The collection primarily consists of public correspondence and secondary materials relating to Friant’s careers in business and public service. Private or family correspondence is minimal. Major topics in the collection’s materials include correspondence concerning the activities of the Little River Drainage District and the National Drainage Association with copies of federal documents regarding rural population, flood control, land reclamation, and farm relief. Also included are files dealing with the Southeast Missouri State Teachers College Board of Regents and the Cape Girardeau Rotary Club. There are drafts and copies of Friant’s public speeches and a large scrapbook of miscellaneous items.