The records include detailed meeting minutes, budgets, and other administrative files, many of which document the preparation and publishing of The Hymnal 1982. Commission projects, research, and liturgical resources illustrate influences on the Commission’s decision making. Bland Tucker and Massey Shepherd figure largely among a number of interesting papers, statements, and Commission publications and publicity files. The Chilton Powell Institute program on the preparation of services in the Proposed Book of Common Prayer are documented. General correspondence is found throughout the files, giving evidence of the diverse associations of the Commission to commentators, contributors, and musicians.

The records document the revision of the Hymnal 1940 and the subsequent companion handbook that was published in 1949. Earlier history is covered by documents gathered on the previous Hymnal 1916. The archive includes correspondence to and from chair person Winfred Douglas and other members of the Commission (including Arthur Farlander, who succeeded Douglas), notes on hymn revisions and changes, a copy of the Commission's report to the 1940 General Convention, reports from the Tunes Committee, and essays and reflections on The Hymnal 1940 after its publication.