American Export Lines Passenger Lists (1932-1954): Elite Transatlantic Travel & Migration Records
📌 Explore the American Export Lines Passenger Lists (1932-1954) featuring U.S. Congressmen, military leaders, Hollywood elites, and aristocrats. This collection provides a rare look into transatlantic diplomacy, migration, and luxury travel before the jet age.
The American Export Lines Passenger List Collection, available at the Gjenvick-Gjønvik Archives have all been transcribed and uploaded.
The American Export Lines operated in various corporate formations from 1919 to 1977. They offered both Cargo and Passenger services between New York and the Mediterranean, principally Gibraltar, Cannes, Genoa, and Naples.
The SS Exeter, a triple series turbine express mail steamer of the American Export Lines, embarked on a historic voyage on 28 June 1932 from New York to Alexandria. This remarkable journey took passengers on an extensive Mediterranean route, stopping at Gibraltar, Marseilles, Jaffa, Haifa, Beirut, and Naples. Commanded by Captain C. C. Decker, this prestigious transatlantic liner carried an impressive list of travelers, including military leaders, scholars, business elites, religious figures, and notable families.
The passenger list serves as an invaluable historical document, showcasing the social fabric of transatlantic and Mediterranean travel during the interwar years. It offers insight into diplomatic relations, business expansion, and the movement of intellectuals and religious leaders between continents. Whether you're a historian, genealogist, teacher, or maritime enthusiast, this list provides a fascinating glimpse into the people who shaped history.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: One
Date of Departure: 28 June 1932
Route: New York to Alexandria via Gibraltar, Marseilles, Jaffa, Haifa, Beirut, and Naples
Commander: Captain C.C. Decker
Notable Passengers: General William M. Black 🇺🇸 (US Army), Colonel C. deF. Chandler 🇺🇸 (US Army Air Service), Col. Frank E. Evans 🇺🇸, Dr. Frederic B. Robinson, Dr. Joseph Rauch, Mr. Mortimer P. Burroughs & Family, Mr. Clement M. Biddle, Rev. P. F. Guterl, Rev. T. H. Powers, Mrs. Anne Hallisey & Miss Ruth Fleischmann, and Mrs. George H. Williams & Mr. George H. Williams, Jr.
On 13 April 1936, the SS Exeter, a distinguished passenger liner of the American Export Lines, arrived in Boston, completing its transatlantic voyage from Beirut. The ship would continue on to New York on 15 April 1936, marking another successful journey under the command of Captain S. F. Ransone.
This voyage occurred during an era of global transition, just before World War II reshaped international travel and diplomacy. The SS Exeter carried a diverse mix of passengers, including business leaders, diplomats, scholars, and emigrants, reflecting the cultural and economic ties between the United States and the Mediterranean region.
This passenger list serves as a valuable historical document, offering genealogists, historians, teachers, and students an intimate look at who traveled, why they traveled, and how transatlantic migration patterns evolved during the interwar period.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: One
Date of Departure: 13 April 1936
Route: Beirut for Boston and New York
Commander: Captain S. F. Ransone
Notable Passengers: W. William Hornibrook 🇺🇸, Gleb de Rosmaritza-Nowakowitch & Mrs. Sophia de Rosmaritza-Nowakowitch 🇷🇺, Dr. Craig Muckle, Miss Inga Normand, Herbert H. Franklin, Mr. Knowlton Mixer & Mrs. Knowlton Mixer, Mrs. Mary Barsa & Miss Violet Barsa, Mrs. Mary I. Hayes & Master William C. Hayes, Miss Helen Vaughn, and Mrs. Elizabeth Wurts & Mr. Charles S. Wurts.
The SS Excalibur, an esteemed vessel of the American Export Lines, set sail from Genoa, Italy, to New York, USA, on March 18, 1938. Commanded by Captain S. N. Groves, this transatlantic journey took passengers through key Mediterranean ports before crossing the Atlantic. The Excalibur was among the Four Aces, a group of ships celebrated for their luxury, efficiency, and service connecting the United States with Europe and the Middle East.
This voyage was historically significant as it took place on the eve of World War II, a period of escalating tensions in Europe. The passenger list, featuring scholars, medical professionals, high-society travelers, and expatriates, provides a glimpse into the lives of individuals traveling during this uncertain time. Many passengers were likely seeking new opportunities, escaping political unrest, or simply returning home from extended stays abroad.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: One
Date of Departure: 18 March 1938
Route: Genoa to New York
Commander: Captain S. N. Groves
Notable Passengers: Dr. Isaac E. Levitas & Mrs. Isaac E. Levitas, Dr. James A. O’Reilly & Mrs. James A. O’Reilly, Dr. Harry P. Packard & Family, Mrs. Florence Gardner Bishop, Mr. Swen F. Parson, Mr. Robert Mountsier, and Miss Eloise F. Roe & Miss Elaine J. Ross.
An Iconic Voyage Across the Atlantic in the Postwar Era
The SS Constitution, an esteemed luxury liner operated by American Export Lines, set sail on March 1, 1952, from Naples, Italy, bound for New York City via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. Under the command of Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen, this first-class voyage transported an array of distinguished passengers, including aristocrats, military officials, professors, and high-ranking diplomats.
This passenger list offers a snapshot of early 1950s transatlantic travel, highlighting the continuation of postwar migration, diplomatic exchanges, and luxury tourism. The first-class accommodations reflect prestige and exclusivity, with many influential figures choosing the SS Constitution for its comfort, speed, and world-class service.
For historians, genealogists, and maritime enthusiasts, this list serves as a valuable historical document, illustrating the global connections and elite social networks of the 1950s.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 1 March 1952
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen
Notable Passengers: Admiral Charles L. Andrews, Jr. (🇺🇸 U.S. Navy), General John S. Wood (🇺🇸 U.S. Army), Professor Aldo A. Bartolucci, Durward V. Sandifer, Wilder Foote, Dr. Ivan Kerno, Count Edward E. Bismarck, Conde de la Mortera & Condesa de la Mortera, Percival P. Baxter, and Robert W. Ades & Family.
A Journey of Prestige Across the Atlantic
The SS Independence, a luxurious transatlantic liner operated by American Export Lines, embarked on its voyage from Naples to New York on October 27, 1952. With stops in Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar, this journey reflected the continued importance of ocean liners in an era when air travel was beginning to rise.
Commanded by Captain Hugh L. Switzer, this Cabin Class voyage was not just a means of travel—it was a floating world of diplomats, emigrants, socialites, clergy, military officers, and intellectuals, all making their way across the Atlantic.
For historians, genealogists, and maritime enthusiasts, this passenger list offers a rare glimpse into postwar transatlantic migration, luxury travel, and global connections.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 27 October 1952
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Hugh L. Switzer
Notable Passengers: Antonio Natale & Dr. Roberto Botto Rossa, Rev. Giuseppe Mancini, Dr. Maynard M. Cohen, Rev. Mother Bertha Padberg, Rev. Edward Joseph Nester, Rev. Mother Hill & Rev. Mother Maria Quintanilla, Rev. Mother Concepcion Peredo, Aristoteles Bulgaris, Sebastian Licata, Miss Gloria Aston & Miss Adriana Ballew, and Miss Angele Gumuchian.
A Transatlantic Journey on the SS Independence
The SS Independence, a distinguished ocean liner of the American Export Lines, embarked on a Cabin Class voyage from Naples to New York on August 2, 1953, with stops in Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. Commanded by Captain Ernest H. Nelson, this journey reflected the grandeur and importance of transatlantic travel in the postwar era, providing transport for diplomats, clergy, military personnel, intellectuals, and emigrants heading to the United States.
This passenger list offers an insightful historical snapshot, making it a rich resource for historians, genealogists, and maritime enthusiasts.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 2 August 1953
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Ernest H. Nelson
Notable Passengers: 🇺🇸 Cmdr. Crandall T. Nefzger, 🇺🇸 Lt. Col. George W. Aux (USA), 🇺🇸 Capt. Clyde M. Handley (USA), 🇺🇸 Capt. Walter B. Kendrick (USA), 🇺🇸 Col. Lawrence J. Mulhall (USA), 🇺🇸 Lt. Col. James E. Skelly, 🇺🇸 Lt. Col. John E. Wales III, Very Rev. Bede Anthony Babo, Rev. Anthony Cestaro & Rev. William Connor, Rt. Rev. John F. Gannon, Dr. J. M. Thorington, Dr. Gaetano C. Ferrante, Ioannis Tsakoumakas, Serafina Varlotta & Antonina Serio Vella, Miss Ruth E. Ahlenius & Miss Gloria Aston, and Miss Lillian Pucci.
A Prestigious Transatlantic Journey Aboard the SS Constitution
The SS Constitution, one of the most luxurious ocean liners of the American Export Lines, embarked on a First Class voyage from New York to Naples on August 21, 1953, with stops in Gibraltar, Cannes, and Genoa. Under the command of Captain Ernest H. Nelson, this passenger list provides a fascinating glimpse into postwar transatlantic travel, featuring diplomats, military officials, scholars, aristocrats, business elites, and socialites.
This historical passenger manifest offers an invaluable resource for researchers, historians, and genealogists, reflecting the importance of ocean liners in the 1950s before air travel fully dominated transatlantic crossings.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 21 August 1953
Route: New York to Naples via Gibraltar, Cannes, and Genoa
Commander: Captain Ernest H. Nelson
Notable Passengers: 🇺🇸 Brig. Gen. Henry Anson Barber, Jr., 🇺🇸 Capt. Guy W. Hudgins, Countess Giulia Passerini, ⚕️ Dr. H. Houston Merritt, ⚕️ Dr. William Caveness, Dr. Lucas Lamadrid, Rabbi David A. Jessurm Cardoza, ⚕️ Dr. Walter Freeman, Hon. Stanton Griffis, Mr. Thomas C. Mann, Mr. William R. Coe, Jr., Miss Vale Asche, and Mrs. Anna Katz & Mr. Harry J. Kleinert.
A Glamorous Transatlantic Voyage Aboard the SS Independence 🌊✨
The SS Independence, one of the grandest ocean liners of the American Export Lines, set sail on August 24, 1953, departing Naples for New York, with stops in Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. This voyage, led by Captain Hugh L. Switzer, epitomizes the luxury and prestige of transatlantic travel in the early 1950s, a time when air travel had yet to fully eclipse ocean liners for the world’s elite.
This passenger list is a treasure trove of notable individuals, including military officers, diplomats, academics, business tycoons, and entertainment figures, reflecting the international influence and affluence of those traveling by sea in this era.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 24 August 1953
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes and Gibraltar,
Commander: Captain Hugh L. Switzer
Notable Passengers: Ambassador Fred L. Anderson, 🇺🇸 Col. Albert A. Kaufman, 🇺🇸 M/Sgt. Warren G. Campbell, ⚕️ Dr. Henry L. Bockus, ⚕️ Dr. Samuel M. Dodek, Dr. Nicholas Mestrandrea, Mr. Arnold M. Picker, Mr. Nicola Rossi-Lemeni, Maestro Tullio Serafin, Mrs. Elena Rakowska Serafin, and Miss Helen Frankenthaler.
A Fascinating Transatlantic Journey Aboard the SS Independence 🌊✨
The SS Independence, an esteemed ocean liner of the American Export Lines, embarked on a tourist-class voyage from Naples to New York on July 3, 1954. This journey, commanded by Captain Hugh L. Switzer, was a snapshot of mid-century transatlantic travel, carrying an eclectic mix of immigrants, business leaders, religious figures, military officers, academics, and cultural personalities.
For genealogists, historians, and maritime enthusiasts, this passenger list is a goldmine of information, reflecting both post-war European migration trends and the enduring role of ocean liners as a bridge between continents.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 3 July 1954
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Hugh L. Switzer
Notable Passengers: Prof. Charles W. Quaintance, Dr. Mustafa K. Sahin, Rev. Joseph E. DeLaney, Rev. Fortune C. Frenoy, Rev. Placid F. Pientek, Rev. Polycarp Sherwood, Dr. Francesco De Robbio, and Dr. John G. Varner.
A Grand Transatlantic Journey Aboard the SS Independence 🌊✨
The SS Independence, one of the premier transatlantic ocean liners of the American Export Lines, set sail from Naples on August 14, 1954, on a voyage to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. This voyage, commanded by Captain Ernest H. Nelson, provides a historical snapshot of mid-century travel, featuring a diverse list of immigrants, business elites, religious figures, military officers, academics, and cultural personalities.
For genealogists, historians, and maritime enthusiasts, this passenger list is an invaluable resource, reflecting post-war European migration, diplomatic travel, and the role of luxury liners as essential conduits of international movement.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 14 August 1954
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Ernest H. Nelson
Notable Passengers: Maj. Charles W. Audet (USA), Capt. Norman J. Bauman (USA), Col. J. B. Rasbach (USA), Lt. Col. Milton D. Purvis (USA), Prof. Roy P. Fairfield, Prof. J. Dean McCrary, Rev. William H. Shannon, Rev. Victor F. Wright, Sister M. Raphaelita Whalen & Sister Mary Brown, Hansmartin Buchmann, and Helene Budabin.
A Prestigious Voyage on the SS Constitution 🌊✨
The SS Constitution, a flagship luxury ocean liner operated by American Export Lines, embarked on a transatlantic voyage from New York to Naples on November 5, 1954, making stops in Cannes and Genoa. Under the command of Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen, this passenger list offers a fascinating historical snapshot of mid-20th-century travel, featuring a blend of diplomats, business elites, socialites, academics, and immigrants.
This list serves as a valuable historical document, reflecting an era when ocean liners remained a primary means of intercontinental travel before the rise of commercial aviation. For genealogists, historians, and maritime enthusiasts, it provides an insightful look into the passenger demographics of post-war America and Europe.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 5 November 1954
Route: New York to Naples via Cannes and Genoa
Commander: Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen
Notable Passengers: Hon. Emanuel Celler, Hon. Michael Feighan, Rasim Erdogan & Talat Eren, Ahmed Marzouk, Rev. John O’Melia, Countess Elizabeth B. Werthern, Philip B. Robinson & Sidney Rogers, and Eduardo Siso & A.B. Sloss.
The SS Independence, a luxurious ocean liner operated by American Export Lines, set sail on 9 November 1954 on a transatlantic journey from Naples to New York, making stops in Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. Under the command of Captain Hugh L. Switzer, this ship carried a diverse and notable group of passengers, including military officers, religious leaders, academics, diplomats, and business figures—a true reflection of mid-century transatlantic travel.
This passenger list is a rich historical document, offering insights into post-war migration, international relations, and the global business landscape. For genealogists, historians, and maritime enthusiasts, it serves as a valuable resource, capturing the human stories behind one of the great ocean liners of its era.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 9 November 1954
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Hugh L. Switzer
Notable Passengers: Lt. Robert E. Anderson, LCDR. Dorothy M. Hagen, Lt. Col. Mario T. Villanti, Capt. William J. Leavey, Rev. Francis Joseph Crump, Rev. Philotheos B. Ahladas, Rev. Aloysius McDonough, Mrs. Maria Livia Carandini, Axel F. Bang, and Dr. Richard K. Richards.
The Transatlantic Journey of the SS Constitution 🌍🌊
The SS Constitution, one of the most renowned ocean liners operated by American Export Lines, embarked on an elegant voyage on 7 December 1954, sailing from Naples to New York with stops at Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar. Commanded by Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen, this journey carried an eclectic mix of military officers, government officials, religious figures, aristocrats, and distinguished academics—many of whom played significant roles in mid-century politics, diplomacy, and industry.
As a premier luxury liner, the SS Constitution was favored by high-profile passengers, including Hollywood celebrities, European elites, and global business leaders, making it a floating microcosm of Cold War-era transatlantic relations.
Steamship Line: American Export Lines
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 7 December 1954
Route: Naples to New York via Genoa, Cannes, and Gibraltar
Commander: Captain Bernt A. Jacobsen
Notable Passengers: The Hon. William R. Foley, The Hon. Michael A. Feighan, The Hon. Chauncey W. Reed, The Hon. Harold Shantz, The Hon. Stuyvesant Wainwright, Lt. Colonel Edwin Heywood, Major Steve Pisanos, Lt. Colonel Hamilton Reger, General John R. Deane, Lt. Colonel Lloyd E. Hirschhorn, Colonel William Westlake, Most Rev. Thomas L. Noa, Milton Krims, Aubrey Wisberg, Helmut Dantine, Professor Edwin B. Stason, Eaton Cromwell, and Capt. Alessandro Peloni.
Review & Summary of the American Export Lines Passenger Lists (1932-1954) 🚢✨
An Unparalleled Archive of Transatlantic Travel 🌍⚓
The American Export Lines Passenger List Collection (1932-1954), available at the Gjenvick-Gjønvik Archives, is a goldmine of historical maritime records. Covering over two decades of transatlantic travel, these lists document luxurious voyages, diplomatic missions, wartime evacuations, postwar migrations, and elite tourism.
From the pre-World War II era to the dawn of the jet age, these records provide an invaluable look at the people who shaped history—military leaders, government officials, Hollywood celebrities, aristocrats, business moguls, and intellectuals.
Key Highlights of the Collection 🏆
This meticulously transcribed and uploaded collection features passenger lists from legendary ships, such as the SS Exeter, SS Excalibur, SS Constitution, and SS Independence. Each voyage tells a compelling story of migration, diplomacy, business, and leisure travel.
📜 1. The Pre-War Voyages (1932-1938): The Rise of Elite Transatlantic Travel
Before WWII, American Export Lines was a key player in international diplomacy and business travel, linking the U.S. with Mediterranean ports like Alexandria, Gibraltar, Marseilles, Jaffa, and Naples. These voyages reflect a time of growing economic ties, cultural exchange, and rising geopolitical tensions.
🔹 SS Exeter (28 June 1932) – A historic Mediterranean voyage carrying U.S. Army generals, religious figures, and diplomats.
🔹 SS Exeter (13 April 1936) – A voyage between Beirut and Boston, carrying prominent diplomats, aristocrats, and industrialists.
🔹 SS Excalibur (18 March 1938) – A transatlantic crossing with a high-profile passenger list, occurring just before WWII tensions escalated in Europe.
🌎 2. The Wartime & Post-War Voyages (1952-1954): Diplomacy, Migration & Luxury Travel
Post-WWII, ocean liners became critical for government officials, military personnel, emigrants, and business leaders. The passenger lists from this era showcase Cold War-era diplomacy, elite travel, and postwar migration patterns.
🔹 SS Constitution (1 March 1952) – A voyage laden with aristocrats, admirals, and global elites, showcasing the prestige of transatlantic first-class travel.
🔹 SS Independence (27 October 1952) – Reflecting postwar transatlantic migration, carrying diplomats, clergy, and scholars.
🔹 SS Constitution (21 August 1953) – A prestigious voyage featuring Hollywood stars, U.S. military officers, and foreign diplomats.
🔹 SS Independence (3 July 1954) – A diverse mix of scholars, religious leaders, and immigrants, reflecting postwar European migration trends.
🔹 SS Constitution (7 December 1954) – A remarkable transatlantic journey, carrying Hollywood screenwriters, military generals, and high-ranking politicians.
Notable Passengers & Their Historical Significance 🌟
This collection preserves the names and legacies of historically significant individuals who crossed the Atlantic during a pivotal era.
🏛️ Government & Political Leaders
🔹 Hon. Emanuel Celler (U.S. Congressman, NY) – A major architect of U.S. immigration laws, crucial in postwar refugee policies.
🔹 Hon. Michael A. Feighan (U.S. Congressman, OH) – A leading figure in Cold War legislation and international affairs.
🔹 Hon. Stuyvesant Wainwright (U.S. Congressman, NY) – A powerful East Coast politician traveling for international negotiations.
🔹 Hon. Chauncey W. Reed (U.S. Congressman, IL) – A senior U.S. policymaker helping shape military strategies in Europe.
🛡️ Military Leaders
🔹 General John R. Deane (U.S. Army WWII Leader) – A high-ranking strategist during WWII and early Cold War operations.
🔹 Lt. Colonel Hamilton Reger – An official involved in NATO military coordination.
🔹 Lt. Col. Mario T. Villanti (U.S. Army) – Representing U.S. military presence in postwar Europe.
🔹 Major Steve Pisanos (U.S. Air Force, WWII Fighter Ace) – A decorated war hero, symbolizing the strong U.S.-Europe alliance.
⛪ Religious Figures
🔹 Most Rev. Thomas L. Noa (Bishop of Marquette, Michigan) – A key Catholic leader, likely engaged in transatlantic church affairs.
🔹 Rev. William H. Shannon – An influential Catholic theologian, reflecting the religious significance of postwar travel.
🎬 Hollywood & Cultural Icons
🔹 Milton Krims (Hollywood Screenwriter & Producer) – A celebrated Hollywood writer, representing the entertainment industry's European ties.
🔹 Aubrey Wisberg (Film Producer & Screenwriter) – Known for Golden Age Hollywood productions, showcasing cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Europe.
🔹 Helmut Dantine (Austrian-American Actor) – A renowned film star, reflecting the entertainment industry’s transatlantic nature.
📚 Academics & Business Leaders
🔹 Professor Edwin B. Stason (University of Michigan, Engineering) – A leading American academic, fostering U.S.-European intellectual collaboration.
🔹 Eaton Cromwell (Financier & Investor) – A major figure in global finance, traveling for high-stakes economic negotiations.
Relevance for Teachers, Students, Historians, and Genealogists 📚
This passenger list collection is a vital research tool across multiple disciplines:
🔹 For Historians –
🔹 Captures Cold War diplomacy, military strategy, and international trade connections.
🔹 Reflects the impact of WWII and migration on global travel.
🔹 For Genealogists –
🔹 A detailed database of elite transatlantic travelers from 1932-1954.
🔹 A resource for tracking aristocratic, diplomatic, and military family histories.
🔹 For Maritime Enthusiasts –
🔹 Preserves the golden age of ocean liners, before the dominance of commercial aviation.
🔹 Highlights legendary ships like the SS Constitution and SS Independence.
🔹 For Teachers & Students –
🔹 Provides a firsthand look at U.S.-European relations and social history.
🔹 Serves as primary source material for historical research on migration and diplomacy.
Final Thoughts – Why This Collection Matters ⚓✨
The American Export Lines Passenger Lists (1932-1954) offer a fascinating window into a world where ocean liners were the primary bridge between continents. This collection preserves the legacy of transatlantic luxury travel, elite diplomacy, and postwar migration, ensuring that the stories of these remarkable passengers live on.
