Pursuit - No 16 - Vol 04 No 4 - 1971

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 4, No. 4
Date: October, 1971
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT, the journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, presents a diverse collection of articles exploring various unexplained phenomena, from physical manifestations to theoretical concepts.

Organization and Participation

The journal begins by detailing the organizational structure of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, including its Board of Trustees, Governing Board, and Executive Board. It outlines the membership structure, with annual subscriptions set at $10, which includes the journal and access to the Society's library and files. Non-members are not offered services, and the Society explicitly states that it does not hold or express corporate views, with opinions belonging solely to the authors.

Publications

Information is provided on the Society's publications, including the quarterly journal PURSUIT, annual reports, Occasional Papers, and Special Reports. It notes that from July 1965 to March 1968, a newsletter was issued, followed by the regular quarterly publication of PURSUIT starting with Vol. 2, No. 1.

Contents Overview

The table of contents reveals a wide array of topics covered in this issue:

• The Taxonomy of Knowledge: A conceptual framework for organizing knowledge.
• Editorial: Discusses the 'generation gap' and the perception of 'science'.
• Chaos and Confusion: Includes articles on the 'Farnborough Tracks,' unexplained 'Bells,' and 'Poltergeists.'
• Ontology: Features an article on 'Time Anomalies.'
• Chemistry: A piece on a 'Non-Rusting Pillar in India.'
• Astronomy: Explores the hypothetical planet 'Vulcan.'
• Geology: Questions 'How Big Can a Crystal Be?'
• Biology: Covers 'Arkansas Has a Problem,' 'Jack Ullrich's Loch Ness Photograph,' and a 'Sea-Monster off New Zealand.'
• Department of Loose Ends: Includes 'Current Pursuits,' 'A Letter from our Director,' 'Comment by our President,' 'Book Reviews,' and an 'Index 1970-1971.'

Key Articles and Investigations

The Farnborough Tracks Again

An investigation into mysterious tracks found in England, initially suspected to be from a bear. However, the article notes the unusual circumstances and suggests the possibility of 'ITF' (Charlie Fort's 'teleportation') by an unidentified animal.

On Bells

Two unexplained bell phenomena are reported: one in Stone, England, where a bell rings twice daily in a home with no discernible source, and another in Norris, Tennessee, where bells are heard on windy days, seemingly from within closed cars, described as sounding like a flute.

On Hunting Poltergeists

Authored by Walter J. McGraw, this article discusses poltergeist phenomena (PGMs) and presents two cases reported by Alma Sanderson and Marion Fawcett. One involved a smashed glass jar attributed to a mouse, and another a tremendous crash heard from upstairs with no apparent cause. A third case details a 'pinging' sound from a lamp chain, initially suspected as a PGM but later found to be a mechanical defect. The article also recounts a more significant PGM experienced by Miss Fawcett, involving a heavy box that mysteriously moved, causing her to fall. The author encourages members to report any suspected PGMs, acknowledging the difficulty in distinguishing hoaxes from genuine events.

Department of Utter Confusion

This section highlights a case where a newsagent distributed a confusing form letter regarding billing, prompting a humorous addendum about not discussing it in front of children.

ON TIME ANOMALIES by R. J. Durant

This extensive article explores mysterious disappearances and spatial dislocations, referencing incidents like the Bermuda Triangle. The author, a professional pilot, discusses cases where aircraft experienced inexplicable deviations in flight duration, flying 'too fast' or 'too slow.' He details a specific incident involving a Boeing 727 en route from Detroit to Milwaukee on November 16, 1968. The aircraft experienced a sudden, uncontrolled climb and dive, despite the pilot's corrective actions and favorable meteorological conditions. The official explanation involved a theoretical 'gigantic wave of air.' The article posits that 'Time Anomalies,' or variations in the flow of time, could explain such incidents, linking them to the concept of 'Vile Vortices' previously discussed in PURSUIT. The author suggests that phenomena like UFOs and even the workings of the mind might be analyzed as problems in time flow.

A Goof by Frank Edwards

A subscriber writes to correct an account in Frank Edwards' book 'Strangest of All,' stating that a UFO sighting was not a near-miss as described, but rather a harmless hovering object observed by passengers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PURSUIT consistently explores the unexplained, from tangible events like mysterious tracks and sounds to theoretical concepts like time anomalies and poltergeists. The editorial, by Marion L. Fawcett, reflects on the 'generation gap' and the public's perception of science, advocating for a broader understanding that includes the 'ancient ones' and their wisdom. The overall stance of the journal and the Society appears to be one of open-minded investigation into phenomena that are 'customarily discounted,' encouraging member participation and reporting of unusual occurrences. The emphasis is on scientific inquiry, even when dealing with subjects outside conventional understanding.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Vol. 16 No. 5, October 1971
Publisher: Pursuit
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Pursuit magazine delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, ranging from aviation anomalies and geological wonders to cryptozoological reports and astronomical speculation.

Aviation Anomalies

The issue begins with an analysis of an aircraft record that shows unusual 'G' level tracings. The record indicates a smooth 'G' level during a normal climb, but a sudden drop during an unaccounted-for rise of the aircraft, followed by another sudden drop as the craft starts its dive. The 'G' level during the dive is noted as relatively smooth, but the stresses are considered extreme for commercial airliners. The article mentions Mr. Durant, who expressed surprise that the aircraft did not disintegrate during the dive, and suggests that more people should investigate this phenomenon.

The Rustless Pillar of India

This section explores the mystery of a 1600-year-old rustless iron pillar in Delhi, India. The pillar, originally erected at Bihar and moved to Delhi around 1052, has puzzled observers for centuries. A plausible explanation is offered, citing an article in The New Scientist and Science Journal, which paraphrases a report by G. Wranlen of the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. Wranlen attributes the pillar's rustless condition to the 'clean and dry air' in Delhi. Samples taken to more humid climates did rust, and the portion below ground is corroded. The composition of the iron, high in phosphorus and low in sulphur, is said to encourage a protective oxide layer. Furthermore, the pillar's weight of six tons and accumulated heat during the day promote rapid drying of any moisture. The article also notes the cultural significance of the pillar, with people standing with their backs to it and clasping hands behind it for good luck, which has polished the metal and formed a rust-resisting layer of fat from human contact.

Astronomy: The Planet "Vulcan"

The search for the hypothetical planet Vulcan is revisited. In 1859, French astronomer Leverrier predicted the existence of a planet between the Sun and Mercury, which he named Vulcan. This theory led to a significant debate, detailed in Charles Fort's 'Book of the Damned'. More recently, in June 1971, Dr. Henry C. Courten of Dowling College announced the discovery of something orbiting closer to the sun than Mercury. This evidence comes from mysterious tracks on photographic plates taken during the solar eclipses of 1966 and 1970. These tracks do not resemble comets, leading Courten to postulate an asteroid or planetoid about 500 miles in diameter. While Einstein's theory of relativity explained an irregularity in Mercury's orbit, Courten points out that a 500-mile body would not significantly affect Mercury's orbit. The object is estimated to be 9 million miles from the sun, compared to Mercury's 36 million miles. Courten hopes other astronomers will search for this object during the 1972 and 1973 eclipses.

Geology: How Big Can A Crystal Be?

This section discusses the remarkable geological find on Tabor Island, Labrador. Dr. W. A. Paddon of the Northern Medical Services of the International Grenfell Association reports that the entire island, about a mile long, appears to be one huge piece of Labradorite. Labradorite is a semi-precious gem-stone known for its exquisite color-changing properties, often exhibiting blues and greens. The article provides technical details about Labradorite from a petrological, mineralogical, and crystallographic perspective, including its classification within the Albite-Anorthite Series and the phenomenon of laminar twinning. The gemological properties are described by Emanuel M. Staub, noting its vitreous luster, hardness, specific gravity, and optical characteristics. The potential for this island-sized crystal is presented as an incredible geological phenomenon. The article also mentions the existence of enormous tourmaline crystals (over 45 feet long) and a large diamond chip (21 feet long).

Biology: Arkansas Has A Problem

This extensive section focuses on the cryptozoological reports from Arkansas, primarily concerning the 'Fouke Monster' and the 'White River Monster'. The article details numerous witness accounts and alleged sightings. Reports of 'wild men' date back to 1834, with descriptions of tall, bipedal, hairy figures. A particularly vivid account from 1856 describes a 'wild man' attacking a man, tearing off his horse's saddle and bridle, and then fleeing. The 'Fouke Monster' is described by Bobby Ford as a large, hairy creature with red eyes and claws that appeared at his window. Tracks found near Fouke, measuring 13-1/2 inches long with three toes, have been a subject of debate, with some dismissing them as a hoax due to the primate's five-toed nature. Other reports include sightings of a 'large hairy creature' crossing a highway, described as 'stooped with long, dark hair and running upright'.

Further accounts detail sightings of a creature in the White River, described as boxcar-sized, smooth, gray, and very long, or a long spiney-backed creature. One witness described a huge creature with a pointed bone protruding from its forehead, resembling an 'animal' rather than a fish. The possibility of these creatures being large penguins, alligators, or unknown reptiles is explored. The article also touches upon the 'Skunk Ape' in the Everglades and the general phenomenon of ABSMs (Abominable Snowman-like creatures).

Ivan T. Sanderson provides a commentary, expressing weariness with conventional monster tales but acknowledging the increasing volume of reports. He notes the prevalence of 'giant, hairy, stinking hominid-like creatures' and 'River Monsters' that leave three-toed footprints. He mentions a recent report from the Arkansas Gazette about the 'Fouke Monster' and 'White River Monster' potentially receiving funding from the Smithsonian Institution. Sanderson discusses the attached photograph and drawings, suggesting the creature's head could resemble a mammal (dog or pig) or a large penguin, noting the three-toed tracks found in Arkansas and Florida, and comparing them to a fossil penguin discovered in New Zealand.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained and the anomalous. The magazine presents scientific investigations into seemingly inexplicable phenomena, such as the Delhi pillar and the potential planet Vulcan, alongside detailed accounts of cryptozoological encounters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging further investigation and discussion of these mysteries, while also critically evaluating the evidence presented. The magazine aims to inform its readers about a wide range of unusual occurrences, from the geological to the biological and astronomical, suggesting that the world holds many secrets yet to be fully understood.

This issue of PURSUIT, identified as IV:95 and dated July 1971, is published by SITU and priced at $2.95. The cover headline is 'Arkansas Has a Problem (with Monsters)'. The magazine focuses on various unexplained phenomena, including potential cryptid sightings and archaeological mysteries.

Article: Arkansas Has a Problem (with Monsters)

This section discusses a photograph allegedly taken in Arkansas showing a large, unknown creature. The article explores several possibilities for what the image might depict, including a large pig, dog, or even an enormous Monitor Lizard or Iguana. It also considers the possibility of an animal caught in a fishing net with floats. The author notes the creature's prints are 'three-toed' and compares them to those of a penguin-type bird. The piece suggests that such creatures could have traveled far up rivers like the Mississippi.

Article: Jack Ullrich's Loch Ness Photograph

Lionel Beer, publisher of Spacelink, provides commentary on Jack Ullrich's photograph of a supposed monster in Loch Ness. Beer suggests that monster sightings in Urquhart Bay are suspect due to boat traffic on the Caledonian Canal, which can create large waves that might be mistaken for a creature. He notes that the boat may be out of sight by the time its wake reaches the bay. While Ullrich remains convinced it was a genuine wake, Beer concludes that the evidence is insufficient for a definitive explanation, rendering the verdict 'not proven'. An addendum states that Ullrich later confirmed no boat had passed the point within an hour.

Article: A Sea-Monster Off New Zealand

A clipping from the Mainichi Daily News reports a sighting of a 'bug-eyed monster' (BEM) by the crew of the Japanese fishing vessel Kompira Maru off the South Island of New Zealand. The creature's head was estimated to be about 1.5 meters above the sea, with eyes about 15 cm in diameter. It was named 'Kabagon' and resembled a hippopotamus, though noted that hippos live in freshwater. The sighting occurred at 44.15 degrees south latitude and 173.34 east longitude. The article also mentions reports of strange footprints found on Lyttelton Peninsula.

Department of Loose Ends

This section addresses several miscellaneous items:

• Correction: Dr. Roger Wescott points out an error in the April issue regarding the bishop debated by Thomas Huxley (Wilberforce, not Ussher).
• Puma Protection: The Virginia Commission of Game and Inland Fisheries has declared the Puma (Mountain Lion) protected due to approximately 25 sightings in the 'Peaks of Otter' area. The article notes that pumas are also being reported in England.
• Precious Black Opals: A member notes that precious black opals primarily come from Australia, though some have been mined in Virgin Valley, Nevada.
• Egyptian Occupation of Australia: A query is raised about an article concerning the claim that Egyptians were the first in Australia, with a note that Mr. Rex Gilroy, who claimed to have discovered evidence, has not replied.
• Contactee Seeds: A member suggests that the plant Bur-Marigold, particularly a Mexican Hybrid called tagetes, might prolong life due to a sulphur compound that prevents rust diseases in plants. The article notes that it takes about 10 years for the plant to mature.

Current Pursuits

This section clarifies the magazine's method of listing ongoing research topics, acknowledging a member's point that the current method may be confusing.

• Time Anomalies and Vile Vortices: Refers to an article by R. J. Durant.
• Ringing Rocks: Professor George C. Kennedy is analyzing material on ringing rocks. Richard W. Palladino will study the effect of sunlight on the rocks, noting that the ringing properties seem to vary seasonally.
• Entombed Toads, Other Amphibians, and Some Reptiles: Marion Fawcett is researching reports of animals found entombed in corner stones and solid rock. Specific cases are mentioned from Tinker AFB, Eastland (Texas), and Heppner (Oregon).
• Ik Nish: The magazine is attempting to grow the Ik Nish plant, which is said to produce edible shoots in 30-50 years.
• Mechanical Dowsing: The article calls for attempts to duplicate mechanical dowsing experiments.
• The Thunderbird Photograph: The search continues for a photograph of a giant bird, possibly a Condor, described as part of Amerindian tradition.

A Letter from Our Director

Ivan T. Sanderson writes to Hans Stefan Santesson, President of SITU. Sanderson explains his reduced contribution due to his wife's hospitalization and his own need for three major operations. He expresses confidence in the organization's ability to continue without his full involvement and notes his intention to gradually disassociate himself from certain aspects of SITU's work. He praises Marion Fawcett's editorial work on the last four issues of PURSUIT, stating that the department is not amateurish.

Comment by Our President

The President comments on Sanderson's letter, noting SITU's efficient 'grape-vine' and expressing hope for the continued involvement of the Sandersons. He emphasizes that SITU can stand on its own feet and has a strong Scientific Advisory Board.

Book Reviews

• Return to the Stars by Erich von Daniken: Reviewed by Member #33, who finds it difficult to review due to the amount of 'nonsense'. The review notes von Daniken's conviction for fraud and plagiarism but praises his later speculations.
• Investigating the Unexplained by Ivan T. Sanderson: This review describes the book as the best Sanderson has written in its genre, fully illustrated and enjoyable.
• Ponape: Where American Colonialism Confronts Black Magic, Five Kingdoms and the Mysterious Ruins of Nan-Madol edited by Sibley S. Morrill: The review praises the book's comprehensive nature but criticizes the lack of maps and illustrations, making it difficult to understand geographical references.

Index: 1970-1971

A comprehensive index of articles published in Volumes 3 and 4 of PURSUIT during 1970 and 1971 is provided, categorized by subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly cryptids and potential sea monsters, as well as archaeological mysteries and the nature of evidence. The editorial stance, as expressed by Ivan T. Sanderson, is to 'explain' tangible mysteries and to avoid simply adding to myths. There is a strong emphasis on research, documentation, and the scientific investigation of Fortean phenomena, while also acknowledging the limitations of current knowledge and the need for unbiased consideration of evidence. The magazine also highlights the contributions of its members and staff, emphasizing the professional nature of its publishing department.

This document is a listing of the organizational structure of The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. It details the members of its Governing Board, Executive Board, and Scientific Advisory Board. The publication appears to be a formal listing of personnel rather than a typical magazine issue with articles.

Governing Board

The Governing Board includes elected positions such as President (elected for 5 years), First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, and Treasurer. It also lists Secretary and Board Members, most of whom are elected for 1-year terms. The listed members are Hans Stefan Santesson, Edgar O. Schoenenberger, Ivan T. Sanderson, Allen V. Noe, Marion L. Fawcett, Walter J. McGraw, Thelma K. Yohe, Daniel F. Manning, and Adolph L. Heuer, Jr. The document notes that the Trustees are in accordance with the laws of the State of New Jersey.

Executive Board

The Executive Board comprises the Director, Deputy Director, Executive Secretary, Assistant Director for Communications Media, and Assistant Director for Science & Technology. The individuals holding these positions are Ivan T. Sanderson (Director), Edgar O. Schoenenberger (Deputy Director), Marion L. Fawcett (Executive Secretary), Walter J. McGraw (Assistant Director for Communications Media), and Allen V. Noe (Assistant Director for Science & Technology).

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board is extensive, featuring prominent individuals from various academic and research institutions. The Chairman is Dr. George A. Agogino, who is also the Chairman of the Department of Anthropology and Director of the Paleo-Indian Institute at Eastern New Mexico University. Other members and their affiliations and fields include:

• Dr. N. Burtshak-Abramovitch: Academician, Georgian Academy of Science, Palaeobiological Institute, University of Tblisi (Palaeontology).
• Dr. Carl H. Delacato: Associate Director, Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, Philadelphia (Mentalogy).
• Dr. W. C. Osman Hill: (Comparative Anatomy), associated with Dublin and London.
• Dr. J. Allen Hynek: Director, Lindheimer Astronomical Research Center, Northwestern University (Astronomy).
• Dr. George C. Kennedy: Professor of Geology, Institute of Geophysics, U.C.L.A. (Geomorphology and Geophysics).
• Dr. Martin Kruskal: Program in Applied Mathematics, Princeton University (Mathematics).
• Dr. Samuel B. McDowell: Professor of Biology, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey (General Biology).
• Dr. Vladimir Markotic: Professor of Anthropology, Department of Archaeology, University of Alberta, Canada (Ethnosociology and Ethnology).
• Dr. Kirtley F. Mather: Professor of Geology, Emeritus, Harvard University (Geology).
• Dr. John R. Napier: Unit of Primate Biology, Queen Elizabeth College, University of London (Physical Anthropology).
• Dr. W. Ted Roth: President, Roth Research-Animal Care, Inc., Washington, D. C. (Ethology).
• Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Head, Plant Science Department, College of Agriculture, Utah State University (Phytochemistry).
• Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz: Consultant (Brain-Wave Laboratory), Essex County Medical Center, Cedar Grove, New Jersey (Mental Sciences).
• Dr. Roger W. Wescott: Professor and Chairman, Department of Anthropology, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey (Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics).
• Dr. A. Joseph Wraight: Chief Geographer, U. S. Coast & Geodetic Survey (Geography and Oceanography).
• Dr. Robert K. Zuck: Professor and Chairman, Department of Botany, Drew University, Madison, New Jersey (Botany).

Publisher Information

The back page provides contact information for Hicks Printing Company, located at 13 W. Church St., Washington, N. J. 07882, with a telephone number of 201-689-0194.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This document primarily serves as an organizational directory. Its focus is on establishing the leadership and expert contributors to The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. The extensive Scientific Advisory Board suggests a multidisciplinary approach to unexplained phenomena, drawing expertise from a wide range of scientific fields. The editorial stance, as inferred from the structure, is one of formal organization and scientific inquiry.