Pursuit - No 24 - Vol 06 No 4 - 1973

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 6 No. 4
Date: October, 1973
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT, the quarterly journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained, offers a diverse range of articles exploring various mysteries and anomalies. The editorial board, led by Editor & Publisher Hans Stefan Santesson, presents a collection of pieces that delve into historical accounts, scientific speculation, and eyewitness reports.

Editorial: Pseudo-Forteans and the Possibility of Past Civilizations

In the editorial, Hans Stefan Santesson addresses what he terms "quasi-semantic crimes" committed by "enthusiastic pseudo-Forteans." He criticizes those who, in their eagerness to prove the existence of advanced ancient civilizations, engage in selective editing of references and plagiarism, citing Colonel Churchward as an example. Santesson argues against dismissing the possibility of past civilizations rising and falling on Earth due to the excesses of such individuals. He emphasizes the importance of humility and a sense of history, suggesting that while the current world may be the most recent chapter in humanity's efforts, the possibility of previous cycles of civilization should not be ignored.

Chaos & Confusion: Whose Point of View?

This section, also penned by Santesson, explores the nature of animal intelligence and consciousness. Using a cartoon as a starting point, he questions whether animals might perceive tests designed to measure their intelligence in a way that reflects their own 'point of view.' He challenges the common notion that animals do not 'think' or possess human emotions, citing Ivan Sanderson's account of an elephant's annoyance during a scientific test. Santesson suggests that much of animal behavior, while seemingly instinctive, may involve a level of calculation and awareness, drawing parallels to observations of dogs and groundhogs.

The Avenger Flight; and Others

This article revisits the infamous "Vile Vortices" or Bermuda Triangle phenomenon, focusing on the loss of five Navy torpedo bombers and a search plane off the Florida coast in December 1945. It notes that this incident brought the area's history of disappearances of ships and aircraft to public attention. The article details the Navy's official conclusion that the flight leader lost his way, but also mentions that a recent effort by a Society member has led to the Navy releasing the full report, including a revised conclusion stating the flight disappeared for unknown reasons. It also touches upon the disappearance of a Martin Mariner search plane and the possibility of it exploding due to gasoline fumes. The piece also debunks the connection of the derelict ship John and Mary to the Triangle mystery, explaining its abandonment due to an engine explosion.

Mermaids

This section examines the phenomenon of mermaid sightings. It presents two viewpoints: one suggesting sailors mistook manatees or dugongs for mermaids, and another that mermaids are real. The article discusses Elaine Morgan's theory that the resemblance between dugong and human genitalia might explain some sightings. It then presents two historical accounts: a deposition by John M'Isaac from 1811 describing a creature with a human upper body and a fish tail, and an entry from the log of the ship Leonidas in 1817 describing a similar creature. The author concludes that these reports, given their straightforward nature and the potential consequences of false testimony, warrant more consideration.

He Talked with the Seagulls

This article recounts an unusual incident involving a member named 'Dick B.' in Alaska during the early 1950s. An older Amerind laborer claimed to have spoken with seagulls, who informed him of his wife's serious illness 500 miles away. A subsequent plane trip confirmed the wife's illness. The article speculates on the possibility of mental telepathy, suggesting that certain tribes or families might use animals as intermediaries for communication. It invites members to share similar occurrences.

V. Astronomy: The Tunguska "Meteorite"

This section presents a new theory regarding the 1908 Tunguska event in Siberia. Physicists A. A. Jackson 4th and Michael P. Ryan Jr. suggest that the explosion and damage pattern could have been caused by a "black hole" passing through the Earth. They base this on Soviet experiments showing a cylindrical explosion pattern. They propose examining ships' logs and atmospheric pressure records from June 30, 1908, for evidence of unusual occurrences in the North Atlantic, where the black hole would have exited.

VI. Geology: Lightning Again

This section compiles several unusual incidents related to lightning. One account describes lightning creating a deep well filled with water. Another details a naked man being struck by lightning, with his clothing burnt away but not touching his skin. A third incident describes lightning instantly killing black sheep in a flock while leaving white sheep unharmed, suggesting an unusual selectivity of targets.

It also reports on Roy C. Sullivan, who has been struck by lightning five times. Sullivan claims to have had a dream about being struck again and believes the events happened for "good purposes."

London for Darknesses?

This brief section notes a report of an unusual atmospheric darkening event in London during wartime, where the atmosphere darkened as a bus traveled through Whitehall, only to clear up upon reaching Trafalgar Square.

Pre-Earthquake Phenomena

This article discusses phenomena that precede earthquakes, which are often dismissed by experts. It mentions glows in the skies and odd dark clouds, and notes that predicting earthquakes is becoming increasingly important. Recent events in Mexico and Tashkent are cited, where glowing skies and "electron storms" in the ionosphere were observed before earthquakes. The article also references the 1973 Hawaii earthquake, which was preceded by the ionosphere's radiowave-reflecting layer disappearing and the Omega Navigational System experiencing drift. It suggests that scientists should pay more attention to reports of unusual events preceding earthquakes.

VII. Biology: ABSMal Affairs in Pennsylvania and Elsewhere

Authored by Allen V. Noe, this report details alleged sightings of large, hairy, ape-like creatures. The editor notes that publicity has been kept to a minimum to avoid panic and unwanted visitors. The report mentions sightings near Pine Bluff, Arkansas, including one where boys claimed to see a creature carrying a blonde girl. It also references the "Fouke Monster" and reports of similar creatures in northern Louisiana. Further sightings are mentioned in Texas and Oklahoma. The article concludes by noting a recent AP release about "Bigfoot" sightings in Westmoreland County.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PURSUIT include the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the examination of historical mysteries, and the exploration of anomalous events. The journal maintains a skeptical yet open-minded approach, encouraging rigorous investigation while acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding. The editorial stance, particularly in Santesson's pieces, emphasizes critical thinking, a respect for historical context, and a caution against sensationalism or unsubstantiated claims, while still advocating for the serious consideration of unusual phenomena.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, identified by page number 85, delves into two primary mysteries: the phenomenon of large, hairy, ape-like creatures (ABSMs) in Pennsylvania and the enigmatic origins of an iron object found in Austrian coal, alongside reports of colossal pyramids in China.

Hairy Bipeds in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania

The magazine details extensive investigations into numerous sightings of 'huge hairy bipeds' in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, during the summer of 1973. Stan Gordon, Director of the Westmoreland County UFO Study Group (WCUFOSG), led much of this effort. The sightings peaked in August, with many people involved in documenting reports and searching for evidence.

Eyewitness Accounts and Evidence Collection

The author, accompanied by his wife Polly and Robert E. Jones, visited Greensburg in September 1973 to interview witnesses and gather information. They learned of significant evidence, including hair samples, feces, and a footprint cast, which were sent to the Carnegie Museum and Professor George Agogino of the Paleo-Indian Institute for analysis. As of October 12, 1973, the hair samples had not been identified as belonging to any known species.

• Several specific cases are recounted:
• Luxor, PA (August 26, 1973): A sighting of an ABSM with a 'human' face and no neck.
• Latrobe, PA (September, date illegible): A creature with a catlike appearance and definite hips.
• Beech Hills, near Jeannette, PA (August 27, 1973): A creature with prominent fangs, unusual for ABSM reports.
• Whitney, PA (September 1, 1973): A woman reported a large, hairy, ape-like creature approaching her child.
• Whitney, PA (September 2, 1973): Mr. and Mrs. Chester Yothers reported seeing a 'monster' outside their trailer, an experience that convinced them of its reality.
• Greensburg, PA (September 21, 1973): Ten boys reported seeing the upper body of a 'gorilla-like' creature.
• Greensburg, PA (September 24, 1973): Two boys saw a large, 'gorilla-like' creature lying asleep.

Creature Descriptions

General descriptions of the creatures included being 8 to 9 feet tall, covered in dark hair, walking upright with long legs (50-57 inch stride), long arms reaching below the knees, large orange-red glowing eyes, a flat nose, pointed ears, and a large mouth with prominent fangs. They were reported to have an unpleasant odor like 'sulphur', 'rotten eggs', or 'rotten meat'. Young ones were also reported, and one 'family group' was seen by five people.

Footprint Analysis

Two types of footprints are discussed. A 'standard' three-toed print found in Westmoreland County is described as not matching any known type of foot. Another ape-like print found in the Verona-Penn Hills area is compared to an orangutan's footprint, noting its short front toes and lack of a great toe joint. The article also mentions a 18-inch footprint that was a 'crude fake'.

Other Incidents and Evidence

Reports included incidents of sheep with 'intestines ripped out' and a dog with a 'hole in its skull'. Some creatures were reportedly shot at, but without apparent effect, and no specimens or photographs were obtained. Four 'clots' of what was thought to be blood were collected from one creature shot with a .35 calibre rifle and sent for analysis.

Drawings and Interpretation

Drawings by Bob McCurry of WCUFOSG, based on witness descriptions, are presented. The author notes that while McCurry did an excellent job, the drawings of the faces are somewhat disconcerting, suggesting either the creatures looked unusual or witnesses subconsciously altered their perceptions. The 'ape' and sphere-carrying creature are considered separate categories.

Possible Explanations for the 'Population Explosion'

Several factors are suggested for the apparent increase in ABSM sightings: the filling in of old strip mines and closing of mine shafts (potential shelters), the abandonment of farms leading to wilder areas, and the elimination of salt blocks in pastures. The article notes that reports go back years, but witnesses were previously reluctant to come forward.

The Salzburg Steel Cube

This section, authored by Hubert Malthaner and translated by H. Friedrich, investigates the history and nature of an object known as the Salzburg steel cube, found in a block of coal in Austria in 1885.

Historical Accounts and Misinformation

The article traces the object's description through various sources, including Charles Fort's 'Book of the Damned'. Early reports described it as a steel cube, but later analysis revealed it to be iron. Misinformation arose from translations, with 'parallelepipede' being misinterpreted as 'parallel pipes', leading to sensational claims of ancient technology.

Scientific Examination

Dr. Gurlt described the object as a fossil meteorite in 1886, noting its shape and oxide coating. However, subsequent analysis, including electron-beam microanalysis in 1966/67, found no traces of nickel, chromium, or cobalt, ruling out a meteorite origin. The object was determined to be cast-iron, possibly used as ballast in primitive mining machinery.

Origin and Manufacturing Hypothesis

The author proposes that the object was manufactured by creating a pattern from soft material (clay or wax) with fingertip imprints, which was then used to cast the iron object. The 'deep incision' around the sides could have originated from pressing the rounded faces down and the edges outward.

Current Status

The original object is now housed at the Heimathaus in Vöcklabruck, Austria. Plaster copies are held at the Oberösterreichisches Landesmuseum in Linz. The article concludes that the object is likely cast-iron, possibly originating from the foundry where it was found.

The Chinese Pyramid

This section reports on the discovery of an enormous pyramid in China, significantly larger than those in Egypt.

Discovery and Initial Reports

Colonel Maurice Sheahan, Far Eastern director for Trans World Airline, reported seeing a giant pyramid in the isolated mountains of Shensi Province in March 1947. He estimated its height at 1,000 feet and its base width at 1,500 feet. He also noted a smaller second pyramid and hundreds of burial mounds in the vicinity. The pyramid was located in an inaccessible valley, about forty miles southwest of Sian.

Verification and Skepticism

While the discovery was considered of 'great scientific interest' by experts like Dr. James L. Clark and Dr. Arthur Upham Pope, who suggested it might verify Chinese traditions of the Hsia dynasty, later reports, including an AP dispatch in March 1947, declared the discovery 'groundless'. The article suggests this denial might have been political or intended to discourage foreign interest.

Photographic Evidence

Despite the official denial, the article presents a photograph of what is described as one of the smaller Chinese pyramids. It argues that unless Col. Sheahan and 'Doc' Anderson (a Georgia psychic who also visited the site prior to the war and testified to its size) are liars, the photograph serves as evidence of enormous pyramids in China. The article notes that these pyramids are oriented on a north-south line, similar to Egyptian examples, and their age is unknown but possibly very ancient.

Comparison to European Structures

The article briefly compares the Chinese pyramids to Silbury Hill in England, the largest artificial mound in western Europe, highlighting the immense scale of the Chinese structures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine demonstrates a consistent interest in unexplained phenomena, particularly those involving cryptids (hairy bipeds) and ancient mysteries (the Wolfsegg iron object and Chinese pyramids). The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation, rigorous collection of evidence, and a willingness to challenge conventional explanations, while also acknowledging the potential for misinterpretation and the need for careful analysis. The magazine encourages readers to report similar incidents, indicating a commitment to ongoing research in these fields. The 'Important Notice' at the end of page 6 clarifies that the Society is not connected with any other organizations using similar acronyms, emphasizing its distinct identity.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, identified as issue number 95 and part of Volume 6, is dated July 1973. It is published by The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained and is in English.

Administrative Affairs

The magazine opens with an administrative update, expressing regret over Mark Hall's departure for personal reasons, despite his significant contributions. Robert C. Warth is noted as the Acting Director, though he is not a resident. Allen Noe, the Treasurer, who is on early retirement, is assisting with headquarters' work. A plea is made for members to update their addresses promptly, emphasizing the importance of including zip codes for mail delivery, as third-class mail is not forwardable without a special request.

Members' Forum

This section features inquiries from members. Member #1471 is seeking reports of large snakes in the United States during the 1950s and also information on UFO sightings between 1942 and 1946. Another member, #1436, is investigating a specific 'spook light' and requests information from others who have encountered similar phenomena, particularly regarding seasonal patterns, lunar phases, and time of day.

Survival Kits

Recognizing that some members may visit remote areas, the magazine provides detailed advice on assembling "survival kits." These kits can be assembled from a small metal box and should contain items such as kitchen matches dipped in paraffin, string, steel wool, picture-hanging wire for snares, tape, safety pins, fishing line leader, chlorine tablets, fish hooks, aluminum foil, finishing nails, vitamin pills, salt, antibiotic ointment, adhesive bandages, a whistle, and a mirror. Additional recommended items include a compass, razor blades, tropical chocolate bars, salt and dextrose tablets, and a snakebite kit. The importance of carrying a map and registering with local police for wilderness excursions is also stressed.

Things to Come

An upcoming article will feature the work of Marjorie Fish on a three-dimensional star map, which is intended to confirm the star chart previously drawn by Betty Hill under hypnosis. The magazine states that a previous article in Saga Magazine was inadequate and promises that Ms. Fish will be given ample space in Pursuit to present a full and accurate account.

Back Issues of Pursuit

Members are informed that the supply of some back issues of Pursuit is dwindling rapidly and will soon be unavailable, even as Xerox copies. A list of available back issues and their prices is provided, along with the availability of certain Xeroxed papers, including those on gravitational fields, electromagnetism, dowsing, and the Fitzgerald Report.

Department of Loose Ends

This section addresses various points. The Banana River, mentioned in a previous article by Ivan T. Sanderson, is confirmed to be in Florida. A member notes Jules Verne's predictive accuracy regarding submarines. Information is provided on obtaining a patent for "Pharaoh's Pump." There is a request for further information on the Caspar, Wyoming, mummy, with a humorous quote from Paul Willis of INFO. Further references to the Great Wall of Peru are listed. A correction is made regarding Nils O. Jacobson's book, clarifying that he reported on Duncan MacDougall's experiments on "weighing the soul" rather than conducting them himself. The magazine also apologizes for mistakenly labeling the Saturday Evening Post as extinct, noting its resurrection.

Slander Against Ivan T. Sanderson

An item reports on an alleged fake "Missing Link" specimen exhibited by a Mr. Bob Parsons, who claimed to have rented it from Ivan T. Sanderson. The magazine is investigating this claim and states that legal action will be pursued if the facts prove to be as stated, seeking damages for slander.

Book Reviews

This section, written by Sabina W. Sanderson, reviews several books:

The Descent of Woman by Elaine Morgan

This book is described as controversial, with its main thesis being that human evolution was influenced more by the female than the male. The reviewer notes that the book suggests an aquatic environment played a role in human evolution, building on the work of A. C. Hardy. The reviewer highly recommends the book for its thought-provoking content and enjoyment.

Supernature by Lyall Watson

This book is recommended for skeptics and non-forteans, defining "Supernature" as phenomena on the fringe of understanding. It is divided into four parts: Cosmos, Matter, Mind, and Time. While acknowledging some lapses in judgment, the reviewer finds it a valuable book, suggesting it as a Christmas present.

A Pictorial History of Sea Monsters and Other Dangerous Marine Life by James B. Sweeney

This "coffee-table book" is criticized for its text, which is described as misleading and poorly written, with instances of padding and misspellings. Despite the author's apparent interest in sea monsters, the reviewer cannot recommend the book due to its numerous flaws.

God Drives a Flying Saucer by R. L. Dione

This book is dismissed as "largely drivel."

The Key by John Philip Cohane

This book attempts to demonstrate a common origin point for mankind through the worldwide distribution of certain names. The reviewer finds the author's linguistic analysis questionable, comparing it to the speculative methods of Atlantists. While not convinced by the author's thesis, the reviewer admits that the book opens up new avenues for speculation.

The Ivan T. Sanderson Memorial Fund

Members are reminded that contributions to this fund are tax-deductible and will help the Society acquire a new copier, reducing reliance on expensive outside services. The fund aims to support the Society's growth and honor Ivan T. Sanderson's work.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine reflects a consistent focus on the unexplained, paranormal phenomena, and fringe science, as evidenced by the articles on UFOs, ancient mysteries (Shensi Pyramid, Great Wall of Peru), and speculative theories of human evolution. The magazine actively engages its readership through the "Members' Forum" and provides practical advice, such as on survival kits. The book reviews critically assess works related to these themes, offering informed opinions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unusual subjects, while maintaining a critical eye for factual accuracy and logical reasoning, as seen in the reviews and the handling of the slander accusation against Ivan T. Sanderson.