THOMAS G. FORD PAPERS AND BOOKS, 1880-1980

The papers and books that constitute the Thomas Ford collection include materials originally belonging to Gerald R. Ford, Jr., Gerald R. Ford, Sr., Dorothy Ford, and other members of the family, as well as Thomas Ford himself.

The collection is arranged in three parts: a small amount of correspondence and autographed banquet programs; books belonging to members of the Ford family, many of which are inscribed or autographed; and a scrapbook compiled by Tom Ford covering his career as a Michigan state representative and brother of the president.

In general the content of the letters is routine, although one letter from Gerald R. Ford, Jr. to his mother written from his fraternity house in Ann Arbor about 1933 concerning university activities is interesting. The banquet programs and Christmas card are included because they are autographed by famous individuals.

The book collection includes many books Gerald Ford, Jr. owned as a child and young man and some belonging to his mother and adopted father, Gerald R. Ford, Sr. Most of these are in very delicate condition and should be handled with care.

The scrapbook of approximately 100 pages partially documents Thomas Ford's career in the Michigan legislature and his public relationship with his brother after he became vice president and president. Included are newspaper clippings, photographs, correspondence and memorabilia. Gaps in the coverage include details of Thomas Ford's 1970 House race and his relationship with his brothers and family before Gerald Ford became vice president. Researchers are requested to use a microfilm copy of the scrapbook available from the reference archivist.

For a detailed inventory of the items donated to the Library by Thomas Ford see the appendix following the container list.

Related Materials
The Ford Library has a small amount of additional material on Thomas Ford's relationship with President Ford, including some clippings in the vertical file and correspondence, invitations, and similar routine items in the White House Central Files.

Approximately five linear feet of official files kept by Ford while state representative from 1966-1971 are located in the Archives of the State of Michigan, 3405 N. Logan, Lansing, Michigan 48906. A brief container list is available in the Library vertical file.