Title: Economic and social beginnings of Michigan
Description: This volume begins with background information for these topics for Michigan as a whole:
Physical Conditions: geology, geography, rivers, lakes, soil, forests.
Effects of the War of 1812 in Michigan.
Relations with the Indians. Indian treaties, Black Hawk War.
Selling and settling public lands, water transport, road-building.
Extension of government; state, county and local.

The remainder of the book is presented in regional histories, with an emphasis on economic development:
The Eastern Shore
The First Inland Counties
St. Joseph Valley and Chicago Road
Kalamazoo Valley and Territorial Road
The Saginaw Country
The Grand River Region
Subjects: History, Economic conditions
Places: Michigan
Time periods: to 1837