Collection of papers from Emily Jane "Emma" Griffith, St. Mary's Female Seminary Valedictorian in 1885. Includes a composition book with three drafts of her valedictory address. The valedictory is written in a “high” style consistent with an oration or declamation of the era.

The collection also contains correspondence between Griffith and A.E. (Thomas) Lilburn (affectionately known as "Miss Lizzie"), who was the principal of the seminary and was also Emma Griffith's supervisor when Emma taught at the seminary. There is also fundraising correspondence between Emily Jane Griffith and Elizabeth "Betty" (Revell) Wathen, the founder of the first St. Mary's Female Seminary Alumnae Association. The donation also includes six "cabinet card" photographs and a lock of hair from a classmate.