Forty-four pocket diaries, 1857-1906 (lacking 1859-1861, 1868, 1877, 1884) documenting Hiram Scofield's Civil War service and his personal and professional life as a Washington, Iowa, attorney. Also a few letters to his young daughters (including one from "Old Chris" or Santa Claus) and other miscellany.

War diaries describe the weather, the life of an officer (accommodations, books read, card playing), the movements and engagements of Scofield's regiment (Fort Donelson, Fort Blakely, Mobile), news of the wider war, visits of Grant and other generals, and troop conditions and morale. Of particular interest are Scofield's observations about the training and activities of his African American regiment. Many comments (see Collection Accession File for excerpts) in the 1863 and 1866 diaries reveal Scofield's respect and empathy for his black soldiers, and his belief that the future relations between blacks and whites could only improve. Also included is a Polk family gravestone inscription.

Washington, Iowa, diaries note daily activities and contain financial accounts, lists of books read, and other miscellany. Brief and factual entries reveal none of Scofield's own thoughts regarding his work or his family life.

Also included is correspondence with Scofield's daughters, 1874-1878, and with brother William Scofield, 1875, and a few biographical notes, calling cards and invitations, railroad passes, Scofield family genealogical notes, a marriage license, newspaper clippings, safe combinations, and corn shipment receipts.