The Archives includes a wide range of materials that document American Indian history, culture and art. The materials cover all indigenous peoples of the Americas, though the strength of the collection is from the Southwest. The majority of the holdings date from the mid-19th century to present. The collections emphasize American Indian artists and provide context for the understanding of the museum's ethnographic and fine art collections.

The Archival materials reflect a broad spectrum of relationships and activities with American Indians, including more than 300,000 historic and contemporary photographs. Major collections include the Fred Harvey Company photographs and papers, the R. Brownell McGrew photographs and papers, the Barry Goldwater color photography collection, American Indian Boarding School Collection and the collections of American Indian artists Harry Fonseca, Kay WalkingStick and Ramona Sakiestewa. The Archives hold approximately 300 linear feet of manuscripts, personal collections and other cultural materials, including more than 150 linear feet of institutional records from the Heard.

Archival Collections Guide

The Guide summarizes the collections held by the Archives. Detailed finding aids describing the collections are available in print and electronic format. Collections may be viewed by appointment only. Access to some materials may be restricted by donor agreements or by respect for American Indian cultural property rights.

Archives Policies

• Researching the Archives Collections is by appointment only.

• Researchers are required to register prior to viewing materials.

• Photocopies for personal use are permitted in accordance with copyright law. There is a per-page fee for all photocopies.

• Photographic services are available by sending a written request to the library staff. An application for reproductions and/or permission to publish is required.

Permission to Publish

All requests to reproduce materials from the Library and Archives' holdings require a completed Request for Reproductions/Application for Permission to Publish form. The applicant agrees to abide by all terms, conditions and provisions of this agreement. Requests to reproduce art objects from the Heard Museum collection should be directed to the Curatorial Department.