William A. Keleher Papers
Collection
Identifier: MSS-742-BC
Scope and Content
The William A. Keleher collection consists primarily of documents created or collected by Keleher and his family. Most of the material pertains to Keleher's business and civic activities in Albuquerque and his research on territorial New Mexico. The collection is divided into 2 series: William A. Keleher Papers and Keleher Family Papers
William A. Keleher Papers Literary Works: Includes drafts, revisions and edited manuscripts, related research materials, and correspondence with agents and publishers regarding contracts, revisions, and editing. This subseries contains documents concerning W.A. Keleher's literary works including newspaper clippings, rough drafts, proof sheets, notes, invoices, and scrapbooks containing letters and reviews. Files include information on/from Fabulous Frontier, Maxwell Land Grant, Memoirs, Turmoil in New Mexico, Violence in Lincoln County, and To Gila River and Rainbow Road.
Fabulous Frontier - (1945, rev. 1962) consists mostly of notes, proof sheets, and other key documents relating to this literary work. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain reviews and letters about this book.
Maxwell Land Grant - (1942, rev. 1964) contains newspaper clippings, proof sheets, and a manuscript of the literary work. This section also contains the bibliography index cards that correspond to the book. The scrapbook for this section contains letters and other information about this book.
Memoirs - (1969, republished in 1983 with the title: New Mexicans I Knew: Memoirs, 1892-1969) contains biographical information of W.A. Keleher and events he witnessed in his lifetime. This section contains several drafts of this literary work, correspondence, clippings and proofs. A scrapbook containing clippings, letters and cards from 1970 also accompanies this section.
To Gila River and Rainbow Road - (193?) contains notes and newspaper clippings from this literary work.
Turmoil in New Mexico - (1952) contains the original manuscript to this literary work, other drafts, correspondence and two scrapbooks containing letters and reviews.
Violence in Lincoln County - (1957, 1982 reprint with a new introduction) contains clippings, correspondence, original manuscript, final proof sheets and royalty sheets. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain further information about this book.
Miscellaneous Short Writings and Speeches: Aside from his full-length manuscripts, W.A. Keleher made his knowledge and opinions known through his speeches and shorter writings. As one of New Mexico's favorite sons, W.A. Keleher spoke frequently for groups throughout the state. Topics discussed range from patriotism to historical subjects similar to his full-length works. His short writings include newspaper articles and longer essays. Several of the articles deal with New Mexico history.
Subject Files: Historical, Literary, and Political Figures: W.A. Keleher began these files but material was added by other family members after his death. This subseries contains clippings, pamphlets, letters, magazine articles, exhibit catalogs, genealogy material, and notes from W.A. Keleher's research on New Mexico. There are notes from interviews with individuals and newspaper articles. Some of the letters are to or from individuals requesting information on New Mexico figures. Included are materials about the infamous Billy the Kid and notable figures such as Governor Lindsey. There are four folders on Albert B. Fall and the Teapot Dome Trial and some Civil War letters and notebooks from Peter Schaeffer of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. Also in this subseries is an audio recording of the Albuquerque Community Service "In Memory of Ernie Pyle" recorded on May 13, 1945 and an additional audio recording of the Erna Fergusson Memorial Service recorded August 1, 1964. A notebook on water rights issues in New Mexico and Colorado compiled by attorney A. T. Rogers is found here as well.
Subject Files: Places: This subseries includes information on institutions and areas primarily in New Mexico. For the most part, the files are filled with newspaper clippings and other types of similar media. However, some correspondence and other materials are included as well. The Albuquerque folder contains information on housing, business, city government, and health institutions.
Subject Files: Events: This subseries includes clippings and other materials on court cases, major occurrences in New Mexico and the United States, and assorted research notebooks.
National Archives Records: Violence in Lincoln County Research (1852-1960): This subseries contains negative photostats of documents from the Records of the Office of the Secretary of the Interior, Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other departments relating to New Mexico Governors, Samuel B. Axtell, Lew Wallace and Edmund G. Ross. These records also pertain to Lincoln County, Colfax County, land issues, and Native Americans. Keleher used this research material for his book; Violence in Lincoln County. Some material in this series is in Spanish.
Index to William A. Keleher's Personal Book Collection: W.A. Keleher kept an extensive library. This is an index to his personal library and will prove useful to anyone researching W.A. Keleher's sources.
Correspondence: Organized into several topics and alphabetized by name of sender or recipient, the correspondence includes business correspondence, legal correspondence, and research correspondence. The research correspondence will prove useful to anyone following W.A. Keleher's research. The correspondence is also valuable in clarifying W.A. Keleher's personal life and various public works and private enterprises. Also included are personal correspondence between Loretta and W.A. Some topics discussed amongst the correspondences include; W.A. Keleher's rumored run for the New Mexico Governorship, the New Mexico State Fair, and W.A. Keleher's work on book manuscripts while in Mexico, and the Public Service Company. Also included is correspondence from Robert Mullin.
Public Service and Business: This subseries contains materials related to W.A. Keleher's many involvements in public service and business. Amongst the more important organizations he was involved with is the New Mexico State Board of Finance, which W.A. Keleher was appointed to in 1933, and served through 1949. The records in this subseries include agendas and meeting minutes, correspondence, pamphlets, telegrams, budgets, reports from State Departments, and financial statements from various public institutions of higher education in New Mexico. Also in this series are records kept by the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (NMCAMA) Board of Regents. These records contain correspondence from NMCAMA Board members and other materials which document the College's many affairs. Some documents relating to the Gallup Coal Strike of 1933 are in this subseries. Business material is from the Public Service Company of New Mexico, the Pubco Petroleum Company, and the Equitable Life Assurance Society of United States.
Court Cases and/or Legal Career (1904-1948): Contains court dockets or calendars of cases Keleher handled mostly from 1916-1935. There are copies of exhibits for court cases, court transcripts, and a register of actions or law suits he handled. These registers give information on plaintiffs, defendants, specific legal claims, courts, dates, actions, costs, clippings of public notice of suits, and last wills and testaments. There are also records from 1927 to the early 1930's detailing the bankruptcy of the Cuba Extension Railroad Company in Sandoval County, New Mexico and its successors (Santa Fe Northern Railroad, Santa Fe San Juan and Northern). J. O. Seth's files concerning the Railroad's bankruptcy are found here as well. W. A. Keleher was also General Counsel for the New Mexico Lumber and Timber Company.
Scrapbooks: W.A. Keleher kept a collection of scrapbooks most of which either he or his family created. These scrapbooks are primarily filled with newspaper clippings of interest to W.A. Keleher. Some scrapbooks were given to W.A. Keleher by others and include clippings and other materials on prominent New Mexicans. The Hubbells and Armijos, for instance, left several scrapbooks with W.A. Keleher.
Oversized Documents: The oversized documents contain a variety of materials too large for other folders. Included materials range from newspaper clippings on Conrad Hilton to the Santa Fe Northern Railroad Tax Return. This subseries also contains copies of and original awards and degrees received by W.A. Keleher.
Maps and Plats: W.A. Keleher collected maps which served to support his research on New Mexico history. For the most part, these maps depict 19th century New Mexico and were created by federal agencies. The plats and prints are primarily of addition constructions in the Albuquerque area. W.A. Keleher was an active real estate owner and investor and these plats record part of that effort. Other prints depict New Mexico land grants and land holdings of certain New Mexicans.
Personal Life: This includes an extensive collection of newspaper clippings on W.A. Keleher's life. (Additional clippings can be found in several of the scrapbooks.) There are 2 audio cd's containing a private interview with W.A. Keleher conducted on October 5, 1963 by Barbara Simms. In the interview, he discusses his early years in Albuquerque and the many people he knew. Amongst those people he knew were; Neil B. Field, Elfego Baca, several University of New Mexico Presidents, and Clyde Tingley. This subseries also contains information on the organizations W.A. Keleher belonged to including the Knights of Columbus, Elks Club, Western Writers of America, and others.
Keleher Family Papers The family papers contain information on W.A. Keleher's wife, Loretta Barrett, and their four sons, William B., Michael, John and Thomas Keleher. There is also information on extended family including W.A. Keleher's father, mother, sisters, cousins, and others. Materials include correspondence, clippings, and genealogy information on the Barrett and Keleher families. Invitations show the history of social life in Albuquerque, women's history and the Kelehers' involvement in the community with fundraisers and the local elite citizens, pre-1950 to 1990. The Keleher Family Papers also contain information on various Albuquerque properties owned by the family including Altura Addition, Altura Shopping Center, Buena Vista Heights Addition, Huning Castle Addition, Mandell Business and Residence Addition and other areas of Albuquerque. Also includes 1919 blueprints for Keleher home and an addition in 1940.
Fabulous Frontier - (1945, rev. 1962) consists mostly of notes, proof sheets, and other key documents relating to this literary work. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain reviews and letters about this book.
Maxwell Land Grant - (1942, rev. 1964) contains newspaper clippings, proof sheets, and a manuscript of the literary work. This section also contains the bibliography index cards that correspond to the book. The scrapbook for this section contains letters and other information about this book.
Memoirs - (1969, republished in 1983 with the title: New Mexicans I Knew: Memoirs, 1892-1969) contains biographical information of W.A. Keleher and events he witnessed in his lifetime. This section contains several drafts of this literary work, correspondence, clippings and proofs. A scrapbook containing clippings, letters and cards from 1970 also accompanies this section.
To Gila River and Rainbow Road - (193?) contains notes and newspaper clippings from this literary work.
Turmoil in New Mexico - (1952) contains the original manuscript to this literary work, other drafts, correspondence and two scrapbooks containing letters and reviews.
Violence in Lincoln County - (1957, 1982 reprint with a new introduction) contains clippings, correspondence, original manuscript, final proof sheets and royalty sheets. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain further information about this book.
Miscellaneous Short Writings and Speeches: Aside from his full-length manuscripts, W.A. Keleher made his knowledge and opinions known through his speeches and shorter writings. As one of New Mexico's favorite sons, W.A. Keleher spoke frequently for groups throughout the state. Topics discussed range from patriotism to historical subjects similar to his full-length works. His short writings include newspaper articles and longer essays. Several of the articles deal with New Mexico history.
Subject Files: Historical, Literary, and Political Figures: W.A. Keleher began these files but material was added by other family members after his death. This subseries contains clippings, pamphlets, letters, magazine articles, exhibit catalogs, genealogy material, and notes from W.A. Keleher's research on New Mexico. There are notes from interviews with individuals and newspaper articles. Some of the letters are to or from individuals requesting information on New Mexico figures. Included are materials about the infamous Billy the Kid and notable figures such as Governor Lindsey. There are four folders on Albert B. Fall and the Teapot Dome Trial and some Civil War letters and notebooks from Peter Schaeffer of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. Also in this subseries is an audio recording of the Albuquerque Community Service "In Memory of Ernie Pyle" recorded on May 13, 1945 and an additional audio recording of the Erna Fergusson Memorial Service recorded August 1, 1964. A notebook on water rights issues in New Mexico and Colorado compiled by attorney A. T. Rogers is found here as well.
Subject Files: Places: This subseries includes information on institutions and areas primarily in New Mexico. For the most part, the files are filled with newspaper clippings and other types of similar media. However, some correspondence and other materials are included as well. The Albuquerque folder contains information on housing, business, city government, and health institutions.
Subject Files: Events: This subseries includes clippings and other materials on court cases, major occurrences in New Mexico and the United States, and assorted research notebooks.
National Archives Records: Violence in Lincoln County Research (1852-1960): This subseries contains negative photostats of documents from the Records of the Office of the Secretary of the Interior, Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other departments relating to New Mexico Governors, Samuel B. Axtell, Lew Wallace and Edmund G. Ross. These records also pertain to Lincoln County, Colfax County, land issues, and Native Americans. Keleher used this research material for his book; Violence in Lincoln County. Some material in this series is in Spanish.
Index to William A. Keleher's Personal Book Collection: W.A. Keleher kept an extensive library. This is an index to his personal library and will prove useful to anyone researching W.A. Keleher's sources.
Correspondence: Organized into several topics and alphabetized by name of sender or recipient, the correspondence includes business correspondence, legal correspondence, and research correspondence. The research correspondence will prove useful to anyone following W.A. Keleher's research. The correspondence is also valuable in clarifying W.A. Keleher's personal life and various public works and private enterprises. Also included are personal correspondence between Loretta and W.A. Some topics discussed amongst the correspondences include; W.A. Keleher's rumored run for the New Mexico Governorship, the New Mexico State Fair, and W.A. Keleher's work on book manuscripts while in Mexico, and the Public Service Company. Also included is correspondence from Robert Mullin.
Public Service and Business: This subseries contains materials related to W.A. Keleher's many involvements in public service and business. Amongst the more important organizations he was involved with is the New Mexico State Board of Finance, which W.A. Keleher was appointed to in 1933, and served through 1949. The records in this subseries include agendas and meeting minutes, correspondence, pamphlets, telegrams, budgets, reports from State Departments, and financial statements from various public institutions of higher education in New Mexico. Also in this series are records kept by the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (NMCAMA) Board of Regents. These records contain correspondence from NMCAMA Board members and other materials which document the College's many affairs. Some documents relating to the Gallup Coal Strike of 1933 are in this subseries. Business material is from the Public Service Company of New Mexico, the Pubco Petroleum Company, and the Equitable Life Assurance Society of United States.
Court Cases and/or Legal Career (1904-1948): Contains court dockets or calendars of cases Keleher handled mostly from 1916-1935. There are copies of exhibits for court cases, court transcripts, and a register of actions or law suits he handled. These registers give information on plaintiffs, defendants, specific legal claims, courts, dates, actions, costs, clippings of public notice of suits, and last wills and testaments. There are also records from 1927 to the early 1930's detailing the bankruptcy of the Cuba Extension Railroad Company in Sandoval County, New Mexico and its successors (Santa Fe Northern Railroad, Santa Fe San Juan and Northern). J. O. Seth's files concerning the Railroad's bankruptcy are found here as well. W. A. Keleher was also General Counsel for the New Mexico Lumber and Timber Company.
Scrapbooks: W.A. Keleher kept a collection of scrapbooks most of which either he or his family created. These scrapbooks are primarily filled with newspaper clippings of interest to W.A. Keleher. Some scrapbooks were given to W.A. Keleher by others and include clippings and other materials on prominent New Mexicans. The Hubbells and Armijos, for instance, left several scrapbooks with W.A. Keleher.
Oversized Documents: The oversized documents contain a variety of materials too large for other folders. Included materials range from newspaper clippings on Conrad Hilton to the Santa Fe Northern Railroad Tax Return. This subseries also contains copies of and original awards and degrees received by W.A. Keleher.
Maps and Plats: W.A. Keleher collected maps which served to support his research on New Mexico history. For the most part, these maps depict 19th century New Mexico and were created by federal agencies. The plats and prints are primarily of addition constructions in the Albuquerque area. W.A. Keleher was an active real estate owner and investor and these plats record part of that effort. Other prints depict New Mexico land grants and land holdings of certain New Mexicans.
Personal Life: This includes an extensive collection of newspaper clippings on W.A. Keleher's life. (Additional clippings can be found in several of the scrapbooks.) There are 2 audio cd's containing a private interview with W.A. Keleher conducted on October 5, 1963 by Barbara Simms. In the interview, he discusses his early years in Albuquerque and the many people he knew. Amongst those people he knew were; Neil B. Field, Elfego Baca, several University of New Mexico Presidents, and Clyde Tingley. This subseries also contains information on the organizations W.A. Keleher belonged to including the Knights of Columbus, Elks Club, Western Writers of America, and others.
William A. Keleher Papers
Literary Works: Includes drafts, revisions and edited manuscripts, related research materials, and correspondence with agents and publishers regarding contracts, revisions, and editing. This subseries contains documents concerning W.A. Keleher's literary works including newspaper clippings, rough drafts, proof sheets, notes, invoices, and scrapbooks containing letters and reviews. Files include information on/from Fabulous Frontier, Maxwell Land Grant, Memoirs, Turmoil in New Mexico, Violence in Lincoln County, and To Gila River and Rainbow Road.
Fabulous Frontier - (1945, rev. 1962) consists mostly of notes, proof sheets, and other key documents relating to this literary work. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain reviews and letters about this book.
Maxwell Land Grant - (1942, rev. 1964) contains newspaper clippings, proof sheets, and a manuscript of the literary work. This section also contains the bibliography index cards that correspond to the book. The scrapbook for this section contains letters and other information about this book.
Memoirs - (1969, republished in 1983 with the title: New Mexicans I Knew: Memoirs, 1892-1969) contains biographical information of W.A. Keleher and events he witnessed in his lifetime. This section contains several drafts of this literary work, correspondence, clippings and proofs. A scrapbook containing clippings, letters and cards from 1970 also accompanies this section.
To Gila River and Rainbow Road - (193?) contains notes and newspaper clippings from this literary work.
Turmoil in New Mexico - (1952) contains the original manuscript to this literary work, other drafts, correspondence and two scrapbooks containing letters and reviews.
Violence in Lincoln County - (1957, 1982 reprint with a new introduction) contains clippings, correspondence, original manuscript, final proof sheets and royalty sheets. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain further information about this book.
Miscellaneous Short Writings and Speeches: Aside from his full-length manuscripts, W.A. Keleher made his knowledge and opinions known through his speeches and shorter writings. As one of New Mexico's favorite sons, W.A. Keleher spoke frequently for groups throughout the state. Topics discussed range from patriotism to historical subjects similar to his full-length works. His short writings include newspaper articles and longer essays. Several of the articles deal with New Mexico history.
Subject Files: Historical, Literary, and Political Figures: W.A. Keleher began these files but material was added by other family members after his death. This subseries contains clippings, pamphlets, letters, magazine articles, exhibit catalogs, genealogy material, and notes from W.A. Keleher's research on New Mexico. There are notes from interviews with individuals and newspaper articles. Some of the letters are to or from individuals requesting information on New Mexico figures. Included are materials about the infamous Billy the Kid and notable figures such as Governor Lindsey. There are four folders on Albert B. Fall and the Teapot Dome Trial and some Civil War letters and notebooks from Peter Schaeffer of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. Also in this subseries is an audio recording of the Albuquerque Community Service "In Memory of Ernie Pyle" recorded on May 13, 1945 and an additional audio recording of the Erna Fergusson Memorial Service recorded August 1, 1964. A notebook on water rights issues in New Mexico and Colorado compiled by attorney A. T. Rogers is found here as well.
Subject Files: Places: This subseries includes information on institutions and areas primarily in New Mexico. For the most part, the files are filled with newspaper clippings and other types of similar media. However, some correspondence and other materials are included as well. The Albuquerque folder contains information on housing, business, city government, and health institutions.
Subject Files: Events: This subseries includes clippings and other materials on court cases, major occurrences in New Mexico and the United States, and assorted research notebooks.
National Archives Records: Violence in Lincoln County Research (1852-1960): This subseries contains negative photostats of documents from the Records of the Office of the Secretary of the Interior, Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other departments relating to New Mexico Governors, Samuel B. Axtell, Lew Wallace and Edmund G. Ross. These records also pertain to Lincoln County, Colfax County, land issues, and Native Americans. Keleher used this research material for his book; Violence in Lincoln County. Some material in this series is in Spanish.
Index to William A. Keleher's Personal Book Collection: W.A. Keleher kept an extensive library. This is an index to his personal library and will prove useful to anyone researching W.A. Keleher's sources.
Correspondence: Organized into several topics and alphabetized by name of sender or recipient, the correspondence includes business correspondence, legal correspondence, and research correspondence. The research correspondence will prove useful to anyone following W.A. Keleher's research. The correspondence is also valuable in clarifying W.A. Keleher's personal life and various public works and private enterprises. Also included are personal correspondence between Loretta and W.A. Some topics discussed amongst the correspondences include; W.A. Keleher's rumored run for the New Mexico Governorship, the New Mexico State Fair, and W.A. Keleher's work on book manuscripts while in Mexico, and the Public Service Company. Also included is correspondence from Robert Mullin.
Public Service and Business: This subseries contains materials related to W.A. Keleher's many involvements in public service and business. Amongst the more important organizations he was involved with is the New Mexico State Board of Finance, which W.A. Keleher was appointed to in 1933, and served through 1949. The records in this subseries include agendas and meeting minutes, correspondence, pamphlets, telegrams, budgets, reports from State Departments, and financial statements from various public institutions of higher education in New Mexico. Also in this series are records kept by the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (NMCAMA) Board of Regents. These records contain correspondence from NMCAMA Board members and other materials which document the College's many affairs. Some documents relating to the Gallup Coal Strike of 1933 are in this subseries. Business material is from the Public Service Company of New Mexico, the Pubco Petroleum Company, and the Equitable Life Assurance Society of United States.
Court Cases and/or Legal Career (1904-1948): Contains court dockets or calendars of cases Keleher handled mostly from 1916-1935. There are copies of exhibits for court cases, court transcripts, and a register of actions or law suits he handled. These registers give information on plaintiffs, defendants, specific legal claims, courts, dates, actions, costs, clippings of public notice of suits, and last wills and testaments. There are also records from 1927 to the early 1930's detailing the bankruptcy of the Cuba Extension Railroad Company in Sandoval County, New Mexico and its successors (Santa Fe Northern Railroad, Santa Fe San Juan and Northern). J. O. Seth's files concerning the Railroad's bankruptcy are found here as well. W. A. Keleher was also General Counsel for the New Mexico Lumber and Timber Company.
Scrapbooks: W.A. Keleher kept a collection of scrapbooks most of which either he or his family created. These scrapbooks are primarily filled with newspaper clippings of interest to W.A. Keleher. Some scrapbooks were given to W.A. Keleher by others and include clippings and other materials on prominent New Mexicans. The Hubbells and Armijos, for instance, left several scrapbooks with W.A. Keleher.
Oversized Documents: The oversized documents contain a variety of materials too large for other folders. Included materials range from newspaper clippings on Conrad Hilton to the Santa Fe Northern Railroad Tax Return. This subseries also contains copies of and original awards and degrees received by W.A. Keleher.
Maps and Plats: W.A. Keleher collected maps which served to support his research on New Mexico history. For the most part, these maps depict 19th century New Mexico and were created by federal agencies. The plats and prints are primarily of addition constructions in the Albuquerque area. W.A. Keleher was an active real estate owner and investor and these plats record part of that effort. Other prints depict New Mexico land grants and land holdings of certain New Mexicans.
Personal Life: This includes an extensive collection of newspaper clippings on W.A. Keleher's life. (Additional clippings can be found in several of the scrapbooks.) There are 2 audio cd's containing a private interview with W.A. Keleher conducted on October 5, 1963 by Barbara Simms. In the interview, he discusses his early years in Albuquerque and the many people he knew. Amongst those people he knew were; Neil B. Field, Elfego Baca, several University of New Mexico Presidents, and Clyde Tingley. This subseries also contains information on the organizations W.A. Keleher belonged to including the Knights of Columbus, Elks Club, Western Writers of America, and others.
Fabulous Frontier - (1945, rev. 1962) consists mostly of notes, proof sheets, and other key documents relating to this literary work. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain reviews and letters about this book.
Maxwell Land Grant - (1942, rev. 1964) contains newspaper clippings, proof sheets, and a manuscript of the literary work. This section also contains the bibliography index cards that correspond to the book. The scrapbook for this section contains letters and other information about this book.
Memoirs - (1969, republished in 1983 with the title: New Mexicans I Knew: Memoirs, 1892-1969) contains biographical information of W.A. Keleher and events he witnessed in his lifetime. This section contains several drafts of this literary work, correspondence, clippings and proofs. A scrapbook containing clippings, letters and cards from 1970 also accompanies this section.
To Gila River and Rainbow Road - (193?) contains notes and newspaper clippings from this literary work.
Turmoil in New Mexico - (1952) contains the original manuscript to this literary work, other drafts, correspondence and two scrapbooks containing letters and reviews.
Violence in Lincoln County - (1957, 1982 reprint with a new introduction) contains clippings, correspondence, original manuscript, final proof sheets and royalty sheets. Two scrapbooks also accompany this section and contain further information about this book.
Miscellaneous Short Writings and Speeches: Aside from his full-length manuscripts, W.A. Keleher made his knowledge and opinions known through his speeches and shorter writings. As one of New Mexico's favorite sons, W.A. Keleher spoke frequently for groups throughout the state. Topics discussed range from patriotism to historical subjects similar to his full-length works. His short writings include newspaper articles and longer essays. Several of the articles deal with New Mexico history.
Subject Files: Historical, Literary, and Political Figures: W.A. Keleher began these files but material was added by other family members after his death. This subseries contains clippings, pamphlets, letters, magazine articles, exhibit catalogs, genealogy material, and notes from W.A. Keleher's research on New Mexico. There are notes from interviews with individuals and newspaper articles. Some of the letters are to or from individuals requesting information on New Mexico figures. Included are materials about the infamous Billy the Kid and notable figures such as Governor Lindsey. There are four folders on Albert B. Fall and the Teapot Dome Trial and some Civil War letters and notebooks from Peter Schaeffer of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. Also in this subseries is an audio recording of the Albuquerque Community Service "In Memory of Ernie Pyle" recorded on May 13, 1945 and an additional audio recording of the Erna Fergusson Memorial Service recorded August 1, 1964. A notebook on water rights issues in New Mexico and Colorado compiled by attorney A. T. Rogers is found here as well.
Subject Files: Places: This subseries includes information on institutions and areas primarily in New Mexico. For the most part, the files are filled with newspaper clippings and other types of similar media. However, some correspondence and other materials are included as well. The Albuquerque folder contains information on housing, business, city government, and health institutions.
Subject Files: Events: This subseries includes clippings and other materials on court cases, major occurrences in New Mexico and the United States, and assorted research notebooks.
National Archives Records: Violence in Lincoln County Research (1852-1960): This subseries contains negative photostats of documents from the Records of the Office of the Secretary of the Interior, Records of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and other departments relating to New Mexico Governors, Samuel B. Axtell, Lew Wallace and Edmund G. Ross. These records also pertain to Lincoln County, Colfax County, land issues, and Native Americans. Keleher used this research material for his book; Violence in Lincoln County. Some material in this series is in Spanish.
Index to William A. Keleher's Personal Book Collection: W.A. Keleher kept an extensive library. This is an index to his personal library and will prove useful to anyone researching W.A. Keleher's sources.
Correspondence: Organized into several topics and alphabetized by name of sender or recipient, the correspondence includes business correspondence, legal correspondence, and research correspondence. The research correspondence will prove useful to anyone following W.A. Keleher's research. The correspondence is also valuable in clarifying W.A. Keleher's personal life and various public works and private enterprises. Also included are personal correspondence between Loretta and W.A. Some topics discussed amongst the correspondences include; W.A. Keleher's rumored run for the New Mexico Governorship, the New Mexico State Fair, and W.A. Keleher's work on book manuscripts while in Mexico, and the Public Service Company. Also included is correspondence from Robert Mullin.
Public Service and Business: This subseries contains materials related to W.A. Keleher's many involvements in public service and business. Amongst the more important organizations he was involved with is the New Mexico State Board of Finance, which W.A. Keleher was appointed to in 1933, and served through 1949. The records in this subseries include agendas and meeting minutes, correspondence, pamphlets, telegrams, budgets, reports from State Departments, and financial statements from various public institutions of higher education in New Mexico. Also in this series are records kept by the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (NMCAMA) Board of Regents. These records contain correspondence from NMCAMA Board members and other materials which document the College's many affairs. Some documents relating to the Gallup Coal Strike of 1933 are in this subseries. Business material is from the Public Service Company of New Mexico, the Pubco Petroleum Company, and the Equitable Life Assurance Society of United States.
Court Cases and/or Legal Career (1904-1948): Contains court dockets or calendars of cases Keleher handled mostly from 1916-1935. There are copies of exhibits for court cases, court transcripts, and a register of actions or law suits he handled. These registers give information on plaintiffs, defendants, specific legal claims, courts, dates, actions, costs, clippings of public notice of suits, and last wills and testaments. There are also records from 1927 to the early 1930's detailing the bankruptcy of the Cuba Extension Railroad Company in Sandoval County, New Mexico and its successors (Santa Fe Northern Railroad, Santa Fe San Juan and Northern). J. O. Seth's files concerning the Railroad's bankruptcy are found here as well. W. A. Keleher was also General Counsel for the New Mexico Lumber and Timber Company.
Scrapbooks: W.A. Keleher kept a collection of scrapbooks most of which either he or his family created. These scrapbooks are primarily filled with newspaper clippings of interest to W.A. Keleher. Some scrapbooks were given to W.A. Keleher by others and include clippings and other materials on prominent New Mexicans. The Hubbells and Armijos, for instance, left several scrapbooks with W.A. Keleher.
Oversized Documents: The oversized documents contain a variety of materials too large for other folders. Included materials range from newspaper clippings on Conrad Hilton to the Santa Fe Northern Railroad Tax Return. This subseries also contains copies of and original awards and degrees received by W.A. Keleher.
Maps and Plats: W.A. Keleher collected maps which served to support his research on New Mexico history. For the most part, these maps depict 19th century New Mexico and were created by federal agencies. The plats and prints are primarily of addition constructions in the Albuquerque area. W.A. Keleher was an active real estate owner and investor and these plats record part of that effort. Other prints depict New Mexico land grants and land holdings of certain New Mexicans.
Personal Life: This includes an extensive collection of newspaper clippings on W.A. Keleher's life. (Additional clippings can be found in several of the scrapbooks.) There are 2 audio cd's containing a private interview with W.A. Keleher conducted on October 5, 1963 by Barbara Simms. In the interview, he discusses his early years in Albuquerque and the many people he knew. Amongst those people he knew were; Neil B. Field, Elfego Baca, several University of New Mexico Presidents, and Clyde Tingley. This subseries also contains information on the organizations W.A. Keleher belonged to including the Knights of Columbus, Elks Club, Western Writers of America, and others.
Keleher Family Papers
The family papers contain information on W.A. Keleher's wife, Loretta Barrett, and their four sons, William B., Michael, John and Thomas Keleher. There is also information on extended family including W.A. Keleher's father, mother, sisters, cousins, and others. Materials include correspondence, clippings, and genealogy information on the Barrett and Keleher families. Invitations show the history of social life in Albuquerque, women's history and the Kelehers' involvement in the community with fundraisers and the local elite citizens, pre-1950 to 1990. The Keleher Family Papers also contain information on various Albuquerque properties owned by the family including Altura Addition, Altura Shopping Center, Buena Vista Heights Addition, Huning Castle Addition, Mandell Business and Residence Addition and other areas of Albuquerque. Also includes 1919 blueprints for Keleher home and an addition in 1940.
Dates
- 1714-1999
- Majority of material found within 1915-1972
Creator
Language of Materials
English Spanish
Access Restrictions
The collection is open for research.
Copy Restrictions
The Keleher family retains copyrights to the writings of William A. Keleher and his family. Limited duplication of CSWR material is allowed for research purposes. User is responsible for compliance with all copyright, privacy, and libel laws. Permission is required for publication or distribution.
Biographical Information
William Aloysius Keleher was born November 7, 1886 in Lawrence, Kansas to David Keleher and Mary Ann (Gorry) Keleher. Three years later, the family moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where William enrolled at St. Mary's Parochial School. He studied there until 1900 when he began work as a messenger for the Western Union Telegraph Company. Although he started as a counter clerk, he quickly moved up to telegraph operator. For several years following, William tried his hand at different careers working for a short time for the Bluewater Development Company and later for the local Board of Education. The writing skills he exhibited while in that position attracted the attention of local newspapermen and, in 1908 he began work as a newspaper reporter. Overtime, he wrote for and later acted as city editor for both the Albuquerque Journal and Albuquerque Evening Herald. While working as a reporter he met many well known New Mexicans including Elfego Baca. Also during this time, he became interested in law while observing the events at the Bernalillo County Courthouse. By 1913, he was a law student at Washington and Lee Law School in Virginia. After only two years in Law School, he received his Bachelor of Laws degree in June 1915 and was admitted to the New Mexico bar in August of that same year.
Shortly after returning to Albuquerque, Keleher found work as City Attorney. Following his tenure in this position, he joined a legal practice with George S. Downer which operated until 1930. In 1931, Keleher founded another practice with A. Howell McLeod. That successful firm still exists today.
Outside of his law practice, William A. Keleher was also an active citizen of New Mexico. He served as chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee of New Mexico for several years beginning in 1928. In 1932, Governor Arthur Seligman appointed Keleher to the State Board of Finance where he served until 1949. Later, he served as Conservator of the First National Bank of Albuquerque when that bank failed in 1933. He was appointed by Governor Hockenhull to investigate the labor trouble in the coal fields near McKinley County in 1933. The committee produced the Mechem-Keleher report on the "Gallup Coal Strike." The Federal government was eventually forced to step in and settle the strike. Other important appointments included Keleher's service on the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (now known as New Mexico State University) Board of Regents, the Museum of New Mexico Board of Regents, and the Old Lincoln County Memorial Commission. William A. Keleher held several important private sector positions as well serving as legal counsel for the Public Service Company of New Mexico and director of the Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States.
Possibly William A. Keleher's most important extra-legal activities were his writings. For most of Keleher's life he was an avid scholar of New Mexico history. However, it was not until the Texas Bar Association and the New Mexico Bar Association Meeting at Amarillo, Texas on July 5, 1929 that he became an authoritative author on the subject. At that conference he presented a talk on the Maxwell Land Grant which grew into his first book the Maxwell Land Grant. After publishing that work, Keleher went on to write, The Fabulous Frontier (1945), Turmoil in New Mexico, 1846-1868 (1952), Violence in Lincoln County, 1869-1881 (1957), and Memoirs, 1892-1969 (1969). Despite the demands of writing these books, Keleher kept his regular hours at his law firm.
For his accomplishments, Keleher was honored by and invited to join many groups. Those groups included; Phi Beta Kappa, Zeta Chapter of the Sigma Chi fraternity, Tucker Chapter of Phi Delta Phi (legal fraternity), Albuquerque Country Club, Elks, and the Immaculate Conception Church. Eventually, Keleher was also honored by several institutions of higher learning. He received an honorary Master of Arts in 1946 and an honorary LL.D in 1968 both from the University of New Mexico. Also, in 1968 he received an honorary LL.D. from the College of St. Joseph (also known as the University of Albuquerque). In 1964, William A. Keleher joined an elite group as a member of the New Mexico Hall of Fame.
William A. Keleher's personal life kept him equally busy. He was married twice. His first wife, Mae J. Kelly, passed away in 1923. They had one daughter, Mary Ann. In 1932, he married Loretta Barrett of Forest City, Iowa. They had four sons: William Barrett, Michael Lawrence, John Gorry and Thomas Franklin. Loretta was a graduate of the University of Iowa. She came to the University of New Mexico (UNM) in 1925 taking a summer teaching position in physical education. While at UNM she added horseback riding, volleyball, golf, track and riflery to the physical education requirements for sophomore and freshmen women. Outside of UNM, Loretta Keleher was also involved with the Immaculate Conception Church where she served as president of the Ladies' Altar Society.
William A. Keleher passed away on December 18th, 1972. Loretta Keleher died on July 31st, 2000.
Sources: UNM Campus News, 8/21/2000 "In Memoriam Loretta Barrett Keleher." Keleher, W.A. Memoirs, 1892-1969: a New Mexico Item, Santa Fe, Rydal Press, 1969. Reeve, Frank Driver, History of New Mexico, v.3. New York, Lewis Historical Publishing Co., 1961. The Historical Society of New Mexico Hall of Fame Essays. Albuquerque, New Mexico, The Society, 1964. Albuquerque Journal, August 4, 2000 "Keleher Expanded Women's Physical Education at UNM" Kropp, Simon F. That All May Learn; New Mexico State University, 1888-1964. Las Cruces, New Mexico State University, 1972.
Shortly after returning to Albuquerque, Keleher found work as City Attorney. Following his tenure in this position, he joined a legal practice with George S. Downer which operated until 1930. In 1931, Keleher founded another practice with A. Howell McLeod. That successful firm still exists today.
Outside of his law practice, William A. Keleher was also an active citizen of New Mexico. He served as chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee of New Mexico for several years beginning in 1928. In 1932, Governor Arthur Seligman appointed Keleher to the State Board of Finance where he served until 1949. Later, he served as Conservator of the First National Bank of Albuquerque when that bank failed in 1933. He was appointed by Governor Hockenhull to investigate the labor trouble in the coal fields near McKinley County in 1933. The committee produced the Mechem-Keleher report on the "Gallup Coal Strike." The Federal government was eventually forced to step in and settle the strike. Other important appointments included Keleher's service on the New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (now known as New Mexico State University) Board of Regents, the Museum of New Mexico Board of Regents, and the Old Lincoln County Memorial Commission. William A. Keleher held several important private sector positions as well serving as legal counsel for the Public Service Company of New Mexico and director of the Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States.
Possibly William A. Keleher's most important extra-legal activities were his writings. For most of Keleher's life he was an avid scholar of New Mexico history. However, it was not until the Texas Bar Association and the New Mexico Bar Association Meeting at Amarillo, Texas on July 5, 1929 that he became an authoritative author on the subject. At that conference he presented a talk on the Maxwell Land Grant which grew into his first book the Maxwell Land Grant. After publishing that work, Keleher went on to write, The Fabulous Frontier (1945), Turmoil in New Mexico, 1846-1868 (1952), Violence in Lincoln County, 1869-1881 (1957), and Memoirs, 1892-1969 (1969). Despite the demands of writing these books, Keleher kept his regular hours at his law firm.
For his accomplishments, Keleher was honored by and invited to join many groups. Those groups included; Phi Beta Kappa, Zeta Chapter of the Sigma Chi fraternity, Tucker Chapter of Phi Delta Phi (legal fraternity), Albuquerque Country Club, Elks, and the Immaculate Conception Church. Eventually, Keleher was also honored by several institutions of higher learning. He received an honorary Master of Arts in 1946 and an honorary LL.D in 1968 both from the University of New Mexico. Also, in 1968 he received an honorary LL.D. from the College of St. Joseph (also known as the University of Albuquerque). In 1964, William A. Keleher joined an elite group as a member of the New Mexico Hall of Fame.
William A. Keleher's personal life kept him equally busy. He was married twice. His first wife, Mae J. Kelly, passed away in 1923. They had one daughter, Mary Ann. In 1932, he married Loretta Barrett of Forest City, Iowa. They had four sons: William Barrett, Michael Lawrence, John Gorry and Thomas Franklin. Loretta was a graduate of the University of Iowa. She came to the University of New Mexico (UNM) in 1925 taking a summer teaching position in physical education. While at UNM she added horseback riding, volleyball, golf, track and riflery to the physical education requirements for sophomore and freshmen women. Outside of UNM, Loretta Keleher was also involved with the Immaculate Conception Church where she served as president of the Ladies' Altar Society.
William A. Keleher passed away on December 18th, 1972. Loretta Keleher died on July 31st, 2000.
Sources: UNM Campus News, 8/21/2000 "In Memoriam Loretta Barrett Keleher." Keleher, W.A. Memoirs, 1892-1969: a New Mexico Item, Santa Fe, Rydal Press, 1969. Reeve, Frank Driver, History of New Mexico, v.3. New York, Lewis Historical Publishing Co., 1961. The Historical Society of New Mexico Hall of Fame Essays. Albuquerque, New Mexico, The Society, 1964. Albuquerque Journal, August 4, 2000 "Keleher Expanded Women's Physical Education at UNM" Kropp, Simon F. That All May Learn; New Mexico State University, 1888-1964. Las Cruces, New Mexico State University, 1972.
Extent
43 boxes (26.4 cu. ft.) + 6 oversize folders
Abstract
The William A. Keleher collection contains a variety of materials pertaining to the history of New Mexico. As a historian, Keleher conducted thorough research on the territorial era of the State. As a prominent lawyer and citizen of the State in the 1900's, Keleher's legal work and volunteer efforts helped shape the modern condition of New Mexico. Many of the documents related to his research, career and other interests are included in this collection.
Arrangement
Two series: William A. Keleher Papers and Keleher Family Papers. William A. Keleher Papers are divided into the following subseries:
- Literary Works
- Miscellaneous Short Writings and Speeches
- Subject Files: Historical, Literary, and Political Figures
- Subject Files: Places
- Subject Files: Events
- National Archives Records: Violence in Lincoln County Research
- Index to William A. Keleher's Personal Book Collection
- Correspondence
- Public Service and Business
- Court Cases and/or Legal Career (1904-1948
- Scrapbooks
- Oversized Documents
- Maps and Plats
- Personal Life
Collection Available Online
A small amount of material from this collection is available at New Mexico's Digital Collections..
Separated Material
Photographs and postcards have been transferred to William A. Keleher Pictorial Collection.
Some architectural drawings have been transferred.
Books have been transferred to University Libraries and may be found in the general collection with the note, "William A. Keleher Collection".
7 inch reels and archival masters of audio materials are stored in B3.
Some architectural drawings have been transferred.
Books have been transferred to University Libraries and may be found in the general collection with the note, "William A. Keleher Collection".
7 inch reels and archival masters of audio materials are stored in B3.
Processing Information
Some oversize materials from box 23 were moved into box 43 and oversize folder 3 in March 2007.
Inquire with reference staff for access to unprocessed addition: 8 boxes, B3-11A.
Inquire with reference staff for access to unprocessed addition: 8 boxes, B3-11A.
- Albuquerque (N.M.) -- Social life and customs
- Armijo family
- Axtell, Samuel B. (Samuel Beach), 1819-1891
- Baca, Elfego, 1864-1945
- Billy, the Kid
- Coal Strike, Gallup, N.M., 1933
- Cuba Extension Railroad Company
- Fergusson, Erna, 1888-1964
- Frontier and pioneer life -- New Mexico
- Historians -- New Mexico -- Albuquerque
- Keleher family
- Keleher, Loretta Barrett, d. 2000
- Land grants -- New Mexico
- Lawyers -- New Mexico -- Albuquerque
- Lincoln County (N.M.) -- History
- Maxwell Land Grant (N.M. and Colo.)
- Mitchell, Albert K., b. 1894
- New Mexico -- Description and travel
- New Mexico -- History -- 1848-
- Old Lincoln County Memorial Commission
- Public Service Company of New Mexico
- Pyle, Ernie, 1900-1945
- Railroads -- New Mexico -- History
- Ross, Edmund G. (Edmund Gibson), 1826-1907
- Seth, J. O.
- Tax collection -- New Mexico -- Planning
- Taxation, State -- New Mexico -- Planning
- Tingley, Clyde
- Wallace, Lew, 1827-1905
- Water rights -- New Mexico
Creator
- Title
- Finding Aid of the William A. Keleher Papers, 1714-1999
- Status
- For Approval
- Author
- Processed by Jason Strykowski, T.S. Reinig and Jared Vanderpool
- Date
- ©2006
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
- Language of description note
- Finding aid is in English
- Sponsor
- Funding provided in part by Center for Regional Studies, University of New Mexico, Dr. Tobías Durán, Director
Revision Statements
- Monday, 20210524: Attribute normal is missing or blank.
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
cswrref@unm.edu
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
cswrref@unm.edu