Pursuit - No 83 - Vol 21 No 3 - 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Volume 21, Number 3, Whole No. 83
Date: Third Quarter 1988
Publisher: The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU)
Tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'

This issue of Pursuit magazine, published by The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU), focuses on a diverse range of topics including lost lands, folklore, and the interpretation of classic literature through a lens of the unexplained. The cover features diagrams of a Moebius Ribbon and the 'Arrow of Time', hinting at themes of perception and cyclical phenomena, alongside a prominent article on the lost land of Lyonesse.

Articles and Features

Lyonesse: The Lost Land of Cornwall

This extensive article, presented in two parts (Part I of II Parts), by Jon D. Singer, M.A., investigates the legendary submerged kingdom of Lyonesse, believed to be located west of Cornwall, England. The author traces the etymology of the name 'Lyonesse' through various historical and linguistic theories, exploring potential Celtic and Roman origins. The article discusses historical accounts and folklore surrounding the land, including its connection to Arthurian legends like Sir Tristan. It examines descriptions of Lyonesse from early historians such as William Camden and Richard Carew, and later researchers like O.G.S. Crawford and Lucille Taylor Hansen. Evidence for sunken ruins, including the 'Seven Stones' and the enigmatic 'City of Lions', is presented. The author also touches upon the connection to Atlantis and the possibility of Lyonesse being a Dark Age kingdom that sank in 1099. The article further explores the Roman perspective on the Scilly Isles, known as Silura, and mentions megalithic, Iron Age, and Roman sites found in the region. It concludes by noting that the search for Lyonesse and a complete bibliography will appear in Part II.

Shaksper's Werwolves: A Lycanthropic Reading of King Lear and The Winter's Tale

Authored by David E. Robson, M.A., this article explores the presence of werewolf folklore and the concept of lycanthropy within William Shakespeare's plays, King Lear and The Winter's Tale. The author argues that Shakespeare was aware of and utilized these traditions. The article identifies Autolycus in 'The Winter's Tale' as a potential werewolf, analyzing his name's etymology ('auto-lykos' meaning 'self-wolf') and his characterization as a thief and trickster. It also discusses Edgar's feigned madness in 'King Lear' as a manifestation of lycanthropy, and Lear's own identification with the wolf. The piece draws connections to classical mythology, citing Ovid and Homer, and suggests that Shakespeare's understanding of these themes may have been influenced by various literary sources.

The UFO Impact (Part III of a IV-Part Series)

This is the third installment of a multi-part series by Jean-Pierre Petit, Ph.D., focusing on 'The UFO Impact'. While the content of this specific part is not detailed in the provided pages, its inclusion as a significant article indicates the magazine's commitment to exploring UFO phenomena.

Katie: Nostradamus Automatic Writing, Possible Direct Writing and Psychic Nexus of an Illiterate (Part II of II Parts)

Authored by Berthold E. Schwarz, M.D., this is the second part of a two-part series examining 'Katie'. The article delves into phenomena such as automatic writing, direct writing, and psychic connections, particularly in relation to an individual described as illiterate. This suggests an exploration of parapsychological abilities and their manifestations.

A Radio Technical Device in the Ancient World?

This article by R. Furduy, Ph.D., poses the question of whether advanced radio technology existed in ancient times. This inquiry likely explores archaeological findings or historical texts that might suggest the presence of sophisticated devices predating modern scientific understanding.

Ancient Enigmas: SITUations

This section, titled 'SITUations', appears to be a regular column presenting various unexplained phenomena or intriguing cases. The specific entry, 'Some Further Considerations of the Mars-Venus Cycle and Natural Constants in Relation to UFO Waves' by Keith L. Partain, M.Sc., suggests a focus on astronomical cycles and their potential connection to UFO activity.

SITUations (Lizardman) and Cryptozoological Comments

Further 'SITUations' are presented, including a mention of 'Lizardman' and 'Cryptozoological Comments' by Jon E. Beckjord, M.BA. This indicates coverage of cryptid phenomena and related investigations.

Letters to the Editor and The Notes of Charles Fort

The issue includes a 'Letters to the Editor' section, allowing for reader interaction and feedback. It also features 'The Notes of Charles Fort', deciphered by Carl J. Pabst, suggesting a continued engagement with the work of Charles Fort, a pioneering researcher of anomalous phenomena.

Society Information and Notices

Membership and Publication: The journal 'Pursuit' is the quarterly publication of SITU. Membership details are provided, including annual rates for US members and information on international surcharges. The journal is also available to libraries at a reduced rate. The Society emphasizes that opinions expressed in 'Pursuit' are those of the individual members or authors and not necessarily those of SITU. Contributions to SITU are tax-deductible.

Operations and Organization: SITU maintains reference files and offers research services for a fee. The Society's legal affairs are managed by a Board of Trustees, and it is advised by a Scientific Advisory Board.

Important Notices: SITU does not offer services to non-members and does not hold political, religious, or corporate views. The membership list is restricted for mailing purposes only.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Pursuit demonstrates a consistent editorial stance favoring the investigation of phenomena that fall outside the purview of conventional science. The recurring themes include:

• Lost Civilizations and Ancient Mysteries: The in-depth exploration of Lyonesse exemplifies this, delving into historical, linguistic, and archaeological evidence for submerged lands and ancient cultures.
• Folklore and Mythology: The analysis of werewolf lore in Shakespeare highlights the magazine's interest in how ancient beliefs and myths permeate cultural expressions.
• UFO Phenomena and Parapsychology: The continuation of 'The UFO Impact' series and the 'SITUations' column, including topics like 'Lizardman' and psychic phenomena, underscore the magazine's commitment to investigating unexplained aerial phenomena and other anomalous events.
• Historical Interpretation: The magazine encourages re-examination of historical texts and artifacts, such as the 'Radio Technical Device in the Ancient World?' article, to uncover hidden or overlooked aspects of the past.

The overall editorial approach is one of open inquiry, encouraging members and readers to explore the 'unexplained' with a scientific yet open-minded perspective, as reflected in the society's tagline: 'Science is the Pursuit of the Unexplained'.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1988, features a cover story titled "The UFO Impact (The cosmological features.) Part III of a IV-Part Series" by Jean-Pierre Petit. The magazine also includes a significant literary analysis concerning lycanthropy in Shakespeare's works.

The UFO Impact: Cosmological Features

Jean-Pierre Petit's article addresses the challenge of interstellar travel for UFOs, questioning how they might cross vast cosmic distances given the limitations of special relativity. He explains that the speed of light limit stems from fundamental geometric features of space-time, as observed with Mercury's orbit and further developed by Einstein and Minkowski. Petit introduces the concept of a four-dimensional pseudo-Euclidean space and suggests that faster-than-light travel would require fundamental changes to our scientific understanding.

The Absolute Constancy of the Velocity of Light

Petit discusses his published paper on a "Cosmologic Model With Variable Light Velocity." He contrasts the classical view of absolute physical constants (c, G, h, etc.) with the idea that these might not be independent and could vary. He proposes a model where constants change with cosmic time, suggesting that the universe's expansion might be an illusion caused by the variation of these constants, rather than a true outward movement of galaxies and atoms. This model aims to resolve paradoxes like the universe's homogeneity and the relationship between matter and light.

Advanced Cosmology and UFOs

The article then connects cosmological theories to UFOs. It revisits Einstein's field equation and the development of cosmological models, including those by de Sitter, Friedman, and Hoyle. Petit introduces the concept of a "space-time mirror" and "twin universes" with opposite time arrows. He uses analogies like a two-dimensional spherical space-time model and a Mobius strip to illustrate how matter and antimatter could be related and how the universe might evolve from a "big bang" to a "big crush." He suggests that UFOs might utilize a "hyperspace transfer" or a phenomenon related to the "enantiomorphic relation" between these twin universes to achieve interstellar travel.

Literary Analysis: Lycanthropy in Shakespeare

The magazine also features an extensive analysis of lycanthropy (werewolfism) in Shakespeare's plays, particularly "The Winter's Tale" and "King Lear."

Autolycus as a Werewolf

The article argues that Shakespeare's character Autolycus from "The Winter's Tale" can be defined as a werewolf by legal definition, citing the "wulfesheved" law. Autolycus's boastful nature, his disguise, and his association with outlawry are presented as evidence. The author suggests that Autolycus's transformation is a comedic element, a "sight-gag" that plays on the audience's familiarity with werewolf lore.

King Lear as a Lycanthropic Play

Similarly, the analysis posits that "King Lear" can be interpreted as a "lycanthropic play." The etymology of "virago" (a term applied to Regan and Goneril) is linked to "werewolf." Edgar's disguise as "Turlygood" or "Poor Tom" is presented as a deliberate adoption of a lycanthropic persona, complete with howling and self-mutilation. Lear himself, particularly in his final appearance, howls, aligning him with the definition of a werewolf.

The article draws on Robert Burton's "The Anatomy of Melancholy," which classifies lycanthropy as a disease of the imagination, alongside madness and frenzy. It suggests that Lear's psychological state deteriorates through these stages. The text also references historical accounts of werewolves, such as the case of Jacques Roulet, and the physical descriptions associated with them, finding parallels in the characters' portrayals.

The "Wild Man" and "Green Man" Archetypes

The analysis connects the concept of the "wild man" and the "Green Man" archetypes to werewolf folklore. These figures, often depicted as covered in moss or ivy and living in the woods, are seen as representing disguised outlaws and werewolves hiding and feeding in the wilderness. This archetype is linked to Edgar's disguise and Lear's appearance on the heath.

Metaphorical Lycanthropy

While Edgar and Lear are presented as potentially embodying literal lycanthropy, Regan and Goneril are described as metaphorically lycanthropic. Their "whorish" actions and "she-fox" nature are interpreted as reflecting a bestial rage and a descent into madness, driven by jealousy and hatred.

Conclusion on Shakespeare and Witchcraft

The author concludes that while Shakespeare may not have personally believed in witchcraft or werewolves, he effectively used these popular motifs to entertain the public and explore complex psychological themes. The use of magical elements and folklore was a popular draw for audiences of his time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the intersection of scientific theory (cosmology, physics) with speculative concepts (UFOs, advanced propulsion) and literary analysis (mythology, folklore, character interpretation). The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, pushing the boundaries of conventional understanding in both science and the humanities. There is a clear interest in exploring unconventional theories and reinterpreting established works through new lenses. The magazine aims to bridge complex scientific ideas with accessible explanations and to find deeper meanings in cultural and literary phenomena. The recurring themes include the nature of reality, the universe's structure, the limits of human knowledge, and the enduring power of myth and archetype in human expression.

This issue of Pursuit magazine, dated Third Quarter 1988, features an in-depth article titled "Katie: Nostradamus Automatic Writing, Possible Direct Writing and Psychic Nexus of an Illiterate (Part II)" by Berthold E. Schwarz, M.D. The issue delves into the extraordinary case of a woman named Katie, who, despite being illiterate, produces automatic writings in old French and exhibits various paranormal phenomena.

Theoretical Frameworks and Hyperspace

The article begins by exploring theoretical concepts related to space-time, referencing Sakharov's suggestion of linking space-time folds via the big bang singularity and the author's own hypothesis about black holes as links. It posits that a vehicle passing through a black hole could emerge with a reversed arrow of time. The concept of image and object forming a single reality is illustrated with an octopus looking into a single-sided mirror. The text introduces the idea of a "compressed" antipodal portion of space and the implications for energy conservation during hyperspace transfers, suggesting that velocities exceeding light speed within smaller twin-folds are possible, though one cannot exceed the geometric bound 'c' of their own fold. Cosmic instability is cited as a cause for relative gauge fluctuations between space-time folds, potentially affecting magnetic fields and electric charges of black holes. The author interprets UFO sightings as wave phenomena occurring when cosmic conditions are favorable.

Katie's Case Study: Automatic Writing and Phenomena

The core of the issue is the detailed account of Katie's experiences. The article documents numerous instances of her automatic writing, often in old French, which she produces while in a trance state and frequently while being videotaped. These writings are attributed to entities, primarily Nostradamus and a figure named Waldo.

Several specific examples are provided:

• Example 9 (January 22, 1988): Upon arriving at the office, the author observed significant changes, including 'gold' materialization on specimen bottles and a solitary gold fleck on a jar of bovine aortic rings. A blank sheet of paper was found filled with ancient French writing, and a pen was cut in half. Katie's daughter also noted a double pagoda-like structure. The writing was later translated as a cryptic message about Carthage and Sardinia.
• Example 10 (February 3, 1988): Following a medical emergency, Katie produced eight words in apparent old French. She also exhibited "gold" on her abdomen and a stigmatization of a Viking ship.
• Example 11 (February 25, 1988): During a session with eight witnesses, Katie went into a deeper trance and produced automatic writing in old French. She also experienced 'saw' letters in her mind's eye. The translation of this message is provided, with George Andrews offering interpretations.
• Example 12 (April 20, 1988): Katie reported communications from Nostradamus about an impending earthquake in California. She also experienced vibrations and developed the stigmatization of a cross on her abdomen.
• Example 13 (June 28, 1988): A psychotherapy session was marked by an explosive outburst from Katie. Later, she found a message in old French on her dresser. In another instance, two large bovine aortic rings, previously missing, appeared linked in a bottle with a bronze-colored coin covered in 'gold.' Katie's automatic writing produced a verse in old French, which Mr. Andrews translated.

Physical Manifestations

Beyond the writings, Katie's sessions were often accompanied by physical phenomena:

• 'Gold' Materialization: 'Gold' frequently appeared on Katie's abdomen, face, and on various objects, including specimen bottles and a coin.
• Stigmatization: Katie developed stigmatization, such as a Viking ship and a cross, on her body.
• Apports: Objects, such as an amethyst glass pendant and a child's silver medal, appeared seemingly from nowhere, often during trance states or intense emotional periods.
• Telekinetic Effects: Instances of objects moving or changing, such as bent teaspoons and a watch malfunctioning, were noted.

Analysis and Interpretation

Dr. Schwarz discusses the potential influences on Katie's phenomena, including heteropsychic factors, discarnate entities (Nostradamus, Waldo), and possibly UFO entities. He notes Katie's lack of fanaticism about her abilities and her amnesia for much of what happens during her trance states. The article also touches upon the difficulty of translating and interpreting the old French verses, with George Andrews providing scholarly input.

References and Notes

The article includes extensive references and notes, citing works on psychic phenomena, psychokinesis, UFOs, and historical figures like Nostradamus. These notes provide context and support for the claims made in the article, referencing previous research and publications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of consciousness, paranormal abilities, and potential extraterrestrial or extradimensional influences. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation into phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The article emphasizes the need for careful documentation and analysis, while acknowledging the inherent difficulties in proving or disproving such events. The focus on Katie's case highlights the potential for profound psychic experiences to manifest in individuals who may not fit typical profiles, and the article encourages an open-minded yet rigorous approach to studying these complex phenomena. The exploration of space-time theories and UFO interpretations suggests a broader interest in the nature of reality and humanity's place within it.

This issue of PURSUIT, dated Third Quarter 1988, delves into a variety of anomalous phenomena, with a strong focus on potential connections between natural constants, planetary cycles, and UFO waves. The magazine also explores ancient enigmas, psychic phenomena, and curious contemporary events.

Articles

Some Further Considerations of the Mars-Venus Cycle and Natural Constants in Relation to UFO Waves by Keith L. Partain, M.Sc.

This article explores the author's ongoing research into relating natural constants and planetary cycles to UFO waves. Partain revisits his earlier work, which suggested a 5.083-year cycle, potentially linked to the product of Pi (π) and the golden ratio (φ), that began in 1947. He notes that this cycle's distribution over land, rather than oceans, seems statistically significant. The author also examines the Mars-Venus cycle and its potential connection to solar activity and Fortean phenomena. He questions the significance of the 1947 start date, suggesting it might coincide with Richard Feynman's work on Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) rather than solely the atomic bomb. Partain also discusses the possibility of extraterrestrials using natural constants to signal their existence and vice versa. He highlights the synodical year of Venus and its approximation using mathematical constants. The article touches upon models that explore the moderation of solar wind by planetary conjunctions and the potential influence of planetary positions on the ionosphere. Partain concludes by emphasizing the need for intelligent speculation when investigating such phenomena and suggests that the Mars-Venus cycle and UFO waves might be related.

A Radiotechnical Device in the Ancient World? by R. Furduy

This article examines the biblical account of the Tabernacle, proposing it may have been a sophisticated radiotechnical device rather than merely a portable temple. The author, consulting with engineers and radio specialists, suggests that the Tabernacle's dimensions and construction, particularly the metallic beams and gold coating, indicate a function related to reflecting or transmitting radio waves. The text describes the Tabernacle as a rectangular marquee with vertical beams and horizontal poles, all seemingly multiples of 10 cubits (5 meters), suggesting a system designed for 10-meter wavelength radiowaves. The author posits that the beams could act as semiwave vibrators and quarter-wave vibrators, interacting effectively with specific radiowave lengths. The objects within the Tabernacle, such as the table, lamp, and shrine (Ark of the Covenant), are interpreted as playing specific roles in this hypothesized device. The shrine, containing the 'stone tablets' (possibly containing complex electronic devices and a radioisotopic power source), is considered the heart of the system, potentially acting as a receiver-transmitter. The article notes the dangerous nature of the shrine, citing instances of people perishing when interacting with it, suggesting it emitted electrical discharges. The author speculates that extraterrestrials may have used Moses and his tribe to construct and transport this device, possibly for communication, research, or energy acquisition, exploiting the tribe's nomadic lifestyle.

Related SITuations

This section presents a collection of curious and unexplained events reported by readers.

• Ancient Enigmas: This subsection discusses several mysteries from the past. It mentions hundreds of trenches on Malta of unknown origin, a complex ancient mechanism discovered on a sunken ship that functioned as a primitive computer, and the advanced knowledge of the Dogon tribe regarding the star Sirius. It also touches upon the unique city in Peru, the construction of Indian minarets, and the myth of Atlantis. The section further explores the hypothesis that cities like Moenjodaro may have been destroyed by a powerful, possibly nuclear, explosion, citing evidence of rapid hardening of clay and high radioactivity in human remains. The author concludes that the mysteries of the past remain largely unveiled.
• House Cat Walked 600 Miles - to Home: A house cat named Gribouille traveled over 600 miles from Reutlingen, West Germany, back to Tannay, France, over eighteen months. Despite the average cat's homing range being much shorter, Gribouille traversed mountains and rivers, eventually returning to her original owner, emaciated but alive.
• Black Panthers in the Maritimes?: The Canadian Wildlife Service has recorded numerous sightings of black panthers in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia over the past decade, despite experts suggesting these sightings might be misidentified eastern cougars.
• Solar Flares Blamed For Loss of German Homing Pigeons: Hundreds of West German homing pigeons failed to return home after a release, with pigeon fanciers suspecting that gigantic solar flares may have disturbed the Earth's magnetic field, which pigeons use for navigation.
• 3,000 Racing Pigeons Missing: A large number of racing pigeons were lost over the English Channel after a competition, presumed to have failed to find their way home.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of unexplained phenomena, the search for underlying patterns and connections in nature and history, and the potential for advanced ancient technologies or extraterrestrial influence. The magazine consistently encourages readers to question conventional explanations and engage in "intelligent speculation." The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into Forteana, UFOs, psychic phenomena, and historical mysteries, inviting reader contributions and fostering a community of researchers interested in these topics.

Title: Pursuit
Issue: Third Quarter 1988
Volume: 21
Publisher: Pursuit
Country: USA
Language: English
ISSN: 0033-4060
Cover Headline: "Lizard Man" facts

Articles

The "Lizard Man" Phenomenon

The magazine extensively covers the "Lizard Man" sightings, primarily focusing on Lee County, South Carolina. Sheriff Liston Truesdale acknowledges numerous reports, some from reputable individuals, while also noting that some incidents, like Kenneth Orr's claim of wounding the creature, were later confessed to be hoaxes intended to perpetuate the legend.

Key Incidents and Testimonies:

• Initial Sighting: The phenomenon gained traction after a local teenager reported being attacked by a 7-foot-tall, green, red-eyed creature while changing a tire in Scape Ore Swamp.
• Colonel's Testimony: An Army colonel from Bishopville reported seeing a two-legged, dinosaur-type creature crossing a road, lending credibility due to his observational training.
• Hoax Confession: Kenneth Orr, 26, confessed to fabricating a story about wounding the Lizard Man, admitting he fired shots at a lizard-like creature that was likely a bear, but he wanted to keep the legend alive.
• Physical Evidence: Sheriff's deputies found unusual tracks described as two large pads and three toes with claws, sinking into the dirt about 1½ inch deep, with a stride of six feet. These tracks were found over 400 yards and were considered too deep and varied to be easily faked.
• Historical Connections: The article draws parallels to other cryptid reports, including Bigfoot and the Abominable Snowman, and explores older accounts of mysterious creatures.

Lizard Man's Coast Connection

This section details a report from Jeremy DeCoito, who as a 5-year-old in Pass Christian, Mississippi, encountered a 7-foot-tall, green, red-eyed creature that tapped on his window and shook his back door. The boy's grandmother confirmed the terrifying experience, stating the creature was "UGH-Lee."

Swamp Creature Once Sighted Locally

Dean Poucher, a Beaufort County resident, discusses the history of marsh monster tales in his area, noting that over the years, people have reported seeing tracks and hearing sounds. Poucher himself, in 1970, found tracks on Old Island that were 14 inches long and much wider than his boot, describing the area as looking like a "tank had come through."

Lizard Man Update

This brief update notes three reported sightings of the Lizard Man within a week, including a man seeing something "not human" running across a field, a Florence man reporting a "lizard woman," and a Lee County woman seeing the creature standing in front of her door.

"Lizard Man" Facts

This section provides a visual breakdown of the "Lizard Man" with labeled illustrations of its features (three-fingered hands, red eyes, 7 feet tall, green scale-like skin) and a map indicating the location of events in South Carolina. It also includes a timeline of reported sightings and incidents.

Cryptozoological Comments by Jon E. Beckjord

Jon E. Beckjord offers his perspective on the Lizard Man, suggesting it might be a "Lizard-Lizard" or a small, two-legged dinosaur similar to Coelophysis. He highlights the unusual nature of the tracks found by deputies and the colonel's sighting. Beckjord also connects these reports to similar phenomena in Ireland (Straheens' Lough) and discusses the possibility of these creatures being extraterrestrial or from parallel worlds, rather than purely biological beasts.

Key Points from Beckjord's Commentary:

• Tracks: Described as two big pads and three toes with claws, sinking deep into the dirt, with a large stride.
• Dinosaur Connection: Compares the creature to Coelophysis, a small, bipedal dinosaur.
• Irish Reports: Mentions creatures in Irish loughs resembling Coelophysis, known to prey on sheep.
• UFO Connection: Suggests cryptozoological creatures might be aliens rather than normal animals, citing anomalous evidence like blood anomalies and entities becoming balls of light.

Other Articles and Sections

• Unexplained Disappearance of Homing Pigeons: Reports on the unprecedented loss of homing pigeons in Europe, with theories pointing to magnetic field disruption from microwave ovens, radar, or solar flares.
• Scientists Listening to Noises Made by Plants in a Drought: Research into high-pitched noises emitted by drought-stressed plants, potentially attracting destructive insects. This research could aid in irrigation timing and developing drought-resistant plant varieties.
• Family Says Dead Daughter Sent Winning Lotto Numbers: A New Jersey family won a $10.5 million lottery jackpot after the deceased daughter appeared in a dream to give her father the winning numbers.
• Icon Weeps Again After Year's Lapse: An icon of the Virgin Mary at a Chicago church began weeping again, drawing crowds and being seen as a miraculous sign.
• Letters to the Editors: Includes correspondence from Russ Fletcher praising the magazine, Prof. Hans Holzer critiquing an article on psychic photography and correcting details about monks, and Daniel Eden responding to Holzer's points. Evan Hansen shares a breakthrough in ancient navigation theories, suggesting proof of latitude and longitude measurement 5,000 years ago and maps showing Antarctica without an ice cap.
• Upcoming 1989 Conferences: Lists details for "The UFO Experience" conference in Connecticut and "Transcommunications" conference in Basel, Switzerland.
• The Notes of Charles Fort: An extensive chronological listing of unexplained phenomena, meteorological events, and strange occurrences from historical records, compiled by Carl J. Pabst.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, cryptozoology, and Fortean events, maintaining an open-minded yet critical approach. The "Lizard Man" coverage exemplifies this, presenting witness accounts, official reports, and skeptical analyses (like the hoax confession) while also exploring potential connections to broader mysteries like dinosaurs and UFOs. The "Cryptozoological Comments" section explicitly pushes for considering extraterrestrial or interdimensional origins for these phenomena, moving beyond purely biological explanations. The inclusion of "The Notes of Charles Fort" demonstrates a commitment to historical documentation of the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent investigation and open reporting of diverse and often bizarre events, encouraging readers to consider unconventional possibilities.

Title: The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained
Issue Date: September 1968 (Vol. 1, No. 4)
Publisher: The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained
Country: USA
Language: English

This document details the origins and structure of The Society For The Investigation of The Unexplained (SITU), a research organization focused on paranormal and unexplained phenomena. It lists the members of its Governing Board and Scientific Advisory Board, providing their affiliations and expertise.

Origins of SITU/PURSUIT

The organization began in 1965 as a "foundation" established 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 foster the exposition and research of "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." To engage professionals and interested non-professionals, a newsletter was conceived. The first issue was released in May 1967. The response, while not overwhelming, was sufficient to encourage the founders.

Newsletter No. 2, dated March 1968, announced a significant expansion: a larger structure was planned, to be called The Society for the Investigation of The Unexplained, as formally documented with the New Jersey Secretary of State. This name proved prophetic, as Dr. Sanderson later titled one of his books "Investigating the Unexplained," published in 1972 and dedicated to the Society.

In June 1968, another publication was issued. This time, "PURSUIT" was displayed as the main title, with "newsletter" as a subtitle. By Vol. 1, No. 4 in September 1968 (which also incorporated the fourth Society newsletter), the abbreviation "SITU" was formally adopted as the Society's designation. This issue also introduced the Scientific Advisory Board, listing its members and their affiliations. Administrative matters were relegated to the final pages, with the majority of the content dedicated to investigative reporting.

Key Investigative Reports Mentioned

The September 1968 issue (Vol. 1, No. 4) featured several investigative reports on phenomena, including:

• A report on a "great armadillo" (described as 6 feet long and 3 feet high) allegedly captured in Argentina.
• Investigations into the instantaneous transportation of solid objects, including movement from one place to another and even through solid matter.
• Coverage of the "attack" on the University of Colorado UFO Project, which was headed by Dr. Edward U. Condon.
• Updated information regarding "ringing rocks" and "stone spheres."

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

Governing Board

• President: Robert C. Warth
• Vice-President: Gregory Arend
• Secretary and Treasurer: Nancy L. Warth
• Trustees: Gregory Arend, Marie Cox, Nancy Warth, Robert C. Warth, Martin Wiegler, Albena Zwerver.

Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board comprises distinguished professionals from various fields:

• Dr. George A. Agogino: Distinguished Director of Anthropology Museums and Director, Paleo-Indian Institute, Eastern New Mexico University (Archaeology).
• Dr. Carl H. Delacato: Director, The Institute for the Rehabilitation of the Brain Injured, Morton, Pa. (Mentalogy).
• Dr. Stuart W. Greenwood: Operations Manager, University Research Foundation, University of Maryland (Aerospace Engineering).
• Dr. Martin Kruskal: Program in Applied Mathematics and Computational Mathematics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey.
• Dr. Samuel B. McDowell: Professor of Biology, Rutgers the State University, Newark, New Jersey (General Biology).
• Dr. Vladimir Markotic: Professor of Anthropology, Department of Archaeology, University of Alberta, Canada (Ethnosociology and Ethnology).
• Dr. Michael A. Persinger: Professor, Department of Psychology, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada (Psychology).
• Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Plant Science Department, College of Agriculture, Utah State University (Plant Physiology).
• Dr. Berthold Eric Schwarz: Consultant, National Institute for Rehabilitation Engineering, Vero Beach, Florida (Mental Sciences).
• Dr. Michael D. Swords: Professor, Department of General Studies Science, Western Michigan University (Natural Science).
• Dr. Roger W. Wescott: Professor and Chairman, Department of Anthropology, Drew University, Madison, N.J. (Cultural Anthropology and Linguistics).
• Dr. A. Joseph Wraight: Chief Geographer, U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey, Washington, D.C. (Geography and Oceanography).
• Dr. Robert K. Zuck: Professor Emeritus Department of Botany, Drew University, Madison, N.J. (Botany).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this publication is the investigation of unexplained phenomena and "disquieting mysteries of the natural world." The editorial stance, as evidenced by the establishment of a formal society and a scientific advisory board, is one of serious inquiry and research into subjects often considered outside the mainstream of scientific understanding. The inclusion of a diverse range of scientific experts suggests an effort to approach these phenomena with rigorous investigation, even if the subjects themselves are unconventional.