This collection contains one original letter, manuscript copies of letters, and typed copies of letters from James McHenry and various other political and military leaders during the Revolutionary War. Also included is the diary of Captain Wilson Mile Cary, C.S.A., 1862-1864.

The bulk of collection consists of letters written by William Smallwood, although several letters addressed to Smallwood are also included. Most of the letters deal with some aspect of politics or the Revolutionary War. Smallwood relates the movements of troops in a number of letters. There are numerous letters written to John Eager Howard in 1782. Other correspondents include Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, Nathanael Greene, William Paca, Thomas Johnson, George Washington and others.