The collection provides a broad and generally well-identified pictorial record of Grand Rapids, and the West Michigan area from 1926 through 1989. As detailed below, the images depict people, events, building interiors and exteriors, sports, social customs, industrial developments, and politics. Extensive documentation is provided on the entry of women into the work force outside the home, beginning during WWII, early radio and television facilities, houses, industrial and commercial buildings, sporting events, social clubs, industry and products. More extensive documentation is provided in the series descriptions that follow.