Truth or Rumor

In 2020 I began researching a story that would become the focus of my work after retiring from the Anthropology department of the University of Wisconsin. In 1942, to prepare for the coming war, many medical institutions in Southern California tried to free up space for potential casualties that could be flown in from the theater of war taking place in the Pacific. This was a big initiative specifically in San Diego because it was a massive port for incoming US war ships and hundreds of aircraft. Impossible as it may seem, many patients in local hospitals and sanitoriums that had some level of independence or were not a harm to themselves or others, were quietly released to fend for themselves. They simply opened the doors and let theses patient wander into the mountains. What I discovered out in the field in 2023 was that none of this story was true. In fact, it was a cover up for a far more alarming history of religious practice and persecution that had been taking place for more than 100 years at the base of Mount Shasta in Northern California. A medieval religious community had been thriving for half a century with little to no contact with the modern world. And what unfolded was a story of violence, fear, and exploitation that fractured a community and condemed many of its member to a life of pain, horror and isolation.

In Search of Lost Tribes

Our website is dedicated to locating and providing resources for members of a forgotten religious cult who were neglected and released into the rural west coast. And whose descendents might still primitively roam the Cuyamaca Mountains.

In Search of The Truth

After years of working in the field of anthropolgy I have come across a most peculiar case, involving Professor Devin Adams, a retired doctor of anthropology and PHD from the University of Wisconsin. His research explores the century-spanning history of modern humans who have managed to remain hidden in the American wilderness. One such case regards the Church of Heaven's Light. A religious community discovered to be exiles of The Morman Church, making their way west to Mount Shasta in search of a new way of life. What it became was a community split by religious dogma and exploitation. Professor Adams has been researching their whereabouts and lifestyle for the past 10 years. It is a unique case that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the forgotten and the overlooked. As such, I believe it should be highlighted in order to bring this piece of hidden history into the public eye. Dr. Evan Golding (Professor Emeritus, Nothern Illinois University)

Discover History

Explore forgotten and unknown stories about these individuals and their communities.
  • Know Your Roots
  • Share Lives
  • Explore History
  • Grow Together
  • Connect Communities
  • Increase Awareness
  • Gather Resources
  • Unlock Mysteries

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My hope by setting up camp and examining sites here in the Cuyamaca mountains, I'll be able to prove the existense of The Church of Heaven's Light. And perhaps more importantly, shed truth on some of the injustices put upon many in its religious community under the guise of pursuing a "divine life." -Dr Devin Adams 12/23

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Find out how you can help locate and document these forgotten individuals.
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Step 2
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Step 3
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Feedback

At In Search of Lost Tribes, we appreciate the support from our valued friends who have invested their time and resources into ensuring we meet our goals. Here are some of their testimonials:
  • This project provides meaningful insights and understanding into overlooked communities and individuals. Cannot be more thankful!
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Nicole Jones
    The resources and information on this website are essential for those who are interested in this subject.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Max Carter
    I'm thoroughly impressed by the information and resources available regarding this challenging and urgent matter.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Jenna Smith
  • We can now gain a better understanding of the lives of sanatorium patients released into rural areas.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    John Thomas
    Highly recommend it!
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Sophia Best
    A great resource for anyone interested in anthropology.
    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
    Emily Brown

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