Pursuit - No 20 - Vol 05 No 4 - 1972

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: VOL. 5, NO. 4
Date: OCTOBER, 1972
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, published in October 1972, is dedicated to exploring various phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding. It features a wide range of articles covering physics, ufology, chemistry, astronomy, ontology, and anthropology, reflecting the society's mission to investigate the unexplained.

Organization and Participation

The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained is managed by a Board of Trustees and an Executive Board, with legal and financial affairs governed by New Jersey law. Membership runs from January to December, with subscriptions including the quarterly journal PURSUIT. The society also offers access to its library and files for members. It emphasizes that it does not hold corporate views and opinions expressed in its publications are those of the authors alone. The society's mailing list is kept confidential for members and subscribers.

Publications

PURSUIT is a quarterly journal that documents current events and critiques reports. The society also issues an annual report, Occasional Papers, and Special Reports for Fellows. Back issues are available as Xerox copies.

Contents Overview

The issue presents a diverse table of contents, including:

Physics and Ufology * Editorial: A Fifth Force: Ivan T. Sanderson discusses the possibility of a fifth fundamental force, potentially linked to psychic phenomena, which orthodox physics has largely ignored. * Outside Interference with Human Vision: Explores how electromagnetic or sonic interference might affect human vision and mechanical devices, with a contribution from Bob Durant suggesting time anomalies as a cause for UFO-related vehicle behavior. * Chaos and Confusion: Includes a report on an "Ice Bomb" incident in Riverside, California, where a large chunk of ice fell from the sky, and discusses the distinction between 'Collectors' and 'Speculators' in fortean research. * The KLEE-TV Case Again: Revisits the controversial case of alleged persistent broadcast signals from a defunct TV station, detailing the government investigation involving Dr. Frank D. Drake and the British Department of Defence.

Ontology * An Alternative to Time Anomalies: A member proposes a theory of two "intermeshed" universes with distinct electromagnetic natures, where contact is possible at convergence points, potentially explaining phenomena like poltergeists and the Flying Dutchman.

Chemistry * A Natural Nuclear Reaction: Reports on the discovery of evidence for a spontaneous nuclear chain reaction in an African uranium mine millions of years ago, a phenomenon that puzzles scientists due to the required conditions.

Astronomy * The Great Galactic Ghoul: Discusses the "Great Galactic Ghoul," a fictional explanation for the problems encountered by the Mariner 9 space probe, linking it to similar incidents with other Mars-bound satellites.

Other Sections

The issue also includes a "Department of Loose Ends," "Members' Forum," "Book Reviews," and an "Index for 1972."

Key Incidents and Cases

• Ice Bomb Incident: A 30-50 pound ice chunk damaged a building in Riverside, California, in May 1972.
• KLEE-TV Signal Reception: Reports from 1953 of receiving signals from KLEE-TV in England, leading to a government inquiry.
• Mariner 9 Incident: The Mariner 9 probe lost its lock on a navigation star, with explanations ranging from space dust to the "The Great Galactic Ghoul."
• Oklo Mine Discovery: Evidence of a natural nuclear chain reaction in Gabon, dating back billions of years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics that challenge conventional scientific paradigms, including UFOs, unexplained physical phenomena, and potential extraterrestrial intelligence. The editorial stance, particularly in the "A Fifth Force" piece, highlights a frustration with the reluctance of mainstream physics to investigate phenomena that are empirically observable but not easily explained by existing models. There is a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, even when discussing unconventional subjects, encouraging the collection of data and statistical analysis. The publication serves as a platform for members to share theories, research, and observations on a wide array of unexplained events and concepts, advocating for an open-minded yet critical approach to these subjects.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: 81
Volume: VIII
Date: August 1972
Publisher: Pursuit
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated August 1972, delves into a variety of intriguing and often anomalous subjects, spanning geology, biology, anthropology, and cryptozoology. The content is presented in a style that questions conventional scientific explanations and explores unexplained phenomena.

Geology: That "Diamond" Crystal

The issue begins with a self-deprecating correction by the author regarding a casual remark about a large crystal he saw in the Geological Museum in Munich as a child. He clarifies that it was likely columnar basalt, not a diamond. This leads to an explanation from Professor Kennedy of the De Beers Diamond syndicate regarding the nature and origin of diamonds. Kennedy explains that large diamonds do not exist because the process of their emplacement from deep within the Earth is too violent for such brittle materials to survive. He also notes that no diamonds have been found in Europe, with India being the historical source until the 19th century when Brazil and Africa became sources. Kennedy calculates the hypothetical value and volume of a 21-foot crystal, emphasizing its immense scale compared to annual global production.

Biology: A New Mammal Discovered

This section reports on the discovery of a new genus of feline, *Mayailurus iriomotensis*, found on the island of Iriomote, south of Japan. The animal, nicknamed the Iriomote wild cat, is described as being slightly larger than a domestic cat but distinct, with unique markings and only 28 teeth, unlike the 30 typical of most cats. It is suggested to be a primitive species related to the ancestors of leopard cats and domestic cats. The article also mentions local legends of a larger, tiger-like cat called the 'yamamaya' on Iriomote, hinting at the possibility of another undiscovered animal.

Biology: A New Lake Monster

This report details an account from Lexington, Kentucky, about a 'monster' sighted in Herrington Lake. Professor Lawrence S. Thompson described seeing a snout, similar to a pig's, and a curly tail moving in the water. He theorizes it might be a creature that escaped prehistoric ancestors that migrated up the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. The author notes the creature's shyness and the lack of definitive identification.

Biology: The Improperly Classified Marine Animal

A member challenges the magazine's previous analysis of a washed-up marine animal corpse, referring to Dr. Bernard Heuvelmans' work. The author argues that the creature was not a whale, citing its four equal-sized flippers and a skull that doesn't match *Berardius bairdii*. The creature is described as having a long, slender neck and possibly being a long-necked dinosaurian reptile or an unknown mammal adapted to deep-sea darkness.

Biology: Penguins and the Chill Effect

This section discusses the phenomenon of the 'chill factor,' explaining that wind does not actually lower air temperature but subjectively makes it feel colder. The article uses the example of penguins in Antarctic temperatures of -150°F, where wind speed has no effect on the actual temperature but can drastically alter the perceived cold.

Biology: More Drivel About Frozen Mammoths

This part critically examines a statement by Dr. Troy Pewe, Chairman of the Arizona State University Geology Department, who claimed that prehistoric animals like mammoths died natural deaths and were preserved by permafrost. The author refutes Pewe's claims, particularly regarding the dating of the carcasses (arguing they are from the last ice age, not millions of years old) and the presence of buttercups. The author suggests that Pewe's understanding of permafrost formation and the preservation of carcasses is flawed, and that the climate has fluctuated significantly.

Biology: Litter Bugs!

A brief, anecdotal report about a police car discovering a skinned, decapitated body of a 300-pound animal in a Bronx intersection, with no clear identification or crime reported.

Biology: Eels Out of Faucets

This report details incidents in Medford, Massachusetts, where eels, some up to four feet long, were found in the city's water supply system and emerging from faucets. The article suggests that young eels may enter water systems and grow, eventually being flushed through the pipes, with smaller ones potentially reaching faucets.

Biology: That Frog!

An account of a peculiar bullfrog found in a swimming pool in New Jersey after Hurricane Agnes. The frog had two pairs of nostrils, no eyes, large ear-drums, and a warty skin. Despite being a bullfrog, it exhibited characteristics of the River Frog and was sensitive to light but disliked water. The frog died shortly after capture and was preserved for autopsy.

Biology: The Paraguayan Monster

This section discusses a report about a creature called the 'Mboi-yagua' from Paraguay, described as a serpent with a dog-like head and bark, and large hooks on its tail. A live specimen was reportedly captured and housed in a local zoo. The article expresses skepticism about the report, questioning the handling of the creature and suggesting it might be a hoax or a misidentified species, possibly a large snake related to the anaconda.

Anthropology: What the Human Being of the Future Will Look Like

This article, reprinted from the National ENQUIRER, presents predictions from scientists about the future evolution of humans. Future humans are expected to have huge heads, tiny legs, feelers, no teeth, and bodies covered in hair. These changes are attributed to environmental factors like a colder earth and lifestyle changes such as increased television watching. The article also notes that the earth is predicted to be getting colder.

Anthropology: The Little Wooden Airplane

This section discusses the discovery of a scale model of an advanced cargo-carrying pusher plane or powered glider in an ancient Egyptian tomb at Saqqara, dated to 200 B.C. The model, rediscovered by Dr. Khalil Messiha, exhibits proportions similar to modern pusher-gliders, particularly the 'reverse-dihedral wing' design. The article questions how such a sophisticated model could have been created so long ago, suggesting it might be a remnant of a prior advanced civilization.

Anthropology: Giant 'Abo' of 6000 Years Ago

A report on the discovery of the skeleton of an aborigine in Australia, dated to approximately 6,280 years ago. The individual was significantly taller than modern aborigines and wore a necklace of 180 pierced Tasmanian devil teeth. The article notes that older human remains have been found in Australia, suggesting a longer human presence than previously thought.

Anthropology: Skullduggery, Scientific Style

This piece investigates the discovery of two human skulls in Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe area, which had low foreheads and pronounced brows, leading to speculation they might be Neanderthal-like. The article criticizes the handling of the skulls by archaeologists and the Smithsonian Institution, suggesting that the bones may have been deliberately downplayed or 'buried' due to their potential significance, particularly the reluctance to perform a Carbon-14 dating test.

Anthropology: The Mystery Pits of Olduvai

This section briefly mentions the discovery by Dr. Mary D. Leakey of strange basin-like pits in Olduvai Gorge, dated to half a million years ago. The pits, possibly used for water storage or by children playing, showed clear finger marks and a child's footprint. The article also notes the recent death of Dr. Louis Leakey, a pioneering paleontologist who championed the theory of human origins in Africa.

Anthropology: The Mysterious Walls of the Berkeley and Oakland Hills

This article describes ancient stone walls found in the Berkeley hills, speculating on their purpose, builders, and age. The walls, varying in length and height, are found in wooded and grassland areas and do not appear to serve typical functions like fortifications. Their construction and location raise questions about their origin and purpose.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine include the exploration of unexplained phenomena, skepticism towards conventional scientific explanations, and the presentation of anecdotal evidence that challenges established scientific paradigms. The editorial stance is critical of mainstream science, often suggesting that important discoveries or anomalies are overlooked, dismissed, or deliberately suppressed. The magazine encourages readers to question accepted narratives and consider alternative interpretations of evidence, particularly in fields like cryptozoology, archaeology, and paleontology.

Title: Pursuit
Issue Date: October 1972
Publisher: Pursuit
Country of Publication: USA
Language: English

Mysterious Stone Walls of California

The issue features an in-depth exploration of mysterious stone walls found in the Berkeley and Oakland hills of California. Seth Simpson, a researcher who has studied these walls for years, along with his son Martin, suggests that some stones were chipped and fitted, with one stone even found to be bored through. Simpson's investigations indicate the walls extend for nearly 7 miles but have no discernible relationship to boundary lines. He rules out their use as animal enclosures, noting their straight construction and occasional parallel formations. Similar walls were found in the hills behind Milpitas, but the terrain there offers no clear reason for their construction, unlike the "storage" of stones removed from fields by New England farmers. The origin and purpose of these walls remain a puzzle, with local ranchers having no knowledge of their construction, attributing them to "Mexicans, or Chinese, or some others" from before their time.

Harold French, writing in the Oakland Tribune in 1916, also reported on these ancient rock walls, noting that they appeared as ancient then as they do now. He mentioned Captain Albert S. Bierce's discovery of a distinct old wall hidden in a thicket. French estimated the combined length of walls in the Berkeley and Oakland hills to be two miles, with some boulders weighing nearly a ton. He found no indication they were built by pioneers or later peoples, but noted a tradition among local tribesmen of "the hill people" with whom they warred, suggesting a possible link to Atlanteans. An unidentified clipping found by Harold C. Holmes also described walls near Grizzly Peak, suggesting they were part of a city inhabited by a long-forgotten race who understood stone cutting.

Other Forteana and Incidents

The issue also touches upon other fortean topics. A "Sky Anchor" incident from June 1945 in Oakland, California, is mentioned, where a 750-foot steel cable was found draped across rooftops without explanation. The magazine also includes a section on "Department of Loose Ends," addressing reader correspondence regarding articles on Thunderbirds and a "What's-It" from South Dakota, clarifying a geographical error.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to book reviews, offering guidance to readers interested in fortean literature. Several books are recommended, including:

• Edward de Bono's "The Use of Lateral Thinking": Praised for its practical approach to generating new ideas and overcoming the limitations of vertical thinking.
• Jim McClarin's "Manimals Newsletter": Recommended for those interested in reports on Bigfoot, Sasquatch, and Yeti.
• Gerald L. Wood's "The Guinness Book of Animal Facts and Feats": Noted for its extensive animal facts, including some "profoundly fortean tidbits."
• Bruce S. Wright's "The Eastern Panther": An updated edition discussing the survival of the Eastern Puma.
• Arthur Koestler's "The Roots of Coincidence": Reviewed with reservations, finding parts interesting but the overall exposition difficult to follow.
• Peter E. Viemeister's "The Lightning Book": Described as a splendid book for understanding lightning and protection measures.

Additionally, the magazine provides a list of books to "approach with caution" and those that are "absolutely forbidden" for readers interested in forteana, warning against unsubstantiated claims and lack of documentation.

Membership and Subscription Information

Members are reminded of their 1973 dues and informed about potential delays in postal service affecting the delivery of Pursuit. Arrangements for visits to the magazine's offices require at least two weeks' advance notice.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and fringe science topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, encouraging readers to investigate and question, while also providing guidance on discerning credible sources from unreliable ones. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of research, documentation, and open-mindedness, as exemplified by the detailed reviews and the discussion of lateral thinking as a tool for discovery.

This document is a directory for THE SOCIETY FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE UNEXPLAINED. It outlines the key personnel and organizational structure of the society, including its Governing Board, Executive Board, and Scientific Advisory Board. The publication date and issue details are not explicitly stated, but it appears to be a listing of members and their affiliations.

Governing Board

The Governing Board consists of individuals with specific roles and terms of service. The President is elected for 5 years, while the First and Second Vice-Presidents and the Secretary hold their positions for life. The Treasurer and Board Members are elected annually. Key members listed include Hans Stefan Santesson (President), Ivan T. Sanderson (First Vice-President), Edgar O. Schoenenberger (Second Vice-President), Sabina W. Sanderson (Secretary), Allen V. Noe (Treasurer), Adolph L. Heuer, Jr., Daniel F. Manning, Robert C. Warth, and Mark A. Hall (Board Members).

Legal and Administrative

The society's legal counsel is Judge John C. Stritehoff, Jr., and its Accountant & Auditor is Thelma K. Yohe. These roles are associated with the laws of the State of New Jersey.

Executive Board

The Executive Board is led by Ivan T. Sanderson as Director. Other key positions include Executive Secretary (Mark A. Hall and Marion L. Fawcett), Technical Director (Robert C. Warth), Mass Media (Walter J. McGraw), Promotion and Publicity (Daniel F. Manning), and Productions (Michael A. Jarmus).

Editorial Board

The Editorial Board is headed by Hans Stefan Santesson as Editor and Publisher. Other members include Ivan T. Sanderson (Managing Editor), Marion L. Fawcett (Executive Editor), Walter J. McGraw (Consulting Editor), and Daniel F. Manning (Assistant Editor).

Scientific Advisory Board

This extensive board comprises a diverse group of academics and researchers from various institutions worldwide. The Chairman is Dr. George A. Agogino, Director of the Paleo-Indian Institute at Eastern New Mexico University, specializing in Archaeology. The board members and their fields of expertise include:

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

Printing Information

The document also includes contact information for Hicks Printing Company, located at 37 Belvidere Avenue, Washington, New Jersey, with a telephone number of 201-689-0194.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This document primarily serves as a directory and organizational chart for a society dedicated to investigating unexplained phenomena. The extensive Scientific Advisory Board, composed of experts from diverse scientific disciplines, suggests a commitment to rigorous, multi-disciplinary research. The inclusion of individuals with lifelong appointments in key positions (Vice-Presidents, Secretary) indicates a stable, long-term organizational structure. The society appears to be based in New Jersey, as indicated by its legal counsel and auditor being subject to its laws.