The Society of the Descendants of Francis Scott Key records contain correspondence, publications, and administrative and financial records relating to the Society, Francis Scott Key, and St. John’s College. Many of the records involve compiling a genealogical record and address list of members of the Society, but the records also document Francis Scott Key’s history and his influence on American society and St. John’s College.

Series I contains the Society’s external and internal correspondence and writings. Much of the correspondence details internal administration, genealogical records, and Francis Scott Key and his continuing influence. Much of the correspondence was written by Arthur Brice, the chairman of the Society, and Edith Jarvis, the recording secretary.

Subseries I.1 contains correspondence with one or more people outside of the family regents. External correspondence also includes poems by Francis Scott Key-Smith. Subseries I.2 contains writings and correspondence between family regents. At the end of the internal correspondence subseries there are folders sorting correspondence by the Key family lines. Internal correspondence also includes three baby photos with initials “J.F.J” written on the back.

Series II contains directories of descendants, minutes, reports, a meeting agenda, and financial records such as receipts, treasurer’s reports, cancelled checks, expense lists, and statements. The series also contains an index card system of members. In addition to compiling genealogical records, The Society donated an American flag to the Maryland Historical Society (now the Maryland Center for History and Culture) and contributed money towards the restoration of the Francis Scott Key Monument, which can be seen in the records.

Series III contains articles mentioning the Society or any of its members as well as event programs and invitations.

Series IV includes two issues of the newsletter published by the Society, “Freemen Stand,” sent to members of the Society. Only a couple issues of the newsletter are in the records, and it is unknown if any more were published. The series also contains a draft of one of the newsletter issues and a bulletin. The newsletters updated members on the family, administrative affairs of the Society, and Francis Scott Key’s influence, such as the naming of the U.S.S. Francis Scott Key or the creation of a statue and bas-relief of Francis Scott Key.

Series V contains articles on Francis Scott Key, two photographs, pamphlets, a photocopy of one of his letters, invitations and programs for Francis Scott Key related events, as well as an original letter from Francis Scott Key's daughter and a prayer book that belonged to his granddaughter.

Lastly, Series VI contains materials related to St. John’s College, most notably the dedication of the Francis Scott Key Memorial Hall.