The collection consists of letters written to Professor John Douglass by Rev.W.J. McKay, D.D., from Sumter, S.C., photographs, receipts, and pamphlets. The letters generally reference meetings of the Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee and provide brief outlines of issues discussed. The collection also includes receipts for Douglas' days as a student as well as commencement and reunion programs for the class of 1893. In addition, the collection contains a literary society speech dating from the 1890s, a handwritten list of honorary members of the Philanthropic Society, an undated document "Specifications for the building of a Society Hall at Davidson College," and a scrapbook (1937-1965) created by Grace James (niece of John and James Douglas) containing articles on local events and personalities. Three photographs are housed in this collection. Included are portraits of Lizzie Shearer and J.B. Shearer, President of Davidson College, 1888-1901. Also, a group photograph of Davidson professors, including Professor Douglas, taken in front of the Steward's Hall is included.