This collection contains the papers of William B. Turner, a Union soldier in the American Civil War. His memoir entitled, "Waifs: Or, Rough-Notes of the Life of a Soldier Boy!" was written by Turner about the Battle of the Wilderness from the April 16 and June 1, 1864. The collection also has Turner's discharge papers from the 27th New York Light Battery, a letter from Turner to the Commissioner of Pensions about his pension, and a letter from the Commissioner replying to Turner. The collection includes other military documents and family papers belonging to Turner and family.