Wessex UFO Record - No 08 - 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: WESSEX UFO RECORD
Issue Date: July 1975
Issue Number: 8
Price: 35p

This issue of the Wessex UFO Record focuses on a blend of UFO phenomena, fortean events, and critical examinations of historical and religious narratives. The cover features a photograph attributed to Bob Strong, with the main headline highlighting this image. The contents page lists articles on the historicity of Jesus, UFO sightings in Warminster, and other fortean topics.

Editorial

The editorial, written in the absence of the regular editor, addresses the state of UFO investigation in Warminster. The author notes a decline in 'physical' saucer activity compared to the late sixties, with most logged sightings now being 'LITS' (unspecified, but implied to be less significant). However, the editorial emphasizes the presence of considerable 'psychic activity' in the Warminster area, particularly around Starr Hill and Cley Hill. Phenomena such as 'The Mysterious Mist' and 'The Electro-Magnetic Snake' are mentioned as being witnessed by visitors. The author expresses a desire for more rational and analytical minds in the field, lamenting that some occurrences are magnified by 'hysterical persons' seeking 'Little Green Men'. The editorial highlights the emergence of new, fascinating phenomena, including the 'Invisible Walker,' whose footsteps are reportedly heard and seen on Starr and Cradle Hill, suggesting that bizarre phenomena are occurring almost nightly in Warminster.

The author also expresses a wish for a properly conducted investigation into these strange happenings, suggesting that the answer might lie in psychical research rather than extraterrestrial hypotheses. The editorial concludes by noting that while Warminster may have its share of 'imaginative cranks,' the current phenomena are worthy of scientific investigation.

Articles and Features

Jesus - Man or Myth? Part 1 of a 2 part analysis

This extensive article by John Cleary-Baker critically examines the historical evidence for Jesus Christ. The author notes that many educated individuals still believe Jesus was a historical figure as presented in the New Testament, often citing the writings of the Jewish historian Josephus. Cleary-Baker proposes, following Professor G.A. Wells, that Christianity arose from a fusion of Jewish Messianism, pagan dying-god ideas, and the teachings of the Qumran Essenes.

The article argues that if an historical Jesus existed, there should be a record of his trial and execution in Roman archives. However, no such record has been found. The author discusses the duty of Roman governors to deposit official diaries and notes that the events surrounding Jesus's trial, as described in the Gospels, were significant enough to warrant a report to Rome, especially given the accusation of 'King of the Jews,' which implied insurrection.

Cleary-Baker examines the appeals made by Justin Martyr and Tertullian for the disinterment of such records, noting that no document was ever produced. He dismisses the possibility of the record being lost or destroyed by pagans, suggesting that if it existed and was hostile to Jesus, Christians would have had an incentive to destroy it, while pagans would not.

The article delves into the historical accounts of Celsus and Lucian, who describe Jesus as a sorcerer and fomenter of rebellion. It also scrutinizes the passages in Tacitus and Suetonius that are often cited as pagan evidence for Jesus. The author argues that the passage in Tacitus concerning the Christians and Christus is likely interpolated or amended, and that Suetonius's references to 'Chrestos' and 'Christians' may not directly refer to Jesus but to a broader cult or superstition.

Further analysis is given to the 'Testimonium Flavianum' in Josephus's 'Antiquities of the Jews,' which is presented as a key piece of evidence. Cleary-Baker argues that this passage is a forgery or interpolation, citing its disruption of the narrative flow and the lack of corroboration from other sources. He also examines the passage concerning the death of James the Apostle, suggesting that the mention of 'the brother of Jesus, who was called Christ' is also an interpolation.

The article concludes that the evidence for an historical Jesus, based on Roman and Jewish sources, is weak, and that the 'Testimonia Flavianum' are either forgeries or of dubious authenticity, adding little to the knowledge of Jesus if genuine.

An American Sees Warminster UFOs

This article by Arthur Shuttlewood appears to detail UFO sightings observed by an American visitor in the Warminster area. While the full content is not detailed in the provided text, its inclusion suggests a focus on local UFO activity.

The "All-Purpose" UFO

Written by Neil Pike, this article likely explores a specific type or aspect of UFO phenomena, possibly one that exhibits a wide range of characteristics or behaviors.

Book Review: Mystery of the Ancients

Neil Pike reviews 'Mystery of the Ancients' by Eric and Craig Umland. The review strongly criticizes the book, quoting several outlandish claims made within it, such as the Mayas possessing television sets, their language originating from another solar system, and their involvement in extracting the Moon's metal core. Pike dismisses these claims as 'blatant rubbish'.

Other Content

The issue also includes a 'Letter Section,' indicating reader engagement and discussion, and other miscellaneous items.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO phenomena, particularly in the Warminster area, and a critical, skeptical approach to historical and religious claims, especially concerning the historicity of Jesus. The editorial stance, as expressed in the editorial and the article on Jesus, favors rational inquiry, scientific investigation, and a cautious interpretation of evidence, distinguishing between genuine phenomena and sensationalism or fabrication. There is a clear emphasis on questioning established narratives and seeking verifiable proof, particularly when examining historical figures and events.

The magazine also touches upon the occult and fortean phenomena, suggesting an interest in a broader range of unexplained events beyond traditional UFO sightings. The book review's harsh critique of 'Mystery of the Ancients' underscores a commitment to debunking unsubstantiated or pseudoscientific claims.

This issue of The Wessex UFO Record, identified by its page number '10', '11', '12', '13', '14', '15', '16', '17', and '19', delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, archeology, and New Age thought. The content includes personal letters, critical analyses of research methodologies, eyewitness accounts, and reviews of related literature.

Content Breakdown

Letter to Wessex UFO Record from Julie Colborne

Julie Colborne of Upton Scudamore, Warminster, offers a philosophical perspective, suggesting that humanity is at a crucial period of change. She posits that growing awareness of the 'inter-reltedness of the Universe' across various fields like biology, art, and spiritual teachings indicates a potential for a new cycle of 'Unity and Peace'. She encourages cultivating faith and hope to overcome fear, suggesting that what seems like fantasy today may become proven fact tomorrow, and poses the question of whether this is a call for open-minded thinking.

THE JANUS SEX by D.G. MacDonald Allen

This section reviews the book 'The Janus Sex' by D.G. MacDonald Allen, published by Exposition Press, Inc. The quote provided highlights the concept of hermaphroditism, particularly intellectual and cerebral hermaphroditism, suggesting that the merging of sexual identities is not inherently degenerative and can be artistically and culturally commendable. The review frames it as 'The Androgynous Challenge'.

THE "ALI-PURPOSE" UFO by Neil Pike

Neil Pike expresses his disappointment with the lack of progress in UFO research, criticizing the available literature as 'abysmal'. He argues that many authors lack scientific training, conduct inadequate research, and present UFOs to fit their own biases, cloaking the subject in mystery that leads intelligent readers to dismiss it. Pike critiques the tendency to accept outlandish ideas backed by 'supporting evidence' and contrasts the mid-fifties approach, which he describes as scientific and factual, with later eras influenced by figures like Erich von Daniken. He notes the shift towards viewing UFOs as part of the psychic world, which he also finds problematic due to a lack of rigorous investigation. Pike questions why archeologists haven't found evidence of UFO activity in ancient ruins and suggests that even those who understand Einstein's Theory of Relativity haven't connected it to UFO power sources. He concludes by urging ufologists to focus on sound evidence and facts rather than sensationalism and conjecture.

TALES OF TWO WORLDS by Peggy Mason

This is an advertisement for the book 'Tales of Two Worlds: A Bedside Book for the NEW AGE' by Peggy Mason. Contact information for obtaining copies is provided, along with the price of £1-40, post free.

An American Sees Warminster UFOs. by Arthur Shuttlewood

Arthur Shuttlewood reports on UFO sightings in the Warminster area over the past ten years. He suggests that many UFOs may not originate from extraterrestrial worlds but from a 'normally invisible realm' of a different dimensional scale. He quotes Charles Fort, who suggested humanity might be 'property' of some higher intelligence. Shuttlewood discusses the difficulty in describing these intelligences and their advanced technology, which can manipulate time and space. He also touches upon the idea that these beings are pure thought energy and have been responsible for legends of angels and gods. The article reassures the Warminster community that their sightings are corroborated by others globally. It then recounts an experience from August 26th, 1972, where Bryce Bond, a journalist, experienced unusual feelings and witnessed UFO activity, including a triangle-shaped craft with colored lights and a brilliant white UFO. Bond engaged in a Morse code exchange with one of the craft. The article also details the discovery of crop circles, described as depressions in the corn shaped like triangles and circles, formed in a counter-clockwise fashion.

MYSTIC FORUM, QUEST, ATLANTIS BOOKSHOP, WARMINSTER SKYWATCH CARAVAN

These sections are advertisements and listings for various organizations and publications related to occultism, Western Mystery Tradition, and UFO research. Mystic Forum is a quarterly journal on occultism. Quest magazine covers practical aspects of the Western Mystery Tradition. Atlantis Bookshop specializes in occult subjects. The Warminster Skywatch Caravan is a seasonal event.

Pseudo-Archeology and UFOs. by Dr. John Cleary-Baker, Ph.D.

Dr. John Cleary-Baker critiques the trend of pseudo-archeology, which attributes ancient civilizations' achievements to extraterrestrial visitants. He names authors like Robert Charroux and Erich von Daniken. Cleary-Baker argues that there is no sound reason to assume that the Nazca Lines or the Great Pyramid were built with extraterrestrial assistance, citing evidence of human methods and tools. He suggests that ancient civilizations inherited knowledge from earlier cultures but finds no evidence that modern scientific achievements were duplicated in earlier epochs. He uses the example of Heron of Alexandria's steam engine to illustrate inventions ahead of their time, noting the failure of ancient societies to adopt such technologies. Cleary-Baker contends that pseudo-archeological ufologists lack proof for their claims and urges UFO researchers to focus on sound evidence and facts.

HANDWRITING ANALYSIS

This is an advertisement for a handwriting analysis service, offering insights into character, potential, and personal problems. It provides a price of £2 and a mailing address.

R.A. GILBERT

This is an advertisement for R.A. Gilbert, a seller of secondhand and antiquarian books, specializing in occult, folklore, and theology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO research methodologies, the separation of factual evidence from conjecture and sensationalism, and the debunking of pseudo-archeological theories that link UFOs to ancient civilizations. The editorial stance appears to favor a rigorous, evidence-based approach to understanding UFO phenomena, questioning unsubstantiated claims and promoting critical thinking. There is also an undercurrent of interest in New Age concepts and the potential for societal transformation through increased awareness of universal interconnectedness.

The document is page 20 of the "Wessex UFO Record," a publication from 1975. It details the magazine's purpose, publication schedule, costs, and contact information for subscriptions, correspondence, and article submissions.

Publication Details

The "Wessex UFO Record" aims to report UFO, Fortean, and Psychical manifestations in the Wessex region and beyond, and to study the implications of these phenomena. It is published quarterly. The cost for an annual subscription of four issues is £1-50, with single copies priced at 35p.

Editorial and Contact Information

Subscriptions should be addressed to Mrs. Sally Pike at "Poco," 14, St. John's Rd., Warminster, Wilts, BA12-9LY. Her telephone number is Warminster 2880 (STD Code 098-52).

General correspondence and UFO reports are to be sent to Mr. Neil Pike, who shares the same address as Mrs. Pike.

Items and articles for publication should be directed to J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D., located at 3, Devenish Road, Weeke, Winchester, Hants, SO22-6Ex. His telephone number is Winchester 2691 (STD Code 0962).

• The editorial staff includes:
• Editor: J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D.
• Associate Editor: Neil Pike
• Secretary: Sally Pike

Potential contributors and correspondents are advised not to make transfer-charge telephone calls to the editor or his associates and to seek an appointment before visiting, unless they are personal friends.

Advisory Panel

• The magazine is supported by an Advisory Panel consisting of:
• Dr. G.G. Doel, MRCS, LRCP, DMRE
• Captain E.I.A. Mackay
• Norman Oliver
• Arthur Shuttlewood
• Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench
• Arnold West

Disclaimer

A disclaimer states that contributors to "Wessex UPO Record" are solely responsible for the views they express in articles and features. These views do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Editorial Staff.

Copyright

The copyright for "Wessex UFO Record" is dated 1975.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme is the investigation and reporting of UFO, Fortean, and Psychical phenomena. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints from contributors, without necessarily endorsing them as the magazine's official position. The publication appears to be a dedicated resource for enthusiasts and researchers in these fields within the Wessex area and beyond.