This small leaflet, entitled "Message of the Governor" presents the alarming conditions of the state penitentiary and requests the Tennessee Senate and House of Representatives take some definite and prompt action before they adjourn for the holidays. The alarming conditions were the result of overcrowding and immense indebtedness. It is signed in type by D.W.C. Senter.

This collection houses a letter and two posters documenting William E. Gillenwaters' work as deputy warden of the Tennessee State Prison in Nashville during the early 20th century. The letter is addressed to the Sheriff of Knox County and discusses three convicts, James Reed, J. D. Coleman, and Will Coleman. The two posters warn the public of two convicts at large, Martin Brophy, alias John Leonard (with photograph), and Marshall Ladson.