The diary of Samuel S. Mariner of Penn Yann, N.Y. is divided into two sections, the first section is an index of names, locations and subjects mentioned in the diary and a brief genealogy of the Mariner family. The second section is a record of Samuel's life from ages 23 to 26. Topics covered include work, travel, visitors, property, weather, agriculture, discourses on pastors and sermon topics, political observations, marriages, births, illnesses, deaths, concerts, fairs, and town lectures.