The fonds consists of reference prints and copies of text written by James Edward Beatty from his time in the Yukon. The photographs depict White Pass and Yukon Route (WP&YR) construction scenes, trains, views of Skagway, Klukwan and Dalton Trail, ca. 1898-1900. There are two original slides of a White Pass & Yukon Railway Medal presented to Beatty, July 31, 1900 in recognition of faithful service on construction of White Pass and Yukon Railway. Textual records include a copy of Beatty's prospecting/surveying diary, 1901, as well as copies of newspaper clippings, poems, photos, Free Miners' Certificate, menus, passes, etc, ca. 1899. There is also a copy of speech notes written by Beatty for a speech he delivered to a Rotary Club Meeting, May 29, 1944, in Sarnia, Ontario. In the speech he describes his experiences in the Yukon, including seeing the shooting of Soapy Smith.