The collection consists of Sherrill's Valedictory Address given in 1841 and a photocopy of his diary from September 1837 to January 1852. The diary begins on the first day of his second term at Davidson and covers his time at Davidson, his early career as a teacher, his time at Columbia Seminary, and the early years of his ministry. Much of the journal is personal reflections on the state of his faith but he also includes references to visits with friends, travel and church matters.