This collection is split into four parts. The first part contains the original documents, writings, and correspondence of Samuel Claridge, his wives, and his children. Part II contains mostly photocopies of biographical material gathered during George Ellsworth's research of the Claridge family. Part III and IV are research and drafts compiled in preparation for the Samuel Claridge Book. The Samuel Claridge Research contains biographical information on Samuel Claridge, his wives and children including some noteworthy individuals such as Alfred W. McCune, Elizabeth Claridge McCune, and Clare Kimball Claridge (Mrs. Hyrum Claridge). There are some original writings and correspondence. Some notable items in the collection are original autobiographies and testimonial essays by Samuel Claridge.

Some subjects covered in the Samuel Claridge research papers are Samuel Claridge's conversion to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his emigration from England to America. In his writings, he elaborates on the LDS pioneering experience and institutions. Samuel Claridge describes the LDS settlement experience and his moves to and from Utah, Nevada, and Arizona (Salt Lake Valley, 1853-1854; Nephi, 1850s-1860s; The Muddy, 1868-1871; Mount Carmel, Utah, 1871-1875; Orderville, 1875-1885; Gila Valley, Arizona Territory, 1885-1923) Samuel Claridge gives his account of living as a polygamist having two wives and 19 children, touching on the importance of a large family, unity, and cooperation. He also describes his experiences as a LDS pioneer bishop and patriarch. Samuel Claridge gave a patriarchal blessing to Spencer W. Kimball who later became president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.