Ocean Liner & Travel Brochures: A Century of Transatlantic Voyages (1800s-1950s)

 

📌 Explore a rare collection of ocean liner and travel brochures from the 1800s-1950s. These historical documents offer insight into ship accommodations, transatlantic travel, and immigrant experiences—essential for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians.

 

Ocean Liner and Travel Brochures

 

The GG Archives presents a fabulous collection of Ocean Liner and Travel Brochures from the 1800s through the 1950s. Many are not only rare but offer a unique glimpse of passenger accommodations for ocean travel, often profusely illustrated with photographs and other illustrations.

The Steamship and Ocean Liner brochures, published from the late 1800s through the 1960s, offered a unique look into the accommodations, voyages, and life on board the ships. The brochures often captured the ships' unique interiors from all classes' perspectives, including first, second, tourist third cabin, and third class.

A few of our most popular brochures include the 1912 brochure on the SS France of the CGT-French Line; the 1907 White Star Line brochure that covered fleet, history, and services; a 1922 brochure on the famous RMS Majestic of the White Star Line, a 1908 Allan Line brochure on their second cabin accommodations; and, a 1937 brochure on the ocean liner Normandie of the French Line.

 

Steamship Passengers Browsing Through Brochures at a Kiosk in the Early 1900s.

Steamship Passengers Browsing Through Brochures at a Kiosk onboard the SS Victoria in the Early 1900s. GGA Image ID # 1751ef8f73

 

Ocean Liner & Travel Brochures Collection 📖🚢

The GG Archives' Ocean Liner and Travel Brochures Collection is an extraordinary historical archive that preserves the golden age of transatlantic travel from the 1800s through the 1950s. These brochures, originally created as promotional materials by major steamship lines, provide a firsthand look at passenger accommodations, ship interiors, services, and the experience of ocean travel across multiple classes—First Class, Second Class, Tourist Third Cabin, and Third Class.

This collection is invaluable for:

✅ 📚 Teachers & Students – Ideal for research on immigration, travel history, and maritime advancements.

✅ 🏡 Genealogists & Family Historians – Provides insight into the journeys of ancestors who crossed the Atlantic.

✅ ⚓ Maritime Historians & Enthusiasts – Captures the evolution of ship design, accommodations, and luxury ocean travel.

✅ 🎨 Collectors & Designers – Offers rare vintage illustrations, typography, and graphic design elements from the early 20th century.

 

Ocean Liner and Travel Brochure Content Links

 

 

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Allan Line

 

GGA Image ID # 113d49c5e0

Allan Line Second Saloon Accommodations (1908): Comfort & Elegance for Transatlantic Travelers

The 1908 Allan Line brochure is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in maritime history, transatlantic immigration, and early 20th-century travel. This document provides a detailed look at Second Saloon accommodations, a class that offered comfort comparable to First Class but at a more affordable rate.

The brochure's rarity and its high-quality illustrations of ship interiors, deck plans, and menus make it a crucial primary source for:

📚 Teachers & Students – Ideal for research projects on early ocean travel.

🏡 Genealogists & Family Historians – Offers insight into the conditions immigrants and travelers experienced.

Maritime Historians & Enthusiasts – Provides unique details on the Allan Line fleet and passenger experience.

 

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American Line

 

American Line First Cabin Services Brochure - 1901

American Line First Cabin Services Brochure - 1901

The 1901 Brochure covers the First Cabin Travel on the Steamships of the American Line. It includes Deck Plans, Rates for Transatlantic Travel (Southampton - New York Service via Cherbourg), and General Passenger Information.

 

Cover of American Line Philadelpha - Queenstown - Liverpool Brochure 1907

American Line Philadelphia, Queenstown, and Liverpool Service Brochure - 1907

American Line has specially arranged to accommodate passengers who want good food and service, moderate speed, and the best accommodation the steamers afford at a reasonable cost.

 

American Line Southampton -- New York Service with Tariff of First Class Fares.

American Line Southampton to New York Service Brochure - 1908

Broadside Flyer produced by the American Line promoting their Southampton - New York service. The flyer includes information for passengers, the tariff of first-class fares, and deck plans for the SS St. Louis, SS St. Paul, SS New York, and SS Philadelphia.

 

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American Merchant Lines

 

Cover - American Merchant Lines New York to London - The Economical Way to Europe. Published November 1932

American Merchant Lines to Europe Brochure - 1932

These are some of the attractions of an American Merchant Lines crossing. Every day is memorably pleasant from the minute you go on board in New York until you sail up the famous Thames right into the City of London.

 

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Anchor-Donaldson Line

 

Front Cover, Anchor-Donaldson Line Bropchure on the Steamships Letitia and Athenia - 1926.

Anchor-Donaldson Line Letitia and Athenia Brochure - 1926

The Anchor-Donaldson Line provides a profusely illustrated brochure on the cabin class accommodations available on the SS Letitia and SS Athenia. This rare booklet was published in November 1926 and documents the two sister ships with interior and exterior photographs.

 

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Anchor Steamship Line

 

Front Cover, Second Saloon and Third Class on Anchor Line U.S. Mail Steamers.

Anchor Line Second & Third Class Accommodations Brochure - 1902

Six-Panel Flyer from the Anchor Line promotes their weekly service between New York and Glasgow. The brochure provided information about the Second Saloon and Third Class passengers only, including rates of passage and rail rates to or from Glasgow to points in the UK.

 

Front Cover, Anchor Line Transatlantic Steamships. Tours in Ireland, Scotland, and England.

Anchor Line Transatlantic Steamship Tours Brochure - 1904

1904 brochure produced by the Anchor Line focuses on the most popular places of interest and principal cities of Scotland, Ireland, England, and Wales. The booklet features beautiful color images. Many are reproduced on this page.

 

Front Cover, Anchor Line Special Attractions for Excursion Season 1911.

Anchor Line Special Attractions For Excursion Season Brochure - 1911

The Anchor Line published this brochure for the Tourist season in 1911. It featured information for passengers, internal and external photographs of the ships and interior views, and some information on destinations.

 

Front Cover, Anchor Line Information For Passengers - 1912 Brochure.

Anchor Line Information For Passengers Brochure - 1912

A beautiful brochure from 1912 offers an excellent glimpse of cabin class travel aboard steamships of that era. The Anchor Line produced this booklet after their Newest steamship - The Cameronia was built in 1911.

 

Front Cover, Anchor Line Second Cabin Information and Accommodations 1913

Anchor Line Second Cabin Accommodations Brochure - 1913

12-Page brochure from 1913 on second cabin accommodations on transatlantic steamships of the Anchor Line offering weekly service between New York, Glasgow, and Londonderry. Numerous photographs, Rates of Passage, and other information are included.

 

Front Cover, The New Anchor Line Fleet to Ireland and Scotland. 1926 Brochure.

The New Anchor Line Fleet Brochure - 1926

Profusely illustrated brochure from 1926 documents the grand interiors of the Caledonia and Transylvania, the newest additions to the Anchor Line fleet with views of the California and Cameronia, transporting passengers between New York, Londonderry, and Glasgow.

 

Front Cover, Anchor Line Cabin Class Brochure. Undated, circa 1930s.

Anchor Line Cabin Class Brochure - 1930s

Anchor Line Brochure from the 1930s for passengers who are accustomed to the amenities of good living. It offers a genuinely delightful mode of travel in the company of other passengers with the same substantial standards which characterize their good taste.

 

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Baltic American Line

 

Cover of 1920s Baltic America Line Brochure

Baltic America Line Fleet & Services (1920): Transatlantic Travel & European Connections

The Baltic America Line 1920 brochure is an invaluable resource for maritime historians, teachers, genealogists, and travel enthusiasts exploring transatlantic migration and tourism in the early 20th century. This comprehensive guide presents the fleet’s passenger services, detailed ship descriptions, European travel opportunities, and firsthand testimonials from satisfied passengers.

With lavish photographs and route maps, the document offers a rich historical perspective on post-World War I travel, highlighting the changing political landscape of Europe, affordable travel opportunities, and high-quality accommodations aboard ships like the SS Latvia, SS Polonia, SS Lituania, and SS Estonia.

 

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Baltimore Mail Line

 

Front Cover, Outstanding Travel Value to Europe on the Baltimore Mail Line

Baltimore Mail Line Outstanding Travel Value Brochure - 1930s

1930s Brochure offers extraordinary interior and exterior views (including passengers) of their transatlantic steamships of the Baltimore Mail Line with routes between Baltimore, Norfolk, Havre, and Hamburg.

 

 

Front Cover, Baltimore Mail Line Information for Passengers. Published March 1932.

Baltimore Mail Line Passenger Information Brochure - 1932

Rare Passenger Booklet from Baltimore Mail Line covers everything their patrons would need to know about their voyage. Unlike many passenger steamship lines, the Baltimore Mail Line printed the Information for Passengers separate from the Passenger Lists.

 

Front Cover, Baltimore Mail Line An Innovation in One-Class,Transatlantic Passenger Service.

Baltimore Mail Line to Europe Brochure - 1936

Baltimore Mail Line utilizes one-class liners. You can go anywhere on board without worrying about class restrictions. Decks, lounges, dining saloon— there is no class distinction. Passenger accommodations throughout are of a single high standard.

 

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Blue Funnel Line

 

Composed Front Cover, Blue Funnel Line to Australia - Alfred Holt & Co., Liverpool - 1913.

Blue Funnel Line to Australia Brochure - 1913

Large-Format 18-panel brochure from Alfred Holt & Company, Liverpool, included many photographic views of the Blue Funnel Line to Australia in 1913 featuring the TSS "Ulysses" of 14,626 Tons and her sister ship, the TSS "Nestor" of 14,547 Tons.

 

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The Camera Series

 

Front Cover, The "Camera" Series: Album of Photo-Lithographic Views of Liverpool and New Brighton, Brown & Rawcliffe 1890s.

Liverpool & New Brighton - 1890s

Scarce hardcover booklet, semi-linen with gold embossed cover with extraordinary lithographic images of scenes around Liverpool in the 1890s. Eight astonishingly detailed views of Liverpool and one plate collage of locations around New Brighton.

 

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CGT French Line

 

Couverture, Paquebot France de la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique

Le Nouveau Paquebot SS France French Language Brochure - 1912

Il s'agit d'une brochure pour le lancement Steamship SS France de la CGT-French Line produite en 1912 qui offre une excellente critique du livre de l'hébergement de première classe, des services, des détails de la salle des machines et des chaudières, des dispositions et beaucoup plus.

 

Couverture, Paquebot France de la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique

The Magnificent SS France (1912): A Floating Palace of Luxury & Innovation

The SS France, launched in 1912 by Compagnie Générale Transatlantique (French Line), was one of the most opulent and technologically advanced ocean liners of its time. Designed as a "floating palace," it combined unparalleled luxury, modern conveniences, and remarkable engineering innovations to ensure passengers the most comfortable and prestigious voyage across the Atlantic.

This brochure provides an in-depth look at the SS France’s first-class accommodations, dining experiences, technological advancements, and the intricate details that set it apart from its contemporaries. The article is an essential resource for maritime historians, genealogists, educators, and anyone interested in early 20th-century transatlantic travel.

For teachers, students, and researchers, this detailed account offers insights into how luxury liners reflected the social and economic conditions of their time, while genealogists can use it to better understand the experience of ancestors who traveled aboard such grand vessels.

 

 

 

Couverture du livret "Normandie" de 1937 de la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique - French Line.

CGT French Line Paquebot Normandie - 1937

Le livret de 72 pages détaille l'incroyable luxe à bord du paquebot Normandie - la fierté et la joie de vivre de la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique - French Line. Imprimé en France en 1937, il est devenu un article très recherché par les collectionneurs.

 

Couverture du livret "Normandie" de 1937 de la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique - French Line.

SS Normandie: Art Deco Elegance and Innovation on the High Seas (1937)

The 1937 French Line booklet for the SS Normandie is more than a promotional brochure; it is a historical artifact that captures the essence of luxury transatlantic travel. Published in France and extending over 72 pages, the brochure reveals the intricate design, sophisticated amenities, and cultural significance of one of the most iconic ocean liners of the 20th century. The 1937 French Line brochure for the SS Normandie offers more than a glimpse into a magnificent ocean liner; it serves as a comprehensive guide to a bygone era of ocean travel. Its detailed descriptions, historical context, and architectural innovations make it an invaluable resource for various audiences. The ship's fusion of artistic ambition and engineering excellence is captured meticulously, making the Normandie not just a vessel but a testament to France’s maritime heritage.

 

Front Cover, Third Class on the French Line Featuring the Ile de France, Champlain, Lafayette, Paris, and Normanide.

Third Class on the French Line - 1938

The Normandie, Ile de France, Paris, Champlain, and Lafayette combine economy and efficiency in fulfilling the most discriminating requirements. Their Third Class accommodations cannot help but bring you all satisfaction.

 

Brochure Cover, Ilde de France Cabin Class Deck Plan. Published by the CGT French Line February 1951.

French Line’s SS Ile de France Cabin Class Experience (1951): A Deck Plan & Travel Guide

The SS Ile de France, an iconic liner of the CGT-French Line, was one of the most beloved transatlantic ships of its era. Known for its Art Deco interiors, modern amenities, and innovative services, it redefined ocean travel in the mid-20th century.

This 1951 deck plan brochure provides a fascinating look at the ship’s Cabin Class accommodations, complete with detailed floor plans, photographs of interior spaces, and a glimpse into life aboard this famous vessel. The brochure is an essential historical document for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, offering insights into how passengers traveled between Europe and North America in the postwar years.

 

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Canadian Pacific Line

 

Front Cover, Cabin Service to Europe via the Canadian Pacific Steamships.

Canadian Pacific Cabin Service to Europe - 1927

Crossing the ocean once on a Canadian Pacific Cabin Class Steamship means realizing that you have found the ideal way to travel. Many Interior and Exterior photographs help illustrate this exceptional brochure.

 

Front Cover, Empress of Britain World Cruise from New York Beginning 9 January 1937.

Empress of Britain World Cruise 1937

The Empress of Britain World Cruise from New York, January 9, 1937. Sailing Eastward for a Complete Circuit of the Globe. 30,000 Miles, 125 Days, 29 Ports, 22 Countries Including Bali. One Management--Ship and Shore. Canadian Pacific -- World's Greatest Travel System.

 

Front Cover, Empress of Britain: The World's Wonder Ship of the Canadian Pacific Line, 1938.

RMS Empress of Britain, World's Wonder Ship - 1938

This 1938 Brochure is Noteworthy Due to Its Use of Vivex Natural-Color Photographs. It includes Stunning Images of Many of the Public Spaces and Staterooms.

 

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Cunard Anchor Line

 

Front Cover, Going Abroad via Cunard and Anchor Lines, 1923, Brochure No. A&P 20154-23.

Going Abroad via Cunard & Anchor Lines (1923): A Glimpse into the Golden Age of Transatlantic Travel

The 1923 brochure, "Going Abroad via Cunard and Anchor Lines," offers a captivating glimpse into ocean travel during one of its most glamorous eras. This brochure is not merely a marketing piece—it serves as a historical document, showcasing the grandeur, elegance, and cultural significance of ocean liners in the early 20th century.

Featuring legendary ships such as the RMS Berengaria, Aquitania, Mauretania, Franconia, and Scythia, this resource is essential for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians who wish to explore the evolution of luxury travel, migration, and global connectivity.

 

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Cunard Line and Donaldson Atlantic Line

 

Front Cover, 1948 Brochure on the Historic St. Lawrence River Route to Europe

The Historic St. Lawrence River Route to Europe - 1948

After the ship lias left the Cunard Donaldson Atlantic piers in Montréal Harbor, it proceeded downstream, passing beneath the imposing Jacques Cartier bridge, which connects the island of Montreal with the City of Longueuil on the South Shore. Here was once a fort built in 1689 to protect the seigneury from the marauding Iroquois.

 

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Cunard Line

 

Front Cover, The Cunard Passenger's Log Book, RMS Campania 1893, 12,950 Tons, Length 625 Feet. The Cunard Steam-Ship Company, Limited, 1893.

Cunard Passenger's Log Book - 1893

The Cunard Passenger Log Book is a fascinating booklet issued by the Cunard Steamship Company and contains a brief history of the Cunard Line and many exciting features. The RMS Campania is featured throughout the booklet.

 

Front Cover, Reprinted From "BUSINESS ILLUSTRATED".	December, 1902.

The Story of the Cunard Line - 1902

Cunard Steamship Company, Limited, one of the oldest and most famous of British steam navigation undertakings elected to remain independent and outside the scope of the great Trust. This is their Story as published by BUSINESS ILLUSTRATED. December 1902.

 

Front Cover, "Famous Cunarders," Published by the Cunard Line 21 March 1910.

A Fleet of Legends: The 1910 Cunard Line "Famous Cunarders" Booklet

The 1910 "Famous Cunarders" booklet is an exceptional maritime artifact, providing a glimpse into the legendary ships that defined ocean travel in the early 20th century.

Published by the Cunard Line on March 21, 1910, this 8-page booklet serves as both a marketing tool and a historical record, showcasing Cunard’s most famous vessels—including the Lusitania, Mauretania, Carpathia, and Carmania—through detailed specifications and stunning illustrations.

For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this document offers:

✅ A firsthand look at Cunard’s premier ships before Titanic’s era

✅ Technical specifications & illustrations of the fleet

✅ Valuable insight into the golden age of transatlantic travel

✅ A research tool for genealogy enthusiasts tracking ancestors who sailed with Cunard

📌 This isn’t just a booklet—it’s a curated collection of some of the most important ocean liners in maritime history.

 

Front of Franconia and Laconia - The Largest and Fastest Steamers in the Boston Service Flyer from 1911

Franconia and Laconia For The Boston Service - 1911

Flyer created by Cunard to announce two new steamships for the Boston service, 18,000 tons each. The ships were of the intermediate class and accommodations described in this flyer pertain primarily to the First Class.

 

Front Cover RMS Franconia and RMS Laconia of the Cunard Line.

🛳 RMS Franconia & Laconia - The Short-Lived Giants of the Cunard Line (1912)

This remarkable brochure from 1912 offers a rare and detailed look into two of Cunard Line’s most impressive, yet short-lived ocean liners—the RMS Franconia and RMS Laconia. These ships were state-of-the-art for their time, transporting thousands of immigrants from Liverpool to Boston before being tragically sunk during World War I.

For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this brochure is a goldmine of information on early 20th-century ocean travel, ship design, and the immigrant experience. It showcases lavish first-class accommodations, impressive second and third-class facilities, and the technological advancements of the era, including Marconi Wireless, watertight compartments, and anti-rolling tanks.

🔹 This is an essential resource for anyone studying the history of immigration, maritime engineering, or the role of ocean liners in wartime.

 

Front Cover, Fishguard Information for Passengers. Published 1913 Cunard Line.

Fishguard Information for Passengers of Cunard - 1913

Fishguard is situated on the southwest coast of Wales, and is the nearest British port to New York used by Atlantic liners. It affords the quickest means of reaching London, and is also a convenient port for the Continent.

 

Front Cover, Cunard Passenger Log Book circa 1913

Cunard Passenger Log Book - 1913

Rare Third-Class Accommodation on Cunard Liners featuring interior and exterior photographs of the ships and accommodations for third class/steerage passengers. Undated brochure circa 1913.

 

Front Cover, Comparisons - RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Steam Ship Company, Limited.

Cunard Line RMS Aquitania Comparisons - 1914

Aquitania made her maiden voyage from Liverpool on 30 May 1914. This brochure was one of many published in 1914 to exalt the size of the ship and accommodations available. Many comparisons were made with well-known US structures of that era.

 

Front Cover - Cunard Line 1914 Brochure Entitled "Historic Boston" about Boston and the Cunard Line Services to Boston.

Cunard Service to Historic Boston - 1914

42-Page Brochure focused primarily on Boston, Massachusetts, with a brief summary of Cunard Line Fleet and Services to Boston. Some photographs of Cunard ships, offices, docks/piers, Boston Landmarks, and a Railroad advertisement.

 

Cunard Line Services From New York-Boston-Montreal Most Expedition Route to Europe London-Paris-Berlin-Vienna-St. Petersburg-Etc. Brochure, 1914.

Cunard Line Services 1914 Brochure

Cunard Line Services From New York-Boston-Montreal Most Expedition Route to Europe London-Paris-Berlin-Vienna-St. Petersburg-Etc. Brochure, 1914.

 

First Page, Minimum Rates of Passage and General Information, America-Europe Brochure No. 2, 20 April 1917.

Cunard Line America-Europe Minimum Rates & Info 1917

The SS Columbus has speed, spaciousness, and a queenly service with a transatlantic reputation worldwide. Profusely illustrated with interior photographs.

 

Front Cover, Cunard to Liverpool via Cobh (Queenstown) - 1920s Brochure from the Cunard Line.

Cunard to Liverpool via Cobh (Queenstown) - 1920s

Superb interior photographs of the Cunard steamships Carinthia, Franconia, Laconia, Samaria, and Scythia makes this an excellent brochure from the 1920s. The uniqueness of this booklet is greatly improved by the inclusions of context with photo captions.

 

Front Cover, Cunard Tourist Third Cabin Accommodations Brochure. Undated, Circa Late 1920s

Cunard Tourist Third Cabin Accommodations (1920s): Affordable Comfort for the Everyday Traveler

The Cunard Tourist Third Cabin Accommodations brochure (1920s) offers a fascinating look into the changing face of ocean travel in the post-immigration boom era. Unlike previous decades when third-class passage primarily served immigrants seeking a new life in America, this new category—Tourist Third Cabin—was designed for budget-conscious travelers who still desired comfort and a refined onboard experience.

This document is a must-read for educators, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, as it provides insight into how Cunard adapted to a shifting travel market by introducing a class that combined affordability with elegance. With photographic documentation of cabins, dining areas, lounges, and promenade decks, this brochure captures a turning point in transatlantic travel, where leisure and affordability merged.

 

1921 Brochure Cover, RMS Mauretania Passenger Guide - 1921.

RMS Mauretania Passenger Guide - 1921

Shirt Pocket Sized 18-Page brochure from the Cunard Line that provided a handy reference guide to navigating the RMS Mauretania covering all three passenger classes -- Saloon, Second, and Third. A lot of information but only a few images.

 

Front Cover - Cunard To Boston. Published by the Cunard Steam Ship Company Limited - 1922

Cunard To Boston - 1922

The re-opening of the Liverpool-Queenstown-Boston Service with the " Samaria," one of the finest and largest of the new post-War Cunarders, emphasizes the importance which the Cunard Company attaches to this Service.

 

Cover, The Liverpool Route from Boston and New York via Queenstown (Cobh)

The Cunard Liverpool Route (1923): Gateway to England & Beyond

The 1923 Cunard Liverpool Route brochure provides a fascinating glimpse into transatlantic travel during the early 20th century, positioning Liverpool as the ideal gateway to England and Europe. Unlike conventional travel guides that focus solely on major destinations like London, this brochure emphasizes the charm of England’s countryside, historic towns, and scenic railway journeys, making it an invaluable resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians.

Beyond being a simple promotional piece, this brochure captures the golden age of ocean travel, when Cunard and Anchor Line steamships connected North America to the cultural heart of Europe. With detailed descriptions of ships, routes, and the experience of disembarking in Liverpool, this document serves as a primary source for understanding passenger travel in the 1920s.

 

Front Cover, Second Class to Europe fromn Boston to Queenstown and Liverpool.

Cunard Line Second Class to Europe - 1927

12-Page brochure covers the Boston to Europe route of the Cunard Line in 1927. Interior photographs help to illustrate the second class accommodations available on the Samaria, Scythia, and Laconia.

 

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Cunard White Star

 

Front Cover, Cunard White Star First Class to Europe, 1949.

Visit Europe First Class - Cunard White Star - 1949

For Ocean Voyaging in excellent comfort, travel First Class in any of the seven Cunard White Star transatlantic luxury liners, from the resplendent Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, the world's largest and fastest passenger ships, to the smartly modern single-class Media and Parthia. Ships Covered in this Brochure Include the Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary, Mauretania, Caronia, Britannic, Media and Parthia.

 

Front Cover of 1949 Brochure on Tourist Class Accommodations on Cunard White Star Ships.

Cunard White Star Tourist Class - 1949

This 1949 booklet is your gangplank. Step aboard and see for yourself the spacious public rooms and tasteful cabins wherein relaxation and recreation are the rules of the day. Tourist Class on the "Big Four" of the Cunard White Star Line.

 

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Dollar Steamship Line

 

Front Brochure Cover, Dollar Steamship Line President Liners from 1925.

President Liners - Dollar Steamship Line - 1925

Rare 1925 Brochure from The Dollar Steamship Line on their President Liners. Many photographs document their distinctively higher standard of luxury, comfort, and convenience -- a measure designed to meet the requirements of ocean voyagers.

 

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Dominion Line

 

Front Cover of 1900 Brochure from the Dominion Line Royal Mail Steamers - To Canada and the United States.

Book of Views - Dominion Line - 1900

Excellent brochure from the Dominion Line circa 1900 that provided several views of their fleet of steamships, facts about their fleet, and views of their first, second, and third-class accommodations.

 

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Hamburg American Line

 

The 1890 European Traveler's Memorandum Book

European Traveler's Memorandum Book - 1890

Brochure from the Hamburg America Line to their customers from 1890 to 1891. It included 31 pages covering travel to Europe, emphasizing first-class travelers but appropriate for all classes.

 

Front Cover, Across the Atlantic -- Hamburg-American Line, 1905.

Across the Atlantic: Hamburg-American Line Fleet & Services (1905)

The 1905 brochure of the Hamburg-American Line (HAPAG) offers a comprehensive look at one of the largest and most prestigious German steamship companies of the early 20th century. This document is a historical goldmine for maritime historians, genealogists, and educators, detailing the rapid advancements in transatlantic travel, fleet expansion, and luxurious accommodations aboard some of the world’s fastest and most elegant liners.

With 80 pages of ship descriptions, fleet statistics, route maps, and stunning imagery, this publication paints a vivid picture of ocean travel during the Golden Age of Steamships.

 

Front Cover, Hamburg-Amerika Linie Nordland-Fahrten (North Country Voyages), 1908.

North Country Voyages (Nordlandfahrten) - 1908

Hamburg-Amerika Linie cruise book, depicting visits to Norwegian ports and sights, such as Allesund, Bergen, Bellsund, Brontheim, Geirangerfiord, Gudvangen, Hammerfest, Stahlheim, and many stunning fiords and glaciers. The roughly 200-page brochure offered exquisite images of several ships of The Hamburg-American Line, including the Auguste Victoria, Prinzessin Victoria Luise (wrecked off Jamaica in 1906), Oceana, Meteor, and Blücher.

 

Titelblatt, 1914 Broschüre der Hamburg- Amerika Linie für die Fahrpläne der Nordseebäder - Seebäder und Riviera Dienst.

Nordseebäder-Fahrplan - 1914

Viele Fotos der Schiffe, Innenansichten und Bilder der Wahrzeichen von Hamburg, Deutschland, machen diese Broschüre zu einer ungewöhnlich guten Broschüre der Hamburg- Amerika Linie von 1914. Zwei farbige Karten enthalten die Nordsee und die Umgebung.

 

Titelblatt, 1914 Broschüre der Hamburg- Amerika Linie für die Fahrpläne der Nordseebäder - Seebäder und Riviera Dienst.

North Sea Resorts Timetable - 1914

Many photographs of the ships, interior views, and images of Hamburg, Germany landmarks help to make this an excellent brochure from the Hamburg-America Line in 1914. Two color maps are included of the North Sea and Vicinity.

 

Brochure Cover, The New Twin Screw Steamship Deutschland of the Hamburg America Line.

New Twin Screw Steamship Deutschland - 1924

8-Panel Flyer offers a quick look at the SS Deutschland, a 21,046-ton ship, launched on 28 April 1923 with her maiden voyage on 27 March 1924. Superb interior photographs create a visual feast of this elegant ship of the Hamburg-America Line (HAPAG).

 

Covers for the 1928 Hamburg American Line Brochure Across the Atlantic - First Class.

HAPAG - Across the Atlantic in First Class - 1928

Excellent brochure from the Hamburg America Line captures the opulence of first-class transatlantic travel in the late 1920s. Rare interior photographs of public rooms such as the shopping plaza or promenade make this an excellent booklet.

 

Front Cover, Cabin and Third Class Accommodations on the MS St. Louis of the Hamburg America Line 1938 Brochure.

Cabin and Third Class on the MS St. Louis - 1938

1938 8-page, large format brochure from the Hamburg America Line presents views of the rooms and decks enjoyed by the cabin and third-class passengers aboard the MS St. Louis. Captions and text were provided in German and English.

 

Titelblatt, Hamburg America Line 1938 Broschüre "In der dritten Klasse nach Nordamerika."

In der Dritten Klasse nach Nordamerika - 1938

Es handelt sich um eine gut erhaltene Broschüre veröffentlicht wurde, dass vor dem Beginn des europäischen Konflikt, der sich aus dem Zweiten Weltkrieg. Superb Fotografie macht dies ein Rekord excecptional der dritten Klasse Unterkünfte auf dem Dampfer Deutschland, New York, Hamburg und die Hanse.

 

Titelblatt, Hamburg America Line 1938 Broschüre "In der dritten Klasse nach Nordamerika."

In The Third Class to North America - 1938

A well-preserved brochure published before the beginning of the European conflict that became World War II with superb photography makes this an exceptional record of the Third Class accommodations on the steamships Deutschland, New York, Hamburg, and the Hansa. (Translated from the German)

 

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Holland-America Line

 

Holland-America Line First Cabin Rates - 1905

This 1905 brochure featured First Cabin Rates for the TSS Noordam, TSS Ryndam, TSS Potsdam, TSS Statendam, and TSS Rotterdam, covering the Summer Season, Early and Late Summer Season, and Winter Season, To and From New York, Rotterdam, and Boulogne-sur-Mer. The Brochure included General Information for Passengers, Offices, and Agencies, and First and Second Class Railway Fares from Rotterdam to Principal Cities in Europe.

 

Front Page, Passenger Steamship Timetable, January to December 1923, Subject to change without prior notice.

Holland-America Line Sailing Schedule - 1923

Brochure Containing Holland-America Line Passenger Steamship Timetable, January to December 1923, a list of their global agents, agencies, and offices, and an illustration of the new Twin Screw Steamer SS Staendam Currently Under Construction.

 

Front Cover, Holland America Line First Class Service to Europe Brochure, 1929.

First Class Service to Europe - 1929

THE Holland-America Line has acquired a reputation of its own—a reputation for first-class service that is not excelled on the Seven Seas. Ships Include the Statendam, Rotterdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Veendam, and Volendam.

 

Cover, Holland-America Line Sailings, Sailing List 1956, Transatlantic Passenger Service.

Holland-America Line Sailing List - 1956

Holland-America Line Sailings, Sailing List 1956, Transatlantic Passenger Service. The brochure includes Fares, Embarkation Information, Baggage Fees and Allowances, Port Taxes, and more. Covers the Maasdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Ryndam, and Westerdam.

 

Front Cover, Facts and Figures, SS Statendam, Holland-America Line, February 1957.

SS Statendam Facts and Figures – 1957

Fourth Holland-America liner to bear the name, the latest Statendam presents a thoroughly streamlined appearance, within and without. The designs for the public rooms were entrusted to five architects, the New Building Department of the Holland-America Line seeing to the design of the passenger cabins and those of staff officers.

 

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Multi-Line

 

Front Cover, Ocean Records: A Pocket Handbook for Travelers, Fifth Edition, May 1923.

Ocean Records, Fifth Edition - May 1923

With this Edition, OCEAN RECORDS enters the third year of its career of usefulness to the traveling public. Not only among readers of WORLD TRAVELER, but among travelers generally, the little handbook has made acquaintances and friends, until the latter are actually numbered by hundreds of thousands.

 

Front Cover for a Joint Line Brochure from Hamburg America Line and North German Lloyd Entitled Go Tourist Class.

Go Tourist Class - HAPAG-North German Lloyd - 1936

26-Page Brochure "Go Tourist Class" is a joint publication of HAPAG-NDL, Profusely Illustrated with interior photographs of Tourist Class accommodations and ships of both lines that carried passengers of that class.

 

Front Cover of 1937 Brochure from the Hamburg-American and North German Lloyd on their Transatlantic Ships.

Ships in the Transatlantic Service - HAPAG-NDL - 1937

A 14-page small format brochure produced jointly by HAPAG-LLOYD welcomes you to Germany in 1937 on their transatlantic ships Bremen, Europa, Columbus, New York, Hamburg, Hansa, Deutschland, St. Louis, and Berlin.

 

Cover, Passage Regulations for First, Second, and Cabin Class Passengers to North America, 1924.

Passenger Ships & Passage Regulations - 1924

Great brochure, issued jointly by the German Steamship Lines of Hamburg-Amerika Linie and United American Lines (Harriman Line), provides the complete Passage regulations for First, Second, and Cabin Class Passengers to North America. The brochure is in English and offers a glimpse of the effects of WWI War Reparations and Prohibition.

 

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International Mercantile Marine Company (IMM)

 

Front Cover, What to Know About Ocean Travel by W. I. Copeland, Agent. Compliments of International Mercantile Marine Company, February 1924.

What To Know About Ocean Travel - 1924

What to Know About Ocean Travel is the A to Z guide for the frequent transatlantic traveler of 1924, Published for the International Mercantile Marine Company. The brochure covers the American Line, Atlantic Transport Line, Leyland Line, Panama Pacific Line, Red Star Line, White Star Line, White Star-Dominion Line.

 

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Italian Line

 

Cover of Brochure from the Italian Line on Third Class Rates from 1938.

Italian Line Third-Class Travel & Rates (1938) – Affordable Transatlantic Journeys

This 1938 Italian Line brochure offers a detailed glimpse into third-class transatlantic travel just before World War II. Covering passenger rates, immigration policies, and onboard amenities, the 12-page booklet is an essential historical resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians.

The Italian Line was one of the most prestigious passenger shipping companies of the era, boasting a fleet that included some of the world’s largest and most luxurious ocean liners, such as the SS Rex and SS Conte di Savoia. Despite the company’s focus on first-class travel, this brochure highlights the importance of third-class accommodations, catering to immigrants, working-class travelers, and budget-conscious tourists.

For historians and genealogists, this document is particularly valuable as it provides immigration regulations, tax information, and fare structures—crucial for understanding how millions of people traveled between Europe and the Americas in the late 1930s.

 

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Norwegian America Line

 

Front Cover of 1915 Brochure from the Norwegian America Line Created by their New York Office.

New York to Norway - Norwegian America Line - 1915

An 18-Panel Brochure from the Norwegian America Line, developed by their New York office to promote tourism to Norway, profusely illustrated with many photographs of the ships and accommodations for first, second, and third-class passengers.

 

Framsida, 1915 Broschyr från Norska Amerikalinjen

Sverige till Amerika - Norska Amerikalinjen - 1915

1915 broschyr producerad av Norska Amerikalinjen för att främja invandrartrafik från Sverige till Amerika i tredje klass. Många inre och yttre fotografier tillsammans med illustrationer gör detta till ett utmärkt broschyr som är mycket användbart för släktforskning.

 

Framsida, 1915 Broschyr från Norska Amerikalinjen

Sweden to America - Norwegian America Line - 1915

This 1915 brochure, produced by the Norwegian-America Line, promoted Immigrant traffic from Sweden to America in the Third Class. Many interior and exterior photographs and illustrations make this a superb booklet that is very useful for genealogy research. (Translated from the Swedish)

 

Front Cover, 1920s Brochure from the Norwegian America Line "Visit the Vikings"

Visit The Vikings - Norwegian America Line - 1920s

The early 1920s brochure covers the ships and accommodations of the Norwegian-America Line, tours of Norway, brief information about major cities in Norway, and many photographs that help promote a visit to beautiful Norway.

 

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North German Lloyd (Norddeutscher Lloyd)

 

Front Cover of 1889 Brochure from North German Lloyd "Short Route to London via Southampton and the Continent."

North German Lloyd - Short Route to London - 1889

🎓 “A 19th-Century Ocean Travel Brochure Turned Educational Goldmine”

The 1889 North German Lloyd (NDL) brochure titled "The Short Route to London via Southampton and the Continent" is more than a promotional travel pamphlet—it is a remarkable cultural artifact that opens a window into late 19th-century transatlantic steamship travel. Created during the Paris Exhibition of 1889, this richly detailed guide was distributed by Oelrichs & Co., the line’s New York agents, and served as both a functional passenger handbook and a marketing showcase for NDL’s first and second cabin services.

Teachers, students, genealogists, and historians will find the brochure incredibly valuable for understanding the social, economic, and technological structures of the Gilded Age’s oceanic travel system.

 

Front Cover, SS Columbus, Lloyd Express, 1925.

SS Columbus - Norddeutscher Lloyd Express Steamer - 1925

A Liner for the Discriminating Traveler. The SS Columbus has speed, spaciousness, and a queenly service with a transatlantic reputation worldwide. She takes you to Europe in six days de luxe, carries her capacity without showing it, and has the last word in comfort, cuisine, and convenience. A profusely illustrated brochure with interior photographs taken in the First Class section.

 

Covers for theNorth German Lloyd Brochure on their Expres Liner Bremen dated 15 November 1929.

Express Liner Bremen - North German Lloyd - 1929

16-Page brochure from Norddeutscher Lloyd produced for their offices in the United States and Canada. The booklet includes a pictorial of their accommodations for four classes of passengers: First, Second, Tourist, Third Cabin, and Third Class.

 

Front Cover, Norddeutscher Lloyd Bremen Brochure for the SS Bremen. Form 275, Printed in the USA 25 October 1929.

SS Bremen - North German Lloyd - 1929

Superb brochure from North German Lloyd on the SS Bremen includes many photographs documenting the ship and the accommodations afforded each class - First, Second, Tourist Third Cabin, and Third Class.

 

Front Cover, Lloyd Express First Class, Form 292, August 1930.

Lloyd Express First Class - 1930

The Gaiety and Exhilaration of Effortless Speed on the Bremen and Europa, the Fastest Liners Afloat. The Beauty of the Swift Columbus. All Contribute to the Tremendous Distinction That Lloyd Express Enjoys That You May Share in Your Well-Chosen Passage to England, France, and Germany.

 

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Navigazione Generale Italiana (NGI) Genoa

 

Front Cover, 1925 Brochure From NGI Italian Line Covering the SS Colombo, a Cabin-Class Ship.

SS Colombo - NGI Genoa - 1925

A rare 1925 Brochure from NGI, The Italian Line, featured many photographs of the interior rooms of the Cabin Class. The Ship is designed to carry Cabin and Third Class passengers with a capacity of 445 and 700, respectively.

 

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Orient-Royal Mail Line

 

Front Cover, Brochure from the Orient-Royal Mail Line of Steamers

Orient-Royal Mail Line of Steamers - 1906

Rare 1906 passenger information brochure from the Orient-Royal Mail Line that carried passengers and mail between the UK and Australia, the voyage taking about 33 days each way with Photographs and important passenger information included.

 

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Royal Mail Steam Packet Company (R.M.S.P.)

 

Front Brochure Cover, RMSP New York Service - First and Second Class - 1921.

Service de New York - Compagnie Royal Mail Steam Packet - 1921

Superbe brochure de 1921 contenant de nombreuses photographies extraordinaires des intérieurs de première et deuxième classe des paquebots de la Compagnie Royal Mail Steam Packet qui naviguent d'Europe à New York.

 

Front Brochure Cover, RMSP New York Service - First and Second Class - 1921.

New York Service - Royal Mail Steam Packet Company - 1921

Great Royal Mail Steam Packet Company brochure from 1921 includes many extraordinary photographs, including of the first and second-class interiors of the ocean liners plying from Europe to New York. Translated from the French.

 

Front Cover of 1923 Brochure "Cabin Liners to Europe" from the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company.

Cabin Liners to Europe - Royal Mail Steam Packet Company - 1923

Believed to be one of the earliest brochures produced by the RMSP to promote their newly acquired ships Orbita, Orca, and Orduña, in 1923 provides numerous interior photographs. The ships were only operated by RMSP for 3 years.

 

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Red Star Line

 

Cover, Brochure About Antwerp and the Red Star Line © 1904.

About Antwerp and the Red Star Line - 1904

A 50-page brochure from the Red Star Line provides extensive information on Antwerp's harbor, the city's history, and the Red Star Line transatlantic fleet. Many photographs help to illustrate this rare booklet from 1904.

 

Front Cover of 1924 Brochure The SS Belgenland of the Red Star Line.

SS Belgenland Into Europe - Red Star Line - 1924

The Triple Screw Steamer Belgenland, Queen of the Red Star Line Ships 1924 18-page Brochure entitled "Into Europe Through Belgium," produced by the New York Office. Lavish photographs capture the luxury and opulence of the first class.

 

Front Cover of 1924 Brochure on the Red Star Line Flagship SS Belgenland 27,200 Tons.

SS Belgenland - Red Star Line - 1924

A 1924 brochure from the Red Star Line features their flagship, the SS Belgenland, and its many amenities available for first-class passengers. Numerous photographs and illustrations document the opulence and service provided by the Red Star Line.

 

Front Cover, Red Star Line Third Class Rates Brochure No. 13 Dated 7 October 1925.

Third Class Rates - Red Star Line - 7 October 1925

Third Class, Through Booking Outbound Rates to Europe, Children and Infants' Ocean Fares, and Approximate Third Class British Rail Rates, 7 October 1925, Red Star Line Fleet, and more.

 

Brochure Cover, Red Star Line Second Class Rates

Second Class Rates - Red Star Line - 1926

January 1926 brochure contained second-class rates for the Red Star Line steamships Belgenland and Lapland for routes between New York and Antwerp. It includes European Rail and Steamer Fares and interior and exterior photographs for both ships.

 

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Scandinavian-American Line

 

Front Cover, 1912 Brochure "Scandinavia to America," From The Scandinavian-American Line.

Scandinavia to America - Scandinavian-American Line - 1912

50-Page brochure from the Scandinavian-American Line promoting their service from Scandinavia to New York focused on Third Class accommodations and persuading immigrants to cross the Atlantic on one of their steamships. Translated from the Swedish.

 

Framsida, 1912 Broschyr "Skandinavien till Amerika", från den Skandinavien-Amerika Linien.

Skandinavien och Amerika - Skandinavien-Amerika Linien - 1912

50-sidars broschyr från den skandinavisk-amerikanska linjen som främjar deras tjänster från Skandinavien till New York fokuserade på tredje klassens boende och övertalade invandrare att korsa Atlanten på ett av sina ångfartyg.

 

Front Cover 1917 Brochure, Scandinavian-American Line Regular Direct Communication Between New York and Scandinavia.

Direct Services - Scandinavian American Line - 1917

The 1917 Brochure covers History, Fleet, Accommodations (First, Second, and Third Class), Connections at Ports, Information on Scandinavia, and Offices and Agencies. It was translated from Swedish. Numerous interior photographs make this brochure exceptional.

 

Brochure Cover, Passenger Service to and from Northern Europe by the Scandinavian American Line.

Cabin Service to Northern Europe - 1920s

A 16-page brochure from Scandinavian-American Line is devoted to their cabin service to and from Northern Europe. It contains information for passengers about their fleet and cabin accommodation.

 

Brochure Cover for the Scandinavian-American Line Tourist Third Cabin from 1928.

Tourist Third Cabin - Scandinavian-American Line - 1928

8-Page brochure from the Scandinavian-American Line packs considerable information and interior photographs of their Tourist Third Cabin accommodations, rates of passage, and other information for passengers.

 

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United States Lines

 

Front Brochure Cover of Passenger Ships Owned by the United States Government Published in 1922

U.S. Passenger Ships of 1922: A Visual Tour of America’s Maritime Renaissance

Overview: This comprehensive 1922 promotional brochure from the United States Shipping Board Emergency Fleet Corporation (operating under the United States Lines) is a treasure trove of maritime history — a detailed celebration of America's reassertion on the seas following World War I. Lavishly illustrated and narratively rich, the brochure captures the ambition, elegance, and pride of the American passenger fleet as it prepared to compete head-to-head with the great liners of Europe.

For teachers, students, historians, genealogists, and ocean travel enthusiasts, this brochure is both a research asset and a visual journey, chronicling the rebirth of the U.S. Merchant Marine and revealing the interconnectedness of migration, national pride, and leisure travel in the 1920s.

 

Front Cover of 1923 Brochure Introducing the Flagship of the United States Lines, the Incomparable Steamship Leviathan.

SS Leviathan (1923): America’s Greatest Luxury Ocean Liner

The 1923 SS Leviathan brochure is more than a promotional piece—it’s a historical document capturing the grandeur, innovation, and transformation of one of the most famous ocean liners of the early 20th century. This lavish 32-page publication provides rare insights into the ship’s wartime history, post-war reconstruction, and luxury accommodations, making it a valuable resource for maritime historians, teachers, genealogists, and travel enthusiasts.

With stunning large-format photographs, the brochure offers an unparalleled look at the Leviathan’s opulent interiors, from the Ritz-Carlton restaurant and the Winter Garden to the grand social hall and staterooms. The ship’s technical advancements and significance in American merchant marine history further enhance its relevance as a study of transatlantic travel in the 1920s.

 

Front Brochure Cover, Third Class Passage to Europe - 1923

Third-Class Passage to Europe (1923) – The Evolution of Affordable Luxury Travel

The 1923 brochure on Third-Class Passage to Europe published by the United States Lines provides a remarkable and detailed insight into the often-overlooked third-class travel experience during the golden age of transatlantic steamship voyages. This document not only illustrates the improvements in third-class accommodations but also challenges the stereotypes of steerage travel with descriptions of clean, comfortable, and well-appointed living and recreational spaces.

For teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, this brochure is a treasure trove of information about early 20th-century ocean travel, societal structures, and the experience of working- and middle-class passengers who crossed the Atlantic.

 

Front Cover of 1924 Brochure from the United States Lines for Travel Between New York and Several European Ports.

Across the Atlantic in Style: The 1924 United States Lines Brochure Unveiled

The 1924 brochure from the United States Lines provides a rich glimpse into transatlantic ocean travel during the early 20th century. With routes connecting New York to Plymouth, Cherbourg, Southampton, and Bremen, the brochure showcases a fleet of elegant, American-operated steamships. This resource holds significant value for teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians interested in understanding ocean travel's social, economic, and technical aspects during this period.

 

Front Cover of a 1924 Brochure from the United States Lines Entitled "The American Way to Europe.

The American Way to Europe: A 1924 United States Lines Brochure – A Resource for Educators, Historians, and Enthusiasts

The 1924 United States Lines brochure, The American Way to Europe, serves as a captivating historical artifact that provides a detailed look at transatlantic ocean travel during the early 20th century. This meticulously crafted publication does more than list ships and schedules—it transports readers into the vibrant world of ocean liners, illustrating the luxurious, comfortable, and practical aspects of maritime journeys to Europe. For teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, this brochure is a rich educational resource that brings to life the social customs, travel standards, and technological advancements of the time.

The brochure showcases the fleet of the United States Lines, including the iconic SS Leviathan, SS George Washington, SS America, SS Republic, SS President Harding, and SS President Roosevelt. Through vivid descriptions, photographs, and anecdotes, readers gain insights into the various travel classes—First Class, Cabin Class, Second Class, and Tourist Third Cabin—highlighting the differences in accommodations, amenities, and social atmospheres aboard these vessels.

 

Navigating Luxury: A Historical Insight into the SS Manhattan & SS Washington Passenger Experience – 1936

The 1936 informational brochure for the SS Manhattan and SS Washington offers a detailed glimpse into transatlantic ocean travel aboard two of America's fastest liners of the era. This historical document serves as an invaluable resource for educators, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, presenting a rich tapestry of social customs, maritime operations, and onboard experiences of the 1930s.

The 1936 brochure for the SS Manhattan and SS Washington is more than a historical artifact; it's a window into the transatlantic travel experience of the 1930s. Its detailed accounts of passenger amenities, social customs, and travel regulations make it an invaluable resource for understanding ocean travel's broader historical context. For those passionate about maritime history, this document captures the elegance, innovation, and complexities of a bygone era, offering enduring relevance for modern audiences interested in the golden age of ocean liners.

 

Front Cover, United States Lines Brochure, Spring and Summer Travel Log Number, 1938.

Spring & Summer Transatlantic Travel 1938: A Snapshot of Luxury, Leisure, and Exploration on United States Lines

The United States Lines Spring & Summer Travel 1938 brochure provides an engaging look into the golden age of transatlantic travel. With vivid photography and detailed descriptions, it offers insights into the luxurious and practical aspects of life aboard the SS Manhattan and SS Washington. This piece serves as a valuable resource for teachers, students, genealogists, historians, and anyone fascinated by the evolution of ocean travel.

This 1938 brochure is more than just a travel guide; it's a historical document. For genealogists, it provides context around the travel experiences of ancestors who may have crossed the Atlantic on these vessels. For educators and students, it serves as a vivid snapshot of pre-WWII maritime culture. The descriptions of staff roles, passenger activities, and travel logistics illuminate how travel transformed into a more accessible and enjoyable endeavor for everyday Americans.

 

Cover, Travel in Luxury at Low Cost with American Hospitality with United States Lines, 1939 Brochure.

Affordable Ocean Luxury: The 1939 United States Lines Experience

The 1939 brochure Travel in Luxury at Low Cost from the United States Lines presents an engaging and informative look into transatlantic travel options just before World War II. With vivid descriptions, captivating photographs, and practical insights, the brochure paints a picture of comfortable, affordable ocean voyages for a diverse range of passengers. This historical document holds significant value for teachers, students, genealogists, historians, and others interested in maritime travel, 20th-century tourism, and social history.

This brochure is more than a promotional piece for ocean travel; it reflects the era's travel trends, economic considerations, and the leisure habits of pre-war America and Europe. Teachers can use it to illustrate the importance of ocean liners in international travel before the rise of commercial aviation. Historians might find the documented fares, schedules, and social dynamics aboard these liners useful for understanding interwar travel culture. Genealogists may also glean insights into the voyages their ancestors undertook when immigrating or traveling abroad.

 

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White Star Line

 

Front Cover, 1907 White Star Line Brochure Covering Their Fleet, History, Accommodations, and Services.

White Star Line: Fleet, History & Services (1907) – A Golden Age of Ocean Travel

This 1907 White Star Line brochure is a treasure trove of information on transatlantic travel at the height of the ocean liner era. Covering all three classes of service—first, second, and third—this illustrated 41-page booklet offers rare insights into the luxury, innovation, and accessibility that defined White Star’s dominance in ocean travel.

For teachers, students, genealogists, and maritime historians, this detailed document provides first-hand evidence of early 20th-century migration, ship technology, and the passenger experience. The White Star Line, famous for later launching the Titanic, was at its peak in 1907, offering cutting-edge vessels, elegant accommodations, and expanding global routes that stretched from New York to New Zealand.

With stunning images of legendary ships, elegant dining rooms, and the finest accommodations of their time, this brochure paints a vivid picture of life at sea for passengers of all classes—from wealthy first-class travelers to hopeful immigrants seeking a new life in America.

 

Front Cover, White Star Line Famous Big 4 - RMS Adriatic, RMS Baltic, RMS Cedric, and RMS Celtic dated 16 April 1909.

The Famous Big 4: White Star Line’s New York-Liverpool Service (1909)

This 1909 White Star Line brochure provides an intimate look at four of the largest and most reliable transatlantic liners of their era: RMS Adriatic, Baltic, Cedric, and Celtic. Known as the Big Four, these massive, steady, and elegant ships dominated the New York–Liverpool route, offering first-class luxury, second-class comfort, and third-class efficiency for thousands of travelers.

This 8-page booklet, filled with remarkable photographs, captures the grandeur of early 20th-century ocean travel, making it a valuable resource for historians, teachers, students, and genealogists. The brochure celebrates the Big Four’s dominance, emphasizing their smooth voyages, refined interiors, and loyal passengers who frequently returned to these vessels for their preferred Atlantic crossings.

 

Front Cover, The Steamers of the White Star Line, ca. 1909. From the Chris Crofts Collection.

 

The Steamers of the White Star Line (1909): A Visual Chronicle of Transatlantic Travel

This 1909 White Star Line brochure is a treasure trove of historical insights into one of the most prestigious transatlantic shipping companies of the early 20th century. Unlike other promotional materials focusing on a single ship or route, this pictorial booklet provides a panoramic view of the entire White Star fleet, highlighting past, present, and future vessels, including the then under-construction RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic.

This stunning visual collection, sourced from the Chris Crofts Collection, makes this brochure a crucial reference for maritime historians, genealogists, teachers, students, and ocean travel enthusiasts.

 

Front Cover of 1922 Brochure Majestic - The World's Largest Ship from the White Star Line.

📖 Majestic at Sea: The Ultimate Expression of Transatlantic Luxury in the 1920s

The 1922 White Star Line brochure on the RMS Majestic presents an extraordinary visual and descriptive record of first-class ocean travel in the early 20th century. It emphasizes the ship’s sheer scale, elegance, and luxury, positioning it as the pinnacle of transatlantic travel.

This historically significant document is an essential resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians studying:

✅ The Golden Age of Ocean Liners (1920s transatlantic crossings).

✅ Immigrant & Elite Passenger Experiences.

✅ The White Star Line’s Competition with Cunard.

✅ The Evolution of Maritime Architecture & Design.

✅ Luxury vs. Second-Class Travel on Steamships.

 

Cover of a Tourist Third Cabin and Third Class Brochure from White Star Line Canadian Service, 1928.

Tourist Third Cabin & Third Class - WSL Canadian Service - 1928

Tourist Third Cabin and Third Class Views, Plans, and General Information for the SS Laurentic, SS Albertic, SS Calgaric, SS Megantic, SS Doric, and SS Regina. 25 Photographs, mainly interior views and Deck Plans for the Albertic, Megantic, Laurentic, Calgaric, Doric, and Regina.

 

Cover of 1928 Brochure, Popular Tours to Europe Arranged in Conjunction with the White Star Line Canadian Service and Beale Tours, Chicago.

Popular Tours to Europe - Beale Tours - WSL - 1928

White Star Line Canadian Service. Informational brochure details several different European tours with Itineraries and Costs. Steamship Interior Photos included: Dining Room, Smoking Room, Ladies' Lounge, Dance Hall, Two-Berth Cabin with Settee, and Lounge, all from Tourist Third Class (Ship's Not Identified). Illustrations include the SS Laurentic (1927) and an advertisement with a photo of a European Standard Suitcase (27.5 x 14.5 x 8 inches).

 

Front Cover of 1930 Dutch Brochure from the White Star Line: Boston and New York in the Third Class.

White Star Line To Boston and New York in Third Class - 1930

Translated from a 1930 Dutch brochure on third-class accommodations on the "Big Four" - the Britannic, Baltic, Cedric, and Adriatic, with many interior photographs to document this class of travel in 1930. Translated from the Dutch.

 

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🌍 Who Should Explore This Collection & Why?

📚 Teachers & Students: A Primary Source for Research

The brochures serve as an excellent primary source for essays and projects on topics like:

  • Early 20th-century immigration and its impact on global migration.
  • Social class distinctions in travel and how accommodations differed.
  • The role of ocean liners in global trade and tourism.
  • The technological evolution of ocean travel—from steamships to turbine-powered liners.

💡 Encourage students to use GG Archives materials when writing essays on transatlantic voyages, historical travel, and maritime history!

🏡 Genealogists & Family Historians: Understanding Ancestors' Journeys

Many immigrant ancestors traveled by ship, and these brochures help paint a vivid picture of their experience.

  • Third Class & Steerage Conditions: What life was like for immigrants crossing the Atlantic.
  • Routes & Ports of Entry: Popular stops included New York, Boston, Montreal, Liverpool, and Southampton.
  • Historical Menus & Passenger Services: The daily life onboard ships and what travelers experienced.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Steamship Passengers Browsing Brochures at a Kiosk (Early 1900s) – A fascinating depiction of how travelers selected their voyages!

💡 Why It’s Interesting: This image illustrates how ocean travel was marketed and perceived at the time—highlighting the choices passengers made when selecting a ship.

⚓ Maritime Historians & Enthusiasts: A Rare Glimpse into the Past

The brochures document the rise and fall of legendary steamship lines, including:

  • White Star Line (Titanic’s owners)
  • Cunard Line (Queen Mary, Mauretania, Lusitania)
  • Hamburg-America Line
  • Allan Line (A major Canadian immigration carrier)
  • French Line (SS Normandie, SS France)

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Artist Conception of RMS Olympic & Titanic (1909) – One of the earliest promotional depictions of these famous ships!

💡 Why It’s Interesting: The brochure was created before Titanic’s tragic sinking, capturing the optimism and grandeur of pre-1912 ocean travel.

🎨 Collectors & Designers: A Treasure Trove of Vintage Art & Typography

These brochures showcase incredible early 20th-century graphic design, typography, and color printing techniques.

  • Elegant Art Deco covers from the 1920s and 1930s.
  • Intricate deck plans and illustrations showing ship layouts.
  • Hand-drawn travel maps detailing routes across the Atlantic.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Cover of 1937 SS Normandie Brochure (French Line) – A masterpiece of Art Deco design that perfectly embodies the elegance of ocean travel in the 1930s.

💡 Why It’s Interesting: The Normandie was one of the most luxurious liners ever built, and this brochure visually reflects its opulence.

 

Key Highlights of the Collection 🚢📖

1. Rare Brochures of Famous Ships & Lines

The collection includes promotional materials from over 30 steamship lines, covering ships such as:

  • SS France (1912) – A "floating palace" of luxury.
  • RMS Majestic (1922) – The world's largest ship at the time.
  • SS Belgenland (1924) – The "Queen of the Red Star Line."
  • SS Leviathan (1923) – The pride of the United States Lines.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Cover of the 1907 White Star Line Brochure – Featuring stunning illustrations of the fleet and passenger accommodations.

💡 Why It’s Interesting: The brochure captures the peak of White Star’s success, just a few years before Titanic’s maiden voyage.

 

2. Ocean Travel for All Classes (First Class to Steerage) 💼🛏️

These brochures provide an unparalleled look into shipboard life, offering:

🔹 First-Class luxury – Lavish ballrooms, gourmet dining, and elegant suites.

🔹 Second-Class comfort – Well-appointed cabins, smoking lounges, and music rooms.

🔹 Tourist Third Cabin – A blend of affordability and comfort, introduced in the 1920s.

🔹 Third Class/Steerage – The immigrant experience, often in communal dormitories.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Third Class Dining Room on the SS Tunisian (1908) – A rare look at how immigrants dined during transatlantic crossings.

💡 Why It’s Interesting: Unlike popular belief, third-class passengers were often provided with clean, decent accommodations and hearty meals.

 

3. Ship Deck Plans & Route Maps 🗺️⚓

🔹 Detailed deck plans help visualize the layout of iconic ships.

🔹 Travel route maps show major transatlantic shipping lanes.

🔹 Immigration brochures outline entry points for European arrivals to North America.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Deck Plan of SS Corsican (1908, Allan Line) – A detailed map showing passenger cabins, dining rooms, and lounges.

💡 Why It’s Interesting: These deck plans help genealogists understand where ancestors lived during their voyage and show the evolving design of ocean liners.

 

4. Dining & Entertainment at Sea 🍽️🎻

Brochures often included full menus, showcasing fine dining at sea.

  • Breakfast options included fresh fruit, grilled ham, and eggs.
  • Lunch featured beef steak pie, corned beef, and salad.
  • Dinner offered roast turkey, Yorkshire pudding, and desserts like plum pudding & ice cream.

📸 Noteworthy Image:

📷 Second Saloon Menu (1907, Allan Line) – A fascinating look at the dining experience for mid-tier travelers.

💡 Why It’s Interesting: Menus reveal the quality of meals offered aboard steamships, challenging myths of poor conditions for non-First-Class passengers.

 

Final Thoughts: A Must-Explore Collection for History & Travel Enthusiasts 🚢✨

The Ocean Liner & Travel Brochures Collection at GG Archives is an essential historical resource, offering rare insights into ocean travel from the 1800s through the 1950s.

✅ For students, it provides primary sources for research projects.

✅ For genealogists, it brings immigrant journeys to life.

✅ For maritime historians, it documents ship evolution & travel trends.

💡 Explore the collection today and uncover the golden age of ocean travel! 🌊✨

 

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