General correspondence and memoranda, 1935-94

Component identifier:

Series 1

Content Summary:

This series chiefly comprises original and photocopied official correspondence written or collected by Downs on matters relating to the Australian administration of Papua New Guinea. Correspondents include politicians such as Arthur Calwell and Paul Hasluck, diplomats, including American Ambassadors Amos Peaslee and William Battle, and British diplomat Sir Hugh Foot, as well as key figures in the Papua New Guinea administration such as J.K. Murray and Sir Donald Cleland. Also of interest are a number of letters written by visitors to the country, which reflect the political situation, local attitudes and progress of the Australian trusteeship. In addition, the series contains a file concerning Downs’ resignation as District Commissioner in 1955, which stemmed from his objection to a reorganisation of the district administration, and original correspondence about missionary activity in the Central Highlands between 1935 and 45.

For additional correspondence relating to Downs’ political and business activities see Series 3, 4 and 5.

Names:

Ian Downs

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