Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Resolution Against Abolishment of the Indian Bureau 1948-01-01 1948-01-01 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951); 80th (1947-1949) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 55, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0004 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0004_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873700 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0004.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 6 Pages Mrs. M. D. Hyrick sent a letter to United States Senator Elmer Thomas enclosing a resolution regarding the proposed abolishment of the Indian Bureau. The resolution expresses disapproval of the abolishment, stating that it would be detrimental to the Indian community and that they lack the knowledge and understanding to manage their own affairs. The resolution also recommends the appointment of a well-prepared and qualified attorney for United States Commissioners. The resolution was signed by a committee group staff and includes various members and their roles. Senator Thomas acknowledges receipt of the resolution and expresses willingness to discuss the matter further with Mrs. Hyrick's attorney. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Letter from Elmer Thomas regarding Indian affairs 1948-01-01 1948-01-01 Thomas, Elmer, 1876-1965 http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951); 80th (1947-1949) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 55, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0003 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0003_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873699 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0003.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 3 Pages The document is a response from Elmer Thomas, a member of the United States Senate, to a man named Henry Elk River regarding the status of Indians and the recommendations of the Hoover Commission. Thomas acknowledges Elk River's concerns and assures him that the Indian Office will remain open to take care of the Indians with regards to hospitals, health, and education. Thomas also mentions that the recommendations of the Hoover Commission may not have much influence. Elk River expresses his concerns about the treatment of Indians, particularly in hospitals, and requests for action to be taken against the Commission. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Restrictions and Inequality: A Letter to Elmer Thomas 1949-01-01 1949-01-01 Thomas, Elmer, 1876-1965 http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951); 80th (1947-1949) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 55, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0002 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0002_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873698 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0002.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 2 Pages The document is written by W.T. Blackwolf to United States historian Elmer Thomas in 1948, discussing the issues faced by Native Americans due to restrictions placed on them by government agencies. Blackwolf believes that abolishing these agencies and lifting restrictions would benefit the Native American community and reduce the burden on the Federal budget. He argues that these restrictions hinder the ability of young and middle-aged Native Americans to compete with the white race and suggests that they should be treated equally to the African American community. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Native Land Rights Dispute in Alaska: A Call for Congressional Action 1949-05-02 1949-05-02 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 54, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0001 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201949/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0001_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873694 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201949/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0001.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 1 Page Cyrus Peck, President of the Native Brotherhood in Sitka, Alaska, is writing to Secretary of the Interior Julius A. Krug expressing concern about a bill that would extinguish native land rights in Alaska and replace them with the right to sue for damages. Peck questions why legislation is necessary when the Department already has the power to settle these issues without costly lawsuits and rehabilitation programs. He urges Secretary Krug to clarify the situation before moving forward with the bill. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Uncovering the Truth: The Misrepresentation of American Indians in History 1949-05-02 1949-05-02 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 55, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0006 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0006_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873702 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0006.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 8 Pages The document discusses the portrayal of Native Americans in history and media, highlighting the need for accurate representation. It also provides examples of historical events involving Native Americans that are often overlooked, emphasizing the importance of presenting their role in American history correctly. The document also mentions a resolution passed in Oklahoma advocating for a more positive portrayal of Native Americans in movies. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Defense of Alaska Native Rights: A Thank You Letter to Senator Thomas 1949-06-08 1949-06-08 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 54, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0002 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201949/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0002_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873695 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201949/CAC_CC_053_3_82_54_0002.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes; Cheyenne and Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribess 2 Pages James E. Curry acknowledges receipt of a letter from Honorable Elmer Thomas regarding suggestions for matters pertaining to the territory of Alaska. Curry expresses gratitude for Thomas's interest in defending the rights of the Alaska Native Brotherhood against a bill that would take their lands without consent. The bill has been deemed dead, but Curry warns that similar proposals may arise in the future. Curry thanks Thomas for his help and support. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Recommendation for W. W. Keeler as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation 1949-06-18 1949-06-18 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 57, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_57_0001 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_57_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Cherokee%20Chief,%201949/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_57_0001_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873707 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_57_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Cherokee%20Chief,%201949/CAC_CC_053_3_82_57_0001.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma 1 Page The document is a recommendation to the Secretary of the Interior to appoint W. W. Keeler as the Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Keeler is described as a strong and able man of Cherokee descent who has a sincere desire to serve his people. The document emphasizes Keeler's qualifications and the need for strong leadership to improve the standard of living for the Cherokee people. It also mentions Keeler's previous experience as Vice Chief and acting Chief in the absence of T. H. Milan. The document is signed by Hill Stansell of Westville, Oklahoma and copies are sent to Senator Thomas, Senator Kerr, and Congressman Stigler. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Support for the Malone Bill: A Letter to Senator Elmer Thomas 1950-01-13 1950-01-13 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 56, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_56_0001 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_56_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_56_0001_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873705 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_56_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_56_0001.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States Cherokee Nation 3 Pages The document is from Erle E. Howe, President of the National American Indian League, expressing support for the Malone Bill (S. 2726) which aims to emancipate American Indians and abolish the Indian Bureau. Senator Elmer Thomas responds, thanking Howe for his views and stating that he will consider them when the bill comes to the Senate for a vote. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Challenges Faced by the Indian Department: A Call for Change 1950-08-23 1950-08-23 unknown http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 81st (1949-1951) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 55, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0007 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0007_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873703 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Alaskan%20Settlement%20Claims,%201948-1949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_55_0007.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 4 Pages Alpheus Varner wrote to United States Senator Elmer Thomas and Commissioner of Indian Affairs Dillon S. Myer expressing frustration with the inefficiency of the Indian Department in approving leases for Native American lands. Varner suggested abolishing the department and allowing Native Americans to manage their own lands. He highlighted delays in approval processes and the negative impact on land value due to delays. Varner also raised concerns about potential bribery if lessees were allowed to pay for the expenses of the Probate Attorney. Senator Thomas acknowledged Varner's suggestions but expressed doubts about the feasibility of abolishing the Indian Department at the present time. Text Carl Albert Congressional Research and Studies Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK Recommendations for Amendments to S. 2593: A Letter to Senator Elmer Thomas 1973-01-01 1973-01-01 Thomas, Elmer, 1876-1965 http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NKC/1.0/ eng 93rd (1973-1975) John William "Elmer" Thomas Collection CAC_CC_53_3_0000, Box 82, Folder 58, University of Oklahoma, Carl Albert Center Archives, Norman, OK, Standard Shelving https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/resources/47 CAC_CC_053_3_82_58_0001 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_58_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Choctaw%20Appropriation,%201949,%201950/Thumbnails/CAC_CC_053_3_82_58_0001_thumbnail.jpg https://arc.libraryhost.com/repositories/3/archival_objects/873709 https://jones-2.s3.amazonaws.com/John%20William%20Elmer%20Thomas%20Collection/CAC_CC_053_3_82_58_0000-Interior%20and%20Insular%20Affairs,%20Committee%20on,%20Indian%20Affairs,%20Choctaw%20Appropriation,%201949,%201950/CAC_CC_053_3_82_58_0001.pdf correspondence Native Americans Indians of North America--United States 4 Pages Senator Elmer Thomas acknowledges receipt of a letter from Senator Joseph O'Mahoney regarding a bill, S. 2593, related to the Choctaw Nation of Indians in Oklahoma. The Secretary of the Interior recommends two clarifying amendments to the bill, which would authorize the commutation of annual appropriations for fulfilling treaties with the Choctaw Nation. The Chief of the Choctaw Nation supports the bill, as it aligns with the tribe's desire for a lump sum payment of tribal properties. The Secretary of the Interior suggests amendments to clarify the approval process for the commutation by the Choctaw Nation members. The Bureau of the Budget has no objection to the report being submitted to the Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs. Text