This collection is comprised of pamphlets which reflect the history of Albuquerque as a destination for tourists, health-seekers, railroad passengers, investors, and newcomer residents. Pamphlets from the early 1900s boast the railroad, schools, hospitals, churches, and stores, to attract new residents, calling Albuquerque "the Commercial Metropolis of New Mexico," "Chief City of a New Empire in the Great Southwest, " and "The Metropolis of the Land of Sunshine." Photos in these brochures depict buildings and comforts of life and "aristocratic residence, " juxtaposed with photos whose captions advertise "picturesque hotels and Indians." These pamphlets seek to convince prospective residents of Albuquerque's cosmopolitan nature by describing its population as comprised of "progressive and aggressive businessmen, " and listing its population as 25,000 in 1912. Advertising aimed at tourists includes pamphlets from Koshare Tours, the company part-owned by Erna Fergusson, as well as other companies and guide books to Santa Fe, Taos, and "Indian Country." Also included are brochures about the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial from various years between 1939 and 1950. Other tourist materials include information on Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory. One business pamphlet boasts "Decades of Destiny" and acknowledges that "the business life of Albuquerque undoubtedly began long before any records were kept." It proposes that business existed in Santa Fe as far back as the 1700s. Bank advertisements also seek to recruit future investors. Another visitor population targeted by these brochures are the potential outdoor enthusiasts. Pamphlets distributed by assorted lodges and resorts advertise hunting possibilities. Materials produced by the National Forest Service display images of New Mexico's national parks and monuments as well as supply statistical reports for public use of these national parks. More recent materials in this collection describe the political scene in New Mexico, generally, and the Democratic Club and candidates, specifically, for the 1950s. A folder of items about Albuquerque's radio and television stations provides insight into the history of such media in this area. In 2001, the New Mexico Organizations Memorabilia, Pamphlets, etc. Collection was added into this collection. These materials include organizations' by-laws and conference proceedings.
