This work traces many aspects of the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island from their settlement until 1819, when the book was originally published. First, a general overview of the states outlines such elements as their location, climate, geographical and geological characteristics, industry and agriculture, religion, education, government and history. Then follows descriptions of each county and its respective towns, touching upon many of the same subjects. The county sketches also provide a statistical listing of each town, most including its population and distance from the county seat, and the number of dwellings, school districts, religious societies, post offices, and banks. In addition, many of the town sketches describe their settlement and incorporation, and provide biographies of prominent citizens. The index lists all people and buried place names mentioned in the text.