Pursuit - No 36 - Vol 09 No 4 - 1976

Magazine Overview

Title: PURSUIT
Issue: VOL. 9 NO. 4
Date: FALL 1976
Publisher: THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE UNEXPLAINED
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of PURSUIT, the journal of the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU), delves into the mysterious phenomenon of Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC), with a prominent feature on the case of Dr. John Irving Bentley. The cover art by '76 WOLFI depicts a dramatic scene, possibly representing the intense nature of SHC.

Editorial: The Problem of UFO Study Groups

Robert C. Warth, in his editorial, addresses the persistent issues plaguing UFO study groups: competition, politicking, jealousy, lack of organization, poor data exchange, and insufficient funding. He notes that these groups often operate as outsiders due to public ridicule and government cold-shouldering. A significant concern is the suspicion that government agencies monitor or infiltrate these groups, potentially hindering genuine investigation. Warth suggests that the fear of government intervention could be used as an excuse for organizational incompetence. He also touches upon the inherent risk of UFO groups self-destructing if they achieve their goal of discovering the 'true nature of the beast.'

He contrasts this with Fortean organizations, like SITU, which he describes as covering a wider scope of unexplained phenomena. SITU's strength lies in its ability to communicate with and include a majority of known experts in Forteana. Warth expresses pride in SITU's mutual respect with its members and contributors, emphasizing the importance of writers and researchers to the organization. He acknowledges the potential for SITU to expand its audience and funding but warns against the risk of costs outweighing income, which could threaten the Society's existence. He also notes the modern tendency to measure success by sales rather than quality. Warth stresses that SITU aims to provide a platform for members to express their research and gain recognition, highlighting the high annual renewal rate as a vote of confidence. He concludes by urging members to support the journal and the organization's efforts to improve.

The Flaming Fate of Dr. John Irving Bentley

This lengthy article by Larry E. Arnold investigates the perplexing death of Dr. John Irving Bentley, a 92-year-old physician in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, on December 5, 1966. The case is characterized by the near-complete incineration of Dr. Bentley's body, leaving behind only a foot, a lower leg, and a pile of ash, with minimal damage to the surrounding environment.

The incident began when meter reader Don E. Gosnell entered Dr. Bentley's home and detected a strange, sweet odor and light-blue smoke. He found a pile of ash in the basement and later observed a hole burned through the bathroom floor, with a leg protruding from it. Gosnell's account, along with that of Deputy Coroner John Dec and other witnesses, painted a grim picture of disintegration.

Initial investigations by the fire department found no active fire, only smoldering embers. Deputy Coroner John Dec and Coroner Herman C. Mosch concluded the death was accidental, attributing it to the body burning, possibly from ignited clothing. However, the extreme nature of the cremation, far exceeding what typical fires could achieve, raised significant questions.

• Key details that fueled the mystery include:
• The body's near-complete disintegration, leaving only a foot and lower leg.
• The lack of significant fire damage to the house, except for a hole burned through the bathroom floor.
• The official cause of death listed as 'asphyxiation and 90% burning of body,' with an estimated time of death and a remarkably short interval between onset and death (½ hr).
• The impossibility of such rapid and complete disintegration through conventional means, as noted by medical experts.
• The absence of a clear ignition source, though theories included a dropped pipe ember, a 'barn-burner type of match,' or ignited clothing.
• The peculiar 'sweet odor, like perfume' noted by Deputy Coroner Dec, which is atypical of burning human flesh.

The article explores the possibility of 'Preternatural Combustibility' or Spontaneous Human Combustion, citing the criteria that the body ignites without an outside heat source and is reduced to ashes while nearby objects are unharmed. The writer suggests a correlation between the onset of magnetic storms and such events, noting that December 4 and 5, 1966, showed peaks in geomagnetic activity. This raises the fascinating prospect of an interrelation between human physiology, terrestrial, and cosmic energy patterns.

An autopsy was reportedly performed, but the findings were inconclusive, with the coroner stating, "There's nothing to autopsy! Ashes, yes! But how do you do that?" No chemical analysis of the ashen tissue was made. The death certificate was marked "Cremation" but the box could not be checked, indicating the unusual nature of the event.

The article concludes by presenting a list of historical cases of Spontaneous Human Combustion, compiled by Ivan T. Sanderson, dating back to the 17th century, further emphasizing the enduring enigma of this phenomenon. The Bentley case is presented as a prime example that challenges conventional scientific understanding.

Footnotes and References

The article extensively cites various sources, including personal interviews with witnesses and officials like Deputy Coroner John Dec and Fireman Fred Sallade, newspaper articles from The Potter Enterprise, and scientific journals and books on Forteana and human combustion. These footnotes provide a detailed account of the research process and the evidence gathered.

Epitaph and Conclusion

An epitaph from The Potter Enterprise is included, reflecting on Dr. Bentley's life dedicated to helping others. The article suggests that his demise, while tragic and unexpected, may have been a painless transition, aligning with observations in other SHC cases. The Bentley case is presented as an enigma that science must eventually explain, placing him among a select group of individuals who have experienced this extraordinary phenomenon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of PURSUIT strongly focuses on the unexplained, particularly the controversial and poorly understood phenomenon of Spontaneous Human Combustion. The editorial stance, as articulated by Robert C. Warth, is one of cautious investigation and open-minded inquiry into phenomena that lie outside the realm of conventional science. The magazine serves as a platform for researchers and writers to share their findings and theories, encouraging a deeper exploration of the unknown. The emphasis is on presenting evidence and fostering discussion, even when dealing with subjects that are met with skepticism or ridicule. The organization, SITU, positions itself as a facilitator of such research, valuing its members and contributors and aiming to provide a quality publication that supports the pursuit of Fortean knowledge.

This issue of PURSUIT, Fall 1976, features a diverse range of articles, including a detailed examination of Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC) cases, an investigation into the controversial fossil tracks found at Glen Rose, Texas, a theoretical piece on geometry, and a discussion on the role of water in Bigfoot sightings.

Spontaneous Human Combustion Cases

The magazine presents a chronological list of documented cases of Spontaneous Human Combustion (SHC) from 1933 to 1969. These accounts describe individuals found burned to ashes or with severe burns, often with minimal damage to their surroundings. Notable cases include Temple Thurston, found consumed in his chair; a young woman who burst into flame while paddling; Aura Troyer, found with burned clothing; and numerous others where victims were reduced to ashes or charred remains, with little to no evidence of external fire.

Fossil Tracks at Glen Rose

The cover story, "FOSSIL TRACKS AT GLEN ROSE" by John Green, delves into the controversial findings at the Paluxy River site in Texas. The article discusses reports of human-like and 'giant' footprints found in limestone formations alongside dinosaur tracks. It highlights the work of the Films for Christ Association, which produced a film titled "Footprints in Stone," showcasing these tracks. The author recounts his own investigations, including visits to the site and correspondence with scientific institutions, many of whom dismissed the tracks as hoaxes or natural formations. Dr. Walper, a non-Creationist geologist, is cited as confirming that the tracks were made by a bipedal creature with elongated feet, but could not identify any known dinosaur that could have left them. The article suggests these tracks might indicate the evolution of a foot and stride similar to Homo Sapiens, dating back 130 million years, or imply the simultaneous existence of humans and dinosaurs.

A Theory of Lines

Bruce Jordon presents "A THEORY OF LINES," a theoretical exploration of geometry and measurement. Jordon posits that lines are constant progressions from a point A to a point B, and that measurement is relative. He introduces concepts of straight lines, spiral lines, and helix lines, each with different properties related to progression, acceleration, deceleration, and dimensionality. The theory suggests that a sphere can be understood as a complex geometric construction involving phase differences, and hints at potential connections to sub-atomic particles and the nature of reality.

Prescriptions for the New Science

Neil M. Lorber's article, "PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THE NEW SCIENCE," argues for the increasing importance of technological instrumentation and objective measurement in Fortean research. Lorber contends that while traditional research methods have served well, the complexity of modern scientific inquiry necessitates a shift towards non-human, technological means of detection and verification to establish the reality of phenomena. He emphasizes the need for Forteans to embrace objectivity and utilize advanced technology to move beyond subjective observation and achieve a more advanced level of science.

Bigfoot and Water

Milton LaSalle's article, "BIGFOOT AND WATER," examines the significant connection between Bigfoot sightings and bodies of water. LaSalle notes that a large proportion of reported sightings involve Bigfoot wading, swimming, fishing, or interacting with water in other ways. He presents figures indicating that 65% to 78% of sightings have a water connection, suggesting this is more than a coincidence. The article details various reports, including Bigfoot teaching young to swim and fish, using riverbanks as travel routes, and utilizing lakes for concealment. It also discusses intriguing cases of Bigfoot breaking through ice to access water, raising questions about their diet and behavior.

Nessie Jr. in Tanzania: Mystery No More

This short piece debunks a report of a 'freakish creature' caught in Tanzania, identified as "Nessie Junior." The creature, initially described with monstrous features, is revealed to be a common fish, *Antennarious commersoni*. The article, citing SPOOF (the Society for the Protection Of Old Fishes, Inc.), provides details about the fish's physical characteristics and behavior, clarifying that it is not a monster but a small, bottom-dwelling fish.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, including unexplained deaths (SHC), anomalous fossil evidence, theoretical frameworks for reality, and cryptid reports (Bigfoot). The editorial stance appears to favor open investigation of such mysteries, encouraging the use of both empirical observation and new scientific approaches, while also acknowledging the need for rigorous verification and the potential for hoaxes or misinterpretations. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader, more inclusive approach to science that considers phenomena outside the mainstream.

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, Fall 1976, features a prominent cover story titled "MUTILATIONS: WHO-OR WHAT-REALLY IS KILLING THE CATTLE?" by Curt Sutherly. The issue also includes an index for 1975 and 1976, and various sections related to the Society for the Investigation of the Unexplained (SITU), including its governing board, departments, and scientific advisory board.

Part I: Cattle Mutilations - Who-or What-Really is Killing the Cattle?

The main article, "Mutilations: Who-or What-Really is Killing the Cattle?" by Curt Sutherly, begins by introducing the phenomenon of cattle mutilations occurring across the United States. The editor's note highlights that two members of the Governing Board have just completed a two-month investigation into the subject, the findings of which will be reported in the January issue of Pursuit along with Part II of this article.

Part I of the article focuses on debunking common theories surrounding these mutilations. The author notes that ranchers are arming themselves and that law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, have been involved, all without success. Two primary schools of thought are presented: one suggesting aliens in spaceships are responsible, and the other pointing to devil cultists.

The article critically examines the devil cult theory, citing an article by Keith Randolph (a pseudonym) in a men's magazine that outlined the history of mutilations from 1970-74 and their connection to presumed devil cultists. Randolph's theory involves a leader named "Howard" and his followers creating a "hell on Earth." The proposed method includes tranquilizing the animal, using cardboard mats to cover tracks, breaking a capsule of amyl nitrate to speed the heartbeat, and then using surgical blades and syringes to perform the butchery without leaving a trace.

However, the author of the Pursuit article finds significant weaknesses in this theory. A key point of contention is the lack of evidence, such as footprints, at the sites of slaughtered animals. The article presents specific cases from McPherson County, Kansas, on November 30, 1973, and January 8, 1974, where cows were found dead. While tracks from a four-wheel drive vehicle and human prints were found, they were inconsistent and did not lead to the animals. The article questions how these tracks could be explained by the cultists' methods, especially if winds were strong enough to obliterate them.

The article also challenges the use of tranquilizer guns, citing a Kansas lawman who noted the difficulty of their use. It further questions the logistics of a cult operating with a large number of people, helicopters, and significant financial resources, suggesting that such an operation would require an organization with the wealth of an entire nation.

Another case mentioned is from a Texas press story (February 11, 1975) about a dog found with its blood drained and genitals removed, expertly skinned. The lack of blood around the carcass led to the suggestion that the animal was killed and skinned elsewhere.

A report from the Colorado Gazette Telegraph (October 23, 1975) details the mutilation of a buffalo within the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, despite tight security. The carcass was skinned, and the blood was found to be serosanguinous. Human tracks were again absent.

The article then transitions to the possibility of extraterrestrial involvement, stating, "All of which brings us to the other side of the coin, i.e., the idea of killers from another planet...."

Vampire Cats

Another article, "Vampire Cats" by X, recounts a story from Canada about a "flying cat." The author investigated a newspaper clipping from the Kingston Whig-Standard (June 25, 1966) about an animal described as an ordinary black cat with a hump and wing-like growths, which was shot down by Constable Terence Argall. Residents reported that the cat had terrorized other animals and startled humans, attacking dogs and cats by jumping and gliding.

The article details the investigation by the author, who spoke with Constable Argall. Argall recalled the incident, noting that the cat weighed 93/4 pounds, had long teeth, and was shot five times. He denied seeing the cat fly. Jean Revers, Arthur Lavoie, and Maurice Bellefeuille were involved in chasing and shooting the animal. Photographs were taken, and the incident became a local sensation.

An autopsy was performed on the cat by Dr. E. B. Meas. The findings indicated a mass of matted hair and that the animal had been shot through the head. The primary concern of the laboratory was to determine if the creature was rabid. Arthur Lavoie's cat was later euthanized for rabies examination, which confirmed it had rabies, likely from an attack by the "flying cat." The article suggests that the "flying cat" was likely affected by rabies, went mad, and attacked other animals, with its fur becoming matted due to not grooming itself and being weakened.

Symposium and Miscellaneous Sections

The "Symposium" section includes "Comments and Opinions." One part expresses gratitude to Claudia Englert for her help to SITU. Another section urgently requests members to inform the society of address changes to prevent journal returns. A significant announcement details a new research fee for mailed requests to headquarters, explaining that an increase in membership has led to a surge in research requests, straining staff time. The society is unable to continue providing this service for free and will charge accordingly, with a self-addressed stamped envelope required for notification of charges. Reasonable inquiries will still be answered without charge.

A member (#659) is researching regression hypnosis on a mass scale and is seeking others interested in the subject. Another item promotes T-shirts for sale, described as a way for members to express their Fortean interests, costing four dollars plus postage and handling.

Prescriptions for the New Science

This section, continuing from page 88, discusses the use of modern technological equipment by Forteans. It emphasizes that Forteans should utilize existing apparatus in unique ways for novel purposes, applying their creative and innovative minds. The call is for expanding scientific repertoire into areas traditionally monopolized by establishment science, not for abdication, but for fertilization of narrow thinking with unique Fortean contributions.

Editorial and Index

The issue includes an "Editorial" and an "Index for 1975" and "Index for 1976." The editorial section lists various articles published in the magazine, covering topics such as UFOs, ontology, planetology, biology, anthropology, geology, mentology, physics, and chaos and confusion. The index provides a comprehensive list of articles, authors, and page numbers for the preceding years.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, particularly cattle mutilations and cryptids like the "flying cat." The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, questioning conventional explanations and encouraging a deeper, more investigative approach to these mysteries. The magazine promotes the idea of Fortean research as a vital endeavor, utilizing modern technology and unique perspectives to expand scientific understanding beyond the confines of mainstream science. There is a clear emphasis on evidence-based analysis, even while exploring unconventional subjects.