This series consists of bound outgoing correspondence of the Superintendent. Much of the correspondence deals with: cultivation of new business, missed contract opportunities, efforts to recover lost freight or passenger traffic, sale of salvage or worn-out equipment, and negotiation with Federal sources for replacement equipment. In addition, the records provide information on: rates and charges, cooperation with connecting railroads, competition between "remote rival cities for trade", and use of technological innovations. There is some Civil War-era correspondence, but only as the war affected the management of the railroad and payment for its services. Some financial statements in reports to the Governor are also included. The Superintendent was the Chief Executive Officer for the W&A as the Chief Engineer was for the railroad during its period of construction and acquisition of equipment. His major functions were administrative, financial and to some extent, political.