New York, USA — 4 October 1861
Mysterious object with occupants
- About 6 P.M. a “mysterious balloon” passed over the city, with two men in it, from west to east at great height. Witnesses speculated that it was either ” in the service of the traitors” or that it was “a device built by Professor Lowe, which had parted its fastenings,” both impossible explanations.
Source: The New York Times, 5 October, 1861. 470. Case: W424