This collection contains records of Matthews’ personal and ministerial life, understanding that these topics overlap. The ministry series contains a sizeable compilation of Matthews’ sermons and bulletins as well as newspaper clippings detailing ministerial milestones, particularly her appointment as district superintendent and her consecration as bishop. There are also a significant number of congratulatory letters and other correspondence. Most of this series documents Matthews’ episcopacy. The education series contains mostly course notes and term papers that are listed in chronologically order by semester. The Women series constitutes mostly materials from workshops for women and women’s issues that Matthews led. The latter part of the collection consists of family records, such as photographs, information on dolls, and genealogical papers. Also, artifacts such as stoles, a clerical robe, pins, and Matthews’ copy of the 1980 Book of Discipline.

Material in this collection that relates to women include records from the World Federation of Methodist Women, notes from Wade's second wife, and an address by Emily Smith. Those records that relate to the World Federation of Methodist Women include articles, correspondence, a constitution, treasurer's reports, and signatures from representatives. The inclusive dates are 1936-1961, with the bulk of the material from the 1940s. Also included in Bishop Wade's papers are travel notes and observations from 1949 by his second wife. There are also several copies of an address given by Emily Smith in 1934 regarding Africa.

This collection consists of sermons, notes, photographs, legal documents, reports, clippings, correponsdence, and an artifact, reflecting mainly Bishop Wade's professional life. Also includes materials relating to the trial and prosecution of Bishop Anton Bast.

There is a microfilm (1892-1946) of his papers and manuscripts located in the library.