In the Preface, the author wrote that, “One of the chief objects of this book… is to point out all the natural advantages and industrial resources of this state, and show how to convert them to the best purposes for the general advancement of its people, in all those departments of industry best calculated to make them independent, and elevate their condition in the scale of society socially, morally, mentally and physically.” “Besides a wide range of statistical information on all matters connected with the state, the work contains numerous discussions of the geology, meteorology, climate…” “… of its soil, natural products, botany, and natural history; of its agriculture, trade and commerce, harbors, and navigation”. “… of its water power, fuel, machinery and handy-craft trades; of its rail, plank and common roads; of its colleges, schools, churches…” “All the towns and villages, with the surrounding districts, are described. The work concludes with instructions to immigrants.” “…the work is intended to be circulated, through England, Ireland, and Scotland, as well as through the German States…”

A detailed Table of Contents is at the end of the book, containing nearly a page-by-page list of topics covered. This book is somewhat different from those collected at the ‘Great Lakes Settlers Guides‘ page of this website. Industrial Resources of Wisconsin was not just promotional; the author tried to give an accurate report on economic conditions and the state of society at that time.