The Ruth Pitkanen Johnson papers date from the 1940s to 1992, although many are undated; they measure 5 linear inches. The papers primarily consist of Johnson's artwork in the form of sketches and holiday greeting cards, along with some writings. The collection also contains a few newspaper clippings.

The sketchbook contains Native American-style artwork. Other sketches include landscapes, animals, and designs for the silver jewelry Ruth Johnson made.

The writings are mostly autobiographical. They focus primarily on Ruth Johnson's childhood experiences with her parents and on caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease, among other topics. They also include a copy of "The Riches in Poverty" which was published in a collection of Finnish-American writings titled Sampo: The Magic Mill . The writings also include a poem written by Johnson's daughter Juliet Kaufmann.