This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

Hoyt, an active member of the community, attended meetings regarding the introduction and construction of local railroads, as well as public lectures on the topics of temperance, and slavery.

Elijah Williams writes to his father-in-law, Epaphras Hoyt, from Boston, telling him of family news, local and state politics, and Epaphras' plans for the coming session of the legislature.

Elihu Hoyt writes to his brother, Epaphras, from Boston regarding interviews with veterans of the Revolution, as well as research Elihu has done on Epaphras' behalf in Boston on the Saratoga Campaign.

Diary was faithfully maintained from January 1, 1843 to April 15, 1844 by Epaphras Hoyt who was a lifelong resident of Deerfield, Franklin County, Massachusetts.