This collection consists of the papers of Isaac William Ward and his granddaughter Nancy Ward Martin from 1858-1979. Issac William Ward's papers include personal correspondence, gift receipt letters concerning his donations to libraries and museums, photographs, and articles and obituaries about Ward, as well as some business documents.

Nancy Ward Martin's materials including correspondence, diaries, address books, articles, photographic materials, and Ward family genealogical information and ephemera. The bulk of her correspondence is with her husband and family. The diaries, which date from 1924-1977, concern social events and housekeeping matters.