File consists of genealogical notes on the Rettie family of Truro, Nova Scotia, with a particular focus on Captain Alexander Rose Rettie and the wreck of his vessel "Forest Chief." Also included are a family tree, photocopies of research correspondence, and historical newspaper accounts.
Fonds consists of Marsh's account book with the barque Vibilia and her owners (1869-1882) as well as pilot and customs papers. Also included is a charter contract for the Ellerslie (1886).
Series contains photographs, portraits, prints, and postcards of sea captains and ships. Most of the material has notes by Everett Macdougall on the verso. These notes contain information about the origins and builders of the ships as well as biographical information about the sea captains in the portraits.