The fonds consist of photographs depicting life in Chesterfield's postings within the Hudson Bay district, such as Moose Factory, Fort George, Great Whale River, and Rigolet on the Labrador coast. Included also are images depicting Montreal buildings, agricultural scenes from the area, various public events which took place, such as government announcements. There are photographs of the Ile d'Orléans, where Chesterfield felt there had been a return to "simpler" times. Also he took various photographs of tourist attractions around Canada, such as Hamilton Falls, Ontario and Montreal winter scenes, and images of maple syrup being made. There are also some selected images he took while he worked as a general press photographer of important events, such as the visit of the Prince of Wales to Canada in 1923. Included in the collection are [portrait] photographs of Inuit and Cree, he took these as both an observer of tradition and as fur trapper. In one of his albums there are images of Canadians preparing for WWI featuring various government officials, and many different battalions from Ontario and Montreal. There are also photographs of Mr. Chesterfield himself. The fonds also contain manuscripts written himself describing life as a fur trader, the various cultures he encountered and his interactions with different peoples as well as his opinions of them, and personal comments and descriptions of some of his photographs.
The fonds consists of correspondence and files relating to his work as a member of the executive of the Archives Branch, Canadian Historical Association, the Ontario Historical society and the Society of American Archivists. Includes files relating to his work as editor of Kingston City Hall booklet, 1974. Also included are two copies of the program for the dedication of Abramsky Hall on May 17, 1975. It was given to Wilson by Mr. J.M. Courtright Vice-Principal, Queen's University.
Two volumes of journals recording the passage of vessels up and down the Rideau canal, and the pointing, painting, and repairing of locks. Includes visitors, and copies of a few letters and the statement of dues.
