Pursuit - No 23 - Vol 06 No 3 - 1973

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 6, No. 3
Date: July, 1973
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, delves into various mysterious phenomena, from alleged extraterrestrial encounters to perplexing natural events. The magazine's editorial stance emphasizes a holistic approach to investigation, encouraging the synthesis of information from disparate fields to uncover potential explanations for the unexplained.

Editorial: Our Greatest Crisis?

Sabina W. Sanderson opens the issue with an editorial reflecting on Robert A. Heinlein's 1952 article "Where To?" and its 1966 update "Pandora's Box." Heinlein identified a "crisis in the organization and accessibility of human knowledge," advocating for "synthesists" who could connect interdisciplinary information, rather than narrow specialists. Sanderson applies this concept to the work of SITU, suggesting that the organization's strength lies in its ability to examine various aspects of the unexplained, such as UFOs and ghosts, without specializing, thereby potentially finding connections that lead to answers. She acknowledges the organization's youth, limited funding, and staff, but appeals for patience and support from members, encouraging them to submit any relevant clippings or information, emphasizing that even seemingly minor details can be crucial.

Ufology

The Mystery Airship

This section revisits the persistent story of an alleged spaceship crash in Aurora, Texas, in 1897. The article notes renewed interest in the incident, with UFO investigators visiting the site. While local accounts are divided on its veracity, analysis of recovered metal fragments has yielded puzzling results. Dr. Tom Gray of North Texas State University found a piece of metal composed of iron and zinc that is not magnetic, despite not being stainless steel. Another piece, described as an aluminum alloy, is reportedly of a type not thought to have been manufacturable on Earth before 1910-1920. Jim Lorenzen of APRO is quoted, stating that an investigation in 1967 found only ordinary metal objects at the site, suggesting that publicity-seeking individuals may have planted newer items. However, the unusual iron-zinc piece remains unexplained.

The Bermuda Triangle, Again

Robert J. Durant examines the enduring mystery of the Bermuda Triangle. He notes that while many ships and aircraft have disappeared in this region, the area also experiences high traffic. Statistical data on disappearances is not readily available, but a subjective impression suggests the Triangle has a disproportionate share. Unlike disappearances in other shipping lanes, which are often linked to severe weather, many Triangle incidents occur in good conditions. The article highlights the difficulty in investigating these cases due to the lack of survivors or wreckage. A pilot's firsthand account is presented, detailing a flight from San Juan to New York where the aircraft experienced severe static electricity on the windshield and instrument malfunctions, including conflicting readings from gyros and the compass. The autopilot, designed to fly straight and level, was observed to be turning the aircraft. The crew managed to land safely in Bermuda, but mechanics could not find a cause. The airline's technical center initially dismissed the report, but eventually, the aircraft's electrical system and instruments were found to show signs of a strong electrical shock, possibly from a lightning strike, leading to their replacement. The pilots, however, do not accept the lightning theory.

Chaos & Confusion

Why Did the Foxes Sing?

This piece, by John Stuart Martin, recounts a boyhood experience of the author in Schoharie County, New York. While following the tracks of a particularly cunning fox named 'Old Joe', the author heard unusual singing sounds emanating from a ridge. Investigating, he found Old Joe dead in his burrow, with evidence of many other foxes having been present. The author wonders why the other foxes gathered and sang, and who they were singing to, suggesting a possible unexplained event or communication among the animals.

That Disappearing Eskimo 'Village'

This section investigates the well-known story of an Eskimo village on Lake Anjikuni in Canada's Northwest Territories, found deserted by a trapper named Joe Labelle in 1930. The account claims all inhabitants, along with their possessions, were gone, and seven dogs were found starved to death. A grave had been opened and resealed. However, research by Ronald G. Dobbins, who has been tracking such tales, indicates that the Royal Northwest Mounted Police (RCMP) have no tangible evidence to support the story. Discrepancies in later claims, such as finding rifles far from the alleged village, further cast doubt on the narrative's factual basis. The article concludes that while some may prefer mysteries to remain unsolved, the pursuit of truth is paramount.

Chipmunks and 'ITF'

Sabina W. Sanderson reports on an incident where her dog Marzi caught a chipmunk, but as the chipmunk was being retrieved, it vanished from Marzi's mouth. The chipmunk, which had been partially bitten and lost about half an inch of its tail, reappeared on the bird feeder the following day. The author speculates that this may be a case of "ITF" or "instant-transference," a phenomenon previously reported with other small animals. The chipmunk was described as appearing "hazy" or "blurred" just before vanishing.

"Chopped Off" Corn

This brief report, sourced from the Des Moines Register, describes a farmer, Duane Woodruff, discovering two rows of corn mysteriously "chopped off" on his farm in Warren County, Iowa. There were no tracks to indicate human or animal activity. The stalks were cut cleanly, and the severed rows continued down into a waterway before disappearing. Agronomists consulted were unfamiliar with such an occurrence. The incident remains unexplained.

Entombed Toads

Sabina W. Sanderson discusses the phenomenon of animals, particularly amphibians, being found alive after being seemingly incarcerated in solid rock, tree trunks, or concrete for extended periods. She notes that "orthodox science" often dismisses such accounts as impossible, quoting Professor Richet's assertion that he merely stated it was a fact, not that it was possible. The article categorizes these occurrences into six types, ranging from hibernation in dried-out mud to being "entombed" under experimental conditions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PURSUIT revolve around unexplained phenomena, mysteries, and the challenges of investigating them. The editorial stance, as articulated by Sabina W. Sanderson and supported by the inclusion of articles on diverse topics like UFOs, mysterious disappearances, and anomalous animal behavior, is one of open-minded inquiry. The magazine champions the idea that a broad, interdisciplinary approach, akin to that of a "synthesist," is crucial for understanding the unexplained, rather than relying solely on specialized knowledge. There is a clear emphasis on seeking factual evidence and truth, even when findings may be disappointing or challenge conventional scientific views. The publication actively solicits contributions and information from its readership, underscoring its collaborative nature in the pursuit of the unknown.

This issue of PURSUIT, dated April 1972, features a cover story titled "Animals entombed alive: the facts and the fantasy," alongside articles on "Worm-holes in Space," "Giant Skeletons," and "Luminous People and Others."

Animals Entombed Alive: The Facts and the Fantasy

The issue delves into several categories of animals found entombed and later discovered alive. The first category discusses questionable cases, such as a Russian claim of a 5000-year-old lizard-like triton resurrected from ice, later admitted to be "pure fantasy," though a similar story from Izvestia in 1973 about a Siberian uglozub found in ice was announced as 100 years old by radiocarbon tests, but remains "unconfirmed." Another unconfirmed case involves a frog found frozen in a Yosemite glacier, supposedly 12 centuries old, attributed to a Dr. D. L. Albasio, who could not be found.

The third category, animals inadvertently entombed and later found alive, presents better-documented cases. One notable account, translated from a letter by I. Hattingh, Director of the College of Agriculture and Research Institute in Potchefstroom, South Africa, details a frog found alive in a cavity in a cement floor laid in late 1945. The frog was apparently caught when the floor was finished and remained imprisoned until the storeroom was demolished in late 1949 or early 1950. The frog, about 1/4 inch long, was found in a sealed cavity approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. It was found snow-white and, after being handed to Prof. G. T. Eiselen, refused to eat and died the following day. Post-mortem examination revealed smaller stomach sections than normal, suggesting it had been without food, light, and air for approximately five years.

Another "spectacular" report from the April 1972 issue of Animals, a letter from Eric G. Mackley, describes finding 23 perfectly formed but minute frogs inside a concrete block. Mackley's explanation was that frog spawn, mixed with water from a stagnant stream, entered the concrete base, and hatched tadpoles that cannibalized until the hole was filled with small frogs. He rejected the idea of frogs squeezing through cracks, stating the concrete was "firmly compacted."

The fourth category is illustrated by a letter from the archives of the American Philosophical Society, dated January 10, 1806, from Samuel Peters to Samuel Harrison. It describes a phenomenon at Hebron, Connecticut, in 1770, where a frog was found alive in a cavity within a large rock after it was blasted apart. The cavity was about the size of a goose egg, and the frog's thigh was bleeding from a wound. The frog was placed on mud and showed signs of life, struggling for deliverance. The cavity was described as smooth and filled with fine dust, with only a tiny crevice allowing minimal air and water.

The fifth category covers animals found in totally enclosed spaces, with two illustrative cases. The first, from Tilloch's Philosophical Magazine (1821), describes a lizard about an inch and a quarter long, found embedded in a barley millstone at Auchtertool, Scotland. It showed signs of life after five minutes of exposure to air and ran about with celerity before being killed. The lizard was coiled in a round cavity, with soft sand around it, and the rock was deep within the ground.

The second case, from a letter to the Magazine of Natural History (1835), describes a live toad found incarcerated in solid sandstone by workmen forming a railroad through Coventry Park. The toad was found alive the day after discovery and was in a cavity that perfectly fit its shape. Benjamin Silliman noted in the American Journal of Science (1836) that the toad survived only four days after being reinstated in its bed.

Maurice Burton's section on "The World of Science" in The Illustrated London News (1959) is discussed, where he details experiments by Rev. W. Buckland, who sealed toads into chambers in limestone and sandstone blocks. Burton concluded that toads cannot survive in hermetically-sealed chambers and noted that many stories place toads in rocks formed long before toads evolved. He suggested explanations such as optical illusions or the toad entering a block when it was small through an unobserved hole.

'Worm-holes' in Space

This section discusses an article by Adrian Berry in the Daily Telegraph Magazine (1971), reprinted in Saga Magazine (1972), concerning the theories of Professor John A. Wheeler. Wheeler's work on Einstein's General Theory of Relativity suggests that the universe might be shaped like a doughnut and contain "worm-holes" – entrances into another universe. These worm-holes could allow for instantaneous travel by "jumping" through an area where time and distance have no meaning. The concept is largely a mathematical exercise but does not conflict with Einstein's theories. The article mentions that Wheeler and his colleagues are looking for ways to find these worm-holes, and travel through them is unlikely in the near future. Kip Thorne and Yuval Ne'eman are also mentioned as believers in related concepts, with Ne'eman discussing "Black Holes" as possible entrances to worm-holes. Michael Hawking's work on Black Holes is also noted, including the formula for their formation based on mass and the speed of light.

Luminous People and Others

Ivan T. Sanderson writes about "luminous men" – physical human entities born of the human species. He recounts an experience of seeing a Nicaraguan fisherman with a torso covered in bright, lit, glowing mottlings, described as huge, soft swellings. Sanderson later received a letter from Dr. Robert A. Schlernitzauer about a deep-sea fisherman who had a large, glowing tumor on his shoulder, almost as bright as a candle. This tumor was identified as a sarcoma, possibly infected with phosphorescent sea animalcules, and the fisherman subsequently died.

The article explores the nature of light, noting that while much light was once thought to be hot, science has discovered non-thermal light sources like fireflies, luminous fungi, and bacteria. It's stated that about one-third of deep-sea fish are self-luminous, with some having pockets of luminous bacteria they can control. The light from living things is described as almost 100% visible light, affecting photographic plates and stimulating plant growth. The efficiency of light production in fireflies is highlighted as nearly 100%, contrasting with incandescent lamps and electric bulbs. The article also mentions a limerick about an "enormous pink rat" glowing distinctly and pinkly.

"THE BLOB"

This subsection details an incident in May 1973 where Mrs. Marie Harris of Garland, Texas, found a "thing" in her backyard described as "as big as a cupcake, and not very pretty." Newspapers sensationalized the find, with one joker announcing it was a mutated fungus. Mrs. Harris reported having four "blobs" over several weeks, which reappeared after attempts to kill them. Eventually, she used a nicotine solution on the last one. The "blob" was identified as a Slime Mold, specifically Fuligo septica. The article notes that even experts on Mycetozoa are unsure how to classify these organisms.

V. Astronomy

This brief section mentions Planet X, whose existence was predicted based on computerization of 'wobbles' in Halley's Comet's orbit. However, a recomputerization by another team suggests the initial findings were in error. The section also prompts readers to watch for phenomena related to the comet Kohoutek.

VII. Biology

This section, continuing the discussion on "Luminous People and Others," elaborates on the nature of bioluminescence. It mentions that living light is almost 100% visible light, without ultraviolet or infrared radiation, and can cause fluorescence and phosphorescence. It affects photographic plates, stimulates chlorophyll, and plants lean towards it. The efficiency of light production in fireflies is emphasized as being nearly 100% efficient, far surpassing incandescent lamps and electric bulbs. The article notes that this "pure" light has no color range, making everything appear green-gray.

VIII. Anthropology

ANCIENT BRITISH POWER NETWORK?

Janet Bord discusses the prevailing view of ancient Britons as "woad-painted savages" and contrasts it with the modern belief in their advanced capabilities, evidenced by numerous ancient sites like stone circles, barrows, and hillforts. Professor Alexander Thom's work examining 600 stone circles in the UK is highlighted, suggesting these structures were used for accurate calculation of celestial movements, requiring a high degree of mathematical knowledge.

The article then introduces "ley-hunting," a practice based on the alignment of ancient sites in straight lines. "Ley hunters" stipulate that an alignment must have at least five valid points within a short distance to rule out coincidence. The process involves using maps to identify potential alignments and then walking the selected ley to confirm its presence through subtle landscape features. The work of Alfred Watkins, the "discoverer" of the ley system, is mentioned, describing his revelation of a network of lines intersecting ancient sites.

GIANT SKELETONS

This section compiles reports of giant skeletons found worldwide. It mentions a fossil whale skeleton found in a hay loft in Canada. The North Jersey Highlander reports on "skeletons of giants, with double rows of teeth in each jaw" and "remains" of a people of "gigantic size" called the Allegwi. The New York Times is cited for reports of giant skeletons found in Sayopa, Sonora, Mexico (averaging eight feet in height), and at an island off Southern Florida (eight feet long, with thick skulls and high eye sockets). Another report from the New York Times details a gigantic man's skeleton unearthed in Nicaragua. The article also references a discovery at Tioga Point, Pennsylvania, of 68 men's bones averaging 7 feet, some with bony protuberances resembling horns, and a skeleton of a man nearly eight feet long found in Ellisburg.

A BOTANICAL PUZZLE

This section discusses the unique flowering habits of bamboos, particularly Phyllostachys bambusoides, which can flower every 15 to 60 years, or even never in recorded history. A letter from the owner of Pacific Bamboo Gardens explains that all plants of a single clone flower simultaneously, regardless of location or climate. The theory of a genetic "clock" within the cell is proposed, but the long periodicity (up to 120 years) is unusual. Speculation suggests an external trigger, possibly related to solar system movements, might be involved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue showcases a recurring interest in unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and the fringes of scientific understanding. It presents evidence and theories that challenge conventional scientific views, such as the possibility of animals surviving extreme entombment, the existence of wormholes, and the historical accounts of giants. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to investigate and report unusual findings, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous investigation of such claims, as exemplified by the caution advised by Edwin E. Slosson regarding "Hints for Writing Science."

This issue of The Ley Hunter, Volume 5, Issue 4, dated April 1973, published by The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, features a cover story titled "PHARAOH'S PUMP" by Adolph L. Heuer, Jr. The magazine explores ancient mysteries, ufology, and other unexplained phenomena.

Leys and Ancient Mysteries

The issue begins with an exploration of 'leys', ancient trackways or lines of power believed to have been utilized by early man for spiritual and physical benefit. The article discusses the work of Alfred Watkins and the ongoing interest in ley-hunting, suggesting that these lines may follow invisible power currents. It notes that while leys are positively known in Britain, similar phenomena like 'dragon lines' in China suggest a worldwide aspect. The article mentions that ley-hunters are often considered part of the 'lunatic fringe' of archaeology but are gaining followers among open-minded individuals.

Pharaoh's Pump Theory

The main feature, "Pharaoh's Pump" by Adolph L. Heuer, Jr., comments on Edward J. Kunkel's book of the same title. Heuer discusses the theory that the Great Pyramid might have been a pump used during its construction, highlighting the advanced technology required for such a feat. He cites evidence from Peter Tompkins' book, 'Secrets of the Great Pyramid', suggesting advanced ancient Egyptian technology and scientific knowledge. Heuer analyzes specific details from Kunkel's book, including the unblemished limestone blocks, the mysterious 'exuviae' found in a chamber, and the precise construction of the casing stones. He contrasts the exacting precision of the pyramid's construction with the seemingly rough cutting of the coffer, suggesting automated machinery. The article also touches upon Herodotus's account of daily costs, proposing Kunkel's interpretation that these represented fuel consumption rather than food.

Book Reviews

Sabina W. Sanderson provides several book reviews:

• Andrew Tomas's 'We Are Not the First': Reviewed as a book exploring ancient civilizations, it is considered better than most, though it contains some dubious statements. It includes a chart on the 'Rediscovery of Science' and delves into advanced ancient knowledge, possibly from an outside source. The review notes Tomas's focus on figures like Apollonius of Tyana, Comte de Saint-Germain, and Nicholas Roerich, with a dedication to Saint-Germain.
• 'Vertex: The Magazine of Science Fiction': Described as a splendid new magazine, not for its science fiction but for its articles on astronomy, computer technology, and other scientific discoveries that challenge orthodox scientists.
• Raymond Lamont Brown's 'Phantoms of the Sea': This book primarily deals with ghosts and is considered outside the magazine's usual scope. While it contains some new tales, the reviewer finds it rather dull.
• Gerald S. Hawkins' 'Beyond Stonehenge': This book is deemed odd and not up to Hawkins' previous work. It is technically demanding in parts and reads like a chatty travelogue, covering topics from Stonehenge to the Nazca Lines and Egypt, concluding with discussions on mankind's future and ecology.
• Elizabeth Montgomery Campbell and David Solomon's 'The Search for Morag': This is an excellent account of the initial work at Loch Morar, focusing on 'monsters'. The Loch Morar Survey group's findings are reported, including biological, operational, and historical sections. The review notes that the eyewitness reports are similar to those from Loch Ness, with one exception detailing an encounter where a monster grazed a boat and broke an 'ancient' oar.
• Guy Underwood's 'The Pattern of the Past': The reviewer expresses skepticism about Underwood's thesis that prehistoric structures and medieval churches are determined by 'geodetic lines' identified through dowsing. The reviewer questions the methodology and the lack of confirmation through digging, finding the presentation of findings intriguing but not convincing. Specific examples like Logan Stones and the swastika at Stonehenge are discussed.
• John Green's 'The Sasquatch File': This book is described as the author's third on reports of hair-covered hominids. It is a 'seed-catalogue' of tracks and sightings arranged chronologically. While it lists reports from east of the Rocky Mountains, it doesn't fully distinguish between different types of creatures. The review suggests Green's second book, 'Year of the Sasquatch', is a better introduction for new readers.

Members' Forum

The 'Members' Forum' section includes various inquiries and requests:

• Member #292 is seeking information and photographs on the Great Wall of Peru from a January 1933 National Geographic issue.
• A search is ongoing for a photograph of a Thunderbird.
• Information is sought regarding the "Casper, Wyoming, Mummy," specifically concerning its dentition, to determine if it has adult or baby teeth.
• Janet Bord is planning a children's book on ghosts and is requesting information on genuine photographs of ghostly phenomena.
• Member #1173 is seeking funding for a search for a Manimal (Bigfoot) and interested participants.
• A note clarifies that Bernard Heuvelmans is not working on a book about freshwater 'monsters'.
• Mildred Higgins is looking for correspondence regarding tiny UFO discs and 'strange words' that appear in dreams, referencing Alma Sanderson's tendency to 'talk in tongues'.

Other Content

• A brief, humorous item titled "Shades of Dorothy Parker?" recounts a peculiar lost boat advertisement.
• An article on "How to Get Your Name Off Junk Mail Lists" provides advice and contact information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics on the fringes of conventional science and archaeology, including ancient civilizations, unexplained phenomena, and cryptozoology. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging readers to consider alternative theories and conduct their own research, while also maintaining a critical perspective on the evidence presented. The inclusion of book reviews and a members' forum suggests an effort to engage the readership and foster a community of inquiry.