The James Morrison papers are a collection of documents chiefly related to James Morrison's activities as a trader and merchant in Montreal. The papers also include some material related to Morrison's family, including legal documents and genealogical research conducted by his descendents. The documents in the James Morrison papers cover a period beginning 18 September 1651 and ending in approximately 1912, but focusing primarily on 1767 through 1800. The fonds represents Morrison's business dealings in Quebec, Ontario, the northern United States, and England, as well as his family life in Montreal and connections with relatives in Baltimore, Ontario, and Jamaica.

The papers are arranged into three series: 1 - Journals, 2 - Correspondence, and 3 - Financial and legal records. Documents in these series include a bound journal, correspondence, contracts, deeds of ownership, power of attorney, birth and marriage certificates, bills of sale, invoices, accounts, descriptions of political and military events, and genealogical notes.

Letter from Charles J. Morrison to his father, James Morrison, with news that he has arrived in New York City and some discussion of his travel and his lack of cash.

Letter from Charles J. Morrison to his father, James Morrison, with travel news. Written from Skeensborough, N.Y. (now Whitehall).

Letter from Charles J. Morrison to his father, James Morrison, with news that he has arrived in Jamaica. The letter concerns the weather during travel to Jamaica, cost of living on the island, and Charles's work prospects - he is unsure whether he will work as a planter or a clerk, but is optimistic that he can do well there. Written from "Caymas Jamaica."

Document attesting that John Teeple and James Morrisson [sic] purchased a plot of land measuring 40 arpents from Jean Poirier on 11 November 1799, with signeurial rights. Signed by Roux, possibly a surveyor.

Invoice with signed receipt of payment for surveying of a piece of land by Etienne Guy, surveyor, for James Morrison on 20 October 1798.

Letter from James Morrison to Monsr Barbeau of Lacheene [Lachine] about wheat that he would like to purchase.

Contract containing the conditions of sale for a plot of land in Coteau St. Louis by Etienne Brazeau, master mason, to Charles J. Morrison, Ann [Susanne] Morrison, and James Morrison on behalf of his minor daughters Charlotte and Harriet Morrison. Brazeau was unable to sign, so affixed his mark instead. Witnessed by Ignace Cliche.