Pursuit - No 69 - Vol 18 No 1 - 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Vol. 18, No. 1, Whole No. 69
Date: First Quarter 1985
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine focuses on two primary areas: the potential for advanced ancient technology, specifically electricity in ancient Egypt, and extensive reports on a significant UFO wave in the northeastern United States.

'Electricity in Ancient Times'

The lead article, by Reinhard Habeck, translated by Ulrich Magin, delves into the possibility that ancient Egyptian civilization possessed knowledge of electricity. The author questions how ancient structures like the pyramids could have been built with the technology attributed to them, suggesting a more advanced understanding than traditional archaeology allows. The article highlights the absence of soot in ancient structures, which contradicts the use of torches or lamps for illumination, leading to speculation about alternative light sources. Professor Helmuth Satzinger is quoted as suggesting the possibility of non-sooting torches, though this remains unproven. The article then focuses on the discovery by Austrian scientist Wilhelm König of a potential pre-Christian dry-battery in Iran, consisting of a copper tube, an iron rod, and an acidic or alkaline solution, which emitted 0.5 volts when tested. This artifact, similar to later experiments by Luigi Galvani and F.M. Gray, suggests a practical understanding of galvanic elements.

Further exploration of ancient technology is presented through the analysis of reliefs in the Dendera temple. The author, along with Peter Krassa, describes wall carvings depicting human figures, bubble-like objects resembling bulbs, stylized serpents (interpreted as filaments), and a 'box' resembling a generator. These are linked to the Egyptian god Shu (god of air) and the 'Djed-column,' which is compared to a modern high-voltage insulator. The article discusses the interpretation of these reliefs as possibly representing the generation and transmission of electricity, with the knives held by the god Thoth possibly symbolizing the dangers of electricity. The author criticizes Egyptologists for resorting to symbolic or ritualistic explanations rather than seeking technical interpretations, suggesting a deliberate overlooking of evidence that could challenge established paradigms.

Walter Garn, an electrical engineer, is also cited for his interpretation of the Dendera reliefs, suggesting the 'serpents' represent electrical arcs and the 'Djed-column' is designed to maximize the path for electrical discharges. The article concludes that a multidisciplinary approach, involving technicians, is needed to understand these ancient illustrations, and that they represent a form of technical writing.

'The Westchester Wing - A Closer Look'

This extensive article by R. Perry Collins details the UFO wave that occurred in the counties of Westchester, New York, and Fairfield, Connecticut, from the spring of 1983 to the fall of 1984. An estimated 30,000 individuals witnessed a large, triangular, 'V'-shaped flying wing object. The author, an aerospace engineer, personally witnessed the object on August 21st, 1983, and began an in-depth investigation. The article notes that federal agents offered explanations like 'hang gliders' and 'light aircraft,' which were deemed inadequate. The object was described as hovering, silent, and capable of rapid acceleration and deceleration, with multicolored lights that changed color and intensity.

The article highlights the attempts by authorities to censor reports, particularly from police officers who were instructed to explain the sightings as conventional aircraft activity. The Stormville pilots, flying in V-formations, were initially suggested as an explanation, but the author found evidence of censorship and evasiveness from these pilots. Lt. George Lesnick and Philip Imbrogno are identified as key investigators in the area, with J. Allen Hynek of CUFOS acknowledging the wave as one of the largest in history.

Detailed accounts are provided for specific nights, including August 21st, 1983, and September 23rd, 1983. On August 21st, reports came from various towns, describing a huge, low-flying object with multicolored lights. The author's own sighting described a 'V'-shaped display of lights moving silently. Security guards and police officers also reported sightings, with some police chiefs attempting to suppress the information. The article notes that the object's flight path traced a consistent line over several towns.

Phil Imbrogno has documented numerous similar incidents in New York counties. Initially, official explanations pointed to 'ultra-light' aircraft, later shifting to formations of light planes from Stormville Airport. An FAA inquiry revealed that pilots did fly in formation, but witnesses, including police officers, maintained that the observed object was not conventional aircraft due to its size, maneuverability, and interaction with observers.

Other Content

Obituary: The issue includes a report on the sudden death of Joan O'Connell, editor of the NEW ATLANTEAN JOURNAL and co-author of several UFO books. SITU expresses condolences and welcomes former NAJ members.

Membership and Publication Information: Details are provided for SITU membership, including costs for US and international members, and the benefits of receiving the quarterly journal PURSUIT. Information on purchasing back issues and submitting material for publication is also included. The Society's operational structure, including its reference files and Scientific Advisory Board, is outlined.

Important Notices: The Society clarifies its stance on not offering services to non-members, not holding political or religious views, and restricting the use of its membership list. It also notes that contributions to SITU are tax-deductible.

Letters to the Editor and SITUations: These sections provide a platform for member feedback and brief reports on unexplained phenomena.

Books Reviewed: A section dedicated to reviewing relevant books is present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena that lie outside the scope of conventional science, including ancient technologies and UFOs. The editorial stance, as represented by SITU, is one of open investigation and data collection for phenomena that are not being studied by mainstream science. There is a clear advocacy for a more critical and less dismissive approach to anomalous evidence, particularly in the case of ancient Egyptian history and contemporary UFO sightings. The magazine encourages member participation and the sharing of information to advance the understanding of the unexplained.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1985, delves into various unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings, military encounters, and historical mysteries surrounding ancient civilizations and sunken cities.

Diamond Fire - A Close Encounter Of The Military Kind

This article by Harry Lebelson recounts the experience of Betty Cash, Vickie Landrum, and her nephew Colby in Texas on December 29, 1980. Their car stopped on Highway FM 1485 due to a water-tower-sized, diamond-shaped, blue-tinged craft hovering nearby, emitting red-orange flames and a beeping sound. The object rose and moved away, only for them to encounter a large number of military-like helicopters, described as large, double-rotor types, pursuing them. In the aftermath, the participants suffered severe symptoms, including burns attributed to microwave radiation, headaches, diarrhea, nausea, massive knot-like boils, impaired vision, and extreme hair loss. Betty Cash contacted NASA, leading to an investigation by John Schuessler of VISIT, who suspected an experimental US military vehicle that malfunctioned. Investigations involving the US Air Force and Army yielded no direct involvement, though Lieutenant Colonel George Sarran and Major Dennis Haire probed the incident. Despite resistance, VISIT investigators found no military group responsible for the object or helicopters, although local police officers testified to observing CH-47 helicopters searching the area.

UFOs in Connecticut and the 'Westchester Wing'

The issue details a sighting on September 23rd, 1983, in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, where three girls and their mother witnessed a large, kite-like, triangular object with steady red and blue lights. The object flew overhead and then disappeared, with witnesses estimating its width at 300-500 ft and length at 200-300 ft. A graduate student from the University of Connecticut also reported seeing three unusual lights. The article notes that police dispatchers mentioned two other similar sightings in the preceding weeks. The phenomenon of 'formation flying' by pilots in light aircraft, possibly as a cover for UFO activity, is also discussed, with reports of pilots refusing to identify themselves and avoiding authorities. Phil Imbrogno, an investigator, has extensively documented similar reports in Westchester, Putnam, and Duchess counties in New York, suggesting these activities were not easily explained by conventional aircraft.

Media Coverage Of The "Westchester Wing"

A comprehensive list details media coverage of UFO sightings in the New York/Connecticut area from March 1983 through December 1984. Numerous local and national newspapers, including the New York Times, Bridgeport Post, and New Haven Register, reported on these events, indicating a widespread public awareness of the phenomenon.

Summary of the UFO Phenomenon

Thousands of individuals in the New York/Connecticut area witnessed an unusual aerial object in 1983 and 1984, consistently described as large, structured, "V"-shaped, silent, and flying slowly. It was observed to accelerate rapidly, rotate, make right-angle turns, hover, and display variable lighting. The article suggests that this wave of activity seemed more open and intense than previous UFO events, attracting public attention. The possibility of a superior culture attempting to communicate or intervene in human affairs, potentially preventing nuclear conflict, is raised. The document also notes covert FBI interest in these investigations, with reports of attempted censorship by superiors and federal agents trying to explain away sightings.

Etruscans - 'Eastern Atlanteans'?

This section, authored by Vladimir Shcherbakov, proposes a connection between the legendary Atlantis and the Etruscans. Shcherbakov maintains that Atlantis was opposed by an 'Eastern Atlantis' on the Mediterranean coast, and its descendants are the Etruscans. He claims to have found a key to reading Etruscan inscriptions, suggesting a link between Etruscan and Russian languages, with roots tracing back to Eastern Atlantis nine millennia ago. The article discusses Plato's accounts of Atlantis and suggests that the end of the Atlantean civilization coincided with the end of the last glacial period, possibly due to a cataclysm. It also touches upon archaeological finds in Catal Huyuk, Asia Minor, and the Etruscan culture's origins.

The Secret of Etruscan Mirrors

This part of the article explores the Etruscan language and inscriptions, particularly those found on polished bronze mirrors. Shcherbakov suggests that the peculiar way these inscriptions are written, often reversed or distorted, is due to the artists copying them from mirror reflections, leading to errors. He claims to have found twin mirrors that prove this method and offers a key to understanding the Etruscan language, linking it to ancient Slavic languages and suggesting that Etruscans wrote as they heard.

Sons of Leopard

This section delves into the Etruscan word "toopi" (deluge/punishment) and the scattering of Eastern Atlantean tribes after a catastrophe. It traces the migration of tribes, including the Pelasgians and Etruscans, and their connection to the Hutti-Slavic tree and the Vikings. The article suggests that the migration of European peoples was influenced by the freeing of territories from ice and the Gulf Stream after a catastrophe.

Sunken Cities of the Caspian Sea

Authored by Jon Douglas Singer, M.A., this extensive article investigates reports of sunken cities in the Caspian Sea. It details the Caspian Sea's geography and geological instability, mentioning frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. The article recounts a story from L. Taylor Hansen's book, 'The Ancient Atlantic,' about a submarine crew sighting a sunken city in the Caspian. It also discusses Charles Berlitz's mention of a Soviet discovery of a sunken city in the Bay of Baku, potentially named Poseidonis, though most researchers believe Atlantis was in the Atlantic. The article examines various theories linking these sunken sites to Atlantis, including those proposed by Reginald Fessenden, who suggested the Caspian was originally the Atlantic Ocean. It also explores the possibility of ancient civilizations, such as the Khazars, having settlements submerged in the Caspian, citing archaeological findings and historical accounts of lost cities like Itil and Asbeskun. The author notes the difficulty in dating these sites and identifying the cultures responsible, but highlights the potential for future discoveries to shed light on these mysteries. The section also references ancient maps that depict unusual connections between the Arctic and Caspian Seas, suggesting they might preserve memories of long-lost geographical configurations.

Related SITUations

This section provides brief updates on related topics. The Caspian Sea is reported to be getting deeper due to increased precipitation and slowed evaporation. Additionally, Soviet divers may have discovered the remains of a submerged village in the Black Sea, potentially an Atlantis-type settlement named Akra, with finds including pottery, stone structures, and ancient artifacts dating back to the 4th Century B.C.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics related to UFOs, ancient mysteries, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness testimony, investigative reports, and speculative theories without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider the evidence and draw their own inferences. There is a clear interest in challenging conventional explanations and exploring alternative historical and scientific perspectives.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1985, presents a collection of articles exploring mysteries, historical events, and potential government cover-ups. The cover prominently features the headline "SITUation Mystery Cloud Baffles Scientists" and includes images of Betty Cash detailing physical effects from an incident.

Key Articles and Investigations

The Cash/Landrum Lawsuit and Military Aircraft Development

The issue details the lawsuit filed by Vickie Landrum and Betty Cash in January 1984, seeking $20 million in damages from the United States government. They allege that an "experimental aerial device of a hazardous nature," possibly a government craft, caused them harm. Attorney Peter Gersten is representing them. The article traces the historical interest in nuclear power for aircraft propulsion, starting from World War II with the Manhattan Project and leading to the NEPA project, later known as Project Kiwi. It highlights the military's rationale for pursuing nuclear-powered aircraft, driven by the need for long-range strategic bombers and concerns about Soviet advancements. The navy's involvement, spearheaded by Captain Hyman Rickover, and predictions of atomic aircraft are also mentioned. The article notes that despite over ten years of research, problems like dispersing radioactive material and reactor weight persisted. It suggests that recent unearthed documents and sightings of unidentified aerial objects might indicate a successful, albeit secret, development of such a project.

The Mystery Cloud Over Japan

Another significant piece reports on a baffling incident in October 1983, where Captain Charles H. McDade of Japan Airlines Flight 36 and four other airline pilots reported witnessing a massive, rapidly expanding mushroom cloud off the northern coast of Japan. The cloud rose to an estimated height of 60,000 feet in two minutes. Fearing a nuclear explosion, the pilots had their planes checked for radioactivity, but none was found. The Japanese government investigated but found no radioactive dust or debris. Scientists have suggested it was not a natural phenomenon. Theories include a Soviet test of a new type of long-range beam weapon, exploiting Nikola Tesla's theories. Dr. Daniel A. Walker, a geophysics professor, analyzed seismic and volcanic data and concluded there was no natural source for the cloud. He contends that "scalar" waves could be involved. Thomas E. Bearden and Dr. Stefan Possony, a former Air Force intelligence officer, believe it was evidence of a Soviet beam weapon test. However, many physicists and arms analysts dismiss these theories, with some suggesting it might have been an unusual pattern of vertical turbulence misinterpreted by the pilots.

The Search for Noah's Ark

An interview with Bulent Atalay, a theoretical nuclear physicist who helped search for Noah's Ark in Turkey, is featured. Atalay, who describes himself as a "docile theoretical physicist" rather than an "Indiana Jones," discusses his involvement with expeditions near Mount Ararat. He explains that an ark-sized depression was found, shaped like a pistachio, which he believes could have been an ancient shrine. Atalay's father was a Turkish general, which aided in obtaining permissions for expeditions in the militarily sensitive border area. He recounts the legend of Noah's Ark and the work of Frenchman Ferdnand Navara, who claimed to have found pieces of wood from the ark, carbon-dated to be 4,000 to 5,000 years old. Atalay expresses caution about flood theories at high altitudes. He discusses his three fields of interest: art, archeology, and physics, and his preference for applying science to archeology. He also touches upon the subculture of archeologists and fundamentalists in the US who approached him for scientific consultation.

The Loch Ness Monster Propaganda Case

The magazine analyzes a World War II propaganda incident involving the Loch Ness Monster. An Italian newspaper, Popolo d'Italia, claimed Mussolini's forces had killed the monster. This report, published in 1941 when Britain was under heavy bombardment, is presented as an attempt to demoralize the British population. The London Daily Mail published a rebuttal with a sighting report from Mr. J. MacFarlan-Barrow and his children. The article then delves into the role of William Randolph Hearst's "American Weekly" in reviving the story. A letter purportedly from a Count Goffredo Pantaleoni to a friend, "G," claims "G" bombed and possibly killed the Loch Ness Monster. The author critically analyzes this letter, questioning its authenticity and suggesting it was a propaganda fabrication designed to ridicule Italian air force infallibility or to dupe the American public. The analysis concludes that the incident was propaganda and that the Loch Ness Monster was not harmed.

The "Cabbage Snakes" Mystery

Another short story recounts the "cabbage snake" mystery from White County, Georgia, in 1903. A farmer named Dyer claimed that strange worms, described as thin, whitish, and snake-like, infested cabbage crops and caused deaths. This led to an economic disaster for local farmers. The state chemist, Dr. J.H. McCandless, later retracted claims that the worm contained poison, stating he had no knowledge of such worms. The Atlanta Journal reported that the specimen was identified as an "eel-worm" or "hair-worm," akin to a fishing worm, but further investigation by newspapers ceased. The article discusses the possibility of nemertine worms, which have a retractable proboscis resembling a snake's tongue, as a potential identification, though most are marine. The author questions whether the infestation was real or a hoax to manipulate the cabbage market.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pursuit magazine revolve around unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, potential government secrecy, and the analysis of propaganda. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking to uncover truths behind alleged events, whether they involve military technology, unexplained aerial phenomena, cryptozoology, or historical incidents. The magazine encourages readers to question official narratives and to consider alternative explanations, often drawing on historical documents and scientific analysis to support its investigations. There is a clear interest in exposing potential cover-ups and dissecting how information, or misinformation, is disseminated, particularly in contexts of conflict or national security.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1985 (Vol. 17, #4), is a 38-page publication that delves into a variety of mysterious and paranormal topics. The cover story focuses on the ongoing mystery of the Oak Island treasure hunt, while other articles explore alleged UFO sightings, ancient civilizations, and historical enigmas. The magazine features book reviews and a correction notice.

Articles

The Cabbage Snake Scare

This article examines the historical "cabbage snake" scare, which occurred in the early 1900s. It discusses reports of a creature resembling a caterpillar found in cabbages, which scientists later identified as an eel worm or hair worm (Mermis albicans). The piece notes the subtle nature of the hoax, if it was one, and the lack of scientific explanation for the public's belief.

Secrets Of The Almousseri

This section introduces the Almousseri, a secret society of village shamans in Foutatoro, described by Gaspard Mollien. These shamans underwent rigorous initiation rites and allegedly gained the ability to behold all the kingdoms of the earth. A testimonial from Boukari, Mollien's guide, recounts an incident where an Almousseri's canoe remained dry during a torrential rain, a secret the Almousseri refused to reveal for fear of retribution.

The Hopping Horror

This piece details a bizarre incident from 1828, reported in a letter from Eliphalet St. John and co-signed by physician Samuel L. Mitchell. A young woman in Edinburg, New York, discovered a tumor on her shoulder that, when opened, revealed a two-inch grasshopper. The physician concluded the egg had been deposited the previous year and incubated.

Fact or Fiction? Don Juan Matus: Yaqui Brujo

Authored by George Agogino, this article critically examines the figure of Don Juan Matus, the Yaqui shaman central to Carlos Castaneda's books. Agogino, drawing on his research in northwest Mexico, suggests that Don Juan is likely a composite character, created from various native practitioners, rather than a single individual. He notes that Castaneda's books blend Yaqui beliefs with oriental philosophy and that the author himself is elusive, making verification difficult. Despite these doubts, Agogino acknowledges that Castaneda's work provides insight into Yaqui culture and religion.

An Oak Island Mystery Update - Six Have Died Trying To Unearth Island Treasure

This article by Janet Crowley provides an update on the persistent and costly treasure hunt on Oak Island, Nova Scotia. Legends attribute the buried treasure to Captain Kidd, the Inca nation, or Marie Antoinette. The island is guarded by a network of tunnels and tides, and a local legend states that seven men must die before the treasure is found; six have died so far. Artifacts unearthed include iron, wire, gold, wood, parchment, and coconut fibers. Dan Blankenship, a key figure in the current search, expresses his conviction that something of great value lies buried, despite numerous setbacks.

A Preliminary Study of the Relationship Between So-called UFO Waves, Natural Constants and Planetary Cycles

Written by Keith L. Partain, M.Sc., this article explores the potential correlations between UFO waves (or 'flaps'), natural constants, and planetary cycles. Partain analyzes Saunders' 61-month cycle and suggests it may be a spatio-temporal invariant related to the golden ratio and pi. He also investigates potential links to the synodic and sidereal years of Venus and the Mars cycle, suggesting that UFO phenomena might be influenced by natural or extraterrestrial factors.

Books Reviewed

SEARCH FOR THE TASMANIAN TIGER

Reviewed by George W. Earley, this book by Quentin Beresford and Garry Bailey chronicles the history of the Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacinus cynocephalus). The review notes that while officially extinct, reports of sightings persist. The book traces the decline of the species from the arrival of Europeans in Tasmania and highlights the ongoing search for surviving populations.

THE WAR OF GODS AND MEN

Reviewed by Barbara Clow, this book by Zecharia Sitchin is the third part of "The Earth Chronicles." It focuses on Sumerian and Egyptian sources to interpret ancient history, particularly the concept of "the Gods" (Nefilim) and their influence on Earth, including the creation of Homo Sapiens and a potential nuclear holocaust in 2024 BC. The review praises Sitchin's research and its implications for understanding human origins and extraterrestrial contact.

SKY CRASH: A COSMIC CONSPIRACY

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this book by Brenda Butler, Jenny Randles, and Dot Street is discussed with a note on the controversy surrounding it. The book deals with UFO encounters in England's Rendlesham Forest in 1980, involving U.S. military personnel, UFOs, and alleged aliens. The reviewer notes inaccuracies in the book but acknowledges its importance in telling a significant story.

VISIONS * APPARITIONS * ALIEN VISITORS

Reviewed by Sabina Warren Sanderson, this book by Hilary Evans is praised for its comprehensive approach to investigating visions and apparitions. Evans argues that these phenomena, whether ghosts, religious visions, or alien encounters, should be studied together, suggesting a common underlying cause or mechanism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, and the search for hidden truths. The articles cover a range of subjects from historical enigmas like the Oak Island treasure and the Tasmanian Tiger, to paranormal phenomena such as UFOs and apparitions, and speculative theories about ancient astronauts and extraterrestrial influence. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded stance towards these topics, presenting research and theories that challenge conventional explanations, while also critically examining the evidence and sources, as seen in the review of Castaneda's work and the discussion of UFO wave correlations. The editorial stance encourages readers to consider alternative interpretations of history and phenomena, often drawing connections between ancient myths, modern science, and the possibility of non-human intelligence.

This issue of Pursuit, published by the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena, is dated the First Quarter of 1985. It features a collection of articles and reports on unexplained phenomena, ranging from UFO sightings and paranormal events to zoological curiosities and archaeological discoveries.

Articles and Reports

The Entity Experience The issue begins with a review of Hilary Evans' book, which explores the phenomenon of "entity experience." The book categorizes these experiences into three types: those involving known persons, stereotypes, and unknown entities. It also examines deliberate attempts to conjure entities and considers various psychological and physical hypotheses for why these experiences occur. The reviewer highlights Evans' conclusion that entities are "material artifacts" and suggests the existence of an internal "producer" capability that fabricates non-real scenes.

Letters to the Editors Several readers express their views. George Andrews disagrees with Professor Petit's dismissal of phenomena like levitation and telepathy, comparing UFO researchers investigating the psi hypothesis to the "Cargo Cult." R.W. Chatterton urges the magazine to retain a balance of serious and lighter content. Kim L. Neidigh takes exception to Professor Petit's ad hominem attacks and critiques his geological and anthropological assumptions.

SITUations: Curious and Unexplained Events

• China's Captive 'Wild Man': A Chinese newspaper reported the capture of a hairy, ape-like male, described as a rare monkey rather than a mythical "wild man." Anthropologists expressed skepticism due to a lack of photographs.
• Psychic Leads to Discovery of Woman's Body: The body of an elderly woman who wandered from a nursing home was found in a pasture, guided by the location provided by a Dallas psychic.
• Artifacts Evidence of Ancient Religion: A cave in Israel's Negev Desert yielded prehistoric objects, including the oldest fabric and evidence of a 9,000-year-old religion, with artifacts suggesting religious ceremonies and deities.
• Body Cues Help Unmask Counting Dog: A dog named Sheba, who appeared to perform mathematical calculations, was revealed to be responding to subtle body language cues from her owner.
• Turtles Gather on Islands: Tens of thousands of giant sea turtles converged on islands off Australia's Great Barrier Reef, an unusually large gathering for nesting.
• Man Lifts Car in Rescuing Two Children: A welder lifted a car off a child who had been struck by it, demonstrating remarkable strength.
• A 'Green Cloud' Adds to Soviet UFO Lore: Russian media reported a UFO sighting by an Aeroflot crew, described as a "green cloud" that took the shape of a plane, which Soviet scientists deemed a genuine UFO.
• Teenage 'Wolf Boy' Dies in India: A teenager, believed to be the second "wolf boy" discovered in India, died at a missionary home.
• Ancient Spud Peels Back Time: The discovery of 10,000-year-old cultivated potatoes in Peru suggests that civilization began in the New World around the same time as in the Old World.
• Welshman Found America First?: A British expert claimed a Welsh seafarer named "John the Skilful" discovered America 17 years before Columbus.
• Sand, Time Fail to Keep Ring from Owner: A ring lost in the surf off Waikiki beach for 48 years was found and returned to its owner.
• Language of Love Unites 'Talking' Ape and Kitten: Koko the gorilla, known for her sign language vocabulary, received a new kitten after her previous pet died, showing signs of happiness.
• Birds Intoxicated by Berries Hit Cars: Birds eating fermented berries along a California freeway became intoxicated and flew into cars.

The Notes of Charles Fort This section provides a detailed chronological log of meteorological and other unusual events from the 19th century, compiled by Carl J. Pabst. Entries include reports of meteors, earthquakes, auroras, unusual precipitation (like rain of fishes and red rain), and other phenomena, with references to various scientific journals and publications of the time.

• Notable entries include: a "cookie-cutter" puzzle involving a mysterious divot in Washington state, a cod fish yielding a lost earring, a cat finding its sick owner in the hospital, and the debunking of the theory that the Great Pyramid was oriented for stargazing.

Reports of Panther Sightings In Delaware This report details multiple sightings of a large, black, cat-like animal in Delaware, described by witnesses as resembling a panther or mountain lion. Despite some descriptions, state wildlife officials remain skeptical, suggesting it might be a large dog or an otter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, with a focus on UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and unusual natural events. The "SITUations" section serves as a repository for contemporary curiosities, while "The Notes of Charles Fort" provides historical context for such phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader contributions and presenting a wide array of reported events, even those that are anecdotal or lack definitive scientific explanation. There is an underlying theme of questioning conventional explanations and exploring alternative possibilities, as seen in the letters to the editor and the review of Hilary Evans' book.

Title: The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 4
Date: September 1968
Publisher: The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4685

This document details the origins and early publications of The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU). It provides information on the organization's leadership, its scientific advisory board, and the evolution of its publication.

Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board

The Governing Board is listed with Robert C. Warth as President, Gregory Arend as Vice-President, and Nancy L. Warth as Secretary and Treasurer. Trustees include Gregory Arend, Marie Cox, Frank Tiewski, Nancy L. Warth, Robert C. Warth, Martin Wiegler, and Albena Zwerver.

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished individuals from various academic fields, including anthropology, astronomy, mathematics, biology, psychology, and botany. Notable members include Dr. George A. Agogino (Eastern New Mexico University), Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Northwestern University), Dr. Martin Kruskal (Princeton University), and Dr. Roger W. Wescott (Drew University).

Origins of SITU/PURSUIT

The society was established in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, F.L.S., F.R.G.S., F.Z.S., along with other distinguished authors. Their aim was to create a "foundation" for the exposition and research of the paranormal, referred to as "disquieting mysteries of the natural world."

To engage professionals and interested individuals, a newsletter was launched in May 1967. The positive response, though not overwhelming, was sufficient to encourage the founders. Newsletter No. 2, dated March 1968, announced plans to expand the foundation into a larger structure, to be called The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, as formally documented with the New Jersey Secretary of State.

The name choice proved prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society. Another publication in June 1968 featured "newsletter" as a subtitle, with the name PURSUIT displayed above it for the first time. By September 1968, Vol. 1, No. 4, the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted as the society's designation. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board.

The content of the publication shifted from administrative matters to investigative reporting. The September 1968 issue (Vol. 1, No. 4) covered several intriguing phenomena: a report of a "great armadillo (6 feet long, 3 feet high) said to have been captured in Argentina," the concept of "instant transportation of solid objects from one place to another and even through solids," an account of an "attack on the famed University of Colorado UFO Project headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon," and updated information on "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

Thus, SITU was born, and PURSUIT began its chronicle of the investigation of the unexplained.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this early publication is the investigation of paranormal phenomena and "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." The editorial stance appears to be one of serious scientific inquiry, as evidenced by the establishment of a Scientific Advisory Board composed of academics from diverse fields. The publication aims to explore unexplained events and phenomena, encouraging participation from professionals and the public alike. Topics covered suggest an interest in cryptozoology (the armadillo), physics-defying events (object transportation), and UFO phenomena, including critical examination of UFO research projects like the Condon Committee.