Pursuit - No 32 - Vol 08 No 4 - 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: Vol. 8 No. 4
Date: October, 1975
Publisher: Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU)
Country: USA
Language: English
Theme: Fortean phenomena, Unexplained mysteries, UFOs, Sea-serpents, Bigfoot.

This issue of PURSUIT marks the 10th anniversary of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU). The magazine is dedicated to the pursuit of "things" that are customarily discounted, founded by Ivan T. Sanderson and edited by Robert J. Durant.

Report From the President

Robert C. Warth, President of SITU, reflects on the organization's ten-year history. He acknowledges the challenges faced, including economic recessions and rising costs, but highlights the steady increase in membership and the dedication of volunteers, particularly Mrs. Sabina W. Sanderson for her work on the journal PURSUIT. Warth expresses optimism for the future, noting the growing public interest in fortean subjects and the potential for orthodox science to eventually address these phenomena. He outlines goals for improved communication among researchers and the expansion of library facilities. The report concludes by stating that the Society's existence has been vindicated and its potential for growth is significant.

Strange, Strange World...

This article by Norbert Spehner describes the "Strange, Strange World" Pavilion at Montreal's Man and His World (formerly Expo '67). The pavilion, which Ivan T. Sanderson helped to develop, presents a panorama of unexplained phenomena, attracting millions of visitors. Spehner details the pavilion's sections, which cover topics such as UFOs, sea monsters, abominable snowmen, and ancient astronauts. He emphasizes Ivan T. Sanderson's crucial role in gathering materials and shaping the pavilion's philosophy, noting his "prudent skepticism allied with an embracing spirit, an abundant imagination and a highly developed sense of humor." The article encourages SITU members to visit the pavilion, which was entering its seventh season.

Sea-Serpent Reporting Dynamics

Ron Westrum's article examines the phenomenon of sea-serpent sightings and their reporting. He contrasts the "mass hysteria" explanation favored in the 20th century with the 19th century's focus on newspapers and the "silly season." Westrum presents data from Bernard Heuvelmans' bibliography, showing that while sightings occur year-round, they are most frequent in summer. However, newspaper and popular magazine articles about sea-serpents show a different seasonal distribution, with a peak in the fall. The article also analyzes the "report release" phenomenon, where sightings are reported years after they occur, often triggered by the publication of related articles or media. Examples include Ivan Sanderson's 1947 article in the Saturday Evening Post, which elicited nine reports with a median age of twelve years. The article concludes that the "silly season" is an oversimplification and that the relationship between sightings, reporting, and belief in anomalies is complex.

Other Articles and Sections

• Biology: This section includes articles on the "Sea-Serpent Reporting Dynamics" by Ron Westrum, "The Flathead Lake Monster" by Tim Church, "Oliver - An Unusual Ape" by Robert E. Jones, "The 'Fish Falls' of Yoro, Honduras" by Ron Dobbins, "Octopus Giganteus Verrill" by Gary S. Mangiacopra, and "Bigfoot in New Jersey" by Robert E. Jones.
• Chaos and Confusion: Features "The Dodecated Globe" by William H. Whammond.
• Book Reviews: A section dedicated to reviews of relevant books.
• Members' Forum: A space for members to share their thoughts and experiences.

The issue also includes photographs related to the "Strange, Strange World" Pavilion exhibits, such as "Ancient Astronauts," "Ringing Rocks," and "The Bozo Display," with captions detailing some of the objects and their purported origins.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained phenomena, a core tenet of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging the study of anomalies that are "customarily discounted." There is a strong emphasis on the scientific pursuit of knowledge, even in unconventional areas, and a belief that such phenomena may eventually be recognized by mainstream science. The role of historical research, exemplified by the work of Charles Fort and Ivan T. Sanderson, is highly valued. The magazine promotes a sense of community among researchers and aims to facilitate communication and the sharing of information within the fortean field.

This issue of Pursuit features three main articles: "The Flathead Lake Monster" by Tim Church, "The 'Fish Falls' of Yoro, Honduras" by Ron Dobbins, and "Octopus Giganteus Verrill" by Gary S. Mangiacopra. The magazine explores unexplained phenomena, historical accounts, and scientific investigations.

The Flathead Lake Monster

Tim Church's article details the history of sightings of an unidentified marine monster in Flathead Lake, Montana. The report compiles accounts dating back to the late 19th century, including legends from the Kutenai and Kalispell tribes that predate white settlement. Early white sightings were made by steamboat crews, with notable incidents including James Kern's 1885 encounter with a whale-like animal and a near-collision in 1919 involving the steamboat City of Polson. A 1937 report from the Flathead Courier describes a creature seen by L. J. Elkins, estimated at six to seven feet long with a broad head and long brown hair. The article presents a chronological summary of sightings from 1949 to 1974, with descriptions varying in size, color, and behavior. Common descriptions include a dark, black, or sometimes brown creature, with estimated lengths ranging from three to 25 feet, most frequently cited as six to eight feet. Witnesses have described dorsal fins, but other features are less consistently reported. The creature is often noted for its speed and playful behavior. The article also touches upon the Polson Chamber of Commerce's attempt in 1951 to use the monster as a publicity gimmick, promoting the idea of a giant sturgeon. Explanations for the sightings range from giant sturgeon to miniature submarines, though the article notes discrepancies with the sturgeon theory, particularly the lack of captured specimens. The peak season for sightings appears to be September, with August also being a frequent month.

The 'Fish Falls' of Yoro, Honduras

Ron Dobbins investigates the phenomenon of 'fish falls' in Yoro, Honduras, a story popularized by Frank Edwards. Dobbins translates a scientific report from the Honduran Academy of Geography and History based on observations from 1961-1962. The report concludes that the 'fish falls' are not a meteorological anomaly like waterspouts, but rather a natural event involving local sardines. These fish migrate up the Aguan River, are caught in swampy areas near Yoro during rain squalls, and then leap out of the water. The phenomenon is associated with a specific type of cloud, mammato-cumulonimbus, and the fish are described as a local variety of sardine, about 11 centimeters in size, known as 'boat fish.' The report refutes the waterspout theory due to the consistent type of fish and the localized, repeatable nature of the event. The meteorologists involved observed the fish swimming upstream before the squalls and noted their persistence in jumping after the fall, seemingly unharmed. The precise location is described as 'The Swamp' district of Yoro, characterized by small ponds.

Octopus Giganteus Verrill

Gary S. Mangiacopra's paper details the discovery of a massive carcass on Anastasia Beach, Florida, in 1896, and the subsequent scientific controversy. The carcass, found by Herbert Colee and Dunham Coreter, was examined by local amateur naturalist Dr. DeWitt Webb. Webb initially concluded it was a monstrous octopus. The carcass measured 23 feet in length, four feet in height, and 18 feet across its widest part, with an estimated weight of five and a half tons. Its hide was described as light pink to white with a silvery sheen. Dr. Webb's findings were challenged by orthodox scientists. Addison Emery Verrill, a renowned zoologist, initially identified it as a giant squid but later, based on Webb's descriptions and photographs, proposed it was a new species of giant octopus, naming it *Octopus giganteus*. The controversy deepened with claims of arm fragments, with one arm reportedly measuring 23 feet long and another over 32 feet, suggesting a potential span of 200 feet. The carcass was eventually washed out to sea by a storm. Verrill's initial identification as a giant squid was based on the absence of a 'pen' (a cartilage found in squids) and other bony structures. The article notes that Verrill, a professor at Yale, was under financial pressure and wrote extensively for popular publications. Later, Verrill retracted his findings, publishing retractions in Science and the New York Herald after receiving preserved specimens from Webb. The article suggests that the initial identification and subsequent controversy highlight the challenges in classifying unusual biological finds and the potential for scientific debate and even fraud.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit consistently explores the intersection of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and scientific investigation into unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to favor presenting detailed accounts of sightings and discoveries, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions while often providing scientific or rational explanations where available. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-minded inquiry, documenting unusual events and the efforts to understand them, whether they be lake monsters, atmospheric anomalies, or giant marine invertebrates. There is an emphasis on historical context and the challenges of verification in such cases.

This issue of Pursuit, dated October 1975, is a 7-volume publication from The Society, priced at $1.75 postpaid. It delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, including a historical sea monster case, Bigfoot sightings, theories about global anomalous zones, and the perplexing issue of cattle mutilations.

The Florida 'Sea Monster' Case

The issue revisits the controversy surrounding a large, unidentified carcass found on a Florida beach in December 1896. Initially described as a "Florida Monster," the specimen was examined by Professor Verrill, who concluded it resembled whale blubber and could not be an octopus due to its lack of contractile muscular tissue. He suggested it might be the upper part of a sperm whale's head or a diseased nose. Professor Frederic Augustus Lucas of the National Museum supported Verrill's view, stating the substance looked like blubber and dismissing the idea of arm stumps. Verrill later retracted his initial octopus identification, leaning towards the whale hypothesis. The article notes that the tissue samples sent to Yale and the Smithsonian were eventually lost. The story was later brought to public attention by Charles Fort and subsequently mentioned by other fortean writers. Dr. Forrest G. Wood, Jr., initiated a personal investigation, leading to Dr. Joseph F. Gennaro, Jr. examining preserved tissue samples. Gennaro's histological analysis concluded the tissue was similar to octopus connective tissue and dissimilar to squid or whale tissue, seemingly vindicating the 'giant octopus' identification.

Bigfoot in New Jersey

Robert E. Jones reports on ongoing Bigfoot sightings in Northwestern New Jersey, with 28 eye-witness accounts collected but no physical evidence found. The article highlights the quality of some witnesses and mentions daylight sightings. A field study group is being organized to gather more information and evidence about the phenomenon. The Society has kept the study somewhat unpublicized to avoid sensationalism.

Chaos and Confusion: The Dodecated Globe

This serialized article by William H. Whammond explores Ivan Sanderson's hypothesis of 'Vile Vortices,' which suggested the globe was divided into anomalous zones. Whammond connects Sanderson's ideas to the principles of geodesic domes and the spherical icosahedron, proposing that these 'foci' might be equipartitioned across the globe. He discusses potential causes for these phenomena, including rotating masses of water like the Gulf Stream, atmospheric cyclones, and the Earth's molten magma. Whammond also draws parallels between the 'canals' of Mars and potential tectonic plate divisions, suggesting that infrared radiation might be responsible for their visibility. The article touches upon the limited knowledge of the Earth's interior and the concept of a hollow Earth, suggesting that equipartitioning might occur due to internal forces.

Book Reviews

The "Book Reviews" section features several entries:

• The Unidentified by Jerome Clark and Loren Coleman: This book is described as a logical extension of the work of Vallee and Keel, proposing a hypothesis based on Jung's idea of UFOs as projections from the "collective unconscious." The authors are praised for fleshing out Jung's abstract theories with detail and demonstrating archetypal scenarios common to humanoid encounters and fairy lore. However, the reviewer expresses misgivings about Jung's concepts and their application, particularly regarding the lack of a "flying saucer syndrome" in neurotic populations. Despite these reservations, the book is recommended for ufologists, students of psychic phenomena, and folklorists.
• Other Worlds, Other Universes by Brad Steiger and John White: This book is an edited collection of excerpts from various theologians, mystics, and scientists, offering an overview of ideas concerning alternate universes. The reviewer finds it a refreshing change from typical occult literature.
• The Bermuda Triangle Literature: A summary of 11 books on the Bermuda Triangle is provided, with brief descriptions and recommendations. Notable titles include Lawrence David Kusche's "The Bermuda Triangle Mystery Solved," which effectively debunks the mystery, and Ivan T. Sanderson's "Invisible Residents."

Members' Forum

This section includes:

• Donations: Acknowledgment of donations received by The Society, including significant contributions from members and anonymous donors. The Society expresses gratitude for the support, which helps fund operations like purchasing office equipment.
• Cattle Mutilations: This segment discusses the phenomenon of cattle mutilations, which has received significant press attention. While UFOs are often linked, the article presents information from trusted sources suggesting that the mutilations are a criminal problem, possibly involving Satanists, and not a fortean mystery. It warns against public hysteria and potential miscarriages of justice.

Correspondence and Book Orders

This section includes a letter from a member seeking information about a story concerning a telepathic monster. It also lists several publications available for purchase, including expanded versions of articles, French journals on archeological anomalies, and books on the Loch Ness Monster and UFO phenomena. The "Sourcebook" series, focusing on "curious astronomical observations," is also mentioned. The section concludes with a discussion about the belief that the CIA is behind "men in black" stories and an invitation for individuals to provide sworn statements about civil rights violations related to UFO investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, the investigation of mysteries, and the critical examination of evidence. The magazine appears to favor a fortean approach, which seeks to document and analyze unusual events, but also emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific inquiry and the avoidance of sensationalism. The editorial stance seems to be one of open-mindedness towards the unexplained, coupled with a healthy skepticism and a demand for factual evidence. The publication also highlights the importance of member contributions and community involvement in research efforts.

This document is a directory of personnel for The Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained. It lists the members of its various boards, including the Governing Board, Executive Board, Editorial Board, and a comprehensive Scientific Advisory Board. The issue date, volume, and publisher are not specified.

Governing Board

• The Governing Board is composed of:
• Robert C. Warth (Trustee and President pro tem)
• R. Martin Wolf (Trustee and Vice-President pro tem)
• Albena E. Zwerver (Trustee and Secretary)
• Adolph L. Heuer, Jr. (Trustee and Treasurer)
• Robert J. Durant (Trustee)
• Robert E. Jones (Trustee)
• Gregory Arend (Trustee)

Executive Board

• The Executive Board includes:
• Robert C. Warth
• Albena E. Zwerver
• Robert J. Durant
• Carl J. Pabst
• Gregory Arend
• Sabina W. Sanderson

Editorial Board

• The Editorial Board consists of:
• Robert J. Durant
• R. Martin Wolf

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board is extensive and features experts from a wide range of disciplines and institutions:

• 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: Director, The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured, Morton, Pa. (Mentalogy)
• 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)

Publisher Information

The back page contains information for Hicks Printing Company, located at 37 Belvidere Avenue, Washington, New Jersey, with a telephone number of 201-689-0194. This suggests Hicks Printing Company is the printer for this publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

While this document primarily serves as a directory, the composition of the Scientific Advisory Board, with its diverse range of scientific disciplines, suggests a broad and rigorous approach to investigating unexplained phenomena. The inclusion of experts in fields like anthropology, geology, astronomy, and biology indicates an intent to apply scientific methodologies to subjects that may fall outside conventional understanding.