James Ford was a doctor, pharmacist, and real estate developer in the early years of Kansas City, Missouri. His collection of papers which date from 1879-1885 is contained in five folders. Contents include a partial printed genealogy, deeds and other legal documents, tax receipts, correspondence, a map, and miscellaneous items. The tax receipts in the collection are for both Kansas City, Missouri; Jackson County, Missouri; and Wyandotte County, Kansas. The correspondence is limited and deals primarily with business and legal matters. The map is undated and is of Kansas City, Missouri.