Dale L. Morgan-Madeline R. McQuown, 1952-1953

File — Box: 2, Folder: 9

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Morgan dissolves the contract with Rinehart for the Mormon books because he was unable to meet the deadline. Instead he signs with Bobbs Merrill for a biography of Jedediah Smith to be published in January of 1953. Morgan's eyesight worsens and his physician tells him there is little that can be done to improve it. He resigns himself to the problem and vows to work harder on the Smith biography. Two friends have offered to help him improve his lip-reading ability. Although touched by their concern, he only reluctantly agrees. He describes the journals of John D. Lee known to exist and comments on their availability, 1952.
"Without any pretensions as a letter, this amounts merely to conversation with you from time to time as a reflective mood comes upon me." He reflects on his artwork and contemplates taking it up again and projects his writing interest over the next several years--including the biography of Jedediah Smith, a three-volume book on the Mormons, and a concise one volume biography of Manuel Lisa, 1952.
At home for a family gathering, Morgan takes time to search for some of John D. Lee's journals and diaries and to inquire about employment with the Historical Society. On the reverse of the last page is a handwritten note dated March 31 wishing Madeline McQuown a happy birthday, 1952.
Personal note, 1953.
Morgan finishes a bibliography, 1953.
Short personal note, 1953.
Taos, New Mexico postcard, 1953.

Dates

1952-1953

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.