This society was preceded in its formation by the Missionary Seminary at Basle, in 1816. In 1821, the Missionary Society was formed by the various pastors and churches of the surrounding country, under the encouragement of Dr. Steinkopff. The scene of their first labors was among the German colonies in Asiatic Russia, in 1822, when seven missionaries were sent to prepare the way of the Lord in that important field. Others followed, and their mission was beginning to promise great results, when, in 1837, by a ukase from the emperor of the Russias, they were required to abandon their work.

In 1828, they commenced a mission at Liberia. Death became their opponent here, and seven of their missionaries died through the sickliness of the climate. Two missionaries are still laboring in that field.

They have seven missionaries in Hindoostan, who occupy two stations, -- Mangalore and Dharwar. They expect to establish another, shortly, at Hoobly, for which five missionaries have been sent out. There are several schools, and one seminary, connected with these stations.