A true memorial to the missionary enterprise, this book traces the history of American foreign missions, regardless of denomination. Pierson presents a historical survey of missionary activities with their origins in America. Following this survey Pierson gives the biographies and works of twenty-nine men and women who served as missionaries. As a bonus to the student of missiology, numerous portraits of the missionaries are included.

Hamilton Wilcox Pierson (1817-1888) was a Presbyterian minister. He served as President of Cumberland College in Princeton, Kentucky. Despite his efforts, the college closed in 1860.