Hodgson used much of his time in both Nepal and Darjeeling in research, wanting to discover and understand about the architecture, languages, ethnography, religion, zoology and botany. He collected specimens and manuscripts, and had many drawings made, which he donated to many collections throughout Europe. He was also politically involved during his Residency in Nepal, and also later in England, when he continued to show an active interest in the Indian subcontinent, particularly regarding trade and vernacular education. These Personal Papers reflect these interests and are a record of much of his activity - Hodgson and his wives seemed to have a need to record all his successes. He was also a keen annotator of material, so that most of the printed material also bears his handwritten comments.

"Autograph Book belonging to Susan Hodgson, Alderley Grange, Wotton under Edge" A leather bound autograph book belonging to Hodgson's wife, Susan, in which are placed certificates, diplomas, academic and personal correspondence, newspaper cuttings and extracts related to Brian Houghton Hodgson's life. Leather binding with metal clasp. The book's binding is broken and some pages are loose. Care must be taken when using this item.

Letter from Dwarkanath Tagore to Brian Houghton Hodgson in which he expresses his commitment of support for the promotion of Hodgson's scheme of education in India, his desire to educate and enlighten Indian people at large, good wishes for personal happiness and wellbeing and for the prosperity of the great cause that Hodgson had left behind in India i.e. the scheme of education in vernacular languages, with some emphasis on local knowledge and tradition. Handwritten, 2 sides, dated 12 November 1843.

Letter from James Robert Ballantyne to Brian Houghton Hodgson to thank him for his prompt reply concerning Mrs Keough but to remonstrate against Hodgson's intended 'rebuke' about his own promptitude. Ballantyne states that Hodgson's letter suggests so much that he needs time to ponder it. He shortly hopes to send Hodgson his tract for village schools, "The Elements of the Chemistry of Common Life". He thanks Hodgson for the copy of Humboldt's letter copied by his wife, all the more pleasurable as it means Ballantyne will be able to keep it. Handwritten, 3 sides, dated 1 September 1856.

A series of manuscripts concerning Hodgson's interest in the question of vernacular education in India.

Subscription list for "Normal Vernacular School for translators and school masters". Hodgson sets out his vision for education in India which is followed by a list of subscribers and the amount they have subscribed. Handwritten, 1 piece 4 sides, dated October 1841.

Drafts of a letter from Brian Houghton Hodgson to the Editor of the Friend of India concerning his views on vernacular educations. Two different rough drafts in which Hodgson writes that since the Editor had recently noticed Hodgson's new edition of letters on education he takes leave to write and lay out his reasoning for teaching the Indian people in their own languages. Each handwritten, 2 pieces, 8 sides, dated 4 December [1847].

"Vernacular Education Letter VI." Drafts of a letter from Brian Houghton Hodgson to the Editor of the Friend of India in which he replies to the remarks made by the Editor after the publication of his previous letter. Hodgson continues to pose that vernacular education is the best way forward. Two handwritten drafts, each 2 pieces, 8 sides, dated 29 March 1848.

Draft of a Letter to the Editor of the Daily Star. Letter from "Vernacularis" to the Editor of the Daily Star to join the debate about Vernacular education as sparked by Mr Hodgson's letters. Though not signed by him, it seems to be written by Hodgson and concentrates its argument around decisions that need to be made by the Education Committee. Handwritten, 3 pieces, 10 sides, dated 30 March 1848.

This series contains published material written, by Brian Houghton Hodgson and others, pertaining to his interest in education in India, which were present within his Papers. Many contain annotations in Hodgson's hand.