Pursuit - No 26 - Vol 07 No 2 - 1974

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 7 No. 2
Date: April, 1974
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: "SCIENCE IS THE PURSUIT OF THE UNEXPLAINED"

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, published by the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU), explores the complex relationship between the study of anomalous phenomena and the established practices of orthodox science. It addresses the challenges SITU faces in its mission to investigate "things" that are "customarily discounted" by mainstream scientific inquiry.

Fortean vs. Orthodox Science

This article, authored by Robert J. Durant, delves into why SITU, as an organization, studies phenomena that orthodox science often refuses to investigate. The author posits that while SITU has not been directly attacked, its association with unusual subjects has placed it in a difficult position. However, in recent times, scientists and journalists have begun to rely on SITU for information on unexplained phenomena, particularly ABSMs (Anomalous Biological Sightings and Mysteries).

The core problem identified is that a significant range of physical phenomena, reported for centuries globally, are ignored by orthodox science. The author argues that the methodology of orthodox science, while successful in many respects, has failed to catalog or analyze fortean events because their characteristics are at odds with scientific methods. Fortean events are typically short-lived and occur sporadically, making them difficult to study systematically, unlike phenomena like clouds or fish that can be observed under controlled conditions.

Scientists are trained to work with specimens under controlled conditions, and they are not accustomed to processing anecdotal or circumstantial evidence, which is the domain of fields like law. The author contrasts this with the historical context where knowledge was more consolidated, noting that today's extreme specialization makes it difficult for any single scientist to grasp the entirety of a field, let alone related disciplines.

The article highlights the Smithsonian Institution's Center for Short-lived Phenomena as an example of an organization attempting to study sudden, abnormal events. However, the Center's selection criteria, while broad, still exclude many truly anomalous events like UFOs and ABSMs, suggesting a reluctance to engage with the truly unexplained.

A third characteristic of fortean events that makes them unappealing to the scientific community is their tendency to challenge established theories. While the first two challenges (sporadic nature and specialization) have seen some attempts at solutions (e.g., computer databases, specialized librarians), the third challenge, the "closed mind," is rooted in human psychology. The author notes a shift in attitude, with a growing number of scientists believing that psychic phenomena should be studied seriously, suggesting a potential opening for research in these areas.

The article uses the historical example of Lavoisier and the "stones falling from the sky" to illustrate how established scientific dogma can dismiss phenomena that later become accepted. Lavoisier's analysis of a stone from Luce, France, which showed signs of fusion, was dismissed because it contradicted the prevailing belief that stones do not fall from the sky. The explanation offered was that lightning had struck a stone on the ground, heating it. This historical parallel is drawn to suggest that SITU's pursuit of unexplained phenomena is not quackery but a form of research akin to traditional science, differing mainly in information gathering and analysis methods.

UFOLOGY

This section addresses the public perception of UFOs and their connection to mental health. The author notes that a majority of the American public now believes UFOs are real, a shift from previous skepticism. The article criticizes the media for perpetuating the idea that UFO witnesses are "nuts" or mentally unbalanced, citing a segment by newscaster Harry Reasoner.

Dr. Berthold Schwarz, a psychiatrist and member of SITU, is presented as having investigated the link between "seeing saucers" and mental illness. His research, based on extensive private practice and consultations with other psychiatrists, found no correlation. He states that patients with mental problems do not typically exhibit symptoms related to UFOs, and that such symptoms were not found in the records of thousands of patients institutionalized or treated since 1900.

UFOs in New Jersey

This article by Berthold E. Schwarz, M.D., reprinted from the Journal of the Medical Society of New Jersey, examines the controversy surrounding UFOs and their potential impact on physicians. The author references the views of atmospheric physicist McDonald and the Condon Group's study, which concluded that UFO research had not added to scientific knowledge. In contrast, J. Allen Hynek, a consultant to the Air Force, called for a congressional inquiry into the UFO phenomenon.

The article notes the scarcity of UFO-related discussions in medical literature, despite mentions in publications by organizations like APRO and NICAP. It highlights the potential usefulness of medicine in evaluating UFO-induced biological effects and determining the reality of alleged UFO episodes.

Dr. Schwarz presents five close-range sightings from northern New Jersey that involved trustworthy witnesses. He conducted telephone and psychiatric interviews and inspected the locations of the alleged events.

Case 1: Mrs. Janet Ahlers, an artist-housewife from Oakland, New Jersey, reported a UFO in 1957. She described a pulsating, whining sound and a saucer-shaped object with a hard edge and lights, which passed over her house, making everything appear reddish. The object was estimated to be larger than an automobile and wider than her house, approximately seventy-five feet wide. She experienced no physical effects.

Case 2: John A. Collins, a banker and outdoorsman from Glen Rock, New Jersey, reported a sighting on July 8, 1958. While fishing at Canistear Reservoir, he and a friend observed a bar-shaped object, initially red, that moved slowly towards them. The object changed color from red to bluish-white to white as it ascended, tilted, and turned. It was described as being about the size of a railroad tie. They watched it for forty-five minutes. Collins' trustworthiness was attested by three individuals. Officer Clyde Conway of the Canistear Reservoir Police reported several UFO sightings in the area over the past three years, with no family members experiencing emotional or psychosomatic illness.

Case 3: Mrs. Carol Vander Plate, a licensed practical nurse and housewife, is introduced as the next witness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges of investigating and accepting unexplained phenomena within the framework of conventional science. The magazine champions the idea that "Science is the pursuit of the unexplained," advocating for a more open-minded and systematic approach to anomalies that fall outside traditional scientific paradigms. The editorial stance clearly supports SITU's mission, positioning it as a vital organization operating on the "wild frontier of human knowledge," despite its perceived "warts."

This issue of Pursuit (Vol. 5, No. 1, April 1974) is dedicated to exploring various unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, the mystery of Bigfoot, and intriguing scientific anomalies like long-delayed radio echoes. The magazine presents witness testimonies, scientific investigations, and theoretical discussions, aiming to shed light on these enigmatic subjects.

UFO Sightings in New Jersey

The issue details several UFO sightings reported in New Jersey during the 1960s. Case 4 describes Mrs. Estelle Conway's experience of seeing a large "orange ball" hovering over a pond in Highland Lakes in 1966. The object was estimated to be the size of a chicken coop and possibly much larger than an automobile. Simultaneously, Mr. Guy F. Adams, an electrical engineer, observed a "big opalescent-like neon-green ball" gliding across the road at treetop level. He described it as aquamarine in opalescence and maintaining perfect geometry.

Another significant account is from Mrs. Louis Vander Plate, who reported seeing a "white, then pink, then green" object with three port-holes hovering over trees near her home in Hardyston, New Jersey, on April 1, 1966. The object took off like a streak of lightning. Her husband also confirmed the sighting, and the event generated numerous calls from other witnesses. The Vander Plates have reported similar sounds and sightings multiple times since.

Case 5 recounts Frank Scanlon's sighting in November 1967 of a large, gray, cylindrical object, described as more than twice the size of the von Hindenberg, on Rudeville Road. The object had no visible markings and took off with tremendous speed toward Newton, disappearing in about two minutes.

Long-Delayed Echoes and Extraterrestrial Contact

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the phenomenon of "long-delayed echoes" in radio propagation. Mr. Duncan A. Lunan, president of the Association in Scotland for Technology and Research in Astronautics, studied reports from the late 1920s where radio engineers heard echoes of their signals that could not be explained by known laws of radio propagation. Lunan plotted these echoes and interpreted them as messages from a space probe transponder placed in orbit around the moon approximately 13,000 years ago.

The mechanics of radio wave propagation are explained, noting that reflections from the ionosphere are typical, but the recorded delays of 3 to 15 seconds were extraordinary. The data, when plotted, formed patterns, including triangles, which Lunan interpreted as a form of communication. The probe's origin is suggested to be Epsilon Boötes, with its home planet being the sixth of seven planets orbiting a double star. The probe itself is located in orbit around our moon.

Dr. Frank D. Drake's work on searching for extraterrestrial intelligence via radio signals is also discussed. The Project Cyclops proposal for a vast listening network is mentioned, along with the idea that advanced civilizations might use radio transmissions. The magazine notes that American television stations are among the most powerful sources of radio transmission on Earth, potentially making alien civilizations circumspect about visiting.

Bigfoot Investigations

Peter Byrne reports on the Bigfoot search in the Pacific Northwest. He notes that 1973 was a quiet year with few sightings and footprint findings. However, a sighting was reported in Florence, Oregon, in March 1974. Byrne and his associates conducted twelve field trips in 1973, exploring areas in Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. An interesting discovery was made at the head of Bute Inlet: Sasquatch Pass.

The article mentions the upcoming sponsorship of a serious, well-organized, long-term scientific search by the National Wildlife Federation, led by Bob Morgan. The exhibit under construction in The Dalles, Oregon, by Ivan Sanderson and Celia Killeen, will showcase research on Bigfoot, Himalayan searches, the Loch Ness investigation, and historical references to Sasquatch.

Ivan Sanderson, founder of SITU, is highlighted for his work on "unknown" animals. The article discusses three main explanations for these reports: misidentification or fraud, the animals being real but elusive, or the animals being products of paranormal or extraterrestrial agencies. The opinion of many ABSM hunters is that capturing such animals is difficult due to a lack of essential ingredients like manpower, staying power, and knowledge of the creature's habits.

Other Phenomena

The issue also touches upon fire walking, describing it as a "psychic" phenomenon. A proposed explanation involves the Liedenfrost Effect, where foot perspiration acts as an insulating barrier. The article notes that fire walking does not work for everyone and is often considered a spiritual exercise involving mind over matter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. There is a strong emphasis on witness testimony and the potential for anomalies to be evidence of unknown intelligences or forces. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging further research into these unexplained events and phenomena. The publication seems to advocate for a broader consideration of evidence, even if it falls outside mainstream scientific acceptance, as seen in the discussion of Ivan Sanderson's work and the interpretation of long-delayed echoes.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, dated November/December 1964, prominently features the headline "MYSTERY ANIMALS" on its cover, suggesting a focus on unexplained animal encounters and their potential connections to UFO phenomena. The magazine is published in the United Kingdom and is written in English.

Mystery Animals: A Growing Phenomenon

The issue opens with an article discussing the increasing reports of large, unknown animals, often described as "mystery cats" (pumas, cougars, panthers). These animals exhibit unsettling characteristics, such as appearing and disappearing suddenly, sometimes glowing, and causing dogs to refuse tracking them. While often sharing traits with "ghosts," these animals are distinct. The article notes that while many cases can be explained naturally, some present "unnatural" circumstances. It highlights the challenges in capturing these creatures, drawing parallels to the difficulty in capturing the Loch Ness Monster.

The "Mystery Cats" and UFOs

A key theme explored is the potential link between these mystery animals and UFOs. While no direct evidence of UFOs depositing or collecting animals has been found, the timing of sightings is noted. The article reprints an excerpt from Charles Bowen, editor of Flying Saucer Review, who wrote about these mysterious animals in the November/December 1964 issue. Bowen details the increase in reports of feline predators in unusual regions, particularly in Southern England. He references historical accounts, including a 1906 incident in Windsor where a strange animal killed fifty-one sheep. Bowen also mentions the possibility of "Randallism" (the ridicule of such reports) and the engaging possibility of a tie-up between these animals and flying saucers, a view he heard expressed over a year prior.

Case Studies of Mystery Animals

Several specific cases are detailed:

• Shooters Hill, Kent (July 1963): A cheetah was encountered, leading to a large hunt that proved unsuccessful. This incident occurred around the time of events at Mr. Blanchard's farm.
• Hawkhurst-Cranbrook area, Kent (February 14, 1964): A new mystery animal was reported in this region.
• East Anglia (Five days later): A tiger was reported near Cromer, leading to a large search involving police dogs, but to no avail.
• The Vereeniging Story (South Africa): Two men driving at night encountered a large animal and were subsequently disturbed by a UFO, suggesting a possible distraction tactic.
• Bushylease Farm, October 1964: A mystery puma was reported in the area around Godalming, Farnham, and Odiham. The animal left large paw prints and claw marks. Mr. Blanks, the farm manager, reported strange lights on the farm buildings preceding the puma's appearances.

The Loch Ness Monster Investigations

The issue dedicates significant space to the Loch Ness Monster phenomenon, with contributions from Tim Dinsdale, who has been studying it since 1959. Dinsdale has conducted numerous expeditions and claims to have seen Nessie three times and filmed it once. The film was analyzed by photographic experts and accepted as proof of a large, unknown marine animal. The article details the scientific efforts to document the creature, including:

• 1960 RAF Report: Analyzed a film showing an object moving at approximately 10 mph.
• 1967 Richard Raynor Film: Showed a V-shaped wash on calm water, with a 7-foot object detected at the apex.
• 1968 Tucker and Braithwaite Sonar Study: Digital sonar revealed echoes from large moving objects.
• 1969 Robert E. Love, Jr. Sonar Contacts: Used a Honeywell sonar to obtain more contacts.
• 1970 Dr. Rines and Dr. Klein Sonar Work: Obtained clear static and mobile sonar contacts.
• 1971/1972 Investigations: Used a flashing strobe-light cine camera and Raytheon sonar. The "Rines/Edgerton Picture" from August 1972, captured near Urquhart Bay, showed a large object and a paddle-like structure, estimated at 6-8 feet long and 2-4 feet wide.

Dinsdale also lists his five books on the Loch Ness Monster and related topics.

Book Reviews

Sabina W. Sanderson provides several book reviews:

• Strange Phenomena: A Sourcebook of Unusual Natural Phenomena, Volume G-1 by William R. Corliss: This is described as a valuable addition to fortean literature, a comprehensive sourcebook on geophysical phenomena, organized in a unique loose-leaf ring-binder format. The compiler's preface emphasizes the selection of data based on "strangeness" and its tendency to challenge current scientific hypotheses.
• Pigmy Kitabu by Jean-Pierre Hallet with Alex Pelle: This book explores the Pygmies, their culture, and their connection to ancient myths. The reviewer expresses initial skepticism but is pleasantly surprised by the book's content, noting the Pygmies' moral code and their physical similarities to Caucasoids. The book posits that ancient Egyptians may have borrowed ideas from the Pygmies. It also discusses Pygmy legends that bear resemblance to the Old Testament.
• The Explorers Ltd. Source Book edited by Alwyn T. Perrin: While not strictly a fortean book, it is recommended as a source of information on various specialized fields like caving, ballooning, dog sledding, and photography.
• Amazing Indeed: Strange Events in the Black Forest, Vol. 2 by Robert R. Lyman Sr.: This volume recounts unusual and unexplained events from the Black Forest of Pennsylvania, with many accounts being of a fortean nature.

Members' Forum

The "Members' Forum" section includes a request from Mrs. Janet Bord for information on mazes and labyrinths. It also mentions a donation of a telescope to the Society and an investigation into the possibility of microfilming the Society's files. The section clarifies that "Marion L. Fawcett" is the same person as Sabina W. Sanderson and announces the upcoming publication of Mrs. Sanderson's book, "Green Silence."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of unexplained phenomena, particularly "mystery animals" and the Loch Ness Monster, and the exploration of their potential connections to UFOs. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the content and the "Members' Forum," is one of serious inquiry into these subjects, encouraging members to contribute their findings and interviews. There is a clear emphasis on scientific investigation, as seen in the detailed accounts of sonar and photographic studies of the Loch Ness Monster, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by public ridicule and the need for credible evidence. The magazine aims to provide a tangible reward to its members through in-depth analysis and communication, fostering a community dedicated to pursuing the study of unexplained events.

This document is a directory of the personnel associated with THE SOCIETY FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE UNEXPLAINED. It outlines the structure of the organization through its various boards and lists the individuals who hold positions within them.

Governing Board

The Governing Board includes a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with several other Trustees. The listed individuals are:

• Hans Stefan Santesson: Trustee (and President)
• Robert C. Warth: Trustee (and Vice-President)
• Sabina W. Sanderson: Trustee (and Secretary)
• Allen V. Noe: Trustee (and Treasurer)
• R. Martin Wolf: Trustee
• Robert J. Durant: Trustee
• Dante A. Costa: Trustee
• Stanley W. Tyler: Trustee
• Adolph L. Heuer, Jr.: Trustee

Executive Board

The Executive Board comprises administrative and operational roles:

• Robert C. Warth: Administrative Director
• Allen V. Noe: Director of Operations
• Sabina W. Sanderson: Executive Secretary
• Robert J. Durant: Technical Consultant
• Carl J. Pabst: Research Consultant
• Walter J. McGraw: Mass Media
• Dante A. (Don) Costa: Public Relations

Editorial Board

The Editorial Board is responsible for the publication's content:

• Hans Stefan Santesson: Editor and Publisher
• Sabina W. Sanderson: Executive Editor
• Walter J. McGraw: Consulting Editor
• Robert J. Durant: Assistant Editor

Scientific Advisory Board

This board is extensive, featuring a diverse group of academics and experts from various institutions and disciplines, indicating a broad scope of research interests for the society. The members and their affiliations include:

• Dr. George A. Agogino: Chairman, Department of Anthropology, and Director, Paleo-Indian Institute, Eastern New Mexico University. (Archaeology)
• 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: Dublin and London (Comparative Anatomy)
• 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, N. J. (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: Assistant Director, Baltimore Zoo, Baltimore, Maryland. (Ecologist & Zoogeographer)
• 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)

Printing Information

The back page indicates that HICKS PRINTING COMPANY, located at 37 Belvidere Avenue, Washington, New Jersey, is responsible for the printing, with a telephone number of 201-689-0194.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This document primarily serves as an organizational directory. Its recurring theme is the structure and personnel of an organization dedicated to investigating unexplained phenomena. The detailed listing of a Scientific Advisory Board composed of experts from diverse scientific fields suggests an emphasis on rigorous, multidisciplinary research and a serious approach to its subject matter. The editorial board and executive roles indicate a publication or research group that is actively managed and producing content.