Samuel B. Morris's diary entries describe his time at Haverford College, including classes he attended, meals, sporting events, socializing with friends, and family news and events.

The first pages of William G. Rhoads's diary ask a series of questions concerning moral behavior and manners, which Rhoads subsequently answers in each entry. Entries also detail Rhoads's apprenticeship as a book keeper, social calls, and Quaker meetings he attended.