Collection is mainly correspondence to Dickinson, his daughter Lydia D. Courtney, and his son-in-law Samuel G. Courtney from personal and political friends. There is one photograph of an unknown man and some official paperwork, including a contract of indenture and appointments to posts. This collection primarily focuses on the Civil War and the antebellum political scene, and includes many materials that praise Dickinson for his political achievements. Notable individuals include but are not limited to Henry Clay, John Tyler, James Buchanan, James K. Polk, William H. Seward, Daniel Webster, Lewis Cass, Dorothea Dix, and Reverdy Johnson.