Skip to main content

Note from Graves to Meriwether submitting invoices for a mule, Albiquieu, N. Mex, Sept. 8th 1853

 Item — Oversize-Folder: 1
Identifier: 7

Scope and Content

From the Collection: The collection consists of correspondence from E. A. Graves, Indian Agent, to David Meriwether, Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs for New Mexico Territory, Most letters inform Meriwether of situations with the Utahs, Navajos, or Apaches, seeking advice or action on the part of Meriwether. Incidents generally relate to Indian depredations and questions of property ownership. Graves’ first annual report to Gov. Meriwether includes observations and suggestions regarding the state of Indian affairs in New Mexico Territory. He opines on the failure of Indian policy, suggesting that the only effective way to manage the Indians is to subdue and then civilize them, via the power of the government and military. He also discusses the relationship between the (New) Mexicans and Indians and specifically discusses conflicts over land grants near the Rio Conejos. One set of correspondence is between Graves and Charles Beaubien; all other correspondence is addressed to Meriwether. Graves often spells Meriwether’s name “Merriwether" and uses a variety of spellings for Abiquiu. Letters are sent from Abiquiu, Taos, and Chamita, NM and indicate that his is representing the Apache Agency and then, the Utah and Apache Agencies.

Dates

  • Sept. 8th 1853

Access Restrictions

The collection is open for research.

Extent

From the Collection: 1 oversize folder

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

Repository Details

Part of the UNM Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections Repository

Contact:
University of New Mexico Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections
University Libraries, MSC05 3020
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque NM 87131
505-277-6451