Pursuit - No 13 - Vol 04 No 1 - 1971

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 4, No. 1
Date: January 1971
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNKNOWN"

This issue of PURSUIT, the quarterly journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, presents a diverse range of topics under the broad umbrella of forteana and the unexplained. The magazine is dedicated to investigating phenomena that are "customarily discounted" and aims to explore subjects often overlooked by mainstream science.

Organization and Participation

The Society is managed by a Board of Trustees and a Governing Board, with various officers and standing committees. It is counselled by a Scientific Advisory Board. Participation is solicited through memberships and subscriptions. Contributions are tax-exempt. The journal PURSUIT is published quarterly, and the Society also issues Occasional Papers and special reports. Members are welcome to visit the Society's library and files by appointment.

Editorial: The State of Education

In his editorial, Ivan T. Sanderson critiques the prevailing education system, arguing that it prioritizes teaching techniques over genuine education. He posits that true education requires three fundamental aspects: factual information, the principles of classification (taxonomy), and the stimulus to cerebration (thinking). Sanderson criticizes the system's focus on rote learning and the collection of credits, advocating for a more holistic approach that integrates subjects and encourages critical thinking. He expresses concern that a failure to reform education could lead to a society of "non-thinkers."

Chaos and Confusion

This section, introduced as a new category for items that don't fit neatly into other classifications, features several intriguing reports:

• More on the Devil's Hoofprints: A commercial pilot suggests that the mysterious "devil's hoofprints" reported previously could be the result of radar beams from modern jet aircraft, or potentially laser beams used for surveying, which could deform surfaces. The article speculates that these could even be holographic projections from UFOs.
• A Case in Yorkshire: Another instance of large 'hoofprints' in solid rock is mentioned, linked to local legend.
• Tracks in Ontario: Photographs of seemingly endless series of tracks in Pre-Cambrian granitic rocks in Western Ontario are presented. The author suggests these might be from mechanical surveying apparatus or probes from above, rather than animal life.

Physics: A Mad Electric Sawmill

This section details a baffling case from Moebbet, Denmark, where a sawmill owner, Hans Thustrip Nielsen, was driven to economic ruin by mysterious electrical forces. Thousands of fuses and bulbs were blown, electric motors were damaged, and fires broke out. Experts were unable to explain the phenomenon, with one professor suggesting "supernatural forces or pixies." Theories include abnormally charged air and ground, or the mill's installations acting as an antenna for high-frequency waves. Another theory suggests experimentation with generators, possibly related to Dr. Wilhelm Reich's work or Tesla's principles.

Biology: Strange Encounters

• The Abominable Spinifex Man: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• We're Sorry, but It Was a Shark: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• Tracks on Mt. Etna: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• Malayan Frog Battles: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• A Little Vietnamese Monster: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• A Three-Toed, Bipedal Worm!: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.

Anthropology: Ancient Mysteries

• Were Egyptians First in Australia?: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• Red-Haired People-Eaters: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• "They All Discovered America": This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.
• Enigmas in Lead, by Gaston Burridge: This article is listed but not detailed in the provided text.

Ufology: Current Reports and Mysteries

• Department of Loose Ends: This section likely contains brief updates or unresolved cases.
• Current Pursuits: This section likely details ongoing investigations or recent sightings.
• Sky-Lines: John A. Keel reported a mysterious "wire" hanging down over Caldwell, New Jersey, for a month. Further investigation revealed multiple plastic strands, identified as type 6 nylon or a copolymer, hanging tautly at angles. These lines, some remaining taut for extended periods through severe weather, defied explanation as neither end was ever seen or located. Attempts to trace them by police were unsuccessful, and the Military cited "budgetary considerations" for not conducting a full analysis.
• The Talking Foetus: This report details the extraordinary claim of Tjut Zahara Fonna from Jakarta, Indonesia, who alleged her unborn baby could recite Islamic texts. The story gained international attention, with crowds paying homage. However, a subsequent AP report stated that medical experts examined Mrs. Zahara and found she had been feigning pregnancy. Despite this, the report noted that doctors had previously declared her pregnant, and the debunking itself contained elements that raised further questions, leading the author to suggest ventriloquism as a possible explanation.
• A Tree They Couldn't Cut: In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, an ancient tree at a school playground proved impossible to fell. Workers were stopped, and a bulldozer's engine died when approaching it. Local belief attributes the tree's protection to a deity, Esewary. The article notes the power of suggestion and the possibility of plants exhibiting emotions, referencing Cleve Backster's work.

Other Sections

• Genius Computers: The magazine quotes a UPI release from Life Magazine regarding predictions of machines achieving human-level intelligence within 3 to 15 years. It highlights concerns from scientists like Marvin Minsky about the potential for uncontrolled super-intelligent machines. The article also mentions the Stanford Research Institute's robot 'Shaky' as an example of early AI development.
• Angel Hair Again: A member reports an experience with a substance nicknamed 'angel hair', described as white, downy, fluffy feathers that flattened into a sticky substance upon contact and eventually melted away in the sun. The author notes that while spiderwebs are sticky, they do not melt in the sun.
• Library and Book Reviews: These sections are listed, indicating further content related to the Society's resources and critical assessments of relevant literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, ranging from potential technological anomalies (radar beams, advanced computers) to unexplained natural occurrences (tracks, strange substances, unmovable trees) and even alleged paranormal events (talking foetus). The editorial stance, particularly from Ivan T. Sanderson, emphasizes a critical and analytical approach, advocating for rigorous thinking and classification as essential tools for understanding the unknown. There is a clear skepticism towards uncritical acceptance of explanations, whether from mainstream science or sensationalized reports, and a persistent curiosity about the unexplained aspects of existence.

This issue of FATE Magazine, dated November 1971, presents a collection of articles exploring unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and historical mysteries. The cover story, "The Death-Ray at Last - Or, How to Turn Off Riots in One Easy Lesson," details research into infrasound technology.

The Death-Ray at Last

Frank Dorsey reports on a team of French scientists in Marseilles who discovered that infrasound waves (below 10 Hertz) can cause severe physical discomfort and internal organ damage through resonance. Professor Vladimir Gavreau's team built a giant whistle to study this, experiencing severe sickness themselves. They found that at 7 Hertz, with a powerful whistle, people could be killed en masse up to five miles away. The technology is suggested as a potential tool for controlling riots by causing nausea and disorientation, or for warfare.

The Abominable Spinifex Man

Correspondents from Australia report on two-toed tracks found near Laverton, Western Australia, made by a bipedal creature dubbed the 'Spinifex Man.' These 15-inch prints were unlike anything seen by local dingo hunter Peter Muir in 30 years. While the tracks look odd, the article suggests a simple explanation: ostriches. Ostrich farming existed in Australia, and it's proposed that feral ostriches could have left these tracks, which differ from emu tracks. The article includes a diagram comparing the 'Spinifex Man' track with those of an ostrich and an emu.

We're Sorry, But It Was a Shark

This section addresses a large, 'mangled' corpse washed ashore at Scituate, Massachusetts. Initially speculated to be a sea monster, the New England Aquarium, with input from experts, tentatively identified it as a basking shark. The article explains that shark skeletons, composed of cartilage, can decompose, leaving only the cranium, which might be mistaken for other creatures, especially if the jaws are missing. The corpse was described as a '30-foot sea serpent' with a small head, long neck, and finned body. The cranium was sent to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute for definitive identification.

Tracks on Mt. Etna

This article discusses the phenomenon of 'abominable snowman' tracks, which have been reported globally since the early 20th century. It notes the extensive documentation of such tracks in snow and mud, with various nicknames like Bigfeet and Yetis. However, the article expresses skepticism towards sensationalized reports, particularly those involving tracks in solid rock. A specific incident from Sicily is detailed: villagers near Mt. Etna reported seeing large footprints, described as belonging to an 'abominable snowman' or a cyclops, with prints measuring 13 feet apart and over five feet long in hard lava soil.

Malayan Frog Battles

An AP report from November 1970 describes a large-scale frog battle in Malaysia involving over 3,000 frogs of four varieties. This event, lasting over six hours, was noted as being larger than previous annual occurrences. The article mentions that such frog behavior is not confined to Malaysia and occurs in forested West Africa, suggesting it might be a form of population control. It highlights the unique life history of the frog species *Petropedetes johnsoni*, detailing the dramatic physical changes in males during their mating season, including increased size, enlarged ear-drums, and the development of sharp finger spikes.

A Little Vietnamese Monster

This piece recounts a report from Vietnam about a 'mystery' reptile shot by a U.S. Army depot guard near Long Binh. The creature was described as being between three and four feet long, leaving hand-sized footprints and a four-inch-deep tail trail. Although initially dismissed as 'rear area war stories,' the shooting of a specimen confirmed the reports. The creature, measuring five feet long and weighing over 35 pounds, was identified by some as a mother 'monster' attracted to the bunker by her offspring. The article speculates it might be a giant newt or a descendant of Plesiosaurus, but suggests it closely conforms to the common Monitor Lizard of southern Indochina.

A Three-Toed, Bipedal Worm!

This section presents a photograph of a fossilized three-toed track found on a mountain in northern Berks County, Pennsylvania, by John Mittl. These tracks are identical to those of newly hatched dinosaurs but were found in Silurian rocks, dating to approximately 200 million years before the Triassic period when dinosaurs first appeared. Scientists have offered various explanations, including fossilized bird tracks or Indian carvings, but none fully fit. The most unusual identification comes from Dr. Richmond L. Myers, who proposed the tracks were made by a fossil worm, *Myervermis tridactyla*.

Were Egyptians First in Australia?

This article examines claims by historian Rex Gilroy, director of the self-styled Mount York Natural History Museum, that ancient Egyptians and Arabs visited Australia thousands of years before Captain Cook. Gilroy claims to have found evidence of Egyptian deities and Aboriginal carvings of Arab dhows. However, the Australian Museum, through Acting Director Elizabeth Pope, strongly refutes Gilroy's claims, stating his work is 'bogus' and he is 'possibly slightly deranged.' The museum has notified newspapers to disregard his assertions. The article also touches upon the possibility of Phoenician and Hebrew seafaring capabilities.

Red-Haired People-Eaters

This section discusses the discovery of red-haired mummies and thousands of artefacts in a dry cave near Lovelock, Nevada. Piute Indians claim these were cannibals who preyed on them and were eventually exterminated. The mummies averaged 6½ to 7 feet tall. The cave's occupation is dated between 2000 and 3000 B.C., with recent carbon-14 dating suggesting occupation as late as 1800-1850. The article questions the origin of these redheads, considering Phoenicians rather than Egyptians, and notes the presence of a unique calendar stone with 52 and 365 dots.

They All Discovered America

Professor Cyrus H. Gordon's theory is presented, suggesting that Mediterranean people, including Hebrews, reached North America around 1000 years before Columbus. Evidence cited includes legends and physical appearance of the Melungeon people, and an inscribed stone found in Tennessee in 1885. The inscription, initially misread, is interpreted by Gordon as "For the Land of Judah." This theory challenges the traditional narrative of European discovery and supports earlier Near Eastern exploration of the New World. The article also mentions other findings, such as Phoenician-inscribed petroglyphs and coins found in the Americas.

Enigmas in Lead

This article details the 'Tucson Artefacts,' discovered by Charles E. Manier along the Silverbell Road northwest of Tucson, Arizona, starting in 1924. These artefacts, including lead crosses, spears, and daggers, bear inscriptions that have been deciphered to yield dates between 560 A.D. and 800 A.D. The presence of caliche encrustation suggests they were buried for a long time. While some academics are skeptical, citing potential hoax elements and anachronistic language, the collection's owner, Mr. Thomas Bent, has meticulously documented the finds and sought scientific investigation. The artefacts' age and origin remain a mystery.

UFOLOGY

The magazine addresses its perceived decreased interest in UFO sightings, stating that while they are bored by repetitive 'sightings,' they recognize each case is unique and contributes data for analysis by The Aerial Phenomena Research Organization, Inc. The reasons for their current attitude are twofold: boredom with repetitive reports and the accumulation of data for computerized analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained, the fringe, and the historically debated. There's a clear skepticism towards sensationalism, particularly in the 'Death-Ray' and 'Vietnamese Monster' articles, where scientific explanations are sought or offered. The magazine seems to favor well-documented cases and rigorous investigation, as seen in the Tucson Artefacts and the debunking of the 'sea serpent.' However, it also entertains more speculative theories, such as ancient transoceanic voyages and the possibility of unknown creatures, while maintaining a critical distance. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, tempered with a demand for evidence and a willingness to challenge conventional historical and scientific narratives.

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, dated October 1970, focuses heavily on the introduction and exploration of 'The New Theory' concerning UFOs and other unexplained phenomena. The magazine is published by The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU).

The New Theory: Projections from Other Space-Time Continua

The lead article, 'The New Theory,' posits that UFOs and similar 'items' might be projections from other space-time continua that run parallel to our own. These projections are described as 'holograms in form but material in content,' capable of 'teleportation' or instant transference through solid matter. This theory, while based on established scientific principles like Quantum Physics, is presented as a novel approach to understanding these phenomena. The concept of 'ITF' (instant transference) is central, suggesting that intelligent entities from other continua may be using this technique to influence our environment, and are capable of artificially creating phenomena ranging from UFOs to 'Little Green Men.' The magazine promises a more technical explanation in a future issue, to be written by a nuclear physicist.

Several prominent scientists and independent researchers are cited as independently arriving at similar conclusions, including Drs. Jacques Vallee and Aime Michel, John A. Keel, and Gordon Creighton. The theory is presented as a significant development, potentially offering a sound, logical, and scientifically acceptable explanation for the phenomena that have long been studied.

Department of Loose Ends

This section addresses ongoing investigations and updates on previously reported items. It includes:

• Giant Skeletons on Lundy Island: A report concerning 8-foot human skeletons found on Lundy Island, originating from a National Geographic Society release, is being investigated, though information is scarce.
• 'Noah's Ark(s)': Inquiries to the Turkish government and the Soviet Permanent Mission to the UN regarding alleged 'arks' have gone unanswered.

Current Pursuits

This extensive section details the active research projects undertaken by SITU members. These investigations are numbered chronologically from 1968 and are selected based on proximity of personnel, available time, and the potential for further investigation or acquisition of physical specimens and written reports. The magazine encourages members to participate, emphasizing that scientific training is not a prerequisite for making significant discoveries.

Key 'Current Pursuits' include:

• Stone Spheres, Stone Softening, Ringing Rocks: Laboratories are investigating the composition of these geological formations. Cooperation is being offered for the archaeological aspects of the Upper Black Eddy rock-field, with suggestions of a morticed wall and copper smelting structures.
• Lithic Implement Factory in British Honduras: An ongoing investigation.
• Chain in Rock: Member No. 49 is preparing to investigate this item.
• Paddle-bugs, Mechanical Dowsing, 'Bozo', The 'Iceman', The Oldest & Largest Plant, Gravity II, Ik-Nish: These items are listed, with some indicating no new reports or being in limbo.
• Ancient Electronics: Clarification is provided regarding Mike Freedman's analysis of ancient depictions of static generators, which will form part of a chapter in Ivan T. Sanderson's upcoming book.
• Entombed Toads: Marion Fawcett is facing frustration in finding photographic or concrete evidence, with one reported 'toad-hole' house having burned down before 1860.
• A Poltergeist Manifestation: Listed as a current pursuit.
• South New Jersey Tree Stumps: The search for photographs continues with urgency.
• Big Cats at Large: Dan Manning is mapping incidence reports.
• The Crooked House: An anecdote describes book shelves that inexplicably did not fit after installation, despite being measured and numbered.
• Stuff from the Sky, or 'Fafrotskies': This has become a major 'industry' for the magazine, with a continuous list of references measuring 26 feet.
• The Bossberg Sasquatch: Four members are investigating this case in Bossberg, Washington State, involving alleged sightings of a wounded Sasquatch and plaster casts of tracks.
• Shoe Imprints in Ancient Rocks: Ron Calais has a collection of reports and photographs, requiring further bibliographical research.
• Thunderbirds: This item is described as frustrating, with a persistent search for a photograph of a giant bird, denied by the Tombstone Epitaph newspaper.

Library

The magazine appeals to members for recommendations of up-to-date texts on inorganic chemistry, physics, astronomy, and geology, as the current search for suitable texts has been largely unsuccessful.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed, offering critical perspectives:

• Bionics by Daniel S. Halacy, Jr.: Praised for its fascinating reading on how animals perform tasks and solve problems, with applications to computer design, though the reviewer finds the author too optimistic about computer dangers.
• Space Nomads: Meteorites in Sky, Field, & Laboratory by Lincoln and Jean LaPaz: Described as a straightforward and thorough account of meteorites, valuable for laymen seeking to assist in the science.
• Land to the West by Geoffrey Ashe: Presented as a detective story examining the claims of pre-Columbian discovery of America by St. Brendan of Ireland, highlighting the interplay of tradition and fiction.
• Mysteries Beneath the Sea by William R. Corliss: An excellent, well-researched book discussing theories on Earth's origins, life, Atlantis, and sea monsters, with a fair discussion of Catastrophist vs. Uniformitarian views.
• A Modern Look at Monsters by Daniel Cohen: The reviewer takes a strong critical stance against Cohen, a self-proclaimed skeptic, for his unflattering portrayal of 'monster buffs,' his use of straw-man arguments, and factual errors, such as misidentifying eels' migration patterns.
• Invisible Residents by Ivan T. Sanderson: The reviewer finds Sanderson's work on maritime phenomena and potential intelligent life under the waters to be disjointed and difficult to follow, yet acknowledges its thorough documentation and fascinating, albeit speculative, nature. The reviewer warns against underestimating Sanderson.

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The issue lists the members of the Governing Board and the Scientific Advisory Board of The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, detailing their roles and affiliations across various scientific disciplines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary recurring theme is the exploration of new theoretical frameworks for understanding unexplained phenomena, exemplified by 'The New Theory.' The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded scientific inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation and data collection while also critically evaluating existing theories and publications. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based research and a willingness to challenge conventional explanations, as seen in the critical review of Daniel Cohen's book. The magazine also highlights the importance of amateur contributions to scientific discovery.