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University Archives & Special Collections (UASC): Northwest Jesuit Archives

Jesuits West Archives

Notice Regarding the Jesuits West Archives:  This valued resource is no longer available through Gonzaga University's Foley Library. It is currently being integrated into the holdings of the Jesuit Archives and Research Center, located in St. Louis, MO.  Researchers are encouraged to contact the Center for a time estimate of when materials will become available for reference service.

Contact Information


Jesuit Archives and Research Center
3920 West Pine Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63108
Tel: (314) 376-2440
Contact Webpage

Research Strengths

Beginning with Father Peter De Smet's first missionary journey in 1841, members of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) have played an integral role in the regional history of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. The records these men generated through their administrative, educational and pastoral activities preserve a collective memory for their Society and provide a cultural resource for scholars and other researchers. The following subjects may be especially relevant for specific lines of inquiry.

  • Early history of Gonzaga University and Spokane environs
  • Early history of other Jesuit schools, parishes and missions in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska
  • Settlement history of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska
  • Nineteenth century White:Native American relations
  • Native languages of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska
  • Jesuit administrative history
  • Genealogy, especially Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska
  • Individual Jesuits and their ministries