The papers consist of correspondence, diaries, manuscripts, photographs, and newspaper clippings, which document Austin Hawes's student life, his career as state forester of Connecticut, his controversial retirement from that position, and his travels in Central and South America. Also included are papers concerning his European travels, his job as state forester of Vermont, and as professor of history at the University of Vermont. Correspondents include Henry Graves and Gifford Pinchot.