The collection consists of one diary written by Mabel A. Real, documenting her visit to the 1904 World's Fair. Entries cover the period from June 27, 1904 to July 5, 1904. The diary is written on a small lined notepad, with many pages left blank. The entries are written in pencil, and the pages are not numbered. The front and back cover and several pages have separated from the notepad. Two initial entries are dated: "Mon. June 27, 1904," beginning with the words "Going to St. Louis," and "Fair Grounds," beginning with the words "Tues. June 28, 1904." However, most of the entries are undated.

Real describes the fair in plain terms, as an observer, but does not elaborate on her own thoughts or feelings during the visit. She lists various locations at the fair and notable exhibits or products on display at each location. At times, prices are recorded next to items, such as embroidered kimonos ($75) and an embroidered four-fold screen ($1000) at the Japan exhibit [p. 9]. The entries typically begin with headings, such as "Agricultural Bldg.," "Ceylon Bldg," etc. Briefly departing from her methodical listing, on p. 43, Real exclaims: "And then it rained!!!"