Before the diary proper begins, there are a few pages of reminiscences about her family. There is also frequent mention of Bethell's journeys with her husband to Louisiana, Tennessee, and Arkansas, and thoughts of moving the family out of North Carolina. During the Civil War, there are descriptions of the activities of sons Willie and George in the Confederate Army, including George's adventures with the 44th North Carolina Regiment and his capture and imprisonment at Johnson Island. Bethell's husband joined the Army in 1864, after which Bethell wrote of the difficulties she endured in her husband's absence, including the departure of their slaves. After the war, there are references to social conditions, difficulties with servants, and the general hardship endured during this period.
Later entries center chiefly on family activities.
Bethell, Mary Jeffreys, b. 1821. Confederate States of America. North Carolina Regiment, 55th. Johnson Island Prison. Gift of Mrs. Bonsall Rhodes of Asheville, N.C., in 1952.