The collection consists of genealogy of the Andrews, Chandler, and Read families. Most of the papers and documents primarily pertain to Matthew C. Read including correspondence, bills, and certificates. The Sanitary Commission series consists of correspondence and other documents relating to Matthew C. Read's service while in the Commission. The photograph series consists of 8 envelopes of photographs, primarily cabinet cards and carte-de-visites of various members of the Read family and acquaintances. The photographs have been individually cataloged in the library's separate photograph database.