All of the materials in this collection focus on documenting the Native American community in Western Michigan, specifically the Chippewa, Ottawa, and Potawatomi tribes. The contents include newsletters, reports, histories, brochures, language materials, photos, genealogical materials, census records, and oral interviews, which have been digitized and are available through this catalog. Most of the publications date to the 20th century, while the photographs span the late 19th century and early to mid-20th century.

A large portion of this collection was first gathered for the Anishinabek: The People of This Place exhibit, which opened in 1995. Jim McClurken gathered a portion of the photo collection during this time. Of special interest are the interviews of 66 West Michigan Anishinabek individuals. These important interviews include themes of identity, spirituality, values, treaty rights, federal recognition, reminiscences, discrimination, traditional tales, and music and pow-wow footage. 

A full listing of the contents of this collection can be found in the finding aid that is attached to the media section of this catalog entry.