The John E. Perkins Papers are organized into one subject file which is arranged alphabetically by type of record and chronologically thereunder. Papers include clippings, correspondence, a diary, a memoranda book, miscellany (two small social items), and a report.
The early correspondence and the memoranda book document Perkins' 1836 trip to Cartersville, Virginia, where he worked as a foreman for a contractor who was shifting an outfit from the Long Sault Canal, then nearing completion, to a new job on the James River. In addition to describing the work, Perkins also discusses his health, weather conditions, and crop and livestock prices with his family. The memoranda book lists stopping places and distance traveled each day during his journey, plus an expense account for the trip.
In the Civil War correspondence Perkins describes Company C's activities, its encounters with the enemy, and its mascot, “Old Abe.” His diary is a day-by-day account of the company's movements from January-April 1862. The correspondence continues with notification of Perkins' death sent to his brother, a description of events surrounding John's death and burial, and the family's efforts to settle his estate.
The later correspondence in the 1920's is composed of responses to W. B. Stoddard's request in the Eau Claire Leader for information about Perkins, and includes biographical information not only about Perkins, but also about “Old Abe.” The clippings contain similar biographical information, particularly about “Old Abe.”
Finally, a report from the Trustees to the Commissioners of Massena's common schools for 1829 describes the number of children in school and the amount of money needed to operate the school; it also lists the number of children in each Massena family whether they attended school or not.
