Photo Margaret McKinney/Highlands University
Henry Beisman’s surveying transit, roll-top desk, and working survey book of San Miguel County and surrounding areas are part of an extensive historical collection Beisman’s family donated to New Mexico Highlands University.
Opening for Donnelly Library Beisman Collection August 13 During Las Vegas Heritage Week
Henry E. Beisman was born in 1898 in Loma Parda, N.M., near Watrous, and died in 1992. He was a well-known local civil engineer and surveyor in San Miguel, Mora and Guadalupe counties. The Beisman family is donating their father’s extensive historical collection to the university, including some of the only remaining surveys from the original town of Las Vegas, as well as other early maps, survey equipment, and books. Some of the most unique items in the collection will be on display at the grand opening, which will be at 2 p.m. on the third floor of the Donnelly Library at 802 National Ave.
Henry Beisman’s sons, Gene and Gary, will talk about working with their father, and Robert Mishler, retired Highlands University anthropology professor emeritus, will give a short presentation on the scholarly significance of the Beisman Collection.