Henry Ryland Crane’s papers include several letters from his brother James (1852) in New Orleans which speak of geography lessons, brother David Crane's wedding, a parade in New Orleans and Henry's desire to be a fireman. There is a letter from his cousin Andrew (1857) on how to resist gold "watch fever" and to settle for a silver watch later, so his whole inheritance was not spent. It included prices of watches and how to save and invest for a silver watch. Also included in his papers is a note from the Richmond Fire Assn. (1860) stating a payment of $10 for Henry's help "during the absence of the clerk." Also included are two letters from Dr. Moses Merryman (1885) about change of plans on his return from England--due to illness. There is a letter from Seventh Baptist Church, Balt. (1895) acknowledging his contributions to the church. There is a composition book of genealogical notes on the Crane family of New Jersey, ending with an autobiographical note (nine pages) by Henry and some pages bound together entitled "Some Research on the Life and Character of our Great-Great-Great-Grand Pa, Jasper Crane."

Henry's writings are included here. Some of his poems include "Bonnet de Nuit" a satire on the days of chivalry of ballad proportion; "She knows" a love poem for Clara he mentions in a letter to Rachel; and Impromptu, after "chopping" (a cat), a humorous poem. Most of Henry's prose is scriptural and moral.

Here is a short story of a spoiled six-year-old girl and one of a boy who wanted to be a printer, an essay on George Washington, and on the history of church music, a parody of an opera, and a booklet of papers on the history of Seventh Baptist Church Sunday School in Baltimore on the occasion of its "Semi-Centenary." Henry's financial papers include a check and receipt for stock.