The collection contains documents of the (French) Ministry of Water and Forest, principally pertaining to Albert François de Stappens, King's Councillor and Minister of Waters and Forests. In addition to the official documents on land disputes, surveying, road work and forestry, there are household accounts of Madame de Stappens for wine, dresses, jewellery, furniture, hats and meat. Also included are documents of the various estates, including the Seigneuries of Corbinaut and Herlies (Beaufremez family), the Marquisat of Roubaix (d'Essart family), as well as a 14th century document of the d'Ays family. Subjects are leases, sales of land, conditions of vassals and tenant farmers, estate expenses, land disputes and appointment of bailiffs.