The papers include biographical material including press releases, a handwritten note from McElwain to the alumnae of Smith and Wilson Colleges in 1962, obituary notices, and tributes. Correspondence material includes an appointment letter from Smith College to serve as class dean for the 1941-41 academic year. From her library, there is a sizeable collection of poetry and illustrations from Mary Coggeshall Baker, class of 1916, and Elspeth MacDuffie Bragdon, class of 1920, who was widely published under the name of "Elspeth." There are also official photographs from Miss McElwain's tenure at Smith College and several of her published lectures. The material dates from 1910 to 1964 with the bulk range from 1916 to 1942.

The collection consists of thirteen folders in one box, 5 linear inches.