The fonds consists of several series including: Correspondence (189--1985); Family and Early Papers (1802-1992); Subject Files (1947-1977); Speeches, Articles and Publications; (1925-1974); Biographical Material (1908-1990, 2009); Canada Council (1950-1972), Canadian National Commission for UNESCO (1957-1974), Canadian Universities Foundation (1962/63), Canadian-American Committee (1957-1976), Carnegie Foundation (1951-1963), Centenary Council (1962-1969), Centennial Commission (1964- 1977), John and Mary Markle Foundation (1952-1971), Koerner Foundation (1962-1978), League of Nations Society (1926-1940), Nova Scotia Grants Committee (1962-1974); Massey Commission (1949-1956), Senate (1966-1968); Travels (1954-1978); University of East Africa Commission (1962-1963); Wartime Information Board (1942-1945); Financial Records (1928-1982); Printed/Published Material (1909-1982); and Photographs (1900- 1977). There is also the Margaret (Margie) Thomas MacKenzie sous-fonds.

The fonds consists of correspondence, reports, and curriculum material relating to Cannon's role as an UNESCO advisor in science teaching at the British Solomons Training College in Honiara, British Solomon Islands Protectorate.