Coutant probably compiled the biographies and assorted Wyoming history material in this collection for the unfinished volumes of his book. The topics covered in this collection include prominent citizens, Indian Wars, Army activity, early territorial settlement, ranching, farming, and correspondence to, from, and about Coutant. The majority of the collection dates to the turn of the century (late 1890s to early 1900s).

This collection, with its emphasis on specific people, provides genealogical and social history information. The biographies cover prominent citizens, primarily wealthy and influential men, from the territorial period to early statehood.

Because Coutant compiled his information at the turn of the century, he divided his biographies into the twelve counties created at statehood (Albany, Big Horn, Converse, Crook, Fremont, Johnson, Laramie, Natrona, Sheridan, Sweetwater, Uinta, and Weston).

Family members or the Historical Department added information to this collection after Coutant’s death in 1913.