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Louis Curth papers

 Collection
Identifier: ARL-033

Content Description

The collection consists of research materials used in the writing of "The Forest Rangers: A History of the New York State Forest Ranger Force" (1987) and includes manuscripts, reports, correspondence, photographs, and other records detailing forest ranger history as well as glimpses into Curth's career. Curth continued to collect and compile materials relating to ranger history after the publication of the book into retirement.

Manuscript materials contain original typewritten versions of each chapter as well as edited and revised book drafts.

Research files consist of various newsclippings, articles, correspondence, and other assembled files by subject that were originally compiled in preparation for the book.

Printed materials consist of published and printed summaries, annual reports, various DEC publications, manuals, and maps relating to specific environmental issues and forest ranger policies.

Photographs and negatives depict vehicles, fire control, formal portraits, events, training, construction, and various structures. The bulk of the collection consists of black and white prints.

Objects and ephemera include Smokey the Bear memorabilia, certificates, signage, trail registers, a corporate seal, and other small items.

Audio and visual materials include VHS tapes, a 16mm film reel, and audio cassettes which document ranger history, daily duties, and special events.

Dates

  • Creation: 1885 - 2003
  • Creation: Majority of material found within 1930 - 2003

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research.

Biographical / Historical

Louis C. Curth is the author of "The Forest Rangers: A History of the New York State Forest Ranger Force," published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation in 1987. Curth is a retired forest ranger who devoted his career to the Forest Preserve, working for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Extent

12.87 Cubic Feet

11 Boxes

1 Reels

10 Cassettes

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

The Louis Curth papers measure 12.87 cubic feet and date from 1885-2003. The collection consists of research materials used in the writing of "The Forest Rangers: A History of the New York State Forest Ranger Force" (1987) and includes manuscripts, reports, correspondence, photographs, and other records detailing forest ranger history as well as glimpses into Curth's career.

Arrangement

The collection is arranged as 6 series. Records are generally arranged by material type and chronologically or alphabetically thereafter.

Series I: The Forest Rangers Manuscript, 1986-1987.

Series II: Research Files, 1885-2003.

Series III: Printed Materials, 1915-2002.

Series IV: Photographs and Negatives, 1920-1997.

Series V: Objects and Ephemera, 1920-1987.

Series VI: Audiovisual, 1958-2000.

Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements

Access to digitized materials is available on-site.

Custodial History

Donated by Louis Curth, June 1988, March 1998, and July 2014.

On April 22, 2011, Protect the Adirondacks! placed the collection on permanent loan with Union College.

Processing Information

Processed by Matthew Golebiewski, Fall 2018.

Title
Guide to the Louis Curth papers
Status
Completed
Date
2018
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin
Language of description note
Finding aid written in English
Sponsor
Andrew W. Mellon Foundation

Repository Details

Part of the Adirondack Research Library Repository

Contact:
897 St. David's Lane
Niskayuna NY 12309
5183887000