This collection consists primarily of correpondence and writings by Murphy. The correspondence is both family and professional, the former being largely of a social nature and including letters of her grandfather (Amos Chafee Barstow), mother (Grace P. Barstow), and sister (Mary Mason Barstow). Much of the correspondence with her sister reveals Murphy's interest in, and dedication to, conservation. There are articles and speeches pertaining to her interest in conservation or relating to the various trips she took with her husband, Robert Cushman Murphy.