As the Center of Southwest Studies celebrates its 60th anniversary, we reflect on the many milestones and gifts that have marked our journey. Starting with crucial donations by Durango Herald publishers Morley and Arthur Ballantine and local banker A.M. Camp, the Center was established at Fort Lewis College in the summer of 1964. Since then, countless generous supporters have given not only their funds, but expertise, passion, and time to shape the Center into what it is today.    

The growth and evolution of the Center over the past six decades is attributed to the shared vision of college administrators, Center directors, professional staff, faculty, students, artists, and community members of all ages who interact with our programs, exhibitions, and research opportunities. As an active museum, archives, and research library, the Center is uniquely positioned to offer both educational and engaging enrichment through our many collections of material objects that connect the past to our ever-evolving present.   

Today, more than 80,000 museum objects and 6,000 linear shelf feet of archival records, photographs, oral histories and maps are under the Center’s care (not to mention the thousands of items in our care as Fort Lewis’ official archival and archaeological repository), most of which have been donated by individuals seeking a capable steward to entrust their collections. Enthusiastically curated by the entire staff, A Legacy of Gifts highlights 60 donations from both the museum and archival collections, each chosen to represent a traditional anniversary gift guide’s material and themes. The result is an eclectic mix of treasured artwork alongside interesting cultural and historical ephemera, which together tell a story about not only the Center’s breadth and scope, but its journey and growth.  As both a reflection on our past and an expression of excitement for the future, A Legacy of Gifts honors our relationship with the community that has supported our mission to promote inclusive, experiential learning opportunities and engage with the many histories, cultures, and environments of the greater Southwest. 

A Legacy of Gifts is supported by a generous grant from the Ballantine Family Fund.