Cameron, Ralph H. (Ralph Henry), 1863-

Scott Miller describes the history and significance of the Supreme Court’s decision in Cameron v. United States that the president has the authority under the Antiquities Act of 1906 to protect federal lands through the creation of national monuments. The titular Ralph H. Cameron was a prospector and promoter who objected to limits being imposed on his business interests by President Theodore Roosevelt’s action declaring the Grand Canyon–as well as other sites–National Monuments. The Supreme Court dismissed his objections, establishing the act as a cornerstone of conservation efforts and allowing future presidents to also protect lands from commercial use.

Collection

Grand Canyon National Park

Creation Date

Unknown

President Roosevelt is pleased that Ralph H. Cameron has been elected to represent the Arizona Territory. He tells Territory Chief Justice Kent that he will urge separate statehood for Arizona and New Mexico.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1908-11-09

Edward Cave encloses an article by James A. Coll and a resolution by the Douglas, Arizona, Chamber of Commerce and Mines for Theodore Roosevelt. He explains that he wanted to speak with Roosevelt to get his suggestions about how to proceed in getting protection for antelope in Arizona. They will go extinct soon if not protected by law.

Collection

Library of Congress Manuscript Division

Creation Date

1911-02-03

Francis P. McManamon examines the origins of the Antiquities Act of 1906 that President Theodore Roosevelt and his successors used to safeguard natural and scientific sites across the United States. McManamon asserts that it was threats to ancient archaeological sites across the American Southwest that led to calls for greater government intervention, and he highlights the case of the Casa Grande ruins in Arizona. McManamon notes the work of private organizations, government agencies, individuals, and members of Congress, most importantly Congressman John F. Lacey of Iowa, who worked to save important sites before the passage of the Antiquities Act. McManamon traces the slow path to passage of the Antiquities Act, and he highlights its important text and provisions. He notes how Roosevelt used the act to set aside eighteen national monuments, and he asserts that Roosevelt’s actions, especially in regards to the Grand Canyon of Arizona, set important precedents for his successors, especially President Bill Clinton.  

 

Two photographs and two illustrations supplement the text. 

John Campbell Greenway expects the Republican State Convention of Arizona and its delegates to be friendly towards General Wood. Greenway asks whether he can have Wood’s assurance, if he is elected, to safeguard American life and property in Mexico.

Collection

Arizona Historical Society

Creation Date

1920-02-23