The Voice of Point Pleasant
Mary Hyre (1915-1970) was a dedicated newspaper reporter for The Athens Messenger, managing their office on 6th Street in downtown Point Pleasant, West Virginia. She is best known for her extensive coverage of the Mothman sightings and other unusual events in the area during the late 1960s. In her widely-read column, “Where the Waters Mingle,” Hyre reported on various odd occurrences, including numerous UFO sightings. Her work made her a central figure in documenting these phenomena.
This updated resource guide aims to put all relevant information about Mary Hyre’s contributions to fields of paranormal study in one place.
What did Mary Hyre do that was so influential?
- Mary Hyre documented the Mothman phenomena through her journalism.
- Mary Hyre collaborated with renowned paranormal researcher John Keel.
- Mary Hyre reported on precognitive experiences related to the Silver Bridge collapse.
1. Mary Hyre documented the Mothman phenomena through her journalism.
As Point Pleasant news correspondent, Mary Hyre found herself at the epicenter of the Mothman sightings in 1966-19671. Her column, “Where the Waters Mingle,” became a vital source of information about the strange occurrences in the area.
Mary’s first article about the Mothman, titled “Winged, Red-Eyed ‘Thing’ Chases Point Couples Across Countryside,” appeared on November 16, 1966, just one day after the initial sighting. This quick reporting helped spread awareness of the phenomenon and attracted the attention of other investigators.
Throughout the Mothman flap, Mary continued to document sightings and related events. Her dedication to covering the story was evident when, after one particularly active weekend, she received over 500 phone calls from people reporting strange lights in the skies.
2. Mary Hyre collaborated with renowned paranormal researcher John Keel.
Mary’s local knowledge, community connections, and journalistic skills made her an invaluable asset to John Keel, the author of The Mothman Prophecies. Keel considered Hyre a trusted friend and relied heavily on her insights.
Mary accompanied Keel on his investigations, providing him with access to witnesses and local information. Their collaboration was so significant that Keel dedicated his book to her.
Mary’s involvement went beyond mere reporting. She experienced paranormal phenomena herself, including a UFO sighting and encounters with mysterious “Men in Black”. These personal experiences added depth to her writing and contributed to the overall investigation of the Mothman phenomenon.
3. Mary Hyre reported on precognitive experiences related to the Silver Bridge collapse.
One of the most chilling aspects of the Mothman story is its alleged connection to the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge on December 15, 1967. Mary played a crucial role in documenting potential precognitive experiences related to this event.
Mary reported having a vivid dream about people drowning in a river with Christmas packages floating on the water, eerily foreshadowing the bridge collapse that occurred during the holiday season. This precognitive experience, along with others she documented, added a layer of mystery to the already perplexing Mothman phenomenon.
In the aftermath of the bridge collapse, Mary worked tirelessly to cover the tragedy. She went days without sleep as reporters and television crews from around the country descended on Point Pleasant. Her dedication to reporting both the paranormal aspects and the human tragedy of the event showcased her commitment to her community and to uncovering the truth.
Mary’s meticulous reporting, personal experiences, and collaboration with other researchers helped preserve one of the most significant paranormal events in American history. While she may not be as well-known as some other figures in the field, Mary Hyre’s work remains an essential part of the Mothman legend and continues to inspire paranormal researchers to this day.
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