Founded in 1989 by Lyman Emery, The Society for Linian Studies is devoted to progressing Linian scholarship through ongoing research and a series of exhibitions. After nearly 20 years of investigation, the Society has only recently begun presenting its findings to the public.
The history of Linian scholarship stretches back to Giuseppe Cognomi, a 17th century Italian scientist who mysteriously reappeared after being thought dead at sea. Cognomi claimed to have made contact with an advanced civilization he called the Linians after being abandoned by his ship on an island near Antarctica. He spent three years with the Linians, during which time they taught him of their culture and origins.
Upon his return to Italy, Cognomi immediately set out to publish his amazing experience, but the work was widely written off as the product of a mad mind. He self-published numerous volumes on the Linians, most of which have been lost to history.
A small but loyal following quietly carried on the tradition of Linian scholarship.
In 1966 a young scientist named Norene Z. Byrnes stumbled upon Cognomi’s theory and was completely fascinated by it. She devoted the rest of her life to reconciling Cognomi’s account with modern day science. Norene died in 1986. The Society was established to compile and continue the work that she began.
