Charles Fort and the Founding of the Fortean Society (1931): Tiffany Thayer and ‘Doubt’

The Founding of the Fortean Society (1931): Charles Fort and ‘Doubt’

Charles Fort’s life is a testament to the enduring power of curiosity in the face of the unexplained. Born in 1874, Fort spent his adult years meticulously documenting strange phenomena that defied conventional scientific explanations—phenomena he called “fortean events.” His magnum opus, The Book of the Damned (published posthumously in 1919), compiled a vast array of anomalies ranging from mysterious objects to unexplained disappearances. However, it was not until his death that Fort’s work gained wider recognition and sparked the formation of what would become known as the Fortean Society.

The History and Background

In the early 20th century, scientific materialism was at its zenith, dismissing anything outside conventional explanations with little consideration for evidence or eyewitness accounts. Charles Fort’s tireless documentation challenged this paradigm, highlighting the inadequacy of science in explaining certain phenomena. His work was initially met with skepticism and dismissal from the academic community.

Tiffany Thayer, a young and ambitious writer, became one of the few who saw potential in Fort’s ideas. Tiffany, born in 1904, was drawn to Fort’s unconventional approach and began contributing articles about his theories to various magazines. She eventually became Fort’s literary executor after he passed away in 1932.

Key Events or Sightings (With Specific Dates/Names Where Real)

One of the most intriguing events associated with Charles Fort is the apparent disappearance of a young woman named Mary Ann Cotton in New Zealand, which Fort documented extensively. According to his research, Cotton was found dead under mysterious circumstances, yet her body was never recovered—a fact that Fort used as evidence for his theories about unexplained phenomena.

Another significant event was the series of reports on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and strange lights in the skies over the United States during the late 1920s. Fort meticulously recorded these sightings, which included accounts from eyewitnesses like Thomas B. J. Fennell, who witnessed a “flying machine” in New York City in 1930.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

In The Book of the Damned, Charles Fort provided numerous examples of unexplained phenomena. One such account involved the sighting of a large object at sea near Long Island, New York, on January 25, 1866. Witnesses described it as a “massive sphere” that appeared and disappeared rapidly, defying any known explanation.

Fort also documented cases of crop circles, which were less common in his time but still present. In one instance, a farmer named John Mayes reported finding geometric patterns in his wheat field on June 15, 1892, near Chilbolton, England—a pattern eerily similar to those observed today.

Investigations or Research

Following Fort’s death, Tiffany Thayer embarked on her own research into the anomalies described by Charles. She traveled extensively, visiting locations where Fort had compiled data and collecting new evidence herself. Her efforts led to the establishment of the Fortean Society in 1931, with the specific aim of investigating and documenting strange phenomena.

The society’s first official meeting took place on January 20, 1931, at the British Museum Reading Room. Attendees included notable figures like J.B. Priestley and A.L. Rowse, who were fascinated by Fort’s work. Over time, the Fortean Society grew to include a diverse group of members from various backgrounds, united in their belief that there was more to unexplained phenomena than what conventional science could explain.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, the Fortean Society continues its mission, maintaining an extensive archive and conducting ongoing investigations into strange events. While scientific skepticism remains prevalent, there is a growing interest in anomalous phenomena among both laypeople and researchers. The society’s efforts have also influenced modern paranormal research, inspiring organizations like MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) and the International Society for Study of Unexplained Phenomena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Charles Fort, and why is he significant?

A: Charles Fort (1874–1932) was an American writer who compiled extensive documentation on unexplained phenomena. His work challenged conventional scientific explanations and laid the groundwork for modern paranormal research. He published *The Book of the Damned* posthumously in 1919, which remains a key reference in the field.

Q: What is the Fortean Society, and how did it come about?

A: The Fortean Society was founded by Tiffany Thayer in 1931 after Charles Fort’s death. It aims to investigate and document strange phenomena, continuing Fort’s legacy of questioning conventional explanations for unexplained events.

Q: How has the Fortean Society influenced modern paranormal research?

A: The society has had a significant influence on modern paranormal studies by fostering an environment where anomalous phenomena can be explored without prejudice. Its methods and findings have inspired other organizations and contributed to the broader acceptance of alternative perspectives in scientific inquiry.

Q: What is “doubt” in the context of Fortean Studies?

A: In Fortean studies, “doubt” refers to maintaining an open-minded approach when investigating unexplained phenomena. This involves questioning established norms and considering evidence that might contradict mainstream scientific explanations without dismissing it outright.

Q: How can one get involved with the Fortean Society or similar organizations?

A: To get involved, individuals can join local chapters of the Fortean Society or similar organizations dedicated to paranormal research. Engaging in discussions on their forums, participating in field investigations, and contributing to their archives are all ways to contribute to the ongoing exploration of unexplained phenomena.