The collection contains the diaries of Edward Evans Parrish, written from 1854 to 1873, with many gaps. In these he records daily events, farm life, family news, and his religious convictions. Other materials consist of poetry and related papers of Edward Parrish; the diary of Parrish's daughter, Rachel Marinda Parrish Knox, written on a trip to San Jose, California; and extensive biographical and genealogical information by James M. Knox, a descendant of Parrish. Typed transcriptions of selected diaries and other items are also included.