The Pennington Family Papers consist of correspondence to Louis and Jane Pennington in San Diego from Louis' mother in Oroville, California, and Jane's mother and sister in Charleston, South Carolina. The materials include letters, Christmas cards, a birthday card, and one photograph. There are a few undated letters at the back which are written to Jane from her mother. The majority of the letters are written from Louis’ mother and regard mostly family matters.

Louis’ father was a butcher in Oroville who worked long hours and seven day weeks. He worked for “Upenshaw Meat Shop” on Montgomery Street. Louis’ parents moved from Oroville back to Oakland during the winter, but had a difficult time finding a job for her father. Louis’ mother had a strained relationship with her daughter-in-law, Jane, who she found to be rude and selfish - “the way she talked to me was a disgrace.” Louis’ mother shares information with Louis which she had heard about Jane, e.g. Jane was once married to a prize fighter at the age of 15 and was a fan dancer; also, Jane was looked on unfavorably by many neighbors.

Jane’s sister, Irene, was proposed to by her boyfriend. They made plans to move into a new home, but complications with the renovations pushed back the move-in date. She sends Jane a letter with a photograph which appears to be herself and her boyfriend in front of their new home.