William F. Foshag Collection, 1923-1965 and undated
Physical Description:
1 field book
Physical Location:
Smithsonian Institution Archives
Sublocation:
Box 6 Folder 6
Record type:
Fieldbook record
Object Type:
Field notes
Diary
Correspondence
Place:
Mexico
Paricutín
Date Range:
1943-1946
Start Date:
1943
End Date:
1946
Abstract:
The papers are a handwritten diary, correspondence, and part of a translated copy of Celedonio Gutierrez's observations on the activity of Paricutín Volcano, 1943, 1945-1946. Celedonio Gutierrez was an inhabitant of San Juan Parangaricutiro, a community adjacent Paricutín Volcano region, prior to its eruption and served as Foshag's assistant during fieldwork at the volcano. The diary gives a daily description of changes observed in Paricutín and Mesa de los Hornitos and the surrounding environment, including emanating debris (i.e. ash) and vapor, ongoing eruptions, changes to the crater, and individuals who explored the area. In a note included by Foshag, he states "although these notes are couched in simple terms, they constitute the only complete record of the volcano's activity and have the advantage of being free of any preconceived notions of what a volcano should do." Papers are handwritten and typed, and most are in Spanish. Handwritten notes are grouped by month and year, with the day's date listed in the left-hand margin next to entries. Some of the notes have been translated and include footnotes.
Many of SIA's holdings are located off-site, and advance notice is recommended to consult a collection. Please email the SIA Reference Team at osiaref@si.edu.
