The collection consists of essays written by Marjorie Kersting's grandmother, Ann Eliza Aldrich Melton, and compiled into the book, "Bringing in the Sheaves: A True Story of Pioneer Days" in 1978. Also included is unpublished material including Melton's schoolwork from the 1860s of compositions, penmanship exercises and prose, and a song, letter, and essay by an unknown author.

The Robert Budd collection contains undated photographs of animals, bridges, a building on fire, farming scenes, lakes and ponds, log rolling, and other miscellaneous scenes.