The Southwest Collection at Texas Tech University is a treasure trove of historical artifacts, documents, and photographs that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest. With over 8 million items in its collections, it's a researcher's paradise and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the human experience. Let's delve into five of the most significant treasures in the Southwest Collection.
The Sowell Family Collection
The Sowell Family Collection is one of the most extensive and valuable collections in the Southwest Collection. It comprises over 50,000 items, including letters, diaries, photographs, and artifacts that document the lives of the Sowell family, who were early settlers of West Texas. The collection spans over a century, from the 1830s to the 1930s, and provides a unique insight into the daily lives of ranchers, farmers, and small-town residents in the region.
The Wilburn Cartwright Papers
Wilburn Cartwright was a prominent Texas politician who served as a congressman and senator from 1902 to 1941. The Wilburn Cartwright Papers collection contains over 50,000 items, including letters, speeches, and photographs that document his life and career. The collection is a valuable resource for researchers interested in Texas politics, the Democratic Party, and the Progressive Era.
The Photographic Archives
The Photographic Archives at the Southwest Collection is a treasure trove of visual history, with over 1 million photographs documenting the American Southwest from the 1860s to the present. The collection includes photographs of famous figures, such as Buffalo Bill Cody and Charles Goodnight, as well as everyday people, landscapes, and events. The archives are a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in visual storytelling.
The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Collection
The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) is one of the oldest and most influential cattle organizations in the United States. The TSCRA Collection at the Southwest Collection contains over 10,000 items, including documents, photographs, and artifacts that document the history of the cattle industry in Texas and the Southwest. The collection is a valuable resource for researchers interested in agricultural history, ranching, and the cattle industry.
The Lubbock Lake Landmark Collection
The Lubbock Lake Landmark is a 289-acre historic site located in Lubbock, Texas, that features evidence of human presence dating back over 12,000 years. The Lubbock Lake Landmark Collection at the Southwest Collection contains over 10,000 items, including artifacts, documents, and photographs that document the history of the site and its significance in American archaeology. The collection is a valuable resource for researchers interested in archaeology, anthropology, and Native American studies.
Gallery of Treasures in Southwest Collection
FAQ
What is the Southwest Collection?
+The Southwest Collection is a repository of historical artifacts, documents, and photographs located at Texas Tech University. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of its kind in the United States.
What types of materials are included in the Southwest Collection?
+The Southwest Collection includes a wide range of materials, including documents, photographs, artifacts, and oral histories that document the history and culture of the American Southwest.
How can I access the Southwest Collection?
+The Southwest Collection is open to the public and can be accessed through the Texas Tech University Library. Researchers can also access the collection online through the library's website.
We hope you've enjoyed this journey through the treasures of the Southwest Collection at Texas Tech University. Whether you're a researcher, historian, or simply someone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the American Southwest, we invite you to explore this incredible resource and discover the many wonders it holds.