SAUCER NEWS

Magazine Overview

Title: SAUCER NEWS
Issue: Non-Scheduled Newsletter #16
Date: May 15th, 1963
Publisher: Combined with THE SAUCERIAN BULLETIN
Editor: James W. Moseley

This issue is a non-scheduled newsletter, published as often as worthwhile material is available, and is noted for containing information considered "too hot to handle" for regular issues.

A Strange Visit with Gray Barker

The main article details a visit by the Editor, James W. Moseley, and his wife to Gray Barker in Clarksburg, West Virginia, on May 2nd, 1963. The visit was prompted by a disturbing telegram from Barker urging them to stop by on their return trip north. Moseley had recently completed business dealings with Barker regarding the purchase of 'The Saucerian Bulletin'.

Upon arrival, Barker was found to be taciturn and frightened, a stark contrast to his previously arrogant and financially secure demeanor. His downtown office and apartment were gone, and he was now living in a run-down old house on a hill. Barker invited the Moseleys to stay with him, which the Editor interpreted not as generosity, but as a deep-rooted fear of being alone at night. The offer was declined.

The following morning, Barker appeared pale and nervous, having visibly lost weight. He mentioned a small scar on his forehead, allegedly from an assault by a thug shortly before he moved from his former apartment. His new living quarters were in disarray, with books and papers scattered. The printing press appeared damaged, which Barker claimed was sabotage by the same thug he refused to describe.

Barker stated he had dismissed his four employees "for their own protection" and intended to continue his book publishing business alone. He was unwilling to explain his move to new premises or the drastic change in his demeanor from cheerful to gloomy and despairing. Selling 'The Saucerian Bulletin' was a significant letdown, but it was evident that other issues were at play.

Although the term "Silence Group" was not explicitly used, Moseley felt that Barker believed some organized force was behind the attacks and persecutions he had been suffering over the past several months. Barker's earlier problems had been described in an article by him in the June 1962 issue of SAUCER NEWS.

Moseley left Clarksburg with sympathy for Barker, sensing he was enduring something he was unable or unwilling to discuss. Barker seemed pleased and grateful for the visit. In their final moments, Barker cautioned Moseley to be careful in his future saucer research, without specifying how or why. He wished them well with SAUCER NEWS and cryptically stated, "I shall go on publishing books no matter what happens, because I believe."

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This newsletter highlights the precarious nature of UFO research and publishing, particularly concerning individuals involved. It touches upon themes of fear, potential harassment by unknown forces, and the personal toll such activities can take on researchers and publishers. The editorial stance, as conveyed through Moseley's account, is one of concern and sympathy for Barker, while also acknowledging the mysterious and potentially dangerous aspects of the field. The emphasis on publishing important information, even if it's "too hot to handle," underscores the commitment to disseminating findings within the UFO community.