Description
This is a collection of correspondence, papers, and hand-drawn maps made by J. W. Simmons between 1934 and 1935 regarding
archaeological sites in Arizona. Much of the correspondence is between Simmons and Southwest Museum Secretary Charles Avery
Amsden. This collection also includes photographs.
Background
James W. Simmons, amateur archaeologist, became known during the 1930s for discovering Black Mesa and Perry Mesa on either
side of the Agua Fria River. Both sites would later become important archaeological sites. Simmons documented a great deal
of his archaeological work, particularly related to pueblos and petroglyphs, through reports funded by the Federal Writer's
Project. He worked as a building laborer when he was not engaged in some type of archaeological endeavor. He was the first
person to attempt to describe the prehistoric culture of the Yavapai County, Arizona area.
Extent
0.2 Linear Feet
(1 folder)
Restrictions
Copyright has not been assigned to the Autry Museum of the American West. All requests for permission to publish or quote
from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Head of Research Services and Archives. Permission for publication is
given on behalf of the Autry Museum of the American West as the custodian of the physical items and is not intended to include
or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the reader.
Availability
Appointments to view materials are required. To make an appointment please visit https://theautry.org/research-collections/library-and-archives
and fill out the Researcher Application Form.