At the time of this survey, the foundation has three significant documentary archival
collections.
The Galveston Collection: Composing 2,302 pieces, the Galveston Collection contains important documents spanning the history of Galveston from its early days in the 18th century through the late 19th century (1780-1879). Documents include pieces revealing the exploration and founding of the city in its legal, commercial, and political development.
Spanish Documents: Spanning Mexico's history from 1785-1850, this important collection of 143 Spanish documents, manuscripts, and imprints reflects Mexico's political, legal, economic, and social history. Pieces include government documents and decrees, court cases, papers about native Indians, and mining contracts.
The Philpott Collection: Containing 575 pieces, the Philpott Collection is a collection of early Texas manuscripts and documents reflecting 19th century Anglo-American history in Texas (1785-1875) including colonization, the Texas revolution and republic, early statehood, and the Civil War. Specific pieces include information about Texas counties named after prominent Texas patriots and politicians and letters from various signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence.