Robert Indiana kept a series of illustrated journals during the late 1950s and 1960s, in which he discusses the development of his work as well as his daily life on Coenties Slip.

The first entry in Indiana's journal page for July 27–28, 1959, dated July 27, 1959, includes a sketch of an early version of The Slips, referred to as "July III (Four Seasons [?])." The sketch indicates the painting's colors: permanent green light, cadmium red, and white gesso, and that it is oil on Homasote and measures 8 by 4 feet.

Indiana does not discuss any works in his entry for July 28, 1959. He mentions being visited at his loft by Rolf Nelson (who at the time went by Ralph), who wanted to unload some furniture. Indiana notes that he picked up a swivel chair and drawing board from him after dinner.