Extraordinary phenomenon witnessed by the inhabitants of Gräfenberg

“On the evening of the 30th May, the inhabitants of Gräfenberg and the neighbouring villages, for more than a German mile in circuit, were the witnesses of an extraordinary natural phenomenon. Between nine and ten o’clock thunder clouds seemed to be gathering around the Iser and Riesenbirge to the south, while the rest of the sky appeared to be covered only by light clouds. Now and then, a few flashes of lightning were seen in the far distance. Suddenly all eyes were blinded by a fall of fire, differing both in form and colour from common lightning, which was followed in four or five seconds by a deep and terrific report, like a loud peal of thunder. All the windows rattled and the houses seemed shaken to their foundations. Those who were in the open air say that they seemed to be wrapped in fire and deprived of air some instants, A mild and moderate rain without thunder or lightning followed. Opinions differ as to whether the above appearances are to be attributed to a meteor or to a sudden discharge of electricity. — Millennial Star 31:25”