UNM to present a book of essays on Gerald D. Nash to his widow

March 27, 2003

UNM to present a book of essays on Gerald D. Nash to his widow

The University of New Mexico History Department will present a “festschrift”—a book of essays in honor of Gerald D. Nash, former History Department chair. Receiving copies are Chair of the History Department Jane Slaughter and his widow, Marie Nash. The event will take place on Monday, April 7 at 3 p.m. in the History Commons Room, 1104 Mesa Vista Hall on the UNM campus.

European in origin, a festschrift is considered the highest honor a scholar can achieve. It is a book of essays by former students and colleagues, usually written to celebrate the academic achievements of a leader in a specialized field of study.

The book, “The American West in 2000: Essays in Honor of Gerald D. Nash” is edited by Richard W. Etulain and Ferenc Szasz, in cooperation with the Center for the Southwest, and is published by the University of New Mexico Press.

“Nash was widely known for his pioneering study of the American West in the 20th century,” said Ferenc M. Szasz, history professor. “He literally created this sub-field of western history, which is now very popular. Thus, the essays all treat the modern West, and they touch on a wide variety of areas.”

Ten historians contributed to the volume, with essays ranging from Marjorie Bell Chamber’s study of activist women in the west to Arthur Gomez’ account of tourism and the national park system to Richard W. Etulain’s essay on how Nash’s scholarship shaped the field of study. The book opens with Nash’s autobiography, detailing how he and his family fled Nazi Germany in October 1937 for New York City and how he became fascinated with the story of America in general and the American West in particular. Nash taught at UNM in the History Department from 1961-65. More than 15,000 students took his classes.

The formal presentation will include any reminiscences people wish to make. Refreshments will be served. The book will also be available.

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