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Letters sent by M. M. Chase, Indexed. Also includes letters sent by Mrs. M. M. Chase, 3 September 1886-25 May 1887.

 File — Box-Folder: 16:53

Scope and Contents

From the Series: Mainly copies of letters sent, but including copies of bills, contracts and agreements, order receipts, reports, statements, and telegrams, contained in nine letter copy books. Primarily originated by M. M. Chase, although there are also letters written by Mrs. M. M. Chase, Mason G. Chase (their oldest son), Zenas A. Curtis (foreman of the Chase, Eno ranch), and E. K. Streeter (bookkeeper). One book (Volume 55) was formerly owned and used by Edgar Brown of Duluth, Minnesota; letters on the first 19 pages, therefore, have no relationship to the Chase Ranch.

This material represents the various business activities of M. M. Chase, which included cattle raising and the management of a number of cattle companies besides the home ranch; sheep raising; and fruit growing. Some items concern household matters. Subjects of specific interest include a secret organization of fence-cutters, M. E. Dane selling Horseshoe Ranch cattle, the lawsuit involving the W. R. Morley estate, and efforts to sell the Chase, Eno Ranch. The letters document the money scare of 1893; Nettie (Curtis) Chase being on a wagon struck by lightning, 1893; and plans for a railroad to Cimarron, 1899.

Because these letter books concern business activities, they are very closely related to the financial documents. The first two volumes, covering the period from 26 September 1884 to 25 May 1887, reflect the meticulous bookkeeping of C. A. Westcott, secretary from 23 June 1883 to 25 November 1885, and followed by T. F. Morrow and Abbot S. Cooke.

These volumes are arranged chronologically. Three have complete indexes, three books have been partially indexed, and three have no index.

Dates

  • 3 September 1886-25 May 1887.

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English.

Access and Use Restrictions

This material may be examined by researchers under supervised conditions in the Search Room.

Extent

From the Series: 1.5 linear feet (9 volumes).

Repository Details

Part of the New Mexico State University Library Archives and Special Collections Repository

Contact:
Branson Hall
PO Box 30006
MSC 3475
Las Cruces New Mexico 88003 USA