Hanry Hale G. Sharpless's letterbooks contain both business and personal correspondence. The majority of the correspondence is personal, addressed to friends and family during Sharpless's travels. The letters include topics such as descriptions of the cities and towns he visits, as well as discussion of landmarks, cultural differences, food, and styles of dress.

Whitall kept this diary for his sister, to whom he addresses the majority of his entries. Entries include quotes from scripture, Quaker sermons, and poetry, as well as descriptions of his voyage from New York to France by sea. During his time in France, entries describe Whitall's travels to Nantes and Bordeaux, as well as visits with Friends in France.