Pursuit - No 73 - Vol 19 No 1 - 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 19, Number 1, Whole No. 73
Date: First Quarter 1986
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit, the quarterly journal of SITU, focuses on an investigation into the credibility of journalistic reports concerning unexplained phenomena, particularly the 1882 vanishing island incident. The cover features a map illustrating the relative locations of ships and the reported vanishing island in the Atlantic Ocean.

Charles Berlitz: An Inquiry in Journalistic Credibility by David Robson

This article, authored by David Robson, examines the account of a mysterious vanishing island encountered in March 1882, as presented in Charles Berlitz's book "Atlantis: The Eighth Continent." Robson's investigation, undertaken for a journalism history seminar, aims to test the reliability of newspaper reports from that era. He details Captain David Robson's encounter with a volcanic sea mount that later disappeared, reporting the discovery of "massive walls," bronze artifacts, and a mummy in a stone case. The account is cross-referenced with reports from Captain James Newdick of the steam schooner Westbourne, who sighted a similar island.

Robson's analysis highlights discrepancies in reported coordinates and logistical impossibilities, such as the Jesmond clearing customs at Palermo before sailing. However, he also notes corroborating elements, including the widespread reports of dead fish and the severe storms encountered by the Westbourne, suggesting these lend indirect confirmation to the event. The article critically assesses the "anti-Berlitz" sentiment among skeptics, while employing a skeptical but open-minded approach to verify the historical accounts.

The Berlitz Account

Berlitz recounts Captain David Robson's discovery of a new island in March 1882, located west of the Canary Islands. Robson reportedly landed on the island, finding "crumbling remains" of "massive walls" and various artifacts, including bronze swords, rings, mallets, carvings, and a mummy in a stone case. The island later vanished. Berlitz also cites Captain James Newdick's report of a new island at different coordinates, suggesting a potential overlap.

Newspaper Accounts: Arranged Chronologically

This section meticulously lists newspaper reports and deduced timelines related to the events of February and March 1882. It includes entries for the Jesmond's departure and reported activities, the Westbourne's difficult voyage, and the widespread phenomenon of dead fish. The timeline aims to establish the sequence of events and cross-reference information from various sources.

Matters Relating to the Jesmond

This section presents the New Orleans Daily Picayune's report from April 1, 1882, detailing Captain Robson's narrative. It describes the "Singular Appearance of the Sea" with a dark, muddy look and dead fish, the sighting of a "New Land in the Mid-Ocean" with volcanic smoke, and the discovery of artifacts like a stone arrowhead. The excavation yielded "crumbling remains" of "massive walls" and various relics, including a mummy in a stone case. The report notes the loss of the Jesmond's log during the London blitz, hindering further verification.

Matters Relating to the Westbourne

This section compiles reports from New York papers concerning the steamship Westbourne's arduous journey. The ship encountered severe gales and hurricanes, resulting in significant damage, loss of equipment, and the washing overboard of parts of the vessel. These accounts, while not directly confirming the island sighting, are presented as elements of indirect confirmation due to the ship's severe distress during the same period.

Matters Relating to the Shoals of Dead Fish

This part collates newspaper reports on the extensive fields of dead fish observed in the Atlantic. Reports from the Scientific American, New York World, and New Orleans Daily Picayune detail sightings of tilefish, cod, red snappers, and shad over vast areas. Experts like Professor Baird of the Smithsonian and Mr. Eugene D. Blackford discuss the phenomenon, with theories pointing towards volcanic activity or other natural convulsions as potential causes.

Other Articles and Sections

• The Mysterious Savant Syndrome by Maxwell Forbes
• European Dragons: The Tatzelwurm by Ulrich Magin
• Evidence for Spirit Photography by Dale Kaczmarek
• Who's Watching Us? - United States Military Records by Harry Lebelson
• Strange Happenings at Nuclear/Star Wars Facilities by Harry Lebelson
• A Look at Tibetan Buddhism in America by Eugenia Macer-Story
• Life Imitating Art? A Possible Clue to the Solution of the Flying Saucer Mystery? by Ulrich Magin
• Southern Africa's Great Stone City
• A SITUation
• Book Reviews
• SITUations
• The Notes of Charles Fort Deciphered by Carl J. Pabst

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance, as expressed in the introductory note, is to encourage readers to think, question, and investigate unexplained phenomena. The journal aims to explore subjects that orthodox science may overlook. The recurring themes in this issue revolve around historical mysteries, the reliability of evidence and reporting (particularly journalistic accounts), and the exploration of anomalous events and phenomena. The publication emphasizes a commitment to rigorous investigation and open-minded inquiry into the unexplained.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1986, features a diverse range of articles, including an in-depth analysis of historical newspaper reporting on mysterious phenomena, an exploration of the savant syndrome, and a cryptozoological investigation into the legend of the Tatzelwurm.

Dead Fish and Newspaper Credibility

The issue begins by examining press accounts of a sudden and mysterious appearance of enormous shoals of dead fish, noting the economic significance of such an event. The article scrutinizes the reporting of the New Orleans Picayune in 1882, particularly concerning Captain Robson's account of a new volcanic island and Captain Newdick's sighting of a mystery island, which were also linked to mysterious shoals of dead fish. The investigation into the Picayune's credibility involved checking its archives and comparing its flood coverage with that of the Times-Democrat in the New York Herald. The analysis suggests that the Picayune was a credible paper in 1882, despite its outdated format and reliance on 'clip-and-paste' reporting, and that its charges of poor reporting from rivals like the Mascot were largely unfounded.

The Mysterious Savant Syndrome

This section delves into the phenomenon of savant syndrome, a condition where individuals with subnormal intelligence exhibit exceptional abilities in specific areas. The article traces historical cases, such as Thomas Fuller, the 'Virginia Calculator,' who possessed extraordinary mathematical skills, and M. Fleury, who demonstrated remarkable mental arithmetic. It also highlights 'calendar calculators' like George and Charles, who could instantly recall dates and days of the week. The piece discusses musical savants like Tom Wiggins, 'Blind Tom,' who could perfectly replicate music after hearing it, and Leslie Lemke, who, despite severe disabilities, is a prodigious pianist. The article touches upon the possible causes, including brain maldevelopment and involuntary concentration, and differentiates between idiot savants and autistic savants. It also mentions acquired savants, who develop skills after an injury.

European Dragons: The Tatzelwurm

The final major article investigates the legend of the Tatzelwurm, a dragon-like creature reported in the Alps, primarily in Switzerland and Austria. The Tatzelwurm is described as an animal with a lizard-like body, a mammal-like or fish-like head, a forked tongue, and powerful three-toed feet. Eyewitness accounts vary, but generally describe the creature as being between 60-100 cm long, though some reports mention much larger specimens. The article discusses its reported behavior, including hibernation, its tendency to be found alone, and its aggressive nature towards observers. Scientific skepticism suggests that sightings might be misidentifications of known animals like otters, marmots, or lizards, or that the legend is a mythical creature of dragon tradition. The article also explores reports of similar creatures in Italy, such as the 'Colovia' in Sicily and a serpent-like beast in Goro.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of unexplained phenomena, the critical analysis of historical reporting, and the exploration of human potential and mystery. The editorial stance appears to be one of rigorous inquiry, seeking to establish the credibility of accounts and to understand the underlying mechanisms of extraordinary abilities and alleged cryptids. The magazine encourages readers to consider the implications of these phenomena for our understanding of the mind and the natural world.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1986, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and paranormal investigations. The cover story, "Who's Watching Us? United States Military Records Strange Happenings At Nuclear/Star Wars Facilities" by Harry Lebelson, delves into government scrutiny of UFOs near atomic energy and weapons development sites. The magazine also features extensive coverage of mythical creatures like tatzelwurms and dragons across Europe, alongside a detailed guide to spirit photography.

Tatzelwurms and European Dragons

The magazine explores the folklore and reported sightings of creatures resembling tatzelwurms and dragons across various European regions.

Pyrenees

Reports from the Pyrenees, described as geologically similar to the Alps, include accounts of animals resembling the tatzelwurm. A notable incident from February 15th, 1893, details a priest's encounter with a giant lizard near Ossum, described as 1.5 to 2 meters long, green, with scaly skin and a goiter-like appendage. Another sighting by a farmer in the same village on May 25th, 1893, involved a serpent coiled around a tree branch. The theory that these might be escaped exotic pets is considered, but a May 1939 report of women encountering a giant lizard near Ossum casts doubt on this. Local folklore suggests subterranean lakes as the habitat for these monsters. Michel Raynal, a French cryptozoologist, notes legends of giant lizards with "una cresta" in the Pyrenees folklore. Jean-Jacques Barloy's newsletter is also mentioned for reporting French sightings of "giant snakes and large salamanders and lizards."

Spain

Spain is presented as having a variety of monster reports, often involving giant serpents. The myth of the "big serpent" is known throughout Europe. Historical accounts include the Basque hero Don Teodosio killing a dragon in 714 and Gaston de Belzunce killing a dragon near Saint Pierre D-Irube in 1407. More recent reports include a two-meter green snake killed at Chinchilla, Albacete, on July 22, 1969, after causing an accident. In the summer of 1970, a similar serpent, 1.5 meters long with a child-sized head, terrorized inhabitants near Orihuela and Alcoy in Alicante, leading to a search by firemen. In July 1973, near Aceuche, Cáceres, a "monstrous serpent" with a baby's head and mane was observed. A more unusual report from July 15, 1975, describes a "meteorological phenomenon" over Gerona, Spain – a giant glowing form resembling a monstrous head with a dragon's tail.

Germany

Dragon lore is prevalent in Germany, with legends like Siegfried killing a monster. Reports mention serpents as "big as a tree" with golden crowns. An account from 878 near Cologne describes a poisonous, monstrous dragon with fiery eyes. In 1598, an animal resembling a tatzelwurm appeared between Silesia and Oberlausitz, described as several feet long with a green and yellow body and a cat-like head. Around 1890, a monstrous serpent of several meters length was observed near Olpe in the Rhineland, which vanished into thin air. A hunt was organized, and the animal was shot at but unharmed. The article also discusses "fiery dragons" which might be explained as northern lights, meteors, or early UFOs. One such sighting occurred over London in May 1593. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle for 793 mentions "fiery dragons" seen in the air. On May 24, 1637, a fiery dragon ignited a house in Schleiz, East Germany, attributed to a witch's familiar. Around 1840, a "fiery monster" approached a young man near Sesterbach in the Eifel, causing severe burns and his death.

Poland

Poland has two documented cases of basilisks being found and killed: one in Warsaw in 1564 and another in Breslau in 1672. These are noted as being in the general area of other dragon and big serpent reports.

Switzerland

A dragon report from Switzerland in 1410 or 1420 describes a man falling into a cave at Mount Pilatus and finding himself in the lair of two flying dragons. He survived for months until one dragon flew out, allowing him to escape by grabbing the tail of the second.

Great Britain

The dragon of St. Leonard's Forest in August 1614 is described as 9 feet long, thickest in the middle, with a marked neck, dark scales above, red belly, and feet. Two large clusters on its sides were thought to potentially grow into wings. A more recent report from September 1934 details a giant serpent, 10 feet long, found in a near-frozen state at the seashore in Sussex and brought to Hastings Zoo. Reports of winged figures, resembling winged dragons, include a creature seen when Renwich Church was demolished in 1733, described as a cockatrice. The "Monster of Barridale" at Loch Hourn, Scotland, encountered in 1880, was a three-legged, pterodactyl-like animal. The Mawnan mothman is mentioned, with a precursor seen in the early 20th century by the crew of the steamer 'Friesland' off Start Point, Devon, described as a mixture between a goat and a bat.

United States Military Records and UFOs

This section focuses on the US government's involvement with atomic energy and the subsequent surveillance of its facilities by UFOs. The article traces the development of the atomic bomb through the Manhattan Project and the subsequent atmospheric testing of nuclear devices. It highlights that beginning in 1946, major atmospheric testing took place, and by 1947, the government was exploring the peaceful development of atomic energy. Intelligence documents released under the Freedom of Information Act in 1980 reveal that UFO overflights of facilities responsible for the bomb's development took place. The Manhattan Project's main nerve centers included facilities in Chicago, Illinois; Los Alamos and Alamogordo, New Mexico; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; and Hanford, Washington. A Freedom of Information Act document (File No. 24-B-28) from the Office of the Inspector General, United States Air Force, details a summary of observations of aerial phenomena in the New Mexico area from December 1948 to May 1950. This report, addressed to Brigadier General Joseph F. Carroll, noted the frequency of unexplained aerial phenomena and the need for an organized reporting plan. Observers included scientists, special agents, USAF pilots, and Los Alamos security inspectors. The phenomena were categorized as green fireballs, discs, or meteoric. Item six of the report emphasizes that these phenomena continuously occurred in the New Mexico skies and were in the vicinity of sensitive military and government installations. The report included photographs of various sightings and was signed by Lt. Colonel Doyle Rees. The article also mentions the acceleration of the atomic arms race following the Soviet Union's atomic bomb detonation in September 1949, leading to the development of hydrogen bombs and the diversion of resources to bomb production.

Evidence for Spirit Photography

This section, authored by Dale Kaczmarek, president of the Ghost Research Society, explores the phenomenon of spirit photography. Kaczmarek argues that ordinary people often dismiss strange images captured on film, attributing them to camera defects. He presents his own evidence and discusses the process of collecting spirit photographs, often through investigations of haunted houses with psychics. Kaczmarek details his methodology, which involves using two 35mm cameras, one with high-speed infrared film and the other as a control, to capture simultaneous images. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous testing to rule out natural explanations and deliberate fraud. Several examples of spirit photographs are presented:

• Photo #1: Taken at Jane Addams' Hull House in Chicago, showing shadowy monk-like figures on a staircase.
• Photo #2: Taken in a cemetery, showing a whitish streak of light with facial features emerging from a mound of dirt.
• Photo #3: Taken in a Jewish cemetery, showing a mist-like appearance with two distinct individuals.
• Photo #4: Taken at a mausoleum and crematorium, showing two yellow areas of light with a greenish tinge.
• Photo #5: Taken in a cemetery, showing a shadowy smoke-like image of a man with a brimmed hat.
• Photo #6: Described as a "psychic" photograph, showing a strange whitish mist with filaments of ectoplasm exuding from a girl's stomach region.

Kaczmarek provides tips for infrared photography, including storage, handling, film speed settings, and the use of filters. He encourages readers to submit their own photographs for analysis and offers his services free of charge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of folklore, eyewitness accounts, and scientific or governmental investigation into phenomena that defy conventional explanation. There is a clear interest in cryptozoology (tatzelwurms, dragons, sea serpents) and the paranormal (UFOs, spirit photography). The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, presenting evidence and theories while encouraging critical analysis and further investigation. The inclusion of detailed reports on military documents related to UFOs suggests a focus on official records and potential government cover-ups. The spirit photography section, while presenting anecdotal evidence, emphasizes a scientific approach to data collection and analysis, urging readers to avoid jumping to conclusions and to be thorough in their investigations. The magazine aims to document and explore the unexplained, providing a platform for researchers and enthusiasts in these fields.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated First Quarter 1986, delves into a diverse range of topics including UFO phenomena, the influence of science fiction on reported sightings, Tibetan Buddhism in America, and the historical enigma of Great Zimbabwe. The magazine presents investigative articles, interviews, and reports on unusual events and cultural explorations.

UFOs and National Security

The issue highlights several instances of suspicious unknown air activity potentially affecting national security. Reports from October and early November 1975 detail military personnel at Loring Air Force Base, Maine, and other facilities visually sighting suspicious aerial objects over sensitive military areas, including missile control facilities and nuclear weapons storage areas. These objects were described as being over sensitive military areas where security is generally tight.

A bold headline from the White Plains, New York, Reporter Dispatch on January 12, 1985, revealed the breaching of security by UFOs at a nuclear power plant. On July 24, 1984, a dozen security officers at the Indian Point nuclear plant spotted a large V-shaped UFO hovering over the facility. Phil Imbrogno, an investigator for the Center for UFO Studies, interviewed six guards who described the object as being over 300 feet in length with a dark outline and no noise. The object was in full view for at least 20 minutes, prompting supervisors to break out shotguns. A similar incident had occurred on June 14th.

Further details emerge from a confidential document (Document C) concerning UFO activity around Loring AFB, Wurtsmith AFB, Malmstrom AFB, Minot AFB, and Canadian Forces Station Falconbridge. These reports detail objects tracked by radar, some described as helicopters or sounding like jet aircraft, with unusual speed and altitude characteristics. One incident at Malmstrom AFB involved an object tracked between 85,000 ft and 15,600 ft at seven knots, with lights going out when interceptors approached.

An administrative data memorandum from Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, dated September 9, 1980, details bizarre encounters during August-September 1980. UFOs flew reconnaissance over the Manzano Weapons Storage Area in Coyote Canyon. On August 8, 1980, three Security Policemen sighted an unidentified light traveling from north to south. Later, a Sandia Security guard reported observing a bright light and a round disk-shaped object that took off vertically at high speed. On August 22, 1980, three other security policemen observed a similar phenomenon. A New Mexico State Patrolman also sighted an object landing in the Manzano range on August 10th. The report notes that two alarmed structures in the area contained HQCR44 nuclear materials.

The "Star Wars" Program and UFOs

The article connects the "Star Wars" program (Strategic Defense Initiative) with increased security measures and the continued presence of UFOs. President Reagan's March 23, 1983, speech announced plans for a space-based missile defense system. Both Lawrence Livermore Laboratories and Sandia Laboratories, involved in nuclear weapons production, shifted their focus to "Star Wars" weapons development. Military installations at Los Alamos and Alamogordo, New Mexico, and Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, were also involved. The Hertz Foundation provided fellowships to graduate students, some of whom were recruited for this research.

Rod Hyde, a recruit, worked on developing an x-ray laser harnessing energy from a nuclear explosion, with initial testing dating back to February 23, 1981. Sandia Laboratory engineers in Albuquerque were engaged in particle beam weapons research, primarily at Kirtland Air Force Base. The article notes that despite stringent security tests, including drills and raids, UFOs have penetrated these areas where "Star Wars" research is being conducted.

Science Fiction's Influence on UFO Sightings

Ulrich Magin explores the possibility that science fiction has influenced UFO sightings. He notes how the late 1940s saw science-fiction writers adopting disc shapes for alien spaceships, and how Steven Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" was inspired by J. A. Hynek's books. Magin questions whether the reverse is true: did novels or movies produce UFO sightings?

He points to "coincidences" such as the "mothman" sightings in West Virginia and Cornwall, which he links to E. A. Poe's "The Sphinx" (1846) and Conan Doyle's "The Lost World" (1912). A more striking example is the airship-wave of 1896/97, which Magin argues was described in detail in Jules Verne's novel "Robur the Conquerer" (published in French in 1885). Verne's descriptions of airships, strange lights, and zeppelins closely matched the reported sightings.

A modern parallel is drawn with the British rock group Genesis' 1974 album "The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway," whose hero is named Rael. Years later, Claude Varilhon claimed to have seen a UFO and met extraterrestrials, adopting the name Rael and founding a sect. Magin suggests Varilhon may have been influenced by the Genesis album.

Magin presents a statistic showing peaks in space film production coinciding with major UFO flaps, such as the waves of 1952 and 1966. He notes that the 1957 flap followed an increase in science-fiction movie production. He suggests that UFO movies in the 1950s mirrored the American fear of communism, and that both sightings and movies echoed these fears.

A Look at Tibetan Buddhism in America

Eugenia Macer-Story profiles the Karma Thegsun Choling monastery in Woodstock, New York, and interviews Trangu Rinpoche, a Tibetan lama. Rinpoche explains that the monastery's location in Woodstock was chosen for its accessibility to visitors and its quiet environment, away from city noise. He discusses the concept of mental entities, including "demonic presence," and how consciousness and memory are not visible but can be perceived by the mind.

Rinpoche emphasizes the importance of looking back on one's life to perceive the action of entities within consciousness. He advises that ethical intentions should not be masochistic and that individuals should act from a position of inner strength. He clarifies that Tibetan Buddhists provide mental assistance through "dharma" teachings, helping individuals achieve peace and stability to deal with life more effectively.

Rinpoche, a refugee from the political situation in Tibet, states he was invited to Woodstock and does not aim to "convert" people but to inform those naturally interested in Buddhist thought. The article also references an issue of Smithsonian magazine featuring Eric Valli's "A Life of Buddhism, Barley, Yaks and Barter," which recounted Valli's experiences in Dolpo, Nepal, including contact with the Bon-Po sect and a healer named Tulku-Tshewang.

The article touches on the concept of the "magic mirror" in relation to mind control, drawing parallels to Sigmund Freud's influence. It also mentions Allen Ginsberg's involvement with the KTC monastery and his perspective on channeling Buddhist concepts.

Related SITUations

Tibetan Replica Brought to Hill in Staten Island, NY: This section details the creation of the Jacques Marchais Center for Tibetan Art in Staten Island by Jacqueline Klauber. Despite never having visited Asia, she aimed to create a self-contained Tibetan environment. The museum, the only one in the Western Hemisphere devoted to Tibetan art, houses a replica of a Buddhist monastery. It features Tibetan architecture, statues, and gardens, offering visitors an immersive experience.

'House In Sky' UFO: A strange shape with many lights was reported passing over Connecticut on a Thursday night. Betty Johnson of Sharon described it as "like a two-story house in the sky." The object hovered, split up and reformed, and was seen moving west. While some suggested it was a group of small airplanes flying in formation, Johnson was not satisfied with this explanation, emphasizing that the object was stationary.

Residue of Eerie Rock Has Officials Puzzled: Walter Breen found a reddish-orange rock on Stuart Beach, Florida, which later caught fire, melted his car's carpet, and disintegrated. Five days later, an eerie green glow radiated from the carpet. Initial theories included debris from the space shuttle Challenger, but NASA found this unlikely. The Martin County Fire Department investigated, suspecting a flammable metal like magnesium or phosphorus, or red phosphorous. The residue was not found to be toxic or radioactive.

Something Mysterious Causes Stir: In Frankville, Alabama, a mysterious "sssssssss-boom!" was heard, and something fell into the backyard of Jesse Wallace Hensons. The event scattered "poke salad" plants and brush. Witnesses described plants being twisted off at their base and thrown. The object seemingly vanished, leaving no visible hole in the earth. Sheriff William J. Wheat investigated but found nothing more. Kathleen Henson theorized the object exploded just before hitting the ground. The area was checked for radiation.

Southern Africa's Great Stone City

This article explores the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a significant historical site in Southern Africa. Built by Shona people, the city flourished for 300 years with a population of 10,000 before being abandoned in the 15th century. Europeans initially searched the site for gold, and later, due to racial prejudice, school texts attributed the construction to non-Africans. The country was named Zimbabwe after independence in 1980, with an image of the site's stone bird on its flag.

The article describes the two main structures: the Great Enclosure and a series of walls atop a steep hill, referred to as the Acropolis by Europeans. The masons fitted natural boulders into their designs, blending the walls with the natural surfaces. The site features narrow passages, sharp turnings, and a striking Parallel Passage. Archeologist Peter Garlake suggests this passage allowed outsiders to reach the Great Enclosure and its conical tower without spying on living areas, indicating privacy was important to the rulers.

The enigmatic conical tower, 25 feet high, is a central mystery. It is solid and its original finish is unknown. Theories suggest it might symbolize male power, represent the state's richness, or simply be a demonstration of the masons' skill. The article notes that the later sections of wall show better coursing and dressing, with the tower representing the apex of their skill.

The most popular theory for the abandonment of Great Zimbabwe is ecological collapse, where the growth of people and cattle destroyed local resources. However, 19th-century Africans living in the area had no oral traditions linking them to the site.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, historical mysteries, and cultural phenomena. There's a clear interest in documented reports of UFOs, particularly those with implications for national security or involving sensitive locations. The exploration of how fiction influences reality, and vice-versa, is a recurring theme, as seen in the science fiction and UFO article. The inclusion of Tibetan Buddhism and the Great Zimbabwe ruins suggests an editorial stance that values diverse cultural and historical explorations, seeking to connect seemingly disparate subjects through a lens of inquiry and wonder. The "Related SITUations" sections highlight contemporary unexplained events, reinforcing the magazine's commitment to reporting on unusual occurrences.

This issue of PURSUIT magazine, identified as Volume 18, Issue 41, from the First Quarter of 1986, focuses on reviews of books and tapes related to anomalous phenomena. The cover headline is "Books/Tapes Reviewed." The magazine is published by The Sourcebook Project and is in English.

Book and Tape Reviews

The Sun and Solar System Debris

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this is the 22nd volume from editor William R. Corliss's The Sourcebook Project (TSP). It features nearly 50 pages on comets, challenging theories about their celestial mechanics and suggesting perturbation by large, undetected objects. It also covers other solar system "debris," disputing hypotheses about asteroids and planetary orbits. The chapter on "enigmatic objects" highlights the difficulty in identifying unusual celestial bodies. The volume also addresses sun-related phenomena and the importance of solar and interplanetary magnetic fields for space programs. Corliss's assertion that "all meteors should have been flushed out of the solar system long ago" is noted. The book concludes with a section on the "zodiacal light" and a brief passage on "Planet X."

The Psychic Connection

Reviewed by Robert C. Warth, this is a 105-minute VHS or BETA video tape produced by Alan Neuman of Postscript Productions. It explores the world of psychic phenomena, occult manifestations, and paranormal events across five continents. The film visually presents psychic surgery, prior-life regressions, metal bending, materializations, animal ESP, exorcism, Voodoo, dowsing, psychic diagnosis, tongue skewing, precognition, and poltergeist manifestations. It includes scenes of a crystal skull, paranormal voices, and a seance. The tape is described as "too shocking and controversial for television and regular theatrical release" and is recommended for introducing the subject of psychic phenomena.

The UFO Literature: A Comprehensive Annotated Bibliography of Works in English

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this book by Richard Michael Rasmussen, published by McFarland & Co., Inc., serves as a comprehensive annotated bibliography of UFO-related books and booklets published in English. It is compared to Tom Lind's Catalogue of UFO Periodicals. The book is alphabetized by author and includes a helpful cross-referenced index, functioning as a series of mini-book reviews. A notable chapter is "UFOs in Literature: A Brief History," which chronologically overviews major UFO books. The first chapter, "The Nature of the Literature," categorizes people involved in UFO study into cultist, enthusiast, and rationalist groups.

Mute Evidence

Reviewed by George W. Earley, this book by Daniel Kagan & Ian Summers (Bantam Books) examines the phenomenon of cattle mutilations. The review notes that while approximately 10,000 animals were allegedly killed by mutilators between 1969 and 1979, the authors suggest the phenomenon was "more fiction than fact." The review points out that examinations of "mutilated" animals were often conducted by local vets not specialized in determining unnatural causes of death. It also cites an example from the Mufon Journal where a skilled butcher's work on a bull carcass was remarkably bloodless, suggesting similar explanations for alleged mutilations. The reviewer concludes that without independent confirmation of ufological or governmental involvement, cattle mutilations are likely to become a footnote in American folklore.

Curious Encounters: Phantom Trains, Spooky Spots, & Other Mysterious Wonders

Reviewed by Robert Barrow, this book by Loren Coleman is described as a sampler of Fortean phenomena, similar to his previous work 'Mysterious America.' It covers unidentified creatures, phantom trains, spook lights, stone structures, and geographic anomalies. Coleman is noted for injecting possible scientific explanations while also exploring less conventional ideas. The review compares the book's style to that of veteran Fortean researcher John Keel. Coleman's quote highlights the vast and strange array of entities and places that defy conventional explanation.

Memos & Miscellany

This section includes several announcements and appeals:

• An appeal from Joe Zarzynski for information on the mysterious Loch Ness-like animals of Lake Champlain, directing readers to the CHAMP CHANNELS newsletter.
• A recommendation for the Basel Psi Conference in Switzerland, focusing on "Exotic Psi - Paranormal in Other Cultures."
• Thanks to Venture Inward for mentioning PURSUIT and SITU in their publication.
• A note of thanks to Ms. Agnes Somos for donating her late father's library of Fortean-related materials.
• Guidelines for submitting original material for PURSUIT, emphasizing typed or handwritten submissions with specific formatting.
• An invitation for comments, advice, or constructive criticism from members and readers, with a request for a self-addressed, stamped envelope for replies.
• Instructions for sending all original material, photographs, newsclippings, and membership-related correspondence to SITU headquarters.

SITUations

This section reports on contemporary curious and unexplained events:

• Schoolboy Sees The Beast: A 13-year-old boy in North Devon, England, reported seeing the Beast of Exmoor, described as dark with pointed ears and a bushy tail. The creature is believed to have killed hundreds of sheep and lambs.
• Creek Features Mysterious Creature: In Indiana, USA, a creature has been damaging a metal shed, leaving large teeth marks and consuming fertilizer. Conservation officers were mystified, and the incident is being investigated.
• Bounty Offered in India for Man-eating Elephant: Authorities in Meghalaya, India, are offering a reward for the killing of a rare man-eating elephant that killed five people.
• Lady Killer, Tiger: A tigress in Uttar Pradesh, India, is puzzling experts because all its victims have been women, and it only attacks on weekends.
• Dugong Sighted: A herd of up to 500 dugongs has been sighted in the Gulf, a positive sign for a species previously thought endangered.
• Giant Pacific Squid Saved in Fish Market: An 8-foot-long giant Pacific squid was saved from a fish market and is now part of the California Academy of Sciences' collection.

Other Short Reports

• Horror Story Laid to Rest: In Bavaria, Germany, an exhumation of a 93-year-old woman revealed that the reported knocking from her coffin was due to the coffin lid splitting under the weight of the earth.
• 3rd Centenarian Dies Within Month in Egypt: A 134-year-old woman died in the Suez Canal area, marking the third Egyptian centenarian to die within a month.
• Urn With Baby's Ashes Abandoned for 'Humming': An urn containing the ashes of a 7-month-old boy was turned over to Tucson police by a man who claimed to hear eerie humming noises coming from it.
• Carried Ice Pick In Brain 50 Years, Dies of Bad Heart: Rev. John Smith died of heart disease, despite having a 21/2-inch ice pick fragment lodged in his brain for 50 years from a 1936 robbery.
• Final Act of Love: A 15-year-old boy donated his heart to his girlfriend via transplant after learning he was going to die.
• Born a Day Apart, They Died Hours Apart: Clarence and Malinda Figel, married for over 64 years, died within hours of each other.
• Corpse Bursts into Flame: A cemetery worker's body burst into flames, initially suspected as spontaneous combustion, but likely caused by a gas heater and oxygen from firefighters.
• Smart Dog: A dog named Kako moved a heat lamp and blankets away from a fire to protect her seven pups.
• Matching Maestros' Million to One Mix-Up: Two men accidentally swapped identical cars due to a million-to-one chance, leading to a humorous mix-up.
• Skull Found: A giant skull washed up on a beach in Norfolk, England, could be from a prehistoric woolly mammoth.

The Notes of Charles Fort

This section, deciphered by Carl J. Pabst, is a continuation of Charles Fort's catalog of anomalous events, presented with abbreviations and detailed chronological entries. The entries from this installment cover events primarily from late 1842 and early 1843, detailing phenomena such as meteors, fireballs, earthquakes, unusual atmospheric conditions, comets, and various unexplained sounds and lights reported across different locations worldwide. The entries are cross-referenced with publications like the American Journal of Science, Niles National Register, and London Times, among others.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained phenomena, including UFOs, cryptids, paranormal events, and historical anomalies cataloged by Charles Fort. The reviews and reports suggest an editorial stance that is open to investigating and documenting these events, while also employing critical analysis, as seen in the review of 'Mute Evidence.' The magazine serves as a repository for information on subjects often on the fringes of mainstream science and reporting, encouraging reader participation and the submission of relevant news and observations.

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

This document outlines the origins and structure of The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU) and its publication, PURSUIT. It details the founding of the organization, its governing and scientific advisory boards, and the evolution of its newsletter into a journal.

Origins of SITU/PURSUIT

The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained was established in 1965 by zoologist, biologist, botanist, and geologist Ivan T. Sanderson, along with other distinguished authors. The foundation's purpose was the exposition and research of the paranormal and "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." To engage other professionals and interested individuals, a newsletter was decided upon, with the first issue released in May 1967. The response, while not overwhelming, was sufficient to confirm public interest.

Newsletter No. 2, dated March 1968, announced plans for a larger structure to be built upon the foundation, to be called The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, with documents filed with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name was prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson had titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained." An issue in June 1968 featured "newsletter" as a subtitle, with the name PURSUIT displayed above it for the first time. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968, the abbreviation SITU was formally adopted as the Society's designation. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing its members and affiliations. Administrative matters were relegated to the latter part of the publication, with most of the content dedicated to investigative reporting.

Content Highlights of September 1968 Issue

The September 1968 issue (Vol. 1, No. 4) of PURSUIT included several intriguing reports:

• A Great Armadillo from Argentina: An account of a large armadillo, reportedly 6 feet long and 3 feet high, said to have been captured in Argentina.
• Instant Transportation: Investigations into the phenomenon of solid objects being transported instantaneously from one place to another, even through solid matter.
• University of Colorado UFO Project: An update on the famed UFO project headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Ringing Rocks and Stone Spheres: Some updated information was provided on these enigmatic natural phenomena.

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

Governing and Scientific Advisory Boards

The document lists the members of the Governing Board, including President Robert C. Warth, Vice-President Gregory Arend, and Secretary and Treasurer Nancy L. Warth, along with several trustees. The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished individuals from various academic fields, including anthropology, astronomy, biology, psychology, and geography, from institutions such as Eastern New Mexico University, Princeton University, Rutgers University, and the University of London.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this publication is the investigation of paranormal phenomena and unexplained mysteries of the natural world. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and research, aiming to persuade professionals and non-professionals alike to contribute to the understanding of these subjects. The focus is on presenting investigative reports and fostering a community dedicated to exploring the unknown.