The papers consist of a register and prescription book dating from April 1, 1865 to June 29, 1865, containing the names and treatments of soldiers from the 8th Regiment of Vermont Volunteers. There are also several lists of sick sent to general hospital in 1865. As well, the papers contain one letter dated February 21, 1853, written to Heman H. Gillett by a friend. There is also a folder containing photocopies of the title pages of medical texts owned by Heman H. Gillett and miscellaneous items that were found in the books. The collection includes one photograph of Heman H. Gillett, taken after the war.

Heman H. Gillett was born on May 22, 1823 in Thetford, Vermont, the oldest son of Henry and Hannah (Wallace) Gillett. He was educated at the Thetford Academy, graduated from Dartmouth Medical School in 1847, and established a medical practice in Corinth, Vermont until the outbreak of the Civil War. He was commissioned assistant surgeon of the 8th Regiment of Vermont Volunteers on December 10, 1861 and as surgeon on June 25, 1862. He mustered out on June 28, 1865. After the war he returned to the family farm in Thetford and he died May 7, 1907.