A finding aid is essentially that it is a guide for finding something. When doing archival research that is searching for a primary source in an archive it can become overwhelming especially if the archival site contains a huge collection.  In this example the finding aid is set up by Creator,Call number, Physical description, repository and access to material. The collection is described as 115 linear feet (112 boxes),  and the  collection consists of records that document Wilgus’ professional activities as a civil engineer. New York Central and Hudson River Railroad papers, 1895-1931, include correspondence; research notes, articles and pictures, engineering reports, in this case It is also important to note that some material are restricted while others require permission for use.

William Wilgus was a true pioneer. He was the Nostradamus of engineering. He worked on may engineering project that helped shape the New York transportation system. His resume consisted of Buffalo Union Station, the Weehawken (N.J.) Terminal and the modern Grand Central Station.  Through his life he received many awards for his engineering work  and war service. After his retirement he moved to New Hampshire where he died in 1949.