Collection consists of a typescript of the diary of Sgt. Robert C. Towles, Company A, 4th Virginia Cavalry, Confederate Army, from August 5, 1863-June 20, 1864. It was kept while Towles was a prisoner of the Union Army in Warrenton, Virginia and Washington, D.C. The diary also details his escape from Carroll Prision, an annex to the Old Capitol Prison, in Washington D.C.

The collection also includes a typed copy of his furlough, dated November 14, 1863, which was signed by Confederate General J. E. B. Stuart. There is also undated correspondence from Towles' father John and mother Sophronia that inform Towles of the deaths of his brothers John H. Towles (d. May 9, 1864) and John Vivian Towles. John Vivian Towles' eulogy, written by a "Comrade" for a "Richmond paper," is also included. Robert C. Towles' wounding and death is described in correspondence to "Mrs. Towles" from Sallie Y. Conner dated 13 June 1864, and Mrs. Towles' nephew "Jno Wm" dated 16 June 16, 1864. The three Towles brothers were interred at Oakland Cemetery in Louisa County, Virginia.