This collection contains papers of George Newell, a sea captain from Framingham, Massachusetts. The collection includes memoirs of his voyages that were written late in life, letter books, family correspondence, an account book, maps, two copies of the Book of Common Prayer, genealogical information, notebooks, and photographs. The nautical papers provide an in depth portrayal of life at sea and trade in foreign ports in the early and mid-nineteenth century.

The memoirs written late in life pertain to voyages Newell made between 1809 and 1822 on the ships Katherine, Walmer Castle, Cordelia, Sultan, and Mentor, and the brig Ann Elizabeth. Also present is a typescript copy of the logbook of the Sultan (1818-1819) written by Newell when he was Chief Mate of the ship. The letter books (1822-1832 and 1839-1843) detail Newell's business transactions in ports spanning Europe, South America, Asia, and the South Pacific.

Also included in the collection is extensive correspondence from Newell to his wife Olive, correspondence with others, a family photograph, and notes pertaining to genealogy. There are two copies of the Book of Common Prayer, both inscribed "Brig Malta." on the binding, also an account book, a notebook, maps of Framingham and Suriname, and genealogical information on the related Adams, Bullard, Morgan, Phips, and Plimpton families.