Others saw a fireball, like a gigantic wielding arc.
After the meteorite landed and struck Ann, she and her mother tried to figure out what had happened.
Ann greeted her husband on the porch and reportedly said We had a little excitement around here today.
In fact, Ann was so overwhelmed by the crowds that she had to be hospitalized the following day.
“I havent been able to sleep since I was hit,” she told reporters.
After the rocks identity was confirmed, the question arose what to do with it.
I feel like the meteorite is mine, she said.
I think God intended it for me.
After all, it hit me!
Sylacauga police officers hold the meteorite while inspecting the damage to Ann Hodges roof.
Shortly afterward, that meteorite was donated to the National Museum of Natural History in Washington.
Meanwhile, Ann Hodges became a minor celebrity.
Her story along with her photographs appeared on the cover of theLifemagazine.
She died of kidney failure in a local nursing home at the age of just 52.
Eugene Hodges, Ann Hodges husband, holds the infamous meteorite in his hand.
Think of how many people have lived throughout human history, Reynolds said.
While improbably rare, such incidents do occur.
I will relate the circumstances of this event, that no one may doubt its authenticity.
It was not, however, perfectly round, having on one side of a rather obtuse angle.
Being broken in the middle it emitted an insupportable smell of sulphur.
The meteorite struck a tree first and was slowed down causing no injury.
