Guide to the NPS Regional Offices Collection

This finding aid describes the Records Related to the National Park Service (NPS) Regional Offices Collection, part of the NPS History Collection. To search this guide for names, places, key words, or phrases enter Ctrl F on your keyboard (command key + F key on a Mac). Request an in-person research appointment or get more information by contacting the archivist.

Collection Overview

Collection Number: HFCA 3522

Creator: National Park Service
Title: National Park Service Regional Offices Collection
Dates: 1932-2000 (bulk dates: 1932-1992)
Extent of Collection: ca. 16.0 LF
Language of Materials: English

Digitized copies: Although this collection has not been scanned, digital copies of the Southwestern National Monuments reports may be found at various sites on the internet. The Regional Review may be found online at https://npshistory.com/newsletters/regional_review/rr-auth.htm. Region III Quarterly may be found at online at https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/region_111/r3q-intro.htm

Conditions Governing Access: This collection is open to research use.
Conditions Governing Reproduction and Use: See the NPS general copyright & restrictions information.
Provenance: Assembled by staff at the NPS History Collection over several decades, from many sources but primarily from park library collections.
Processing Note: Series I was processed by Beth Lipford in 2002. Nancy Russell processed Series II and created series descriptions in Nancy Russell in August 2025. Series III-VIX have not been processed yet. Please contact the archivist if you are interested in more information about the unprocessed series.

Rights Statements for Archival Description: This guide is in the public domain.
Preferred Citation: National Park Service Regional Offices Collection, NPS History Collection (HFCA 3522)
Location of Repository: NPS History Collection, Harpers Ferry Center, PO Box 50, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

Related Materials:

• Assembled Historic Records of the National Park Service, NPS History Collection (HFCA 1645)
• Howard H. Chapman Slide Collection, NPS History Collection (HFCA 3081)
• Thomas J. Allen Photograph Collection, NPS History Collection (HFCA 2117)
• Ronald F. Lee Papers, NPS History Collection (HFCA 1645)
• Administrative Records Southwestern National Monuments, 1920-1975, NPS Western Archeological and Conservation Center (WACC 3184)
• NPS Regional Office Records at the National Archives and Records Administration (RG 79.6)

Administrative History Note

In response to the growth of the National Park System and inspired by regionalization for management of the Civilian Conservation Corps, the National Park Service (NPS) established four regions in 1937, as listed in Table 1 below.

Table 1: NPS regions in 1937.

Regional Designation	Headquarters Location	Boundaries	Comments
Region I	Richmond, Virginia	Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Caroline, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Florida.
Region II	Omaha, Nebraska	Colorado (except Mesa Verde, ColoradoNM, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Hovenweep, and Yucca House), Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Minnesota, Michigan, Montana (except Glacier), Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah (only Dinosaur), Wisconsin, and Wyoming	During 1940-1947 Glacier moved to Region II from Region IV
Region III	Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (until 1939 then Santa Fe, New Mexico)	Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado (only Mesa Verde,Colorado NM, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Hovenweep, and Yucca House), Nevada (only Boulder Dam Recreation Area and Lehman Caves), and Utah (only Rainbow Bridge, Natural Bridge and Arches).	From 1940-1947 Utah united under Region III
Region IV	San Francisco, CA	California, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada (except Boulder Dam Recreation Area and Lehman Caves), Utah (except RainbowBridge, Natural Bridge, Arches and Dinosaur), Montana (only Glacier), Alaska, Hawai’i	During 1940-1947 Glacier moved to Region II from Region IV

In July 1955 the number of regions increased from four to five by subdividing Region I to create Region V, as described in Table 2 below.

Table 2: NPS regions in 1955.

Regional Designation	Headquarters Location	Boundaries
Region I	Richmond, Virginia	Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia (except George Washington Parkway, Lee Mansion, Prince William), and West Virginia
Region II	Omaha, Nebraska	Colorado (except Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes, Colorado NM, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Hovenweep, Yucca House), Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Utah (only Dinosaur).
Region III	Santa Fe, New Mexico	Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas Utah (except Dinosaur), Colorado (only Mesa Verde, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado NM, Hovenweep, Yucca House, Great Sand Dunes), and Nevada (only Lake Mead).
Region IV	San Francisco, California	California, Idaho, Nevada (except Lake Mead), Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Hawai’i
Region V	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland (except Suitland Parkway, Baltimore/Washington Parkway, Catoctin), Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin

In 1957 National Capital Parks achieved a regional status but not the official designation. That didn’t occur until December 4, 1961, when it became Region VI. With headquarters in Washington, DC, it encompassed parks in the District of Columbia as well as nearby parks in Virginia and Maryland.In 1962 Numerical designations were dropped in favor of geographical names:

• Region I became Southeast Region
• Region II became Midwest Region
• Region III became Southwest Region
• Region IV became Western Region
• Region V became Northeast Region
• Region VI became National Capital Region

Other smaller scale changes occurred in the late 1960s and early 1970s. In December 1968 the Northwest District was created as a semi-autonomous unit of the Western Region. On December 5, 1969, the National Capital Region became National Capital Parks. In 1970 the Northwest District of the Western Region became the Pacific Northwest Region, including Alaksa, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, and. California (only Lava Beds).In November 1971, in response to the Administration's call for common regional boundaries, the NPS regions were realigned into seven regions, as detailed in Table 3 below.

Table 3: NPS regions in 1971.

Regional Designation	Headquarters Location	Boundaries	Comments
Northeast	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, West Virginia (except Harpers Ferry NHP), Maryland except SuitlandParkway, Baltimore/Washington Parkway, GeorgeWashington Memorial Parkway, C&O Canal, Antietam, Catoctin, Fort Washington, Piscataway), Pennsylvania, and Virginia (except George Washington Memorial Parkway, Arlington House, Prince William, Blue Ridge Parkway, Cumberland Gap)
Southeast	Atlanta, Georgia (beginning January 1972)	Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Cumberland Gap, and Blue Ridge Parkway	Headquarters were in Richmond, Virginia, until January 9, 1972.
Midwest	Omaha, Nebraska	Colorado, Utah, Arizona (only Glen Canyon and Pipe Springs), Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming
Southwest	Santa Fe, New Mexico	New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana
Western	San Francisco, California	California (except Lava Beds), Nevada, Arizona (except Glen Canyon and Pipe Springs), and Hawai’i
Pacific Northwest	Seattle, Washington	Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and California (only Lava Beds)
National Capital Parks	Washington, DC	District of Columbia and areas excluded from Maryland and Virginia (except Blue Ridge Parkway and Cumberland Gap which were includedin Southeast) and Harpers Ferry NHP	Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was administered by Harpers Ferry Center from March 16, 1970-March 16, 1974

In December 1973 as part of a Servicewide reorganization, two new regions were created: Rocky Mountain out of the Midwest Region and North Atlantic out of the Northeast Region which had its name changed to Mid-Atlantic. Regional boundaries were realigned as shown in Table 4 below.

Table 4: NPS regions in 1973.

Regional Designation	Headquarters Location	Boundaries	Comments
North Atlantic	Boston, Massachusetts	Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, New Jersey (except Delaware Water Gap), Connecticut, and Rhode Island
Mid-Atlantic	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Pennsylvania, West Virginia (except Harpers Ferry), Delaware, Virginia (except Manassas, Wolf Trap, Prince William Forest), Maryland (except C&O Canal, Catoctin, Antietam, Baltimore/Washington Parkway, Fort Washington,Greenbelt, Suitland Parkway, George Washington Memorial Parkway)
Southeast	Atlanta, Georgia	Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Blue Ridge Parkway and Cumberland Gap
Midwest	Omaha, Nebraska	Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio
Rocky Mountain	Denver, Colorado	Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Arizona (only Pipe Springs and Glen Canyon)
Southwest	Santa Fe, New Mexico	New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana	In 1974 added Arizona (only Navajo, Canyon De Chelly, Wupatki, Sunset Crater and Hubbell Trading Post).
Western	San Francisco, California	California (except Lava Beds), Nevada, Hawai’i, Arizona (except Navajo,Canyon De Chelly, Wupatki, Sunset Crater, and Hubbell Trading Post)	That part of Arizona under Western Region further split between Western and Southwest Regions in 1974
Pacific Northwest	Seattle, Washington	Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and California (only Lava Beds)
National Capital Parks	Washington, DC	District of Columbia and parks listed above as excluded from Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginiaand VA.	Harpers Ferry National Historical Park assigned to National Capital Parks from Harpers Ferry Center on March 16, 1974

On October 21, 1976, National Capital Parks was redesignated National Capital Region. In 1978 Lave Beds in California was moved to the Western Region, unifying California within that region. In 1979 the Alaska Area Office became part of the Field Directorate. On December 3, 1980, a new Alaska Region was created with headquarters in Anchorage.

In February 1993 President William J. Clinton issued an executive order directing each government department or agency with more than 100 employees to cut at least 4% of its civilian positions over three years. In March 1994, he signed the Federal Workforce Restructuring Act of 1994 (H.R. 3345). Under this reduction-in-force, the Department of the Interior gave the NPS discretion for determining which and where positions were reduced. Effective May 31, 1995, the NPS restructuring brought about major changes. Regions were reduced (combined) and renamed field areas. In addition, 16 system support offices (SSO) were set up, as described in Table 5 below.

Table 5: NPS field areas and system support offices in March 1995.

Former Regional Designations	Field Area	System Support Offices (SSO)	Coverage
Southeast	Southeast	Appalachian SSO,Atlantic Coast SSO, andGulf Coast SSO	Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Florida, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, and the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia
North Atlantic & Mid-Atlantic	Northeast	New England SSO,Allegheny SSO, andChesapeake SSO	Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland (except Antietam, Catoctin, C&O Canal, Clara Barton, Fort Washington, Greenbelt, Monocacy,Piscataway), West Virginia (except Harpers Ferry), and Virginia (except Arlington House, Blue Ridge Parkway,George Washington National Parkway, Manassas, Prince William, and Wolf Trap)
Alaska	Alaska	Alaska SSO	Alaska
Western & Pacific Northwest	Pacific West	Columbia Cascades SSO, Pacific Great Basin SSO, andPacific Island SSO	Washington, Oregon, Idaho, California, Nevada, Hawai’i, and Guam
Southwest & Rocky Mountain	Intermountain	Colorado Plateau SSO, Southwest SSO, and Rocky Mountain SSO	Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas
Midwest	Midwest	Great Lakes SSOGreat Plains SSO	Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas
National Capital	National Capital	National Capital SSO	District of Columbia; Arlington House, George Washington Memorial Parkway, Manassas, Prince William, Wolf Trap in Virginia; areas excluded from Maryland and West Virginia in Northeast

In January 1997 the designation "field area" was changed back to "region" and SSOs were renamed “support offices.” These seven regions remained largely unchanged until 2018 when the NPS regions were realigned into 12 unified Department of the Interior regions. These regional boundaries are based around watersheds but also generally drawn along state lines to simplify coordination with external partners.

Table 6: NPS unified regions in 2018.

Additional information about specific regions, including people with key leadership positions, is found in administrative history notes in series descriptions below.

Regional Designation	Headquarters Location	Boundaries
Region 1 (North Atlantic-Appalachian)	Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	Connecticut, Delaware, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, Washington DC, and West Virginia
Region 2 (South Atlantic-Gulf)	Atlanta, Georgia	Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, and US Virgin Islands
Region 3 (Great Lakes)	Omaha, Nebraska	Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin
Region 4 (Mississippi Basin)	Omaha, Nebraska	Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Mississippi, and Louisiana
Region 5 (Missouri Basin)	Omaha, Nebraska	Kansas, most of Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, and South Dakota
Region 6 (Arkansas-Rio Grande-Texas-Gulf)	Lakewood, Colorado	Oklahoma and Texas
Region 7 (Upper Colorado Basin)	Lakewood, Colorado	Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and New Mexico
Region 8 (Lower Colorado Basin)	Lakewood, Colorado	Arizona, Southern California, and southern Nevada
Region 9 (Columbia-Pacific Northwest)	San Francisco, California	Idaho, most of Oregon, Washington, and northwest Montana.
Region 10 (California-Great Basin)	San Francisco, California	Most of California, most of Nevada, and Klamath County, Oregon
Region 11 (Alaska)	Anchorage, Alaska	Alaska
Region 12 (Pacific Islands)	San Francisco, California	American Samoa, Guam, Hawaii, and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Scope and Content Note

Annual, monthly, and bi-weekly reports and staff meeting minutes from the NPS regional offices. Monthly reports, superintendents' monthly narratives, naturalists' monthly reports, and newsletters from the Southwestern National Monuments (which became part of Region III). Newsletters and circulated notes prepared by Region III staff are also present. Plans and other documents discuss topics such as management and strategic planning; museum collections and exhibits; interpretation; and natural resources. Photographs are present for some regional offices.

Arrangement

Series I: Southwestern National Monuments, 1933-1942
Subseries I.A: Annual Reports, 1933-1941
Subseries I.B: Monthly Reports, 1933-1942
Subseries I.C: Newsletters, 1932, 1935-1937
Series II: Region III, 1939-1964
Subseries II.A: Reports, 1942-1952
Subseries II.B: Naturalists Monthly Reports, 1941, 1946-1952
Subseries II.C: Newsletters and Notes, 1939-1964
Series III: Southwest Region, ca. 1955-1994
Series IV: Northeast Region, 1938-1941, ca. 1960s-1980s
Series V: North-Atlantic Region, ca. 1980-1993
Series VI: Mid-Atlantic Region, ca. 1972-1989
Series VII: National Capital Region, ca. 1968, 2003
Series VIII: Midwest Region, ca. 1962-2000
Series IX: Rocky Mountain Region, ca. 1975-1992
Series X: Intermountain Region, ca. 1987-1996
Series XI: Southeast Region, ca. 1950-1980s
Series XII: Western Region, ca. 1952-1989
Series XIII: Pacific Northwest Region, ca. 1970-1993
Series XIV: Alaska Region, ca. 1980-1985, 2000

Series I: Southwestern National Monuments, 1932-1942

Extent of the subseries: 2.6 LF

Administrative History Note

In 1924 Frank Pinkley, custodian at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument since 1901, wasappointed superintendent of the Southwestern National Monuments (SWNM). With headquarters atCasa Grande Ruins National Monument, Pinkley initially oversaw 18 separate monuments. As superintendent, he prepared and submitted annual reports about the activities at the monuments. By at least the 1920s he was submitting monthly reports compiled from information sent in from the field. These reports, however, were much more matter of fact than later monthly reports, lacking the humor and family spirit of later reports.

In 1933 Pinkley began issuing the Southwestern National Monuments Monthly Reports, a mimeographed collection of reports of the custodians, with Pinkley’s opinions and commentary throughout. Although they were official reports to the director, they gained a following well beyond the Washington Office. The monthly reports were duplicated at headquarters and sent to all the areas under the Boss's jurisdiction. Pinkley's comments and "ruminations” added humor and personality missing from earlier monthly reports. They were great morale boosters for the isolated custodians and their wives. As Pinkley wrote in the August 1933 issue, the monthly reports served several purposes “mainly as a report to [the director] so that [he] may keep in touch with our work from month to month, but also as a house organ to keep our men in touch with each other, a news clip-sheet for the use of the press in this district, a news sheet keeping museums and field workers up to the minute on discoveries made from month to month in our monuments, and, lastly, as pure reading matter of interest to certain persons who ask us to mail them a copy. This last is a most surprising use for a government report. We know this report is not specialized along these different lines, but is serves the purpose, or at least nobody has yet asked to be taken off the mailing list.”

Supplements were frequently created as part of the monthly reports, giving additional information about special studies or topics, insights into some of the people who worked at the monuments, and other news of interest. These were “interesting things which don’t quite fit into the regular report.” Pinkley set the tone for the supplements describing them as “serious, but not too serious.” Although proud that the monthly reports were noted in journals like American Antiquity, Pinkley’s concern was that they would be taken too seriously. He wrote, “Our ideal for the report and supplement is to make it a cross section of the life and problems of our work here in the Southwest; it is a lot of shop talk by some specialists who like their work but are not too awfully serious about it.” The popularity of the monthly reports and supplements spread well beyond the NPS. Many universities and libraries asked to be put on the mailing list. One top government official was quoted as saying they were the only government reports he enjoyed reading.

Pinkley died on February 14, 1940, suffering a heart attack immediately after giving the opening address at a conference he had organized for his Southwestern National Monuments custodians and their wives. He was 58 years old. The meeting continued and among the resolutions printed in the meeting report is “Of the late Superintendent Pinkley, we wish to express simply our deep sense of loss, to us and to the rest of the Service, of our personal friend and strong leader, and resolve here and now to redouble, as the most fitting tribute to his memory, our efforts to forward the program which the Boss has built up through the years to the present high state of efficiency.” The custodians also decided to cease publication of the Southwestern National Monuments Monthly Report which would lack Pinkley’s inimitable style and tone. Superintendent Hugh Miller noted, “The salt of [Pinkley’s] humor and the savor of his philosophy are preserved in the bound copies of the reports.”

Pinkley’s death together with the growing cost of report preparation, inadequate staffing levels, and the NPS desire to “curtail a growing list of more or less official publications” led to the decision. It was determined that the reports after June 1941 would be “routine” reports condensed from those submitted by the custodians and would not be duplicated for distribution. Around November 1942 management of Pinkley’s beloved Southwestern National Monuments, which over time had increased in number to 28, moved from SWNM headquarters in Coolidge, Arizona to the Region III office in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Sources:

Hoofnagle, Keith. (1990, March 27). “Frank ‘Boss’ Pinkley.” Accessed August 18, 2023, at https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/sontag/pinkley.htmRothman, Hal. (1989). “America’s National Monuments: The Politics of Preservation.” Accessed August 18, 2023, at https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/rothman/chap9a.htm

Scope and Content Note

Monthly and annual reports by custodians in the Southwestern National Monuments (SWNM) compiled into reports to the NPS director. The reports document a wide range of topics including the creation of new monuments; weather conditions; increases or decreases in visitation; special visitors; visitor statistics; personnel and staffing; natural and cultural resources; ruins preservation experiments; scientific expeditions; interpretative programming; museum exhibits; special events; roads and trails; facilities and sanitation; maintenance; research; law enforcement issues; accidents; cooperative activities; and other topics. Many monthly reports include supplements, including Pinkley’s Ruminations. Topics included “dealing with persons,” archeological investigations, bird banding, general news, observations by Pinkley or the custodians, suggestions, notes from HCWPs, and “shop talk” related to a wide variety of topics. Activities or research at individual parks was also included in supplements. The Epitaph and Boss Station Broadcasting, Pinkley’s attempts to create newsletters separate from the monthly or annual reports, are also present.

Arrangement

Organized into three subseries as follows:
Subseries I.A: Annual Reports, 1933-1941
Subseries I.B: Monthly Reports, 1933-1942
Subseries I.C: Newsletters, 1932, 1935-1937

Subseries I.A: Annual Reports, 1933-1941

Extent of the subseries: 0.2 LF

Scope and Content Note

Annual reports prepared for the NPS director regarding activities at the various Southwestern National Monuments. Topics include new construction; maintenance; educational services; special projects; equipment; facilities; special events; special visitors; ruins preservation; scientific expeditions; visitor statistics; personnel; forestry; fire protection; archeology; cooperating government agencies; protection; museums and exhibits; employee housing; and other subjects. Later reports include black-and-white photographs.

Arrangement

Arranged chronologically by fiscal year.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: 1933
Folder 02: 1934
Folder 03: 1935
Folder 04: 1936
Folder 05: 1937
Folder 06: 1938
Folder 07: 1939
Folder 08: 1940
Folder 09: 1941
Folder 10: 1941 Photographic Supplement

Subseries I.B: Monthly Reports, 1933-1942

Extent of the subseries: 2.2 LF

Scope and Content Note

Monthly reports and supplements submitted to the NPS director and others on the activities at the Southwestern National Monuments. Bound volumes were prepared at the NPS Western Museum Laboratories under Works Projects Administration Official Project No 65-2-08-16, using National Youth Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps labor. Limited correspondence related to some contributing authors and comments on reports are present. Pinkley’s “Ruminations” include his thoughts on the importance of the wives of NPS staff among other topics. The report of a February 1940 meeting of the SWNM custodians includes Pinkley’s opening remarks before he died and covers topics such as the SWNM “custodian’s school,” interpretation, law enforcement, fiscal and administrative matters, and visitation. In addition to the official monthly reports there are more detailed “headquarters circular letters” containing the unabridged custodian’s reports from each monument for some months of 1941 and 1942. Correspondence from November and December 1941 related to acquiring copies of missing Pinkley reports from the 1920s in also present. A copy of an October 1942 letter from Senator Carl Hayden seeking missing editions to complete his collection reflects the broad appeal of Pinkley’s reports.

Arrangement

Arranged chronologically by year and thereunder by month.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: 1933 [Bound Volume]
Folder 02: 1934 [Bound Volume]
Folder 03: 1934, February-July

BOX 02
Folder 01: 1934, August-December
Folder 02: 1935, January-June [Bound Volume]
Folder 03: 1935, July-August
Folder 04: 1935, September-December
Folder 05: 1936, January-March

BOX 03
Folder 01: 1936, April-June
Folder 02: 1936, July-September
Folder 03: 1936, October-December
Folder 04: 1936-1939, Ruminations [Report Supplements]
Folder 05: 1937, January-March
Folder 06: 1937, April-June

BOX 04
Folder 01: 1937, July-September
Folder 02: 1937, October-December
Folder 03: 1938, January-March
Folder 04: 1938, April-June
Folder 05: 1938, July-September

BOX 05
Folder 01: 1938, October-December
Folder 02: 1939, January
Folder 03: 1939, February
Folder 04: 1939, March-April
Folder 05: 1939, May
Folder 06: 1939, June-July
Folder 07: 1939, August-October
Folder 08: 1939, November-December
Folder 09: 1940, January-March

BOX 06
Folder 01: 1940, February 14-16, Meeting of Custodians Report
Folder 02: 1940, April-May
Folder 03: 1940, June-August
Folder 04: 1940, September-October
Folder 05: 1940, November-December
Folder 06: 1941, January-April
Folder 07: 1941, May-July
Folder 08: 1941, July-October

BOX 07
Folder 01: 1941, November-December
Folder 02: 1942, January-May
Folder 03: 1942, June-November

Subseries I.C: Newsletters, 1932-1937

Extent of the subseries: 0.2 LF

Administrative History Note

In January 1932 the first edition of The Epitaph was released. Edited by Robert H. Rose, assistant park naturalist for the Southwestern National Monuments (SWNM), the monthly newsletter was distributed to “those interested in the outstanding historic, prehistoric, and scientific features of the Southwest.” Written in a colloquial style, it was Pinkley’s response to Nature Notes in the national parks. In the first edition, he wrote with characteristic humor, “You will note that we do not call our publication Nature Notes. There is some humor behind the naming of the educational work in our monuments. Aside from about 90% of his work not being that of a naturalist and that he is not connected with any park and is not assistant to anybody the title of assistant park naturalist fits Bob Rose precisely. Now epitaphs and monuments are naturally associated in people’s minds so what [is] more natural than the name we have chosen for our venture?”

The Epitaph featured articles written by Rose or reprinted from elsewhere. Custodians of the monuments also submitted short articles, particularly about the archeology of their sites. Cover art and other illustrations were drawn by Winifred Y. Julian, wife of the ranger at Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. Pinkley sometimes added his thoughts in editorials. The newsletter was an instant success. The Tucson Daily Citizen newspaper called it “One of the cleverest publications that strayed into our office.” Within four months the mailing list had increased from 75 to almost 500 readers.

Despite its popularity, Harold Bryant, chief of the NPS Division of Education, felt The Epitaph was unprofessional. Pinkley disagreed, believing it was unique because it appealed to both professionals and tourists. Rose printed favorable comments received from NPS employees, scientists, and the public. Bryant insisted that Pinkley review his editorial policy. Pinkley refused. The NPS supported the trend towards professionalization, however, and Pinkley knew he had little chance of prevailing. Although only four monthly editions of The Epitaph were created, Pinkley had demonstrated the broad appeal of his approach.

In June 1935 Frank Pinkley created a new newsletter called Broadcast (later Station Boss Broadcast). He described it as “a much more personal circular that we get out about every so often for our own information and pleasure and whose mailing list is confined to the Southwest Monuments.” Broadcast was intended to bring the staff at the different monuments together and to keep them thinking and working as a team. Pinkley took some of the “gentle spoofing” out of the monthly report supplements and included them in Broadcast instead.

Scope and Content Note

Complete run of The Epitaph (January-April 1932). Topics include natural history (features on specific species); oddities of nature; flora; cliff dwellings; Native Americans; parks of the SWNM; reader comments; and editorials from Boss Pinkley. Drawings by Winifred Y. Julian, wife of the ranger at Casa Grande, illustrate the newsletters. Complete set of Station Boss Broadcasting. Topics include Pinkley’s editorials; personnel changes; reader comments; accomplishments of staff and their wives; family news; humorous stories; and general goings on in the monuments.

Arrangement

Arranged chronologically.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: 1932, The Epitaph
Folder 02: 1935-1937, Station Boss Broadcasting [Bound Volume]
Folder 03: 1935-1937, Station Boss Broadcasting

Series II: Region III, 1939-1964

Extent of the series: 3.6 LF

Administrative History Note

The Southwestern National Monuments became part of Region III when it was established on August 1, 1937. The new region, with headquarters in Oklahoma City, encompassed Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona; Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado National Monument, Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Great Sand Dunes, Hovenweep, and Yucca House in Colorado; Boulder Dam Recreation Area and Lehman Caves in Utah; and Rainbow Bridge, Natural Bridge, and Arches in Utah. Herbert Maier served as acting regional director from 1937 until 1939, followed by Hillory A. Toslon (1939-1940).

Region III headquarters moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1939. John R. White became the first official regional director in April 1940 but only held that position until August. Minor R. Tillotson was director from August 1940 until March 1955. In 1940, the region expanded to encompass all Utah. Hugh M. Miller became regional director in 1955, the same year regional boundaries were adjusted to exclude Dinosaur National Monument in Utah and add Lake Mead (the only park in Nevada). Thomas J. Allen became regional director in 1959.

In 1962 the numerical designations for regions was dropped in favor of geographical names. Region III became the Southwest Region.

Scope and Content Note

Custodians’ monthly reports, consisting of consolidated reports for the Southwestern National Monuments. Superintendent’s monthly narrative reports sent directly to the NPS director from parks. Monthly naturalists’ reports are also included. Formal and informal (e.g., abstracts) anthropological and interpretive newsletters distributed within Region III and beyond are present.

Arrangement

Organized into three subseries, as follows:
Subseries II.A: Reports, 1942-1953
Subseries II.B: Naturalists Monthly Reports, 1941, 1946-1953
Subseries II.C: Newsletters and Notes, 1939-1964

Subseries II.A: Reports, 1942-1953

Extent of the subseries: 1.8 LF

Administrative History Note

After the Southwestern National Monuments reporting requirements were subsumed into the Region III reports, there remained a period when the monument reports were compiled and distributed among the monument custodians as custodians’ monthly narrative report. This approach continued to support comradery and information sharing among the monument staff. In January 1944 that practice was discontinued. Instead of sending each custodian a copy of the combined reports, two sets reports were circulated among the custodians, each sending it on to the next custodian or superintendent after reading and greatly increased the length of time it must have taken for information to be shared. Regional Director M. R. Tillotson also advised, “Care should be taken to make the monthly report as brief and concise as consistently possible, following the general headings listed in the Report Manual, but omitting all non-essential details.”

Scope and Content Note

Custodians’ monthly reports consisting of consolidated reports for the Southwestern National Monuments or reports from Region III parks sent to the regional director. Superintendent’s monthly narrative reports were sent directly to the NPS director. Parks represented include Big Bend; Bryce Canyon; Carlsbad Caverns; Grand Canyon; Lake Mead (also reporting for Lehman Caves); Lake Texoma; Hot Springs, Mesa Verde (also reporting for Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado National Monument, Hovenweep, and Yucca House; Petrified Forest, Platt, and Zion (also reporting for Cedar Breaks, Pipe Spring, and Timpanogos Cave). Consolidated report for the Southwestern National Monuments include Aztec Ruins; Montezuma Castle; Organ Pipe Cactus; Saguaro; Wupatki; White Sands; Canyon de Chelly; Capulin Mountain; Casa Grande; Gran Quivira; Tumacácori; Tuzigoot; Walnut Canyon; Sunset Crater; Tonto; Great Sand Dunes; El Morro; Arches; Natural Bridges; Chaco Canyon; Bandelier; Navajo, and Chiricahua. Reports from the Southwestern National Monuments archeologist and naturalist are also included.

Topics in the various reports include weather; special activities; inspections; travel; roads; status of private lands; maintenance; construction; publicity; inspections; public relations; interpretive services; museum exhibits; NPS visitors; geology; concessions; cooperating agencies; and visitation statistics; concession operations; travel; forest fire prevention; interpretive services; research and observations; cooperating government agencies; ranger service; accidents; public health; visitors; museum activities and exhibits; and park personnel. Black and white photographs are included in some reports.

Arrangement

Arranged alphabetically by report type and thereunder chronologically.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: Custodians’ Reports, 1942, October-December
Folder 02: Custodians' Reports, 1943, January-November
Folder 03: Custodians' Reports, 1944, January
Folder 04: Custodians' Reports, 1947, May
Folder 05: Custodians' Reports, 1949, January-March
Folder 06: Custodians' Reports, 1949, April-June
Folder 07: Custodians' Reports, 1949, July-August
Folder 08: Final Estimate of Appropriation for FY1941, 1939
Folder 09: Interpretive Inspection Report, 1949
Folder 10: Monthly Reports, 1942, December
Folder 11: Monthly Reports, 1943, January-May
Folder 12: Monthly Reports, 1944, January-November

BOX 02
Folder 01: Special Report No. 2: Life Figures on Hohokam Pottery, 1952
Folder 02: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1949, June-August
Folder 03: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1949, September-December
Folder 04: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1950, January-March
Folder 05: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1950, April-June
Folder 06: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1950, July-October [August Missing]

BOX 03
Folder 01: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1950, November-December
Folder 02: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, January
Folder 03: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, March
Folder 04: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, April
Folder 05: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, May
Folder 06: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, June
Folder 07: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, July
Folder 08: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, August
Folder 09: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, September
Folder 10: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, November
Folder 11: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1951, December

BOX 04
Folder 01: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, May
Folder 02: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, June
Folder 03: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, July
Folder 04: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, August
Folder 05: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, September
Folder 06: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, October

BOX 05
Folder 01: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, November
Folder 02: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1952, December
Folder 03: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, February
Folder 04: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, March
Folder 05: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, May
Folder 06: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, June
Folder 07: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, August
Folder 08: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, October
Folder 09: Superintendents’ Monthly Narrative Reports, 1953, November

Subseries II.B: Naturalists' Monthly Reports, 1941, 1946-1953

Extent of the subseries: 1.2 LF

Scope and Content Note

Reports primarily titled either naturalist’s monthly reports or interpreters monthly reports, although some reports from park or regional archeologists are also included. Parks represented include the Southwestern National Monuments; Grand Canyon; Petrified Forest; Lake Mead; Carlsbad Caverns; Mesa Verde; Hot Springs; Platt; Lehman Caves; Bryce Canyon; Zion. The Also includes reports for the Region III Natural History Division. Topics routinely covered include office administration; public relations; education; research; staff activities; museum exhibit projects; cooperative activities; park libraries; Southwestern Monuments Association; ruins stabilization; photography; conferences; weather; protection; and unusual activities.

Arrangement

Arranged chronologically by year.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: 1941, November
Folder 02: 1946, November-December
Folder 03: 1947, January-April
Folder 04: 1947, May-August
Folder 05: 1947, September-December
Folder 06: 1948, January-May
Folder 07: 1948, June-August
Folder 08: 1948, September-October

BOX 02
Folder 01: 1948, November-December
Folder 02: 1949, January-June [Bound Volume]
Folder 03: 1949, July-December [Bound Volume]
Folder 04: 1949, September-December
Folder 05: 1950, January-February
Folder 06: 1950, March-May

BOX 03
Folder 01: 1950, June-September
Folder 02: 1950, October-December
Folder 03: 1951, January-April
Folder 04: 1951, May-August
Folder 05: 1951, September-December
Folder 06: 1952, January-June

BOX 04
Folder 01: 1952, August-September
Folder 02: 1952, November
Folder 03: 1953, January-February
Folder 04: 1953: May
Folder 05: 1953, September

Subseries II.C: Newsletters and Notes, 1939-1964

Extent of the subseries: 0.6 LF

Administrative History Note

Region III Archeologist Erik K. Reed created Anthropological Notes, a series of abstracts and summaries, in April 1940. Initially mimeographed onto 5” x 8” cards, beginning with #66 Reed used an 8” x 11.5” format that allowed the sheets to be folder or cut in half to be filed with the earlier notes, which accounts for the varying sizes and the presence of more than one note on some pages. Beginning with card #100, Reed renamed the series Interpretive Notes, adding natural history abstract information. With #172 it was renamed Research Abstracts, although the topics remained unchanged. These abstracts were disseminated to other parks and regional offices and several versions of indices were prepared over time. This series ended in 1964. In 1957 the regional Division of Interpretation began a series called Interpretive Suggestions. Issues sporadically between 1957 and 1963, the internal newsletter shared “various suggestions that might be helpful in furthering park and monument interpretive programs.” Content was solicited from the field and copied from Interpretive Notes issued by other regions.

The first issue of Region III Quarterly was published in July 1939, and followed in the footsteps of its sister publication, The Regional Review which covered NPS units in Region One. Edited by Leo A. McClatchy, Region III Quarterly lasted just three years (1939-1941). Its purpose was to disseminate information of practical use to NPS personnel and to interested individuals and organizations. The articles were written with a view to making them interesting and instructive yet not technical.Scope and Content NoteComplete run of the Region III Anthropological Notes-Interpretive Notes-Research Abstract series (1-326). Abstract topics include worldwide archeological excavations; material culture; fossil humans; and natural history topics such as flora, fauna, and geology. Archeological Interpretation and Interpretation Background Circulars are also present. Interpretive Suggestions cover topics such as museum exhibits, audiovisual equipment, and other items of interest to park naturalists. Memos with other helpful suggestions for interpreters, not directly part of the Interpretive Suggestions, are also included. Topics discussed in the Region III Quarterly newsletters include wildlife and wildlife management; botany; geology, paleontology, and vulcanology; firefighting; archaeology; history; winter sports; mountain climbing; health and safety; Native American peoples, history, and culture; museums; profiles of NPS employees; and other subjects. Contributing authors include Robert H. Rose, Harold Bryant, Natt N. Dodge, Dr. Aubrey Neasham, Herbert Maier, Jesse Nusbaum, Earl Jackson, Hugh Miller, Dr. W. B. McDougall, Daniel Beard, and Robert Budlong, among others.

Arrangement

Arranged alphabetically by publication and thereunder by volume or year.

Container List

BOX 01
Folder 01: Abstracts: All Indices, 1951-1963
Folder 02: Abstracts: Anthropological Notes 1-65, 1940-1947
Folder 03: Abstracts: Anthropology Notes 66-100, 1948-1949
Folder 04: Abstracts: Interpretive Notes 101-171, 1949-1957
Folder 05: Abstracts: Research Abstracts 172-240, 1957-1960
Folder 06: Abstracts: Research Abstracts 241-300, 1960-1963
Folder 07: Abstracts: Research Abstracts 301-326, 1963-1964
Folder 08: Archeological Interpretation Circulars, 1949-1951
Folder 09: Interpretive Background Circulars, 1955
Folder 10: Interpretive Suggestions, 48, 1950, 1957-1964, undated

BOX 02
Folder 01: Region III Quarterly Volume 1, 1939
Folder 02: Region III Quarterly Volume 2, 1940
Folder 03: Region III Quarterly Volume 3, 1941

Series III: Southwest Region, ca. 1955-1995

Administrative History Note

Thomas J. Allen was director Region III when it became the Southwest Region in 1962. He was replaced by Danie B. Beard (1963-1967). Frank F. Kowski was regional director (1967-1974) when the boundary was adjusted on November 15, 1971, removing most of Arizona and Utah and adding Arkansas and Louisiana. Joseph C. Rumburg Jr was regional director from 1974-1976), followed by John E. Cook (1977-1979). L. Lorraine Mitzmyer was acting regional director before she became the first NPS woman regional director in 1979. She moved to the Rocky Mountain Region in 1980. Robert I. Kerr followed (1980-1986). Cook returned as regional director from 1986 to 1995 when he was selected as regional director for the new Rocky Mountain Region.

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional reports (1960-1963; 1985-1990; 1992-1995) and annual reports for the Southwest Cultural Resources Center (1985, 1987). Regional office director staff meeting minutes (ca. 1955-1995) and biweekly reports (ca. 1980s) included. Regional newsletters including Personnel Management Topics, Southwestern, and Southwest Storyteller (1991-1992) are present. Annual report summarizing the Right Around the Home program (1977) is present.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series IV: Northeast Region, 1938-1941, ca. 1960s-1980s

Administrative History Note

The Regional Review newsletter, edited by Hugh R. Awtrey, was published from 1938 to 1941. Despite its short run, the quality of the articles resulted in repeated requests for past issues, prompting the staff to seek funds to reprint selected articles in 1940 and 1941 as the NPS Popular Study Series. Fourteen titles were originally published in this series, with a fifteenth published in 1943 in a style different from the original (No. 15 was later re-issued as No. 2 in the Interpretive Series).

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional report (1963), regional office director staff meeting minutes (ca. 1960s), and biweekly reports (ca. 1980s). Includes The Regional Review newsletters produced by legacy Region I and featuring articles by NPS historians, superintendents, directors, and other notables including Herbert E. Kahler; Roy E. Appleman; Charles W. Porter: Stanley W. Abbott; Daniel B. Beard; Ned J. Burns; Arno B. Cammerer; Elbert Cox; S. Herbert Evison; J.C. Harrington; Ronald F. Lee; Albert C. Manucy; Carl P. Russell; and various park naturalists. Topics include archeology; cultural and historical information on parks; linguistics; natural history; recreation demonstration area camps; state parks; nature study; camping; history of NPS interpretation; Civilian Conservation Corps; conservation approaches; radio in national parks; park planning, and other topics.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series V: North-Atlantic Region, ca. 1980-1993

Administrative History Note

The North Atlantic Region was established on November 30, 1973. It was comprised of eight states that were previously part of Region I/Northeast Region: New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Jerry D. Wagers (1974-1976) was the first regional director, followed by Jack E. Stark (1976-1979), Richard L. Stanton (1980-1981), and Steven H. Lewis (1981-1982). Herbert S. Cables Jr brought longer term stability to the region, serving from 1982 until 1989. Gerald D. Patten was hired as regional director in July 1989. The region became part of the Northeast Region again in 1995.

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional reports (1980-1993, with gaps), regional office staff meeting minutes, and biweekly reports. Regional newsletters are also present.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series VI: Mid-Atlantic Region, ca. 1972-1989

Administrative History Note

This region was carved out of Region I as Region V in 1955, with headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Daniel J. Tobin served as the first regional director (1955-1959) followed by Ronald F. Lee (1960-1965), Lemuel A. Garrison (1966-1970), and Henry G. Schmidt (1970-1971). In 1962, the region’s name changed to the Northeast Region. Chester L. Brooks was regional director when Virginia and Minnesota were added to the region on November 15, 1971. The boundary was significantly adjusted in January 1974 when Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin were transferred to the Midwest Region. Brooks continued as regional director of the smaller region which comprised Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia until leaving in November 1976. Richard L. Stanton became regional director (1977-1980), followed by James W. Coleman Jr in 1980. Lorraine Minzmeyer was transferred from the Rocky Mountain Region as regional director in 1991, but retired in 1992. The region became part of the Northeast Region in 1995.

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional reports (1979, 1981, 1988), regional office director staff meeting minutes (1972-1989) and biweekly reports.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series VII: National Capital Region, ca. 1968, 2000

Administrative History Note

The administration of monuments in Washington, DC, was transferred to the NPS on August 10, 1933. The new National Capital Parks encompassed parks in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia under Superintendent C. Marshall Finnan (1933-1939). He was succeeded by Irvin C. Root (1941-1950), Edward J. Kelly (1950-1958), and Harry T. Thompson (1958-1961). T. Sutton Jett was superintendent when National Capital Parks became part of Region VI on January 22, 1962, becoming regional director (1962-1968). Region VI was renamed National Capital Region on July 10, 1962. The region was reorganized into superintendencies in May 1965.

I. J. Castro followed Jett served as regional director, serving in 1968 and 1969. The Office National Capital Parks was established on December 5, 1969. Russell E. Dickenson served as general superintendent (1970-1971) and regional director (1971-1973), followed by Manus J. Fish (1973-1976). In October 1976 it again became National Capital Region with Fish as regional director (1976-1988). After a brief acting director stint by Ronald M. Wyre, Robert G. Stanton became regional director on December 18, 1988. He served in that position until 1997, becoming NPS director.

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional reports and regional office staff meeting minutes.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series VIII: Midwest Region, ca. 1972-2000

Administrative History Note

Established on August 1, 1937, as Region II, this region comprised the Northern Rocky Mountain, Plains, and Western Great Lakes states. The four eastern states were transferred to the new Region V in 1955. Thomas J. Allen served as regional director from 1937 to 1941, followed by Lawrence C. Merriam (1941-1950). Howard W. Baker (1950-1964) was regional director when the name changed to Midwest Region in 1962. Lemual A. Garrison (1964-1966) and Fred C. Fagergren (1966-1970) followed.

J. Leonard Volz was regional director (1970-1975) when, on November 15, 1971, Minnesota was removed from the region and Utah and all of Colorado were added. In January 1974 the Midwest Region was significantly realigned when Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming were transferred to the newly created Rocky Mountain Region, and Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin were added from the Northeast Region. Merrill D. Beal was regional director from 1975 to 1978, followed by Jimmie L. Dunning (1978-1983), Charles H. Odegaard (1984-1987), and Don H. Castleberry (1987-ca. 1993).

Scope and Content Note

Regional office annual reports (1972-1992, with gaps) include final summary reports or the longer program reports which fed into the regional reports, including some from the Midwest Archeological Center. Regional office staff meeting minutes (1972-1993) are present. Includes various photos taken by Warren Bielenberg in the 12 years he worked at the Midwest Regional Office. Subjects include various parks in the region, special events, NPS director's visits to parks, and the Discovery 2000 Conference. Other prints and negatives document superintendents' conferences, regional exhibits, training activities, cooperation with outside activities, and annual reports. Monthly superintendents’ reports for parks in the Midwest Region, including Yellowstone (1962-1967); weather; travel; visitors; special activities; personnel; interpretive services; ranger activities; collecting permits; scientific research; museums and exhibits; library services; health and safety; forest fires; and insects and diseases. Yellowstone reports include information on chapel use and also Big Hole National Battlefield’s report.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series IX: Rocky Mountain Region, ca. 1979-1992

Administrative History Note

The Rocky Mountain region was established by NPS Director Ronald H. Walker on January 6, 1974, through boundary adjustments to the Midwest Region. The states of Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota were transferred to the newly established region. Lynn H. Tompson served as the first regional director (1974-1978), followed by Glen T. Bean (1978-1980). L. Lorraine Mintzmyer became regional director on April 6, 1980. She held that position until she was transferred to the Mid-Atlantic Region in 1991. The Rocky Mountain region became part of the Intermountain region in 1995.

Scope and Content Note

Annual regional reports (1975-1992, with gaps), regional office staff meeting minutes (ca. 1979-1984), and various regional reports.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series X: Intermountain Region, ca. 1987-1996

Administrative History

The Intermountain Region was created in 1995 through the consolidation of the Rocky Mountain and Southwest regions, and the addition of Arizona from the Western Region. It comprised parks in eight states: Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

Scope and Content Note

Annual reports for the Intermountain Cultural Resource Center (1994-1995), Long-distance Trails Office (1995), Spanish Colonial Research Center (1995), and Rocky Mountain Support Office (1995). Regional office staff meeting minutes; Includes photos from the Intermountain Region's Public Affairs Office (1987-1996).

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series XI: Southeast Region, ca. 1950-1980s

Administrative History Note

Region I was established August 7, 1937, with headquarters in Richmond, Virgina. It covered the eastern United States except National Capital Parks, but including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Carl P. Russell was the first regional director (1937-1939), followed by Minor R. Tillotson (1939-1940), Arno B. Cammerer (1940-1941), and Thomas J. Allen (1941-1942). Fred T. Johnston (1942-1943) and Oliver G. Taylor (1943-1944) served as acting regional directors before Allen returned in 1944, bringing consistent management for the next seven years.

Elbert Cox (1951-1966) was regional director when Region V was established in 1955, eliminating the northeastern states from Region I and when, in 1962, the name was changed to Southeast Region. Jackson E. Price became regional director in 1966, followed by J. Leonard Volz (196801970). David D. Thompson, Jr. (1970-1977) was regional director when the Commonwealth of Virginia transferred to the Northeast Region on November 15, 1971, and the Southeast Region headquarters moved from Richmond, Virginia, to Atlanta, Georgia, on January 9, 1972. Joseph Brown succeeded Thompson as regional director from 1977-1981. Robert M. Baker was regional director from 1981 to 1991.

Scope and Content Note

Regional office annual reports (1963-1983, with gaps). Regional office staff meeting minutes (1950-1979). Desk files from various sources include safety reports by C. R. Vinten (1965-1966), museum collection issues, studies, and management policies; cultural resources; budget; employee morale; and interpretation.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series XII: Western Region, ca. 1952-1989

Administrative History

Region IV was established on August 1, 1937, compassing the Western states including Hawaii and Alaska. Frank A. Kittredge was the first regional director (1937-1940), followed by John R. White (1940-1941), Owen A. Tomlinson (1941-1950), and Lawrence C. Merriam (1950-1963). Region IV’s name was changed to the Western Region in 1962.

Edward A. Hummel served as regional director from 1963 to 1966, followed by John A. Rutter (1967-1968). William L. Bowen (1968-1970) was director when the boundary was adjusted in December 1969, moving Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Lava Beds National Monument to the new Pacific Northwest Region, and adding Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Joseph C. Rumburg Jr (1970-1971) was director when another boundary adjustment in November 19171 added most of Arizona to the region.

Howard H. Chapman became regional director in December 1971. He served in that role until May 1987. Stanley T. Albright, nephew of former NPS director Horace M. Albright, succeeded him the next month, serving until 1997. Future NPS director Jonathan Jarvis served as Western Region director from 2002 to 2009.

Scope and Content Note

Region IV superintendents’ monthly narrative reports from 1952-1953 (with large gaps) include Cabrillo, Craters of the Moon, Death Valley, Fort Vancouver, Joshua Tree, Lava Beds, Muir Woods, Oregon Caves; and Sitka national monuments; Coulee Dam and Millerton Lake national recreation areas; and Crater Lake, Hawai’i (including Haleakala section). Lassen Volcanic, Mount McKinley (now Denali), Mount Rainier, Olympic, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and Yosemite national parks. Annual regional reports and regional office staff meeting minutes (1970-1989) are present. Annual reports for the Western Archeological Conservation Center (1979, 1982) and a Wyoming Governor’s Book (1969) are included.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series XII: Pacific Northwest Region, ca. 1970-1993

Administrative History Note

On December 30, 1969, the Northwest District of the Western Region became the Northwest Region. With headquarters in Seattle, Washington, it encompassed Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Lava Beds NM in California. Effective August 17, 1970, the name changed to the Pacific Northwest Region.

John A. Rutter was the first regional director (1969-1975), followed by Russell E. Dickenson (1976-1980), Daniel J. Tobin Jr (1980-1985), and Charles H. Odegaard (1987-1995). The Alaska parks were removed from the region when the Alaska Region was created in 1980. The Pacific Northwest Region became part of the Western Pacific Region in 1995.

Scope and Content Note

Regional Office staff meeting minutes (1987-1993). Includes Environmental Quickies Newsletters, environmental education materials, and handwritten notes by Historian John Hussey documenting a train conversation with Herbert Maier in 1958. Photographs, slides, and AV materials are present. Files on NPS signs and symbols, including Chermayeff & Geismar and Kostritsky contracts, as well as preliminary and final NPS symbols from circa 1970.

Arrangement

Unarranged. This series has not been processed.

Series XIV: Alaska Region, ca. 1980-1985, 2000

Administrative History Note

The Alaska Region was authorized on December 2, 1980. It includes all park areas within the state of Alaska and superseded the Alaska Area Office. John E. Cook was the first regional director, followed by Roger J. Contor (1983-1985), and Quincy B. Evison (1985-1991). John M. Morehead became regional director in June 1991. In 2011 the Alaska Region became Interior Region 11 within the unified regional system.

Scope and Content Note

Regional annual reports (1982-1985, 2000); Regional Office staff meeting minutes. Includes an incomplete set of Alaska Park Science published by Alaska Regional Office.

Arrangement

Unarranged. [This series has not been processed.]

Explore More!

Looking for something else? Our NPS History Collection finding aids are available to help with your research.