REF: UAP/1960s/084Unexplained
1966-03-20-21

Michigan 'swamp gas' flap

Dexter & Hillsdale, MI · USA·Mass sightings / political flashpoint·1960s
Unexplained
§ ASummary

Dozens incl. police and coeds reported maneuvering lights; Hynek's hasty 'swamp gas' press conference sparked national ridicule and Rep. Gerald Ford's call for hearings.

§ BWitnesses

87 coeds (Hillsdale); police officers; hundreds

§ CEvidence & Documentation

Blue Book files; congressional statement by Ford

§ DOfficial Investigation

Blue Book (Hynek on site); House Armed Services Committee hearing 4/5/1966

§ EStatus Assessment

'Swamp gas' explanation widely mocked; catalyzed Condon Committee

§ FVerifiable Sources

Hynek (1972); 1966 House hearing record; Clark, 'UFO Encyclopedia'