This collection includes the papers of Asa and Emma Adair of Ellis, Ellis County, and Lawrence, Douglas County, Kansas, their children and extended families from 1848-1985. Composed primarily of correspondence, there are also photographs, legal documents, University of Kansas and Bowersock Theatre programs, and other printed material.

Ruth Adair Dyer received her Law degree from the University of Kansas in 1921. She was a life member of the KU Alumni Association and a member of the Gold Medal Club. She was also a 50-year member of Delta Delta Delta social sorority and a member of Phi Alpha Delta law fraternity. This collection contains photographs, newspaper clippings, sheet music, scrapbooks, journals, legal documents and correspondence.