When the Mennonites first migrated from Prussia to South Russia in 1789 to form the Chortitza Colony, then again in 1804 to establish the Molotschna Colony, they moved onto the land. They were not all originally farmers in Prussia, and for that matter, they were not all good farmers in Russia, but forming closed, farm villages seemed most likely to allow them to control their own destiny in the new home land.... Mennonites were eventually found in most cities of Imperial Russia--in some capacity or other.... This present book...is meant to be a source of specific information, largely about individuals....

The typical city chapter includes a brief history of the city, with its historical significance and Mennonite connections being featured, followed by maps of the city and the surrounding area and some pictures of the city itself. Then comes a list of every Mennonite known to have lived or stayed in that city, including information such as date of birth, parents, children and major events in the life of the person. Mennonite institutions, events and businesses are listed, including pictures where available.... There is a personal name index of those who lived in the cities at the back of the book.

~Helmut T. Huebert, from the Preface