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Much of the Correspondence revolves around the discussion of historic controversies concerning the Straits region. Smith's historical investigations often brought him into conflict with the Mackinac Island State Park Commission, headed by W. S. Woodfill, owner of the Grand Hotel, who he believed to be fabricating history to serve the economic interests of Mackinac Island.

Also included in the Correspondence series are communications with Harry Dever, a self-proclaimed authority on native languages and customs, who served as an ally in Mr. Smith's fight for accurate portrayal of local history.

The Research Files and Collected Historical Materials series contains topical files pertaining to local history, largely regarding the Indians and French in the area of the Straits of Mackinac, particularly St. Ignace and Mackinac Island. The establishment of historical markers in the region, research materials and information regarding various controversies form the bulk of the material. Also included are materials gathered to support the celebration of the Civil War centennial and to support the publication of the book "Before the Bridge" and the Kiwanis Publication "Our Local History".