Meem Architectural Archives
Named for New Mexico architect John Gaw Meem, the archives document the built environment of New Mexico and the Southwest. Materials in the collection also record the works of art historians, architectural firms, and other related organizations. The archives were established in 1975 with the donation of the works of Meem who was instrumental in developing the University of New Mexico campus.
Widely known for promoting the Spanish Pueblo-Revival style, Meem began
practicing architecture in New Mexico in 1924. His interest in the concept
of regional architecture, and his role in the historic preservation of mission
churches, are reflected in the buildings he conceived. Several structures on
the University of New Mexico campus were designed by Meem, including the historic
west wing of Zimmerman Library where the Center for Southwest Research is housed.
Architectural records include perspectives, renderings, plans and drawings, details, elevations, preliminary sketches, and models. In order to chronicle an entire project, from conception to the finished structure, related materials such as correspondence, specifications, and photographs are also collected. The philosophy behind architectural design is a crucial part of understanding the concept of the built environment. Therefore, personal correspondence and architects' written statements of intent are also vital parts of the documentation.
The distinctive architecture of the UNM campus in Albuquerque is documented through the records of the Department of Facilities Planning. The University has had only one official University Architect, Van Dorn Hooker, who served in that capacity from 1963-1987. The records of his tenure are integrated into those of the Department of Facilities planning. The University Archives at the Center for Southwest Research also houses records pertaining to campus architecture.
Historical study of the regional architecture is recorded in the collections of art historians such as Bainbridge Bunting, Boyd Pratt, and Chris Wilson. Copies of measured drawings from the Historic American Buildings Survey are available for New Mexico buildings. In addition, the P.G. McHenry collection chronicles regional as well as international applications of adobe and rammed earth construction. Records of the New Mexico Solar Energy Association document both active and passive solar construction. Additional collections in the Meem Archives and Manuscripts collections are related to real estate, community planning, and historic preservation. These include records of The Albuquerque Conservation Association, the Albuquerque Urban Progress Committee, Keep New Mexico Beautiful, the Albuquerque Landmarks and Urban Conservation Commission, Brown Realty, and Lawyer's Title Company.
The John Gaw Meem Archives welcome donations of original materials relating to the architecture of the Southwest. For the purpose of historical study, all architectural styles and methods of construction that have been, or are currently in use in the Southwest are considered a part of the regional architecture.
Operation of the Meem Archives is funded in part by the John Gaw Meem Endowment
Fund.
The Meem Archives are open to the public for research during all hours of operation for the Anderson Reading Room.