Into the Dark Unknown - Central Africa in 1899 - As Recorded by William Stamps Cherry is the only authorized autobiographical account of his explorations into central Africa during the yearsI 1896-1900. Sometimes referred to as the explorer's report, it records what Mr. Cherry witnessed and experienced when he was there, but does not include his adventures when hunting. Those experiences as written in his journals and letters to home are now being prepared for publication later. The introduction reports on his first trip to Africa as a young man in his early twenties during the years 1889 to 1893. This provides the context for why he returned in 1896. Little did he know at that time what destiny had in mind for him.