State Web Site

Military Service: Army

DAVID FRANCIS CARGO was born in Dowagiac, Michigan, on January 13, 1929. He received a B.A. (1951), M.A. (1953) and LL.B. (1957) all from the University of Michigan. He served with the United States Army in Germany from 1553 to 1955. Known as "Lonesome Dave" for his spirit of independence, Cargo served as New Mexico's Governor from 1967 to 1971. He previously served in the New Mexico House of Representatives for three terms, from 1962 until elected Governor. Governor Cargo's administration laid the groundwork for many of New Mexico's current environmental protections. He is responsible for protecting many areas in the state that became state parks.

Sources:

Calvin Coolidge Memorial Foundation

Governor David F. Cargo Papers, 1967-1970 (official and personal papers)

* Governor David F. Cargo Photograph Collection

* Finding aid available at New Mexico Commission of Public Records.

For more information please contact the New Mexico State Archives at 505-476-7948 or archives@state.nm.us.