The Wead Family papers consist primarily of correspondence to and from Mary Wead in the course of her work with the U.S. Sanitary Commission during the Civil War. There are also bills received for materials she purchased for the Union Army. Correspondents with both Mary and Eunice Wead include Louisa Lee Schuyler, leader in 19th century welfare work; author Amy Lowell; and Letitia Campbell of the Freedman's Union Commission. There is a small amount of correspondence to other Wead family members (circa 1911-36).