Abstract: The papers consist of materials collected by Sanford, a history professor at the State College at La Crosse (now called the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse), during his tenure as president of the La Crosse County Historical Society and while he researched his book, The History of La Crosse 1841-1900, written in collaboration with Harry J. Hirshheimer.

The collection is a subject file of La Crosse history and says nothing about Sanford’s life. The collection has been divided into ten main subject areas: biographical materials, churches, Civil War, genealogical materials, industry and business, La Crosse (City of), La Crosse County, organizations, schools, and transportation, and miscellaneous.