Jacob R. Elfreth Sr. was a teacher and a bookkeeper for the Leigh Navigation Company. The majority of entries detail family news, Quaker meetings, Elfreth's work with the Leigh Navigation Company, and births, deaths, and marriages within the Quaker community,

Diary of Edward Smedley, written while at the conscript barracks in Philadelphia after being drafted for the American Civil War. Entries describe Smedley's experiences as a drafted soldier and non-combatant prisoner in Philadelphia, including religious reflection, visits from family members, and military preparations.