Biographical Sketches of RM-MLA Co-Presidents for 1947: Thomas Matthews Pearce and Francis Monroe Kercheville

Abstract

Professor Pearce—"Matt" to his many friends throughout the West and in national scholarly circles—has always been remarkable for the scope of his interests and the versatility of his achievement. As a scholar he has left his mark in linguistics, folklore, medieval and renaissance studies, and American regional literature. Over the years he has taught almost everything in the English curriculum but he is especially remembered by ten generations of university students for his courses on Shakespeare, Beowidf, history of the language, and Southwestem literature. Born in Kentucky sixty-five years ago, Dr. Pearce did his undergraduate work at the University of Montana and earned his master's and doctor's degrees at Pittsburgh. He came to the University of New Mexico in 1927 as an assistant professor of English and, except for sabbatical leaves and several summer visiting appointments, served there continuously until his voluntary early retirement in June, 1964. He was chairman of the department for twelve years, 1939-51, a crucial period during which doctoral programs in English and in American Studies were introduced at New Mexico and other decisions and appointments were made which have helped to shape the department ever since.