Dale L. Morgan-Madeline R. McQuown, 1948-1949

File — Box: 2, Folder: 5

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Morgan's research at the Reorganized church library is hampered by S. A. Burgess, church historian. The church officials were displeased with the point-of-view taken in Fawn Brodie's book and fear the outcome of Morgan's work. A frank discussion with Burgess and a visit to Israel Smith, president of the Reorganized church, solves most of the difficulties. Still, Morgan must work at a slower pace than usual with Burgess constantly by his side. Morgan makes several observations on the Book of Mormon manuscript and original printer's copy of the Book of Commandments available at the Reorganized church library. He also mentions applying for a year's extention on the Guggenheim Fellowship, 1948.
Reflections on Bernard DeVoto, 1948.
Bad weather has delayed Morgan's journey and he outlines his revised itinerary. He comments on his satisfaction with his specific research and his study of history in general. "My interests in history are really dual, a literary approach to it, and what could be called the pure scientific approach, the writing of things for no reward except the satisfaction of getting the record straight and extending the area of our knowledge." His time at the Missouri Historical Society was spent researching the fur trade. He announces his intentions to write several articles on Smith, Jackson, and Sublette which will "...somewhat revolutionize general knowledge of the fur trade..." 1948.
Personal note, 1948.
Juanita Brooks writes to Morgan of the discovery of a grave on the Old Spanish Trail dated May 9, 1814. She plans to investigate and determine the authenticity of the date, 1949.
Morgan's plan to return to Washington D.C. in search of a job, 1949.

Dates

1948-1949

Conditions Governing Access

Twenty-four hour advanced notice encouraged. Materials must be used on-site. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law.