This series contains correspondence, manuscripts, and other material concerning the Skinner family. Correspondence is a mix of personal correspondence within the family and business and fraternal correspondence outside the family. Manuscripts include diaries and commonplace books, as well as literary materials intended for publication. The American Civil War (in which Jairus L. Skinner served as an infantry captain and spent time as a prisoner of war, while Alice R. Skinner worked for the Freeman's Bureau) appears in much of this work, especially the correspondence. Also in the collection are materials related to Jairus and Alice's work as music teachers in Sacramento, California, Jairus' service as Postmaster of Amherst and in sales for Whittier, Fuller, & Co, and Alfred's employment in a string of jobs in the Western United States. The Skinner family accumulated advertisements, theatre programs, restaurant menus, and other memorabilia over the years which is also present.