Geography

Gathered, transcribed documents discussing possible locations in Nuebo Santander, Coahuila for new presidios or relocation of old ones. Problem finding sites with sufficient water, defensible. Letters span 7 years but all very similar; lots of information on geography, distances between places, locations of Arroyos and Rios, places suitable for livestock, etc. (A. Dean, March 1990)

Letters concerning administration of newly established missions along Seno Mexicano. Ff.379-385 are progress reports on missions by Gorraez (as inspector). F.379 describes geographic locations, distances between places; F.383 are inspection reports for Soto la Marina, San Fernando, Reynosa; F.384 for Burgos. Ff.386-405 concern mission administrator's request for soldiers to be assigned to missions for protection; instead some missions are assigned to nearby presidios. Discusses reduccion of Xanambres. F.390 concerns padres hospitalarios of San Juan de Dios proposing to study medicine in order to found hospitals, especially for lepers; gives philosophy of sect. Ff.406-417 concern Gaspar Soliz as director of missionary effort of Zacatecas colegio; lengthy description of his plans for orchestration. (A. Dean, may 1990)

Concerns agreements made by Ugarte and Ugalde and current conditions and military events in provincias. Concerns best plan for defense and cooperation in both areas. Discusses troop movement and relocation for mutual assistance. Informs virrey that to comply with his request, some companies and half of compania volante have been transferred to Ugalde leaving several areas very weak. says just as troops left, Mescaleros began raids. Mescaleros continue to raid although some troops not in use by Ugalde. says Ugalde has greatest portion of soldiers yet does not protect. Includes copies of correspondence with Ugalde. Sends virrey information regarding first positive effects of agreements. Describes movement of campaigns resulting in several deaths and dismembered ears as proof of same. says in three years, 1,336 documented deaths. (M. Dannemiller, February 1989)