The field notebooks describe:

The development of Sedgwick's geological ideas, and information about the structural geology of the areas he explored.

The places Sedgwick visited, which included working copper/lead/tin mines and quarries. In one journal, he notes: '500 men employed and present expenses not less than £3000 per month, at present a very losing concern'.

The specimens Sedgwick (or others) collected or purchased. For example in 1819 he refers to the 'purchase of Mr Phillips the toad's eye tin' (Cassiterite) and in 1831 'madrepores were found by Mr Darwin' (stony coral).

The people Sedgwick met. The first 3 notebooks mention at least 60 individuals. Those identified so far include White Watson (1760-1835), Sir John Forbes (1787-1861), William Rashleigh (1777-1855), and John Josias Conybeare (1779-1824).

Sedgwick's expenses. In July 1819 he spent 7 shillings and 6 pence on minerals. This would be approximately £26 today.

Sedgwick's health. He regularly mentions being 'fatigued' and 'out of spirits', and in 1819 records that he was 'taking rhubarb….'. This was often used to ease digestive problems.

Social history. For example in 1818 Sedgwick 'passed the house where [Jane Grant]….was murdered' and in 1831 '(heard) of the loss of the Rothsay Castle' [boat].