Included in the incoming and outgoing correspondence of John C. Edwards is an excellent sample of courtship letters exchanged between him and his future wife, Lydia Martin Edwards. Letters also discuss politics, work, farming, children, illnesses, church services, and the weather. There are many instances of current events commentary within the correspondence, including discussion of the Civil War, the election of President Lincoln, and the assassination and death of President Garfield. Also included are various kinds of personal documents belonging to John C. Edwards, including an autograph book, financial documents and a bank book, his freemasons book, funeral arrangements, documents relating to his properties on Indiana Avenue, in Pine Grove, and in South Dakota, drafts of his will, and various other writings.