Materials related to the Brewster, Henderson, Holman and Failing families. The collection includes original historic documents created by family members, as well as topical materials related to genealogical history compiled by Bill Failing Jr. Correspondence, photographs, diaries, and articles make up a majority of the collection, frequently focusing on prominent local historical figures within the families.

Oral history interview with Henrietta C. Failing conducted by Charles Digregorio on July 14, 1976. Failing speaks about the history of the Failing family, particularly the life and career of her father, James Frederick Failing, and her uncle Henry Failing.

Typescript copy of Henry Failing's April 1879 will, and a typed assessment of his estate with pencil annotations. Henry Failing (1834-1898) was a businessman, politician, and early resident of Portland, Oregon.

Materials related to several old Portland families, primarily, Robertson, Burns, Couch, Failing, Corbett, and Wood. Also included are Adams, Lewis, Reed, Warren, and Wilson. Photographs document individuals, family groups, and activities. Numerous photographic albums are also included. The documents are primarily made up of correspondence between individuals, as well as ephemera and diaries.