A Tempe man has purchased "Lucy." The man who posted an ad on a social media site to sell a human skeleton told CBS 5 News someone offered $3,000 for the item. "The guy came out," the seller said. "He paid cash, loaded her up and took her home."
The seller would not reveal the buyer's identity, other than to say he is an anesthesiologist at a local hospital.
CBS 5 News found the sale of the skeleton posted online. But wait, there's more.
According to the seller, who posted the ad, the skeleton could be more than 100 years old. But wait, there was still more.
The seller told CBS 5 News that the skeleton once belonged to his uncle who was a Freemason.
Freemasonry is a fraternal organization with roots in the 16th century. It has been called a "secret society", but the website for the Grand Lodge of Arizona, Free and Accepted Masons says:
"Masonry may have 'secrets,' but it is not a secret society. Masonic secrets are few in number, and deal with the general method of initiation, the ways we recognize each other, and very little else. These parts of the ritual, which are called the esoteric side of Masonry, have been handed down by word of mouth for centuries."
The seller, who is not a Freemason, and others speculate that the skeleton was used in secret initiation ceremonies.
CBS 5 News telephoned the Arizona Freemasonry Lodge in downtown Phoenix. The man who answered the phone identified himself only as "Michael" and said he was surprised to hear about the sale. "Michael" said it was a significant issue for the lodge. So significant, in fact, that he couldn't say any more about it.
Can you say, "secret?"
Strange, yes. Illegal, no. Contrary to popular belief, it is legal to buy, possess or sell a human skeleton. You just can't commit a crime to get it.
The seller said he posted the ad on Craig's List several weeks ago and has had a few offers- one for $100; another person offered to trade the skeleton for a fainting goat. But that's not what the seller needs.
The economy has taken its toll on this Valley family. With just one part-time job to support him, his wife and two children, the skeleton has to go. The seller says he'll consider the right offer at the right price. He declined to give an exact figure, but a couple thousand dollars would come close.
Copyright 2011 KPHO. All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
© Photo courtesy Brian Evans
© Photo courtesy Brian Evans
© Photo courtesy Brian Evans
