The principal series in the collection consists of 54 photographs, mainly black and white, relating to H.J. Chapman, boat builder. These depict Chapman's boatyard, boats, men at work building and repairing boats, the boathouse, and views up and down the River Trent. Undated, c.1930-c.1975 (MS 516/1);
The collection includes photographs of other subjects, particularly of family images and social events. Undated, c.1950-c.1975 (MS 516/2);
A watercolour painting by William Benner is present, showing the interior of, presumably, C.J. Chapman's boathouse. 1954 (MS 516/3);
Correspondence and copy correspondence of Cecil Chapman has been included, concerning both personal matters and professional work relating to Chapman's research into prehistoric wood survivals and maritime matters. 1986-1992 (MS 516/4);
Typescript copy of 'Wood Survival: Practical and Historical Evolution v Scientific Dogma', a paper by C.J. Chapman, c.1986 (MS 516/5).