Michigan -- Politics and government

Abstract Gerald R. Ford (1913-2006) was the 38th President of the United States. A former resident of Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ford served as a member of the House of Representatives for the 5th District of Michigan from 1949 to 1973. This collection contains reference material for general use related to Ford. Included are letters, photographs, speeches and memorabilia. The library does not widely collect original Gerald R. Ford documents, as these are primarily held by other...

Abstract This devised collection is comprised of materials related to elections and political campaigns in West Michigan. The bulk of the collection consists of campaign flyers and newspapers from individual candidates who ran for office in the 20th and 21st century. It also contains informational flyers, booklets, and voter guides detailing important election issues, proposals, millages, the voting process, and political party platforms. This collection would be particularly useful for researchers...

Abstract

Howard F. Baxter (1886-1969) and Robert T. Baxter (1913-1975) were the second and third generations of the Baxter family to head the Baxter Laundries Corporation in Grand Rapids, Mich. The collection contains business records and personal papers. The business records relate daily operations and finances and describe the laundry industry. The personal papers relate the state and local political career of Howard Baxter and the navy career of Robert Baxter.

Abstract Thomas C. Mathieu, Sr. (1936-) was a Michigan State Representative from 1975 to 1998. He is known for his work with the Michigan Civilian Conservation Corps, the Michigan Veterans Facility and Grand Rapids Community College. In addition, Mathieu secured funding for many local organizations, including Grand Valley State University, the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. He also authored numerous bills, including the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act (1976), the...