This collection of diaries and memorandum books belonged to Mary E. (Morey) Teller, wife of Daniel V. Teller, living in Lyons, Wayne County, New York. Daniel Teller was a nurseryman, fanning mill manufacturer, Erie Canal superintendent, and a one-time post master of Lyons, New York. Mary Teller wrote diaries for the years 1873-1882, 1884-1885, 1887-1889, 1891-1894, 1896-1898, 1900-1904, and two memorandum books (1852-1863 and 1865-1878).

In her diaries, Mary Teller describes an inventory of her hope chest when establishing her home, listing of furniture, inventory of clothing and textiles, and other lists of personal items and household goods. Teller also keeps records of expenses for the household, charges for work and borders, financials of the businesses, and genealogical information.