THE SEARCHLIGHT

Magazine Overview

Title: THE SEARCHLIGHT
Issue: VOL. 1 NO. 5
Date: 1960
Publisher: Timothy Green Beckley
Editor: Timothy Green Beckley
Assistant Editor: John J. Robinson

This issue of The Searchlight magazine focuses on uncovering hidden truths about Earth's past and present, with a strong emphasis on unexplained phenomena, ancient civilizations, and psychic experiences.

YOU ONLY HAVE TO LOOK by Richard S. Shaver

The lead article by Richard S. Shaver challenges the notion of the 'Shaver mystery,' asserting that evidence of numerous previous, advanced cultures is abundant and easily observable. Shaver argues that the 'mystery' lies in people's reluctance to accept this evidence. He suggests discarding conventional historical narratives and looking for proof in pre-deluge ruins, artifacts, and dams. As an example, he points to the 'Carpet Rock' at Petit Jean Mountain, which he claims displays a reinforced concrete structure from an old spillway. Shaver proposes a method called 'magnification' applied to 'picture stones,' which he equates to ancient books or micro-film in solid form, requiring intelligence to interpret. He also suggests studying aerial maps, which he believes display 'pictorial material' inscribed by great cultures advertising their areas. Shaver asserts that previous cities of Earth are found in caverns, and that the descent of the moon was a periodic event that divided these cultures, marking a 'great dividing line of death.'

READERS ASKED TO HELP LOCATE CAVE NEAR PITTSBURG

Assistant Editor John J. Robinson is seeking information about a cave mentioned in an early edition of Amazing Stories. The article described a cave in the Allegheny Mountains, 50 miles from Pittsburg, explored for 18 miles to a depth of 5 miles, with a constant temperature of 50°F. Explorers reported small bores too small for an adult to enter, extending for great distances, and occasionally hearing the sound of machinery. Robinson is also interested in information about small Peruvian tunnels.

Spirit Contacts, Saucer Members At NYSIB Picnic

This section features a conversation between George E. Fox and an unnamed interviewer concerning unusual events at the 1960 New York Saucer Information Bureau (NYSIB) picnic, held at the home of Ladyard Ball. George E. Fox, originator of the 'Sun Daze' measuring system, discusses his presence at the picnic, which he learned about from Melvin Mills. Fox, who had previously worked at Cities Service Company, believes that dates reveal patterns and has devised charts for various subjects, including criminal types and the 'Mad Bomber.'

Fox explains that he went to the picnic with the intention of making a contact, possibly with his former teacher, Frank Decker, who was reportedly in spirit. The conversation shifts to a 'haunted room' in Mr. Ball's house. After lectures and tapes, Fox asked to visit the room, and others joined him. Inside, Fox displayed a homemade 'space ship indicator.' Some guests, mistaking his actions for an experiment, became curious. Mr. Ball intervened and brought Hilda Smith, a medium, into the conversation. Fox, who did not know Miss Smith, was surprised when she was given a pad and pencil, confirming her role as a medium. He then suggested attempting to contact Frank Decker.

Hilda Smith reportedly received a message from Frank Decker, which she repeated and wrote down over approximately three pages. During this process, more people entered the room, including Mr. Ball's grandmother and Nita Smith. The two men who had initially left the 'haunted room' also returned. The message from Decker was primarily for Fox, but the others also asked questions.

An unusual event occurred when Fox's 'space indicator,' which he had placed to his left, was found on the fireplace mantle to his right, in full view. No one recalled moving it, and Fox noted that it would have been difficult to move without causing his bell to ring or being seen.

THE FOLLOWING IS PART OF FRANK DECKER'S COMMUNICATION WITH THOSE PRESENT AT THE NYSIB PICNIC.

Frank Decker, communicating through Hilda Smith, addresses the group, calling the house a 'spiritual haven.' He acknowledges Hilda Smith's association with the group and emphasizes the importance of the 'force of thought' as a powerful tool for achievement, both consciously and unconsciously, influencing world affairs. He reassures them about the transition process, describing it as simple and welcoming. Decker expresses his desire to make contact with his former students, particularly one present, valuing their efforts and anticipating future communication. He concludes by stating that this type of communication can be easily developed and that they rejoice in new channels of association.

FLASHES

This short section asks readers if they have ever seen flashes of pictures, letters, designs, or symbols when their eyes are closed, and includes an illustration of a symbol. The credit is given to George E. Fox.

INDIAN LEGEND TELLS OF ESCAPE FROM UNDERGROUND

This section recounts a Hopi legend about an underworld paradise where people lived prosperously until they became licentious. The waters rose, and people escaped by following Spider Woman up a reed, pine trees, and a sunflower. The Mocking Bird assigned people to tribes, but grew exhausted, causing some to fall back into the underworld. The remaining people set off in different directions: white men south, Pueblos stayed central, and Indians went north. The source is cited as LIFE MAGAZINE, November 2, 1959.

Reports

Brief reports indicate that recent UFO activity is centering around the Great Lakes and refer readers to recent developments in 'I.N.S. REPORT #11.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Searchlight magazine consistently explores themes of hidden history, ancient civilizations, and paranormal phenomena, including UFOs and psychic communication. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question conventional narratives and seek evidence for unconventional ideas. The magazine aims to provide a platform for research and a better understanding of Earth and its mysteries, as suggested by its subtitle.