The essays and speeches in this series relate almost exclusively to Kansas City history and urban development. They include academic journal articles, essays by university students, and speaking notes and speech transcripts, including transcripts of a number of speeches given by J. C. Nichols.

The series also includes essays and preparatory materials by Katherine Goldsmith, including "Willard E. Winner: Case History of an Unsuccessful Promoter, His Times, and His Influence", the monograph for which she was awarded the Native Sons of Kansas City Award.