This collection consists mainly of Towne’s correspondence, articles, and speeches. Also included in the collection are documents and correspondence concerning the estate of Annie L. Towne, his mother, and the papers of his wife, Katherine Doyle Towne. The collection also includes papers on the World’s Columbian Exposition donated by Towne, consisting of committee reports, a contract for water services at the exposition, and two letters, one requesting exhibit space and the other expressing concern over the number of entrances to the exposition.