The 1858 and 1866 diaries were kept by Mary Boosinger of Protage County, Ohio. Entries describe domestic and social activies, visits with friends and family members, church attendance, trips to nearby towns, foodstuff, needlework, attending a lecture on slavery, singing, trading with peddlers, cooking, and baking. Several entries are dedicated to sewing, embroidery, and textile work. Also included are household accounts and cake recipes.

The 1859 diary was kept by Philip Boosinger. Entries include descriptions of purchases of wood and materials to make and repair wheels and wagons, dutes as Brimfield town supervisor, visits to county fairs, seasonal plantings and harvestings, grain sales, and local elections and poltical events