These papers include correspondence (1940-1984), manuscripts of articles and speeches, manuscripts and reprints of articles by graduate students and colleagues, teaching materials (course outlines, bibliographies, syllabi), research data, conference organizing materials, and referee reports and grant recommendations.

Physician John Wakefield Francis (1789-1861) cofounded the New York Academy of Medicine. He served as the second president of the Academy, taught at Bellevue Hospital, wrote medical texts, and edited professional journals. Collection consists of correspondence, financial papers, writings, by-laws and minutes, and related papers of Francis and others. Correspondence of others include letters to Francis's associates and family members. Financial documents, 1798-1851, are accounts, receipts, receipt books, checks, and collection notices. Writings are speeches, lectures and notes of Francis and others. Also, minutes and by-laws, 1807-1810, of the Medical and Surgical Society of the University of New York State; and printed material.