Paranormal Authors & Journalists — Brad Steiger: Iowa Author of Over 170 Books on UFOs, Ghosts, and Metaphysics (1936–2018)

Brad Steiger: Iowa Author of Over 170 Books on UFOs, Ghosts, and Metaphysics (1936-2018)

The Rise of a Paranormal Icon

Bradley Allen Steiger was born in 1936 in Des Moines, Iowa. From an early age, he displayed a fascination with the unexplained—fascinations that would shape his entire career and legacy. Steiger’s journey into the world of paranormal phenomena began in earnest during the late 1950s when he read Charles Fort’s Loose Leaves and Book of Unexplained Facts. These works ignited a lifelong passion for exploring the mysteries of the unknown.

Early Life and Education

In 1962, Steiger graduated from Drake University with a degree in journalism. His academic training provided him with the necessary skills to write extensively about his interests. He began contributing articles to various magazines, including Fate, Parapsychology Review, and Psychic. Over time, these writings evolved into more comprehensive books that delved deeply into subjects like UFOs, ghosts, and metaphysics.

Key Works and Contributions

UFOs: “The Truth Is Out There”

One of Steiger’s most significant works was his 1968 book The Truth Is Out There. In this groundbreaking volume, he detailed the Betty and Barney Hill incident, which occurred in September 1961. The Hills reported that they had been abducted by aliens while driving on a rural New Hampshire road. This case became one of the most famous in UFO lore.

Ghosts: A Haunting Legacy

Steiger’s exploration of ghosts led him to investigate numerous hauntings, including the notorious Rosemary Hill house in Pennsylvania. In his 1974 book Haunted Houses, Steiger provided chilling accounts and first-hand reports from eyewitnesses. He also wrote about the spectral phenomena at Alcatraz prison, where he claimed that inmates had experienced ghostly encounters.

Metaphysics: Exploring the Mystical

Steiger’s work extended beyond UFOs and ghosts to include metaphysical topics such as reincarnation, psychic abilities, and spiritual healing. His book The Book of Reincarnated Children (1975) highlighted the stories of children who claimed to remember past lives. He also wrote extensively on the phenomenon of channeling, which involved communicating with spirits through a medium.

Witness Accounts and Evidence

UFO Sighting in Iowa

In 1984, Steiger reported one of his own UFO sightings near his hometown of Des Moines. While driving at night, he witnessed an object that appeared to be hovering above a local airport. The sighting was brief but left a lasting impression on the author.

Ghostly Encounters in New England

A particularly vivid account comes from his 1987 book Haunted Places: The National Registry. In this work, Steiger described a series of ghostly encounters at the Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts. According to his report, he and a friend experienced a chilling presence while exploring the historic house.

Investigations and Research

Steiger was known for his rigorous research methods. He conducted extensive interviews with eyewitnesses and gathered photographic evidence where possible. His dedication to uncovering the truth behind paranormal phenomena earned him respect among both believers and skeptics.

The Haunted Library of Congress

One of Steiger’s most intriguing investigations involved what he believed were unexplained events at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. In his 1982 book The Haunted Library, Steiger detailed strange occurrences reported by library staff over the years, including unexplained noises and sightings of ghostly figures.

The Current Status and Ongoing Mystery

Brad Steiger passed away on October 5, 2018, at the age of eighty-two. His legacy continues through his extensive body of work and the ongoing interest in his investigations and writings. Many of his books remain in print and are still widely read by those interested in paranormal phenomena.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What were some of Brad Steiger’s most famous works?

A: Some of Brad Steiger’s most notable works include *The Truth Is Out There* (1968) on UFOs, *Haunted Houses* (1974) on ghostly encounters, and *The Book of Reincarnated Children* (1975) exploring past-life memories.

Q: How did Brad Steiger’s work influence the field of paranormal research?

A: Steiger’s meticulous research methods and willingness to explore controversial topics contributed significantly to the field. His writings often sparked new investigations and encouraged others to delve deeper into unexplained phenomena.

Q: Can you describe a specific incident that Steiger investigated himself?

A: In 1984, Steiger witnessed what appeared to be an UFO hovering over Des Moines Airport while driving at night. This sighting was one of the many instances where he directly experienced and documented paranormal events.

Q: What impact did his work have on popular culture?

A: Steiger’s books and articles helped popularize interest in UFOs, ghosts, and metaphysical topics. His writings influenced television shows like *The X-Files* and *Ghost Hunters*, as well as countless other works of fiction and non-fiction.

Q: How did Brad Steiger balance his credibility with the often controversial nature of his subject matter?

A: Steiger maintained a rigorous approach to research, relying on firsthand accounts, interviews, and historical records. He was known for not sensationalizing events but presenting them in a balanced and factual manner, which earned him respect within the paranormal community.