Cherry Creek, NY: Football-shaped UFO hovers near barn
On August 19, 1965, 16-year-old Harold Butcher observed a metallic football-shaped object hovering near his family's barn in Cherry Creek, New York, causing animal distress, radio interference, and physical effects. The object reappeared multiple times, was investigated by state police, and left traces like odor and reduced milk yield.
Background
Sighting and Witness
On August 19, 1965 at around 20:20, Harold Butcher, aged 16, was milking cows in his father's barn in Cherry Creek, New York. He heard an unusual noise from the bull outside, which was bending a metal pipe. At the same moment he saw through the window a gleaming metallic, football-shaped object, about 15 metres long and 6 metres thick, hovering 140 metres away above the trees.
Movements and Effects
The object descended behind a maple tree, gave off red vapour from its edges, and produced a 'beep-beep' sound. The radio suffered interference, although the station was otherwise received clearly. Harold called into the house on the intercom and ran outside; the object climbed rapidly, leaving vapour that 'sprang back', and produced a booming sound. The clouds turned green.
Reappearances and Family
Harold's mother, Mrs William Butcher, noted the radio interference. His brother Robert Butcher, William Butcher Jr., and his friend Kathleen Brougham were present; Robert saw the object hovering above the pines. It returned at 20:45 and 21:00 and disappeared to the southwest.
Aftermath and Investigation
Police officers E. J. Haas and a colleague arrived and found a pungent smell. Harold and a young daughter had stomach trouble; the cows gave less milk. Traces: the smell and marks on the ground. The state police and the Air Force investigated; a radar detection was possible.