The Presidential papers collections document the administration of Wesleyan University through records created by its presidents. The collection includes correspondence, reports, speeches, and other administrative records, including early handwritten annual reports that provide detailed information about the university's operations and activities.

Augustus W. Smith papers, 1832-1859

Augustus W. Smith was president of the university from 1852-1857.

John Johnston papers, 1833-1877, 1919-1920

The John Johnston papers include correspondence, biographical information, materials about the study of science at Wesleyan University, and a scrapbook of programs from 19th century Wesleyan events. At Wesleyan, Johnston began as Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Lecturer in Natural Science in 1837, was Professor of Natural Science from 1837-1873, and Professor Emeritus from 1873 until his death in 1879. Johnston was acting President of Wesleyan twice in this period. Her served in 1851-1852, prior to the presidency of Augustus William Smith, and in 1857-1858 following Smith's presidency.

Joseph Cummings papers, 1851-1899

Joseph Cummings was the fifth president of Wesleyan University and its first alumnus to serve as president. This collection is comprised of Wesleyan University annual reports and Joseph Cummings' correspondence.

Willbur Fisk papers, 1812-1883

Willbur Fisk was Wesleyan’s first president. The Willbur Fisk papers consist of two large series, Correspondence and Papers. The Papers, which are digitized, feature items related to Wesleyan University, including his acquisition of scientific equipment. They also contain Fisk's own writings and sermons, on topics ranging from abolitionism to Methodist issues. A subset of the Papers are items written by or belonging to Ruth Peck Fisk, the wife of Willbur Fisk.