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Francis Elliott's papers consist of letters (1866-1871) to his family discussing his experiences in Virginia City and Beartown, Montana Territory, where he was a miner, farmer, and freighter. Also included are three letters (1880-1881) to Elliott's brother, George, from Joseph Skettington concerning Elliott's death, burial, and estate., This collection consists of ten letters (1866-1871) from Frank Elliott in Montana to his family in Illinois. The letters describe the beauty of Montana, the physical hardships of the bitter winters, a planned civilian campaign against the Indians, and economic difficulties. The last letter in 1871 expresses considerable disillusionment with Montana. There are also three letters (1880-1881) to Elliott's brother from Joseph Skeffington of Bear Town, telling of Elliott's death in 1875. (Small Collection 660)

Henry D. Hauser traveled to Virginia City, Montana Territory, in 1865. His diary details his trip from Kentucky to Montana, life and work in Virginia City, and return trip to Cincinnati, Ohio. The volume also contains an account of travel and living expenses., The diary of Henry D. Hauser describes his train and stage trip (beginning in May 12, 1865) from St. Louis, Missouri, to Virginia City, Montana Territory, via Atchison, Kansas; Denver, Colorado; and Salt Lake City, Utah. After reaching Virginia City on June 18, 1865, Hauser describes his work for N.P. Langford looking at claims, writing deeds, collecting money; social activities including billiards and dancing; business associations with Judge Hezekiah Hosmer and Walter B. Dance; area robberies and hangings; etc. The regular diary entries end on December 21, 1865. Following that date there are scattered entries for 1866 and 1867. Beginning in November 1868 there are entries for a trip from Virginia City to Cincinnati. The diary also contains accounts of expenses during Hauser's trips and while living in Virginia City, and notes concerning rivers and Indian tribes in Montana Territory.