The records consist of an artificial series arranged primarily by subject. Some of the correspondence for 1874-1885 has previously been removed from its original organisation and confused with the papers of Sir Henry Ayers (Treasurer 1874-1886). Other documents were taken from a variety of subject based envelopes and arranged into 'historical notes' without regard to provenance. The records include correspondence of the University Association regarding the establishment of the University of Adelaide and covers most aspects of its operation until the early 1900s. There is also an 1878 tracing of of M. Egan's unsuccessful design for the University building showing laboratories and lecture rooms.

Series 84 contains an index to the series. Documents with transcriptions can be viewed on the University Archives website.

1  Registrar's Department Letter Books [Letters Sent] 1874 - 1943

84  Registrar's Envelope Reference Book Index c. 1876 - 1882

183  Unsuccessful Applications for Chairs and Other Positions 1882 - 1990

200  Registrar's Correspondence Files [Dockets] 1886 - 1960