Research


Scope and Content Note

This series contains incoming correspondence, copies of outgoing correspondence, memoranda, telegrams, press releases, reports, statements, proclamations, and transmittals pertaining to the administration, organization, and operations of state government. Personal correspondence of Averell Harriman is also included. Records relate to such subjects as agriculture, appointments, authorities and commissions, commerce, conservation, education, fiscal affairs, highways and highway safety, labor, legislation, mental health, personnel administration, public health, public utilities, taxation, welfare, and youth. The "Supplement to Subject Files" category contains similar records received by the Executive Chamber too late to be filed in the General Subject and Correspondence Files.

The "Special Subject and Name File" subseries contains similar records, including personal correspondence and material relating to state and national politics, compiled by the governor's personal secretary Bernice McCray. Noteworthy correspondents include Harry Truman, Edmund G. Brown, Winston Churchill, Herbert Bayard Swope, and Estes Kefauver. The "Pressure Mail" subseries consists of letters, telegrams, petitions, and postcards requesting the governor's support for or opposition to pending legislation or bills approved by the State Legislature. Lastly, the "Christmas Cards" subseries includes such items received by Governor and Mrs. Harriman, many of which sent by prominent national and international figures.