The earliest records relate to Woodward's will, estates and the administration of his fossil collection. From the 1880s, administrative records of the burgeoning Department of Geology, its teaching, examining, and students, survive alongside papers for the lengthy project to build the Sedgwick Museum. The archives also include the papers of Professor T. McKenny Hughes, Woodwardian Professor 1873-1917.

The archives comprise the records of internal governance, finance, building and equipment development and astronomical observation, together with several small assortments of personal papers of individuals associated with the University Observatory, its sister and successor bodies, such as G.B. Airy, H.F. Newall and R.O. Redman.

The heads covered are: I. the constitution of the University (no comment); II. University extension and college expenses; III. Restrictions attaching to rellowships and scholarships; IV. Regulations with regard to fellowships; V. Application of college funds to university purposes; VI. Aid required for carrying out measures of improvement.

The archives comprise the full range of institutional operational records, together with the personal papers of several individuals - James Stuart, Helen C. Colman, Richard G. Moulton, D.H.S. Cranage and G.F. Hickson - closely associated with the organisation.

The poor scholars are to be, for preference, the chapel clerk and the janitor, are to receive 1s a week and are to exhibit Hebrew exercises to the Hebrew Lecturer once a quarter; the Bachelor exhibition is worth 50s a year and is to help a poor scholar, skillful in the Hebrew language to take his degree of B.A.
Annotated: Wherewith the lands at Stow Quoy were purchased rented at £4 per annum.