The Bess R. Cunningham Papers mainly consists of photographs, newsclippings, and publications. These materials include material from both Bess R. Cunningham's personal and professional career between the years of 1883 until 1977. The records also contain a number of documents pertaining to Bess and Arthur Cunningham's careers at Indiana State University. The professional material originated from DePauw University, Saint Mary of the Woods, and Indiana State University. Much of the personal material includes photographs of Arthur Cunningham, Bess R. Cunningham, and group photographs of the family. A number of the miscellaneous items included are funeral invitations, letters to Arthur Cunningham, the marriage announcement of Bess Christy and Arthur Cunningham. There are also a number of newspaper clippings about the Cunningham family and their contributions to Indiana State University.