The papers consist of five diaries, 1874-1900. The diaries include entries documenting Allen's everyday life. Prior to 1880 the entries refer to splitting wood, planting and sowing the crops, going to town and to church, and other farm activities. After 1880 there are fewer entries which relate directly to the farm life, but there are more references to the weather, to church attendance, visiting relatives, and household chores.
