The collection consists primarily of correspondence by Jefferson concerning both personal and governmental affairs. The majority of the correspondence is original, but there are a few duplicates and transcriptions of his letters. Also included are two manuscripts: one, complete with diagrams, outlines the proper procedure for the making of nails; and the second is a contemporary copy a speech Jefferson delivered to three Indian tribes and others on 21 December 1808. In addition, there is a small selection of miscellanea, including a naval document, dated 28 December 1805 and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison, certifying that the merchant vessel Sophrona is unarmed and requesting that she be allowed to pass freely.

The following standard abbreviations, or their variations, are used to identify materials in this collection: ALS = autograph letter signed, TLS = typed letter signed, AN = autograph note, AMs = autograph manuscript, TMs = typed manuscript, and DS = document signed.