the Waynesboro Press (PA) on January 26, 1921, detailing an incident in Glendo, Wyoming. An 8-year-old boy, Walter Spaulding, was attacked by a giant eagle with an eight-foot wingspan. The boy grasped the eagle's neck, and his family intervened. His brother, John, and another boy helped. Mrs. Spaulding beat the bird with a stick, and Mr. Spaulding eventually shot and killed the eagle. Both boys sustained lacerations from the eagle's claws.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly cryptids and creatures that defy conventional zoological classification. The magazine presents a range of accounts, from historical newspaper clippings to contemporary eyewitness reports and investigator correspondence. The editorial stance, particularly in Chad Arment's article, is one of cautious skepticism. While acknowledging the interest and potential significance of these reports, the author frequently points to possible misidentifications, hoaxes, or natural explanations, such as exotic pets or known animals. There is an underlying encouragement for further research and the collection of evidence, but a clear emphasis on critical analysis rather than outright acceptance of extraordinary claims. The inclusion of historical anecdotes and diverse geographical locations suggests a broad scope in exploring the unexplained.

This issue of NABR, titled "More Odd "Wildcat" Reports," features a collection of intriguing accounts related to cryptozoology and unexplained phenomena. The magazine explores reports of unusual feline-like creatures, UFO sightings, personal Fortean experiences, and historical folklore.

"Wildcat" Reports from Illinois and Pennsylvania

The issue begins with a report from Chad Arment detailing intriguing accounts of "long-tailed wildcat" sightings. A geologist with a Master's Degree shares an email describing "woods cats" or "timber cats" in Southern Illinois, larger than bobcats with long tails, varying in color, and about the size of a cocker spaniel. Locals believe these cats may have been brought from Mexico by Native Americans. The description was matched to a jaguarundi.

Further reports from Pennsylvania, sourced from Robert R. Lyman Sr.'s "Amazing Indeed: Strange Events in the Black Forest, Vol. II," recount historical accounts of "bobcats" with long tails prior to 1840. In September 1951, Lynn Wycoff trapped a wildcat with a foot-long tail near Wharton, PA, which was described as a large, nasty-tempered animal that never tamed down and was seen by hundreds of people.

My Two Fortean Experiences by Brad LaGrange

Brad LaGrange contributes two personal accounts of "Fortean" experiences.

Lying Eyes: A UFO Sighting

LaGrange describes seeing a massive triangle-shaped object with green lights while driving near Tell City, Indiana. Initially believing it to be a UFO, he later identified the throbbing engine sound as that of UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, realizing the object was a formation of three helicopters with green lights on their tail rotors. He reflects on the fallibility of eyewitness testimony and how the brain can fill in details to fit expectations.

The Adie Kaiser House Prank

LaGrange recounts a high school prank involving a visit to the abandoned Adie Kaiser house. While telling fabricated ghost stories, the group saw a small ball of light that moved into the kitchen. This light, rather than a ghost, is speculated to be a natural phenomenon like "spook lights."

Birch Bark Writing

Another Fortean experience involves LaGrange's uncle finding a piece of birch bark with what appeared to be stenciled writing on the inside, possibly a serial number with letters. The writing was oriented correctly and not mirrored, and they agreed on most characters, though debated one character and whether the letters were uppercase.

From the Past: Horned Skeletons?

This section reprints an account from Robert R. Lyman, Sr.'s "Forbidden Land: Strange Events in the Black Forest, Vol. I." It details the discovery of an Indian mound at Tioga Point, PA, containing the bones of 68 men, averaging 7 feet tall. Notably, some skulls had bony protuberances above the forehead, suggesting horns present since birth. The report questions the identity of the investigating museum.

Devil Monkeys or Wampus Cats?

Chad Arment explores reports of "devil monkeys" and their potential connection to "black panther" sightings and the folklore of the Wampus Cat. A witness from Ohio reports a sighting near Roanoke, Virginia, of a creature leaping across the road. Described as black, cat-like, and approximately 6 feet tall when standing on its hind legs, it had a man-like torso and head with a pointy beard, and muscular hind legs. The creature was not identified as a wolf, despite recent red wolf reintroductions in the area.

The article delves into the Wampus Cat legend from Cherokee folklore, describing it as a half-man/half-wildcat beast. Sightings are reported from Tennessee and Georgia, with descriptions of a shaggy, man-like "cat creature." Other accounts from Tennessee describe Wampus Cats with large eyes and enormous paw tracks, one instance involving a creature that stood on its hind legs, peered into a window, and then walked away.

Arment speculates on the possibility of these creatures being primates, considering both New World and Old World primate species. He notes that while New World primates are generally small, a fossil platyrrhine named *Protopithecus brasiliensis* was larger than any living platyrrhines. He suggests that reports of such creatures need careful recording and investigation, distinguishing them from stray exotic animals.

A New Urban Myth

An email to the editors presents an urban legend about "shard rats" found in older cities like New York. These rats are rumored to partially metabolize non-organic compounds, excreting them through hair follicles and new teeth enamel, with the excreted compounds appearing like "shards." The sender expresses doubt about the legend's veracity but finds it interesting.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained animal sightings (cryptozoology), UFO phenomena, and the intersection of folklore with potential real-world encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the collection and investigation of unusual reports while maintaining a critical perspective, particularly regarding eyewitness testimony and the potential for misidentification or psychological factors. The magazine aims to document these phenomena, acknowledging their place within the broader context of Fortean studies and unexplained mysteries.