These contained probably about one million of members.

Then there were churches, open societies, State temperance unions, etc., each operating independently and with no common bond of union.

Some were for moral suasion alone, others for political action, while others were for both united.

The great need for some national organization which should be a common centre and ground of union, a medium of communication between all, and to aid, strengthen and benefit every existing organization and denomination, was felt all over the land.
"This society was organized to supply such a need.

It is both a society and a publication house.