The Edwin Houston Harman Papers consists of letters written in various camps in southwest Virginia to and from Harman and his wife, Jennie. The letters date from 1856 to 1864. Most of the letters are written to Jennie from Edwin Harman. The letters before 1861 are written before their marriage and are addressed to "Cousin Jennie". The majority of the letters come during the Civil War, and Edwin describes his experiences in the war and the different camps he is staying in. The letters from during the war do include letters from Jennie to Edwin, but the majority of the letters are written to her. After his death in 1864, there are some condolence letters written to Jennie. Included throughout the collection are letters written to Jennie from various family members and close friends.

Also included in the collection are transcripts of some letters that came with the purchase of the material. There is also genealogical material about the Hartman family including biographies, newspaper clippings, letters, and photo slides.