This handwritten 11-page biographical sketch of Kansas architect John Gideon Haskell (1832-1907) gives a brief account of Haskell's New England ancestry and sketches his distinguished career achievements in Kansas, including his service as state architect and as quartermaster general. The biography is unsigned and undated, though the content dates to approximately 1900.

This collection contains the drawings and plans of designs by Robert W. Hess during his time as a practicing architect, focusing on his work in Kansas, Washington, California, and a few other geographical areas. The collection also includes some material from his student work, as well as an autobiographical account of his career.