Wonders - Vol 7 No 4 - 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: WONDERS
Issue: Vol. 7 No. 4 (Whole No. 28)
Date: December 2002
Publisher: Mark A. Hall Publications
Country: USA
Theme: Bigfoot, Sasquatch, Cryptozoology

The Public's False Perceptions

The editorial section, "The Public's False Perceptions," addresses the common low regard for the subject of "Bigfoot" among the public. It argues that while the topic carries the stigma of a long-standing unsolved mystery, excellent evidence like the Patterson-Gimlin film exists but is often dismissed due to accusations of being hoaxes. The editorial criticizes individuals who make baseless accusations for attention or financial gain, suggesting that these "publicity hounds" and "blowhards" dull public interest in genuine mysteries. It laments the media's tendency to sensationalize such claims without presenting the full story, leading to public misconceptions. The author asserts that those dedicated to finding factual records have observed these patterns for years.

The Real Bigfoot and Genuine Bigfoot Tracks

This main article, by Mark A. Hall, begins by noting a shift in newspaper reporting on Bigfoot in early 2003, with some professional scientists now openly supporting the importance of studying the subject. It references an article by Theo Stein in The Denver Post highlighting this trend. The article acknowledges the contributions of both professional scientists like Jeffrey Meldrum, W. Henner Fahrenbach, and John Bindernagel, and "dedicated amateurs" who have influenced attitudes. It mentions deceased authors Grover Krantz and John Napier, whose books treated the subject seriously. The article notes that while solutions to Bigfoot mysteries are not imminent, the path is now clearer for young scientists.

The article then delves into the "December 2002 excesses," which were triggered by the death of a man in Washington State whose relatives claimed he was responsible for the Bigfoot legend and presented strap-on false feet as proof. The author draws a parallel to the Kensington Runestone controversy, where family legends were presented without strong evidence. The article criticizes the Washington family's claims and boasts.

It discusses how challenges to demonstrate the creation of believable tracks in natural settings led to the admission of using false feet. The investigator John Green is quoted on the cleverness of a hoaxer who never publicly claimed to fake tracks. The author recounts his own commentary on the December 2002 furor from his website, comparing it to a 1982 media frenzy over an 86-year-old logger's claims and a wooden carving of a footprint, which he chronicled in his book "Living Fossils." He reiterates that publicity hounds often offer sensational claims that never materialize.

The article strongly defends the Patterson-Gimlin film, stating that recent accounts of hoaxed footprints have unfairly defamed it. It references a 1977 summary of Bigfoot reports from South Dakota that the author published in "The Minnesota Archaeologist" in 1978, which included illustrations of gigantic footprints.

Bigfoot Emerges

The article traces the history of Bigfoot reports, noting that while the subject of Bigfoot is one of several mystery primates with a long record in North America, the specific identity of "Patterson's Bigfoot" or "Sasquatch" is often confused with other phenomena. Early references to "wildmen" date back to the 1800s, with the idea becoming commonplace in the 19th century, even appearing in fiction. In the 20th century, people began to organize these stories, and around 1900, Bigfoot began to appear in Pacific Northwest folklore, often associated with Indian names similar to "Sasquatch." John W. Burns is credited with coining the term "Sasquatch" and recognizing the significance of Indian accounts of hairy giants.

Giant footprints were mentioned in stories of the Kaigyet among the Carrier Indians of British Columbia. The article notes that in the latter half of the 20th century, researchers like John Green and Rene Dahinden continued the pursuit of understanding Bigfoot, documenting sightings and the history of investigations. Albert Ostman's account of spending several days with Bigfoot creatures is mentioned. Ivan T. Sanderson's 1961 book also covered Bigfoot lore, drawing from interviews with witnesses and investigators.

The article emphasizes that the appearance, habits, and tracks of Bigfoot are unique to the Pacific Northwest. The Patterson-Gimlin film of October 1967 is presented as a pivotal event that cemented the identity of Bigfoot for many. The author distinguishes "Patterson's Bigfoot" from other "Neo-Giants" and cautions against the broad application of the term "Bigfoot" to phenomena worldwide, as records from the 1800s through 1900s indicate other mystery primates with different origins and characteristics.

The identity of Patterson's Bigfoot is discussed as possibly originating from a fossil primate like *Australopithecus robustus* (Paranthropus), which may have migrated to the New World. The lack of fossil finds is attributed to insufficient searching, geological record disruption by glaciations, and poor preservation of large bones. The notoriety of the Sasquatch in the Northwest gained traction in the 1950s, preceding the 1958 publication of stories about "Bigfoot" in California, specifically mentioning the find by Jerry Crew of large tracks near Eureka in August 1958. This event, along with the creation of footprint casts, spurred interest and also the incentive to fake tracks.

Hoaxing

The article dedicates a section to "Hoaxing," acknowledging that serious writers on Bigfoot have addressed the topic of misinformation. The author recalls his first treatment of hoaxes in 1979, discussing "Bigfoot reports" from Iowa. He notes that the practice of faking tracks was common, sometimes done by locals for sport. The book "Living Fossils" (1999) is mentioned for its overview of early Bigfoot hoaxes, including the story of Rant Mullens. Loren Coleman's work is cited regarding Ray Wallace's involvement in the 1950s, suggesting Wallace may have planted footprints to deter hunters. The article also references Grover Krantz and John Green's discussions on hoaxing, with Green noting that some Bigfoot films were indeed hoaxes.

The article concludes that while the presentation of false feet can be beneficial for understanding the phenomenon, those who examine the details of tracks and their sources aim to discard misleading information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of evidence in cryptozoological studies, the distinction between genuine sightings and hoaxes, and the role of media and public perception in shaping understanding of phenomena like Bigfoot. The editorial stance, as articulated by Mark A. Hall, is one of critical inquiry, emphasizing the importance of factual accuracy and defending credible evidence, such as the Patterson-Gimlin film, against unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism. The magazine appears to advocate for a more serious and scientific approach to investigating such mysteries, while acknowledging the challenges posed by misinformation and publicity seekers.

This issue of WONDERS magazine, dated December 2002, issue number 107, focuses on the topic of Bigfoot tracks, exploring both alleged hoaxes and potential genuine evidence. The main cover headline is "The Tracks of the Sasquatch (also known as Bigfoot)."

The Hoaxing of Bigfoot Tracks

The article begins by discussing how to distinguish man-made fakes from genuine Bigfoot tracks, introducing Ray Wallace as a storyteller who allegedly faked large footprints. Tools, such as a pair of wooden feet, were used to create clear prints that were easily publicized. The author notes that genuine tracks were scarce and less obvious. The article points out that there has been no confession from those involved in creating these false footprints, and the details of when and where they were hoaxed are not always clear.

Ray Wallace's relatives have presented examples of his false feet, but have not demonstrated how they were used. The article suggests that with knowledge of the instruments used, false tracks can be sorted out from the record, and that Ray Wallace was involved in hoaxing tracks.

Stories of Pranks

The magazine then delves into historical accounts of pranks involving footprints. Northern California and British Columbia are described as settings where Bigfoot could live. American Indian stories of the "Oh-Mah" and "Tokė-Mussis" are mentioned, which gained public awareness in 1958. Rumors of leaving false footprints go back to 1924, with an incident at "Ape Canyon" in Washington involving "Ape-Men" and 14-inch footprints. This is said to have inspired a ranger station prank. Other stories include Rant Mullens helping a friend scare berry pickers with big tracks in 1930, and a prank in Trinidad, California, around 1950. However, these stories are considered rumors as no contemporary records exist.

Tools for Hoaxing

The article identifies Rant Mullens and Ray Wallace as individuals linked to hoaxing tracks. Mullens publicly displayed his carving of a foot, and his claims gained attention in 1982. William Overend of the Los Angeles Times investigated a feud between Mullens and Wallace. At least three types of fake feet have been discovered. The first set is identical to Rant Mullens' work and was in the hands of Wallace's relatives in late 2002. Mullens claimed correspondence with Wallace about these feet dating to early 1958, and Wallace reportedly paid him fifty dollars for them. Mullens stated he had been carving these feet for years as tools for pranks.

According to John Auman, a retired logger, Wallace had a problem with his work sites being looted at night. Wallace schemed to scare off vandals by depositing tracks. This practice of leaving tracks to scare off trespassers is not unique to Wallace; Ranger Arthur Woody used fake bear paw tracks in the Georgia National Forest between 1918 and 1945 to deter poachers.

The Second Set of Fake Feet

William Overend interviewed Ray Wallace in 1982 about his feud with Mullens, with Wallace stating Mullens' feet were crude and would not fool anyone. Wallace gave the Mullens feet to his relatives, who reportedly used them in later years. The second set of false feet was displayed by Dale Lee Wallace in December 2002. Their first appearance was on November 2, 1958, on a sandbar in Bluff Creek. When Jerry Crew found large footprints in August and October 1958, Ray Wallace hired Ray Kerr and Leslie Breazele to investigate who was making them. This action is seen as inconsistent with Wallace being the one leaving the tracks at his own construction sites, but it suggests he wanted to know who else was causing a sensation.

According to Elwood Baumann, Ray Wallace and his brother Wilbur were angered by nuisances at their work sites. Kerr and Breazele reported finding tracks, and their dogs disappeared while searching. Large tracks resembling the Crew tracks were found at the scene. Fake tracks, made by crudely carved alder-wood feet, began appearing after the hunters departed. These tracks were used for years and were identified as fakes in 1960, though this was not widely known. The display of these foot forms in December 2002 removed doubt about Ray Wallace's involvement.

The Third Set of Fake Feet

A third set of foot forms exists, noted by Grover Krantz as fake 18-inch-long casts. Duplicates were widely distributed. Wallace possessed sets of these and was photographed with two sets in 1982. While there is no specific admission of Wallace being behind these fakes, duplicates helped meet the demand for Bigfoot casts.

A Trail of Tracks in Print

The article traces the success of fake tracks, particularly those from the second set. A photograph of an "Oh-Mah" track in Ivan Sanderson's book is identified as a fake. By 1959, these fakes were deposited on sandbars in Bluff Creek and used in illustrations. Tracks on Blue Creek Mountain in 1967 were also from the second set and appeared in various books. The silhouette of this fake track adorned the dust jacket of Kenneth Wylie's book. Peter Byrne included a photograph of this fake in "The Search for Bigfoot."

Roger Patterson, in his books published in 1966 and 1968, did not include images of these fake tracks, implying he did not find them acceptable. Grover Krantz also ignored them in his book "Big Footprints." The article states these tracks became part of Bigfoot history but can now be removed from serious consideration. The dissemination of fake footprints was driven by the potential for profit from selling casts and photographs, starting in the late 1950s with Bob Titmus offering casts for $3.50. The public's desire to see what a track looked like also contributed to the spread of these images.

Hoaxing Revealed

Loren Coleman brought attention to a chapter in a book of reminiscences by Steve M. Matthes. In 1960, Matthes participated in Tom Slick's expedition to find Bigfoot in California. Matthes identified faked Bigfoot prints early on, noting that his dogs could not follow the scent beyond the road where the tracks appeared. He concluded the tracks were fake because there was nothing to follow. The straight and measured placement, along with specific qualities of the prints, tipped Matthes off. Tom Slick was persuaded to continue the search, but only more bogus prints were found.

The team kept their discovery of fake tracks quiet, releasing a story about expecting tracks on sandbars to draw out the faker. The fakes were identified as imprints of the Wallace foot forms. Matthes's conclusion that the entire thing was a hoax was considered uninformed, as he ignored the Jerry Crew prints from two years earlier and got the history of Bigfoot backward. He suggested Sasquatch emerged after the idea of a mythical Bigfoot, rather than the other way around. His team searched waterways for food sources, but it was noted that an intelligent "humanoid" would likely avoid people searching the area.

Tom Slick kept his knowledge of the fakes to himself, possibly to find out who was doing the faking, to prevent them from changing tactics, or to avoid publicizing only fake results. His opportunity to share this information ended with his death in a plane crash in 1962.

The Mullens-type of fake is described as rectangular and flawed, having little impact on Bigfoot discussions. The Wallace fake, however, was likely styled after real prints found in October 1958 and was used extensively from around Halloween 1958. Although recognized as fake two years later, it continued to be used. The relatives of Ray Wallace are believed to sincerely think that this and other fakes are the basis for the Bigfoot legend, having been "hoodwinked" by him. Ray Wallace never claimed fame for fathering the legend, likely because he could not explain the Jerry Crew tracks. A confession from Wallace is not expected, only hearsay from relatives who have no interest in historical accuracy.

Ray Wallace told extravagant stories about Bigfoot but did something about the 1958 sensation by hiring men to investigate. He then became a Bigfoot booster by leaving trails of tracks, joking not only on people but also on the Bigfoot creatures themselves. Other hoaxes have been claimed, such as a man in Washington boasting about executing fake prints in three sizes in 1971. The article concludes that more and better fakes will be attempted in the future.

The Tracks of the Sasquatch (also known as Bigfoot)

The history of Sasquatch and Bigfoot indicates that mysterious giant footprints have always been rare in the West. Long trails of footprints suggest fakery, especially in the post-1958 era. A few giant impressions are linked to sightings of hairy giants. The creatures are described as intelligent and avoid humans, not suddenly becoming stupid in the mid-20th century.

The tracks of three individual creatures are considered properly associated with large, hairy creatures, categorized as "Neo-Giants." These beings are thought to have affinities with other primates in Asia and possibly North America. The article emphasizes that other track records attributed to Bigfoot need close examination.

The first case of good quality is the track associated with the Patterson-Gimlin film (1967), with the female creature's footprint measuring 14.5 inches long and 6 inches wide. The second and third cases involve individual creatures reported in 1977 in South Dakota, with similar reports over several years in Manitoba and both Dakotas. These reports suggest a family of two adults and one immature offspring, possibly out of their normal element.

Fig. 4 shows reports and tracks from 1975 to 1981 in Manitoba and the Dakotas, with footprints up to 20 inches long. The article notes that these creatures were in areas like Brandon, Portage La Prairie, Spearfish, and Little Eagle.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the distinction between genuine Bigfoot evidence and deliberate hoaxes. The magazine takes a critical stance, aiming to debunk fabricated accounts and present a more accurate understanding of Bigfoot phenomena. It highlights the importance of historical record-keeping, the motivations behind hoaxes (fame, profit, pranks), and the ongoing challenge of separating fact from fiction in cryptozoology. The editorial stance favors rigorous examination of evidence and a skeptical approach to sensational claims, while acknowledging the possibility of genuine mystery primates.

This issue of WONDERS magazine, dated December 2002, features a cover story titled "Primate Survivors Recognized at Last." The magazine focuses on cryptozoology, particularly the phenomenon of Bigfoot and other alleged surviving archaic primate species, referred to as 'Neo-Giants.' The content explores historical accounts, footprint analysis, fossil evidence, and the scientific community's reception to these topics.

Bigfoot and Neo-Giant Tracks

The article highlights the importance of the 1977 Bigfoot tracks found in North and South Dakota, distinguishing them from the more problematic evidence from the Pacific Northwest. These tracks are presented as logically associated with a large male (estimated 8.5 feet tall, tracks 20x8.5 inches) and a female (estimated 7.5 feet tall, tracks 18x8 inches). The author notes that casts made by Jerry Crew in 1958 and by Roger Patterson in 1964 on Bluff Creek share similar proportions and particulars, suggesting a consistent record. The article emphasizes the need to establish common elements within track groups and to consider the circumstances surrounding their manifestation rather than dismissing them based on isolated fake examples.

The Concept of Neo-Giants

The magazine introduces the concept of 'Neo-Giants' as a category of primate distinct from gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans. These creatures are described as intelligent, having competed with early human ancestors, and surviving by retreating to wilderness areas. The article suggests that these 'unrecognized' or 'un-catalogued' primates are smart enough to have avoided the fates of being hunted, confined to zoos, or experimented upon. Their appearances near human habitations are often not recognized for what they are.

Fossil Evidence and Skepticism

The article addresses the skepticism surrounding Bigfoot and related phenomena, particularly citing Benjamin Radford's assertion that no bodies or fossils have been found. It refutes this claim by mentioning alleged body discoveries in Georgia (1829), Pennsylvania (1972), and the case of 'Jacko' in British Columbia (1884). Furthermore, it discusses fossil evidence, specifically *Homo gardarensis*, whose bones were found in Greenland in 1926 but were mislabeled as acromegaly and misplaced. Other potential fossil finds, such as the Minaret calverium from 1965, are also mentioned as having been potentially lost or misfiled.

Bones found in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Minnesota in 1968 are presented as possibly representing a pre-Indian type of man closely related to Neanderthal Man, though records of their examination were lost by the Smithsonian. The article also notes the case of Samuel Eddy's collection of unusual bones, which were dispersed and potentially lost.

Scientific Approach and Future Research

The magazine advocates for a more rigorous and open scientific approach to studying Bigfoot and similar phenomena. It suggests that scientists should actively seek out and re-examine existing, neglected fossil evidence. Field studies need to be better planned, moving beyond simple track searching or waiting for sightings. The author recommends creating a comprehensive dossier on Sasquatch/Bigfoot by reviewing evidence from South America to Alaska, as well as from China, India, and Nepal. The focus should be on isolating genuine records and sightings, analyzing creature habits, their relationship to food sources and vegetation, and distinguishing them from hoaxes. The article stresses that obtaining a dead specimen is not essential for progress and encourages seeking observations and contact.

Historical Context and Ongoing Quest

The article places the pursuit of Bigfoot within a broader historical context, mentioning early researchers like John W. Burns, John Green, Rene Dahinden, and Ivan Sanderson. It draws parallels to the Piltdown hoax in physical anthropology, noting that such deceptions did not halt the search for genuine fossils. The ongoing quest for understanding Bigfoot and other living primates is framed as a manifestation of mankind's inherent curiosity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the persistence of archaic primate species ('living fossils') alongside modern humans, the challenges posed by hoaxes and scientific skepticism, and the importance of careful, evidence-based investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of advocating for a more open-minded and thorough approach to cryptozoological research, challenging the dismissive attitudes of some within the scientific establishment, and highlighting the potential significance of overlooked evidence and historical accounts.

This document is an index from the December 2002 issue of WONDERS magazine, issue number 127. It primarily serves as a listing of names and topics discussed within the publication, along with their corresponding page numbers.

Content Index

The index is extensive, covering a broad spectrum of subjects related to mysteries, unexplained phenomena, and natural history. It includes numerous personal names, such as Larry Hagedon, Jay Hall, F. C. C. Hansen, Charles Hapgood, Bernard Heuvelmans, William Hichens, Charles Humphreys, Grover Krantz, and Ivan T. Sanderson, among many others. Each name is associated with page numbers where they are mentioned in the issue.

Significant topics and entities indexed include:

Hominids and Human Origins

The issue delves into various aspects of human origins and related discoveries. It references species like *Homo gardarensis*, *Paranthropus*, Neandertal Man, and *Simopithecus*. Specific archaeological finds and concepts such as the Kennewick People, the Kensington Runestone, and the La Verendrye Stone are also listed with their respective page numbers. The 'Little People' and 'Neo-Giants' are also mentioned.

Cryptozoology and Unexplained Creatures

A substantial portion of the index is dedicated to cryptids and legendary creatures. Prominent entries include Bigfoot, Sasquatch, and Yeti, often discussed in relation to 'True Giants'. Other creatures indexed are Mer-beings, Mermaid Point, Sea Monster Johnny, Sea serpents, Lizardman, Monster Lizards, and Nunda Cat. The 'Panthera atrox' (saber-toothed cat) is also featured.

Unexplained Phenomena and Mysteries

Various unexplained phenomena and mysteries are cataloged. This includes references to the Patterson-Gimlin film, 'Living Fossils', 'Natural Mysteries', and 'Sky-Lines'. Specific events or reports like 'Thunderbirds' (both as a general topic and attributed to Hall) and the Minnesota Iceman are also indexed.

Locations and Specific References

Geographical locations relevant to the articles are also listed, such as Gunnbjom's Skerries, Irizima, Mermaid Point (North Carolina), Uwharrie National Forest, and Whiteman's Land.

Editorial Information and Website

An advertisement at the end of the document encourages readers to "Keep Up With WONDERS in 2003" by checking out the MAHIP website at `http://home.att.net/~mark.hall.wonders` for new Mystery Profiles and updates on news and publications. The magazine is identified as WONDERS, with the issue dated December 2002 and identified as issue number 127.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes evident from the index are cryptozoology, paleontology, human origins, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one that explores and documents reports and theories related to these subjects, providing a platform for discussion and information dissemination through its articles and website.