1920s Passage Contracts & Tickets: A Window into Transatlantic Migration & Ocean Travel
📌 Explore the GG Archives' collection of 1920s ocean liner passage contracts and tickets. These primary source documents reveal immigration trends, third-class travel conditions, prepaid sponsorship systems, and luxury voyages aboard steamships. A valuable resource for historians, genealogists, and maritime enthusiasts! 🚢📜
All Passage Contracts and Tickets for the 1920s available at the GG Archives. These unique contracts represent primary source documents of the voyage of many immigrants. Our collection includes a variety of types and classes and provides an invaluable account of the cost of passage.
Recap & Summary of "Passage Contracts and Tickets - 1920s" 🚢📜💼
The "Passage Contracts and Tickets - 1920s" section at the GG Archives is a treasure trove of primary source documents that illuminate the transatlantic journeys of immigrants, tourists, and business travelers during the interwar period. This collection of third-class, steerage, second-class, and even first-class passage contracts offers a rare glimpse into the financial, legal, and logistical aspects of ocean travel in the 1920s.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, these contracts serve as invaluable research materials, providing real-world examples of migration patterns, ticketing procedures, travel expenses, and maritime regulations. Whether tracing family histories, studying immigration policies, or understanding the economic conditions of transatlantic travel, this collection provides firsthand documentation of how people crossed the ocean.
SS Euripides 1921 Passage Contract: A Third-Class Journey from Australia to Britain
The SS Euripides Passage Contract, dated 21 May 1921, provides a rare glimpse into post-World War I transoceanic migration from Australia to England. This third-class travel document, issued by the Aberdeen Line, details the journey of Mr. W.G. Stevens and his family, emphasizing the logistical, legal, and economic aspects of ocean travel in the early 1920s.
As a primary source document, it holds significant value for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, offering insights into ticketing procedures, voyage conditions, and the broader story of British-Australian migration.
The 1921 SS Euripides Passage Contract is more than just a travel document—it is a historical record that provides deep insights into the realities of migration, third-class travel conditions, and post-war global movement. With legal stipulations, rationing tables, and financial details, this artifact is a goldmine for anyone researching maritime history or family genealogy.
The SS Mount Clinton Passage Contract, dated 26 May 1921, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lesser-documented eastbound transatlantic journeys of the early 20th century. Unlike the vast majority of westward voyages, which carried immigrants to America, this contract records a return journey to Europe, specifically Libau (Liepāja, Latvia), via Hamburg. The ticket was issued to Karl Sivert, a third-class passenger, marking an intriguing case of post-World War I migration. The ship was on its maiden voyage, making this contract even more historically significant.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this primary source document provides valuable insights into migration trends, maritime travel conditions, and ticketing processes during the 1920s. With detailed contractual terms, financial costs, and voyage conditions, it serves as an essential reference for those studying immigration, repatriation, and transatlantic travel networks.
SS Hudson 1921 Passage Contract: A Steerage-Class Immigration Journey from Bremen to New York
The SS Hudson Passage Contract Manifest, dated 22 June 1921, is a remarkable historical artifact capturing the transatlantic journey of Theresia Floc, a Yugoslavian immigrant, and her child, Maria. This steerage-class passage contract, issued by the United States Mail Steamship Company, details their voyage from Bremen, Germany, to New York, reflecting the challenges, legal stipulations, and financial commitments faced by immigrants in the post-World War I era.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this primary source document offers a direct glimpse into the experiences of Eastern European immigrants, particularly those from Yugoslavia, who sought new opportunities in America. The contract’s intricate legal conditions, baggage policies, and travel restrictions provide a comprehensive look at early 20th-century transatlantic migration.
The SS Commonwealth Passage Contract, dated 18 August 1921, provides a remarkable window into the migration experience of British and Australian families during the early 20th century. As part of the Peninsular & Oriental Line’s service to Australia, this Third-Class (Steerage) contract represents the economic realities, legal stipulations, and travel conditions faced by emigrants traveling from London to Melbourne.
This contract is a vital resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, shedding light on British emigration trends, maritime regulations, and the cost of passage in the aftermath of World War I. The Stevens family's voyage aboard the SS Commonwealth was not just a journey—it was a transformative migration story, reflective of the broader movement of families seeking opportunities in Australia.
The SS George Washington Passage Contract, dated 17 September 1921, is a fascinating artifact that provides insight into the transatlantic migration experience of German immigrants traveling to the United States after World War I. This third-class (steerage) ticket, issued for a 26-year-old German teacher, represents a pivotal moment in postwar migration, reflecting economic hardships, strict travel regulations, and the evolving immigration policies of the United States.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this contract serves as a compelling primary source, detailing the costs, travel conditions, and legal stipulations faced by steerage-class immigrants. The addition of a Certificate of Innocence, a rare document carried by this traveler, highlights the strict vetting process imposed on German nationals in the wake of WWI.
The United States Lines Prepaid Passage Receipt, dated 10 October 1922, represents a fascinating example of transatlantic migration during the post-World War I period. This cabin-class prepaid ticket for Polish immigrant Linda Strasszewska included not just ocean travel from Bremen to New York, but also a connecting train ticket to Chicago, Illinois.
This document provides valuable insight into how immigrants traveled long distances across multiple transportation networks, showcasing the complexity, financial burden, and logistics of European emigration to America in the early 20th century.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this passage contract is an essential primary source, highlighting the prepaid ticketing system, the role of sponsors in immigration, and the strict contractual obligations of ocean travel.
The SS Reliance Prepaid Passage Certificate, issued on January 27, 1923, represents a rare and historically significant record of transatlantic migration in the post-World War I era. It documents the prepaid passage of 18-year-old Frieda Mayer from Hamburg, Germany, to St. Louis, Missouri, via New York, aboard the Royal Mail Steam Packet Company (RMSP) liner SS Reliance.
This second-class prepaid ticket was purchased by a relative, Bernhard Mayer, who had immigrated to the United States in 1892—a clear example of chain migration, where established family members sponsored new arrivals. Frieda’s journey was delayed, and she did not arrive until October 1925, illustrating the complexities and uncertainties that often accompanied overseas migration.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this document is an invaluable primary source, revealing the role of prepaid passage systems, the financial realities of migration, and the legal and logistical intricacies of early 20th-century transatlantic travel.
A Glimpse into Early 20th-Century Immigration Through a Young Polish Girl’s Journey
This prepaid passage contract from December 11, 1923, for a 13-year-old Polish immigrant, Janina Kozlowski, offers a compelling window into the immigration experience of the early 20th century. The United States Lines contract covered her second-class voyage aboard the SS Zeeland from Antwerp to New York, highlighting not only the logistical aspects of transatlantic travel but also the legal and financial hurdles faced by immigrants and their families.
This historical document is particularly valuable for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, as it provides firsthand evidence of how European immigrants navigated the complex process of transatlantic relocation. From the cost of passage ($164.56, equivalent to approximately $2,500–$39,900 in 2020 dollars) to the contract stipulations, this receipt tells a powerful story of hope, hardship, and opportunity.
SS United States Embarkation Coupon (1925): A Scandinavian Immigrant’s Journey Back to Oslo 🇺🇸➡️🇳🇴
The Scandinavian-American Line Third-Class Embarkation Coupon, issued on May 16, 1925, documents the transatlantic journey of Mr. Johannes Hesch from New York to Oslo aboard the SS United States. This ticket represents the return migration of a European immigrant—an often-overlooked aspect of transatlantic travel. While many historical records focus on immigrants coming to America, this document sheds light on those who journeyed back to Europe, either temporarily or permanently.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this coupon is an important primary source, offering insights into third-class accommodations, ticket pricing, and Scandinavian-American migration patterns. It highlights the Scandinavian-American Line’s role in connecting the United States with Northern Europe, a key route for Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish immigrants.
SS Bremen Passage Contract Manifest (1925): A Tourist-Class Journey from Germany to America 🇩🇪➡️🇺🇸
The SS Bremen Passage Contract Manifest, dated August 15, 1925, is an exceptional historical document that provides a detailed account of a transatlantic journey aboard the Norddeutscher Lloyd liner, SS Bremen. This passage contract, issued to Rosa Brise, a 50-year-old U.S. citizen, offers a rare insight into tourist-class travel, passenger rights, and transatlantic migration in the 1920s.
For teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, this manifest serves as an invaluable primary source, showcasing the contractual agreements, travel expenses, and accommodations provided to passengers of the era. It also highlights the evolution of ocean travel as passenger liners began catering to more middle-class travelers, beyond just immigrants and luxury tourists.
The Lloyd Sabaudo First-Class Ticket for the SS Conte Biancamano, dated June 30, 1927, is a rare and valuable historical document that provides a glimpse into high-end transatlantic travel during the golden age of ocean liners. This first-class passage, reserved for Frank Pinto, his wife Emma, and their two young children, offers insights into elite ocean travel, ticketing policies, and the luxurious experience aboard one of Italy’s premier steamships.
SS Conte Biancamano (1925) was a state-of-the-art liner that catered to wealthy travelers, diplomats, and celebrities seeking comfort and elegance on their journey between the U.S. and Italy.
For historians, genealogists, educators, and students, this passenger contract offers a window into the upper-class transatlantic experience, including fare pricing, onboard accommodations, and the legal framework governing ocean travel in the 1920s.
Der D. New York Beförderungsvertrag vom 16. September 1927 ist ein bemerkenswertes historisches Dokument, das einen detaillierten Einblick in die transatlantische Reise von deutschen Auswanderern in den späten 1920er Jahren gewährt. Dieser 3. Klasse Passagiervertrag, ausgestellt von der Hamburg-Amerika Linie, beleuchtet die rechtlichen Bedingungen, Reisebestimmungen, sowie persönliche Details der Passagierin Emma Muessigbrodt.
Für Historiker, Genealogen, Lehrer und Studenten ist dieses Dokument eine wertvolle Quelle, um die Erfahrungen von Auswanderern, ihre Reisebedingungen und die Bürokratie der damaligen Zeit zu verstehen. Es bietet eine konkrete Verbindung zur Geschichte der Migration und hilft bei der Rekonstruktion familiärer Wanderungsbewegungen.
The SS New York Passage Contract from 16 September 1927 is a historically significant document that provides an in-depth look at third-class transatlantic travel aboard the Hamburg-America Line. This contract, issued to Emma Muessigbrodt, a 37-year-old German woman traveling from Hamburg to New York, outlines the terms, conditions, and logistics of ocean travel in the late 1920s.
Emma’s case reflects the realities of migration for single women during the 1920s, demonstrating how women navigated transatlantic journeys independently.
For historians, genealogists, educators, and students, this document serves as a valuable primary source to understand the migrant experience, economic conditions, and bureaucratic processes involved in immigration during this era.
The SS Roma Passage Contract (Quota) from 18 September 1928 is a significant historical document reflecting the rigid structure of transatlantic ocean travel during the interwar period. Issued by Navigazione Generale Italiana, this Second Class passage contract was part of the quota system imposed by the Immigration Act of 1924, which restricted the number of immigrants allowed into the United States. This document is a valuable resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, offering insights into immigration policies, passenger rights, and the legal framework governing transatlantic voyages.
The "Quota" stamp on the contract is one of the most striking elements. It reflects the U.S. immigration restrictions under the Immigration Act of 1924, which imposed a strict quota on Italian immigrants (only 4,000 in 1928). This mark alone adds immense genealogical and historical value, as it confirms the passenger’s status under U.S. immigration law.
The SS George Washington Passage Contract from 3 October 1928 offers an invaluable glimpse into transatlantic travel during the interwar period. Issued by United States Lines, this third-class passage contract details the financial, logistical, and legal aspects of passenger transport for German nationals immigrating or traveling to the U.S. during a time of stringent immigration laws.
This document is a valuable resource for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, as it reveals the immigration policies, travel conditions, and risks associated with ocean voyages in the 1920s.
United States Lines Passage Payment Receipts - 1928: Financing Irish Immigration to America
The United States Lines Passage Payment Receipts from 1928 serve as a powerful reminder of the immigrant experience, particularly for families separated by the Atlantic Ocean. These documents highlight the financial sacrifices made by immigrants already in America who sent money back home to pay for their relatives' ocean passage.
This historical record is invaluable for teachers, students, genealogists, and historians, as it sheds light on early 20th-century immigration patterns, financial arrangements, and transatlantic travel logistics.
🔍 Why This Collection is Significant
This comprehensive archive covers a diverse range of voyages, from third-class immigrant journeys to luxurious first-class experiences, and even prepaid travel arrangements for European immigrants heading to the United States.
This collection is particularly relevant for:
📚 Educators & Students – Brings immigration history to life with real examples of travel documents, fostering critical thinking about migration, economy, and social history.
🧬 Genealogists – Provides valuable personal data for tracing family migration stories, including names, routes, ticket costs, and class of travel.
📖 Historians – Offers insight into post-WWI transatlantic travel, immigration restrictions (e.g., U.S. Quota Acts), and the changing landscape of ocean liners.
⚓ Maritime Enthusiasts – Documents the major steamship lines of the 1920s and their ticketing, pricing, and class structures.
📌 The Most Engaging & Unique Content
This section features a range of fascinating passage contracts, but a few stand out as particularly valuable and unique:
1️⃣ The Quota Ticket: SS Roma (1928) – Italian Immigration & U.S. Restrictions 🇮🇹➡️🇺🇸
Why It’s Interesting: This contract is stamped "Quota", marking it as part of the restrictive U.S. Immigration Act of 1924, which significantly limited the number of Italian immigrants allowed into the U.S.
Historical Relevance: This quota-based travel restriction shaped the demographics of 20th-century American immigration.
Genealogical Value: Confirms that the passenger was among the 4,000 Italians admitted under the quota system in 1928.
📷 Navigazione Generale Italiana Second-Class Passage Contract, SS Roma, 18 September 1928
2️⃣ Eastbound Ticket: SS Mount Clinton (1921) – Rare Repatriation to Latvia 🇺🇸➡️🇱🇻
Why It’s Interesting: Unlike the majority of transatlantic tickets, which document westbound immigration to America, this contract shows a return journey to Latvia, an unusual case of postwar repatriation.
Historical Relevance: Following WWI, many immigrants returned to Europe due to unstable economic conditions in the U.S.
Educational Value: Helps illustrate the lesser-discussed trend of “reverse migration”.
📷 Third-Class Outward Passage Contract, SS Mount Clinton, New York to Latvia, 26 May 1921
3️⃣ The Immigrant Sponsorship System: United States Lines (1928) – Irish Family Ticket 💰🇮🇪➡️🇺🇸
Why It’s Interesting: Documents a prepaid passage system, where an Irish immigrant in New York paid for his family's voyage from Cobh, Ireland.
Genealogical Value: Many immigrant families relied on sponsorship to fund their passage, making these records vital for family history research.
Educational Value: Offers a real-world case study of how immigrants financed transatlantic travel.
📷 United States Lines Passage Payment Receipt, 30 March & 15 April 1928, Irish Immigrant Family
4️⃣ The Luxury Voyage: SS Conte Biancamano (1927) – First-Class Ticket to Italy 🇺🇸➡️🇮🇹
Why It’s Interesting: This first-class ticket showcases the glamorous side of ocean travel, a stark contrast to the steerage contracts in this collection.
Historical Relevance: Provides insight into elite travel experiences aboard premier Italian ocean liners.
Maritime Interest: Features Lloyd Sabaudo, a major Italian luxury steamship company.
📷 First-Class Ticket, SS Conte Biancamano, New York to Genoa, 30 June 1927
5️⃣ The Steerage Immigrant: SS George Washington (1921) – German Teacher’s Journey 🇩🇪➡️🇺🇸
Why It’s Interesting: This third-class contract belonged to a 26-year-old German teacher, reflecting the economic hardships and strict travel regulations of the post-WWI period.
Educational Value: Includes a Certificate of Innocence, a rare document used to vet German nationals before entering the U.S. after WWI.
Genealogical Relevance: Highlights the challenges faced by German immigrants due to increased scrutiny.
📷 Third-Class Passage Contract, SS George Washington, 17 September 1921
📖 Final Thoughts & Why This Collection Matters
This collection of passage contracts from the 1920s is more than just a series of tickets—it is a historical record of human movement, economic struggle, and dreams of a better future. 🌍✈️🚢
For Researchers & Enthusiasts, This Collection Offers:
✔️ A firsthand look at immigration policies (e.g., U.S. Quota Acts of 1921 & 1924).
✔️ A glimpse into the realities of ocean travel—from steerage hardships to first-class luxury.
✔️ Vital clues for family historians seeking ancestral migration records.
✔️ A unique perspective on transatlantic migration—including both arrivals and returns to Europe.
Whether you are a teacher explaining immigration history, a genealogist tracing a family’s journey, or a maritime historian exploring early 20th-century travel, these passage contracts provide an invaluable connection to the past. 🚢📖
