The collection consists of correspondence, diaries, event files, and personal papers that document Josephine Boardman Crane's role as a socialite, patron, and philanthropist. The correspondence dates from 1912 through Crane's death in July 1972 and is focused on cultural events hosted by Crane, with the bulk of the material dated from 1926-1963. Though there is limited personal material, the series includes significant correspondence with Padraic Colum, Marianne Moore, and Glenway Wescott documenting Crane's extended relationship with the three writers. The diaries provide a record of Crane's daily life from 1924 through 1963 when her eyesight worsened and she was unable to maintain the practice. Though she generally refrained from critical commentary, the diaries provide documentary evidence related to the cultural milieu in which Crane acted. Event files include a range of materials related to events hosted by Crane, such as guest lists, correspondence, menus, invitations, lecture notes and scripts. The limited personal papers incorporate miscellaneous materials including notebooks, clippings, travel arrangements, and related correspondence.