J. A. Holmes was professor of geology and natural history at the University of North Carolina, 1881-1903; state geologist, first head of the North Carolina Geological Survey, 1891-1905; director of the department of mines and metallurgy, Louisiana Purchase Exposition (1904 : Saint Louis, Mo.), 1903-1904; chief of the technological branch, United States Geological Survey, 1905-1910; chief, United States Bureau of Mines, 1910-1915. The collection includes correspondence and memorandum books of Holmes, clippings about Holmes, and other items. Included are about 100 letters, 1891-1915, from Holmes to his wife, Jane Sprunt Holmes of Wilmington, N.C., describing his work during job-related travels, discussing personal and family matters, and expressing his affection for her. Holmes's letters to his wife describe his life and work in Chapel Hill and Raleigh, N.C., his visits to other locations in North Carolina, and his travels and work in St. Louis, Mo., Washington, D.C., and other locations throughout the United States, especially in the West, and in Europe. Fourteen memorandum books, 1899- 1915, contain Holmes's notes, accounts, and brief descriptions of daily activities, especially while travelling and at professional meetings. The correspondence and the memorandum books document Holmes's particular interests in mine safety and in conservation of natural resources as well as other aspects of his work. Also included are correspondence and other materials relating to the establishment of the United States Bureau of Mines; clippings concerning Holmes, especially after his death; and other items.
