Shortly before they tested the Atomic Bomb, Manhattan Project scientists fretted about the possible effects of detonating the device. One worry was that the explosion might start an uncontrolled chain reaction and ignite the atmosphere. Despite the uncertainty, the test went on as scheduled. Obviously, the earth survived. But when stories like this began to circulate, the public imagination was caught by the notion that the US governemtn was willing to risk everything to pursue scientific superweapons to win the war.Is it any wonder that the story of the "Philadelphia Experiment" began to circulate? (Note the similarity of name with the Manhattan Project.)
While the story of the Philadelphia Experiment is not directly related to nuclear weapons, it is clearly a manifestation of the anxiety caused by harnessing risky energies using the cutting edge of scientific research.
According to the story, the Navy outfitted a destroyer escort, USS Eldridge (Eldritch, anyone?), with an experiemental power generator (according to some version, built on plans from Nikola Tesla's drawing board) to test the capability of rendering a ship invisible. The first test was a qualified success in that the ship was replaced by a green fog. The equipment was recalibrated for a second test. During this second attempt, the ship disappeared from the Philadelphia Naval Yard in a blinding flash of blue light and was reportedly seen off the coast of Norfolk, VA, before returning in the same mysterious fashion to Philadelphia. Since uncontrolled teleportation made the Navy nervous, they apparently gave up the experiment at this point.
The story continues in the 1960's, when certain unexplained documents pertaining to the incident were mailed to the Office of Naval Research. These documents were annotated by two commentators with an unusual use of EnGliSH CapITALizatIOn and Punc.Tua;))tion.! The story revealed in the documents and notes elaborated on the effects of the experiment upon the ship's crew members.
It seems that sudden teleportation was not without some risk. Some crewman were fused with mechanical equipment. Others emerged deformed. Some appeared normal, but later manifested psychic or superhuman powers. (Keep in mind that this particular mutation of the story comes at a time when the consequences of certain real activities -- exposing hundreds of Army troops to nuclear tests -- were becoming known. You can see how the anxiety emerges in the folklore.)
After that, the mainstream conspiracy theory of the Philadelphia Experiement begins to branch. It became caught up with novels, "non-fiction" books, movies, TV specials, you name it. These stories fed on each other, and borrowed liberally from other sources. The Philadelphia Experiment has been a self-titled movie, mentioned on the X-Files, and elements of the story were lifted for this season's failed series Threshold. The Sci-Fi Channel series, "The Triangle" blames the Bermuda Triangle mystery on forces unleashed by the Philadelphia Experiment.
Proof that this was too good a conspiracy theory is that it spawned a spin-off called the Montauk Project (again, note the similarity in name to Manhattan Project). In this story, the government closed up the original experiment following the failures and continued the research at an underground facility on Montauk in New York state. You want wacky? This is wacky.
The Montauk Project succeeded in stabilizing the "electromagnetic bottle" that enveloped the Eldridge. This technology lead to breakthroughs in teleportation and the construction of a Time Tunnel device. Now, government agents could be transported to any point in history. It was even used to "capture" the Eldridge in the midst of the original experiment and trap it in hyperspace. During this incident, two sailors supposedly jumped ship and found themselves in 1982, some 40 years distant from their loved ones. This story was used as the basis for the movie. Of course, the time tunnel was also used to contact space aliens -- who helpfully shared their technology to enhance the Montauk Project. And let's not forget the giant monster that was somehow sucked through the device and rampaged through the facility.
(I have to mention that Time Tunnel was a sci-fi TV series brought to you by Irwin Allen, the same genius who gave us Lost in Space. It would have been on TV at roughly the same time the actual project was occurring. Either this was exceptionally sloppy, or exceptionally brilliant security -- depending on your conspiracy worldview.)
There's not one shred of hard evidence for the truth of any of the above. It strains credibility. There's plenty of evidence to the contrary. Proponents of this far-fetched idea insist that all eyewitnesses (and there had to be hundreds of people involved over the course of decades) are:
a.) loyal conspirators, b.) falsly discredited as cranks, c.) dead from natural or human causes, or d.) brainwashed to forget. It's a great story, nontheless. And the paranoia is fascinating.
11 comments:
Yeahhh mon I saw that movie dude. It had tom hanks in it and he was sick or something. narley.
I like llammas.
I was just talking about The Philedelphia Experiment(the movie) with my significant other and we were laughing about how Hollywood was going through a little "science" fad in the mid 80s. Some of the teen ones were really stupid...ie...My Science Project, Weird Science. But it's still fun to watch some of those movies and see what was considered high-tech and on the cutting edge of scientific theory.
But on the other hand, Real Genius was a true classic.
Greetings G.A.P.O (jrf)
It is so freekishly weird that you have blogged this topic. Stories have been passed to me about a relative of mine that participated in this event. Although the precise details vary, the jist of the tale is as follows:
A Simmons relative had a job as a valet at a posh hotel near the base. The military had reserved a bunch of rooms for visiting dignitaries and brass and the rumor was that they were all coming in for a very special, scary, and world changing experiment that would finally put our jerkwater burg on the map.
Unfortunately, that's where the stories get kinda hazy because that's about the time in the retelling that uncle Horatio would start burning me with cigarettes and touching me funny and stuff and calling me Ezmerellda. One time as I woke up from a fetal position in the dark shower though I can kinda remember the smell of cherry gum and red licorice.
Anyway, I am still fast on my martial path jrf and my ability grows with each passing day in the constantly rewarding world of food services. It's not fast food. It's good food served quickly. My horse stance is very strong and stable. I can stand in it for a blistering 10 minutes without scratching myself while continuously raining down knife and ridge hand strikes at the picture on the back of a milk carton. (improvised training targets of course). What kind of sox and underwear do real operaters wear?
Mr. Simmons;
I think you may be on to something there. But be very quiet about it, because the MiB agents are everywhere. If you have an actual piece of the truth that could unravel the conspiracy, they will not hesitate to swoop in on the black helicopters and snatch you. Then Uncle Horatio's tough love will seem like a vacation compared to the dirty tricks that will be played on you.
I am pleased with your use of ridge hand strikes. My own system doesn't make much use of this particular tool, but many of the Korean martial artists I know speak highly of the technique. They also like axe kicks. Keep up the practice. It's very encouraging that you train while you work. Do not be put-off by the disapproving stares of the unwashed masses. They are not true warriors like you.
It's funny that you ask what "real operators" wear for foundation garments. I have often asked myself this question. Anytime I ask one, they give me funny looks. But like you, I have been persistent and eventually received this partial answer: Navy SEALs often do not wear any underwear! I don't know about the other services, though I suspect they are allowed the same leeway on underwear they receive on many other equipment choices. SEALs are, in fact, the source of the underwear related phrase, "going commando." It's common sense really, if you're constanly in the surfzone on a beach and rolling around in the sand, wearing tight fitting underwear is an invitation for blistering chaffing. Strange, but 100% true!
Hope that helps, Mr. Simmons!
One again jrf I prosrtate myself before your wisdom. I tried "going commando" today at work. It worked great except for two small problems. First, when I went to relieve myself.... several " remnants" were visible on my light colored work pants that took just enough time to evaporate as to let several co-workers and customers see the mess. It's kinda hard to convince others that the employees are indeed washing their hands when one has urine stains on the pants. And the second problem was of course the zip up. Urine stains are one thing, but blood stains are an entirely different matter. Guess I never knew just how much my iron man underoos took the heat for me. No wonder those high speed - low drag gentlemen make the big money.
As far as my martial training (I guess it's all martial training when it comes down to it really) I enlisted the help of a neat stretching device today that finally came in the mail. It is a leg stretcher that I crank out which stretches the legs in a "V" shape at first and then at varying degrees until hopefully( after very grueling pain and bliss I'm sure) the legs are straight out to the sides. Didn't get too far today though. I am taking a break now while typing this. I am listening to old Speed Racer reruns that my sponsor got me for last Christmas on DVD. Also, what is your feeling about poison darts and blow guns?
Mr. Simmons;
The problem is the zipper. There's a reason why BDU trousers button closed. Either you should procure button-fly work pants, or consider returning to wearing underoos for personal safety reasons. No one will make fun of you for that around here. It is very definitely a personal preference thing.
I'm a little disappointed in your choice of Iron Man, however. Everyone knows that Tony Stark is a drunk philanderer. (You did not mention in your post why it is that you have a "sponsor" but if it is for a 12-step program, then Iron Man is most definitely not the superhero you want to emulate.) You should upgrade to a more appropriate role model such as Captain America. His virtue is unquestionable.
Your efforts at self-improvement are continually an inspiration to us all, Mr. Simmons. The stretching machine is something I will have to look into for my own use. I have never worried too much about leg flexibility since I do not advocate high kicks. There's simply no need to kick higher than an opponent's groin. But as I age, I have been thinking more about general health and fitness, so perhaps I should explore this option.
I am not a fan of poison darts and blowguns. Firearms are my long distance weapon of choice. However, if silence is an issue for a particular circumstance, then I would look into a crossbow. However, I find it highly unlikely that a civilian would need to worry about silent distance weapons.
Keep up the training, and keep us all updated about your efforts!
AHHhaahhh!! Button fly. I told you those high speed gents were deserving of the big money. Got some BDU pants from the military morons site you gave. Never thought to wear them to work. Once again jrf your sage like wisdom has eased my tumultuous path. Can't wait to see the look on their faces.
Although Mr Stark was a drunken womanizer, his alter ego was not and therefore I believe that he should be held up as a shining example of the ever impending reality that man, no matter how evil or forlorn has two sides and the good wolf, as it were, should and can be fed. The choice is ours. Although my bad wolf is fueled by booze and WCW, my good wolf is fed by the exciting world of good food quickly and WWF. I choose to feed the good wolf most of the time and throw in some UFC occasionally. Do you follow UFC jrf? I hope so. I have a pet iguana that I got from an iguana rescue in Queens and he loves UFC. His name is Rosinante.(Only you could see the symbolism jrf)
He does not however enjoy commercial breaks, therefore we do not watch on spike TV. Only the payperview stuff. I did hear that Brett is taking the boys out on a new tour this summer and they have a greatest hits CD in Target stores as we speak.
My training is what it is and I seem to have "hit the wall" as it were. I seem to be getting no better all of a sudden no matter how hard I train or spy on my neighbors. Maybe a grappling hook or something. I don't know but I will do as I am sure you would and keep at it. I will trudge through this lowspot and seek ever gretaer tactal knowledge. Until the widow's son finds mercy and the death of hiram abiff is avenged, I remain your humble reader, servant and student.
I always find that when I hit a plateau in my training, it helps to emphasize the basics. Really analyze your movements and start at the beginning.
Based on your latest posting, I think meditation would also help calm your mind and center your thoughts. You may be too busy thinking in too many directions to concentrate on your training. At least try to focus before your practice. (And don't let anyone tell you you're crazy. I know they do; but you're just a creative thinker. That makes you special and wonderful.)
I don't really have time these days to follow much wrestling, but I thought WWF was now WWE, and WCW was bought up and merged with WWE long ago. I can't follow UFC because, well, I don't have Cable. Too much craziness on pay TV these days. I prefer to watch only Sesame Street DVDs.
I didn't realize there was a need to rescue many Iguanas. Perhaps you could contribute a piece on this fascinating activity for us all. I'm sure Miguel Cervantes is well-pleased with your homage. It comes as now surprise to me that a fellow, as well versed in letters as you obviously are, is working hard in the food service industry.
I have not purchased a new CD in years, but I am tempted to relive my headbanging youth by purchasing the album you suggested.
Unfortunately, I still have to conclude, after many years immersed in the Marvel Universe instead of dating, that Tony Stark is an inappropriate role model. Please consider Captain America, or, dare I suggest: Spider-Man?
It's a long article but to the uninformed it addresses the seriousness of the iguana problem.
BOCA GRANDE - Barbara Thompson froze as a 3-foot iguana wiggled from under an island burger joint onto the warm sand, lifting its head in apparent appreciation of the toasty afternoon sun.
"Now!" yelled a member of Lee County Animal Services.
Thompson surged forward, boots thumping through the sand, reaching out in a desperate, gasping lunge with a net used to capture iguanas.
"Thwap!"
Everyone held their breath. A puff of sand hovered.
Nothing.
The dragonlike iguana vanished under the restaurant, joining perhaps 50 others.
"They are fast," said Thompson, panting from the chase. "They are a lot faster than you think."
Lee County's animal control workers, more accustomed to corralling loose dogs and cats than fleet-footed lizards, weren't out for fun. They were playing out the latest chapter in Boca Grande's 30-year saga with the spiny-tailed black iguana.
Scientists say there are about 10,000 iguanas loose on the barrier island of Gasparilla, or about 10 for every year-round resident of Boca Grande, an upscale town on the south edge of the island.
Some locals complain the ill-tempered, garden-eating, home-invading reptiles have overrun their normally placid community. Some have called for an islandwide iguana hunt, complete with a bounty paid for each tail.
The county hired Jerry Jackson, a Florida Gulf Coast University biologist, to study the best ways to rid the island of iguanas. He and animal service workers are experimenting with traps, tongs, nooses and nets.
He said the invasive lizards are more than just a nuisance. Like that of other wild species, iguana feces harbor salmonella. The lizards also are known to eat the eggs of endangered birds and gopher tortoises that live on the island. Over the years, the iguanas have dug vast networks of tunnels that jeopardize the island's sand dunes.
The prehistoric-looking lizards are routinely seen sunbathing by pools, nibbling on gardens and making their homes in attic insulation. In more than a few cases, iguanas have snaked through the sewer system and surprised residents when they lifted the toilet seat.
"They are rodents," resident Bonnie McGee said. "You set a trap, and you kill them."
Millionaire Lynch Mob?
Don't confuse Boca Grande's feisty, meat-eating reptiles with their mild-mannered cousin, the green iguana. This iguana has a dangerous spiky tail, strong jaws and sharp teeth that can easily tear through leather gloves. "They can be nasty," Jackson said.
Yet, some islanders relish their exotic neighbors and say the issue is trumped up by a few angry millionaires who don't like the iguanas going to the bathroom on their decks. Some joke that the iguana imbroglio was cooked up mainly as a way to pass time between hurricane seasons.
"Give me a break," said Delores Savas, an iguana supporter and environmental columnist for the local weekly newspaper, the Boca Beacon. "These people are supposed to be so refined, but when it comes to iguanas, they are like a lynch mob."
It wasn't always this way.
Boca Grande residents once revered their iguanas, highlighting them in tourist guides, on clothing and even in artwork. To fuel island lore, locals dubbed them the Dragons of Gasparilla Island.
In fact, county residents at one time tried to get Lee County leaders to formally designate the iguana as protected. Many restaurants encouraged patrons to feed the iguanas and provided areas for customers to watch them eat. In the iguana heyday, homeowners grew hibiscus and other plants to ensure their neighborhood lizards had plenty to eat.
The iguana population flourished as a result, up from about 2,000 a few years ago. Soon the deft swimmers were reported on neighboring islands, likely refugees of recent hurricanes. Then the creatures turned up across the bridge on the mainland, and fears grew they could soon overrun other towns. "They could survive as far north as Tampa," Jackson said.
So residents took up arms and called upon local political leaders to take action.
In March, Lee County commissioners unanimously agreed to create a special taxing district to eradicate the lizards from the island. County leaders don't know how much it would cost to wipe out the iguanas, but estimates from a few years ago pegged the price around $200,000. The cost is expected to be much higher now that so many more iguanas live on the island.
The infestation has at least momentarily turned some otherwise serene residents into savvy iguana hunters, armed with pellet guns, live traps and snares. It's become common to hear residents discuss hunting technique, death counts, and even recipes such as iguana stew (yes, they do taste like chicken).
"I used to think they were cute," said Ann Ingram, who lives in Hyde Park and has a home in Boca Grande. "Now, I've found that a pellet gun works wonders."
Ingram took a photo of a small iguana found frolicking in her toilet in February. Unsure of what to do, she grabbed a jug of bleach and poured it in.
"It just ate him up," Ingram said, with a hint of a smile.
The issue caught fire around town and in the pages of the Boca Beacon.
"Iguanas are not human. They do not deserve humane treatment," Boca Grande resident Richard Zellner wrote in a letter to the editor. "As far as I am concerned, they can be burned, shot and mutilated."
Repelling The Invasion
The spiny-tailed iguana is not native to Florida, and its origins on Boca Grande remain a mysterious local legend.
Jackson thinks someone from the island brought a couple of the iguanas back from Mexico as pets and released them later. Some locals think the pioneering iguanas were stowaways on cargo ships that came to the island years ago.
Iguanas have moved into neighborhoods from Key West to the upper reaches of Palm Beach, and experts agree they will eat their way north until the chilly climate becomes too forbidding. Iguanas like the heat and generally won't survive a good freeze. Experts say problems started in Florida when people got the lizards as pets and released them after they became too big and tempestuous.
Even Jackson has complex feelings about the iguanas in Boca Grande.
"These critters didn't ask to be here," he said, watching one poke its head out of a hole. "But when you see what they are doing to the ecosystem, what they are doing to the endangered species, they don't belong here."
A few enterprising locals have started iguana capture and removal businesses. But many residents prefer to do it on their own.
Alex Diaz owns the Barnichol, Boca Grande's only hardware store. In the past few weeks, he's sold 60 Havahart live traps, which start around $50 a piece. For iguanas, the best bait is generally rotten fruit or hibiscus leaves.
"People are really getting into it," said Diaz, who noted with some unease that iguanas have targeted fruit trees in his back yard. "It gives them something to do besides watch the iguanas eat their garden."
But Boca Grande's residents shouldn't be tricked into thinking that their flash of iguana blood-lust will eradicate the problem.
"The only good solution is for the community to put their heart into it, and put the money in up front," Jackson said. "Otherwise, they'll come right back, just as bad or worse."
CREATURE CHARACTERISTICS
The spiny-tailed black iguana is native to Mexico, large areas of Central America and the islands near Panama.
The iguanas tend to be nasty, unlike their bigger and mellower cousin, the green iguana. Spiny-tailed iguanas have strong jaws and sharp teeth that can easily draw blood. The tail has sharp, spiny scales that can cause injury. They often hiss and spit violently when threatened.
Young spiny-tailed iguanas eat insects, eggs and roadkill. As the lizards mature, they feed mostly on plants, although they won't pass up dead fish, rodents and the occasional bird.
A female iguana can lay 50 eggs in a season. They can easily grow to 3-feet long and live more than seven years.
Source: Tribune research
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