The geological field notes series (1919-1971) consists of observations, sketches, and measurements taken by Chester Longwell on geological field trips, primarily in southern Nevada but also throughout the United States, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia.

The manuscript materials series (1917-1974) consists of Chester Longwell's handwritten and typed drafts of articles, speeches, and other written materials. The majority of the materials reference geological locations in southern Nevada, but also include articles on general geological topics, biographical memoirs, and several short fictional stories written by Longwell.

The subject files series (1917-1972) series consists of papers from professional geological associations and societies, financial matters, business concerns, and personal and professional matters. Also included are educational materials related to courses Longwell taught at Yale University.

The name files series (1886-1974) consists of materials sent to Chester Longwell by professional colleagues for his review, critique, or reference.

The rock specimen tags series (1921-1969) consists of United States Geological Survey and personally made tags containing information on the provenance of rock specimens collected by Chester Longwell. The specimens associated with these tags are not part of the collection.

The miscellaneous notes, correspondence, books, and certificates series (1914-1974) consists of photocopies of miscellaneous field notes written by Chester Longwell from 1919 to 1925; a list of Longwell's publications; notes on photographs and other collection provenance and acquisition information; recognition certificates and letters; and geology books.