The Robert E. Peary Collection, dated 1907-1909, 2002-2006, consists of materials about Robert E. Peary and his journey to the North Pole. This collection contains a photocopy and microfilm reel of a 1898-1901 physician’s diary kept by Dr. Thomas Dedrick, a surgeon who accompanied Peary on his 1898-1902 expedition to the North Pole. Page numbers are written on the photocopies. This collection also includes galley proofs and typescripts for Hampton’s Magazine article, “The Discovery of the North Pole.” Peary edited the galley proofs and typescripts with notes and corrections. Also included is a compact disc that contains a copy of an original 1909 Victor Record recording of Peary reading an excerpt of “The Discovery of the North Pole.” The original format of this recording is not in this collection.

The Donald McLean Oral History, dated 1997, 2001-2002, contains audio recordings, administrative information, and transcripts of the interview between McLean and Brian Shoemaker of the American Polar Society conducted on April 27, 1997. Major topics discussed include McLean's memories of his time with the Ronne Antarctic Expedition in 1946-1947, Ronne's leadership style, and McLean's further experiences in the polar regions while in the United States Navy.