RMS Aquitania Passenger List - 17 May 1939
Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Line, Departing 17 May 1939 from New York to Southampton via Cherbourg, Commanded by Captain J. C. Townley, RD, RNR. GGA Image ID # 170a5a3856
Senior Officers and Staff
- Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.
- Staff-Captain: N. H. Gale, R.D., R.N.R.
- Chief Engineer: A. Duncan
- Surgeon: J. Hill
- Assistant Surgeon: A. Tumarkin
- Chief Steward: A. E. Jones
- Chief Officer: A. Fraser
- Purser: F. E. Owen
- Staff Purser: W. J. Jolliffe
Cabin Class Passengers
- Miss A. Amsden
- Mr. C. Aschan
- Mrs. Aschan
- Mr. James Ballard
- Mr. Harry K. Barr
- Mrs. L. Beauclerk
- Mr. Harold E. Bedford
- Mr. L. C. F. Bellamy
- Mr. T. P. Berington
- Mrs. Berington
- Master T. M. Berington and Nurse
- Mr. John W. Berry
- Miss Margaret Berry
- Mr. T. K. Bewley
- Mrs. G. Bishop
- Princess Margaret Boncompagni and Maid
- Mr. Roy Bower
- Lady Anne Bridgeman
- Mr. George A. Burton
- Mr. Harry W. Butler
- Dr. George A. Buttrick
- Mr. E. T. Carver
- Mr. J. Casey
- Mrs. Casey
- Mr. F. 0. Casteleiro
- Major F. H. Charlton
- Elizabeth, Lady Cheylesmore
- Mr. Gerald Cock
- Mr. Stanley A. Cole
- Miss M. Cox
- Mrs. I. Craig
- Miss R. O. Dauban
- Mr. Walters S. Davis
- Mrs. Clare Ogden Davis
- Mr. Gilbert Davis
- Mr. C. F. Day
- Mr. Sidney B. Dean
- Miss M. Devereux
- Mr. J. Edward Ditson
- Mr. J. D. Doig
- Mr. J. R. Donald
- The Right Reverend Arthur Doubleday (Bishop of Brentwood)
- Mr. Thomas Driberg
- Miss M. L. Edwards
- Mr. George Enesco
- Mrs. Enesco
- Miss Anna Fleischman
- Mrs. Georgia M. G. Forman
- Dr. Oscar Frey
- Mr. Albert G. Frost
- Mr. A. W. Garwood
- Mrs. Emma A. Gatti
- Mr. F. H. Godwin
- Mr. L. H. Goldrei
- Mr. J. Gratus
- Mrs. Gratus
- Mr. A. Griener
- Mr. F. C. Guildford
- Mr. Sydney Hall
- Mrs. Hall
- Mr. Johannes Hansen
- Mr. L. C. Harrison
- Mrs. Harrison
- Mr. William Hastie
- Mr. Thomas H. Hewlett
- Mrs. Hewlett
- Mr. Horne
- Mrs. Harry Humphreys
- Mr. Julian Humphrys
- Mrs. Humphrys and Maid
- Mr. F.. S. Jackson
- Mr. L. D. Johnson
- Mr. Wr. C. Jowett
- Miss Esther Bell Katz
- Mr. Michael Kemble
- Mrs. Kemble
- Mr. J. King
- Mr. Henri Lacorne
- Mr. R. S. Lawrence
- Mr. Albert C. Leek
- Mrs. Leek
- Miss Marjorie Leek
- Mr. Howard N. Lentz
- Mr. Bertram R. Lowenfels
- Mrs. Lowenfels
- Miss C. S. Lowry
- Mr. W. S. Luke
- Commander Ettore Luzzato
- Mr. James MacGregor
- Canon Daniel McCarthy
- Mrs. A. L. McColl
- Miss K. McCrosson
- Mr. A. McEwing
- Mr. K. McGregor
- Mr. W. N. Mcllwraith
- Mr. C. S. Macdonald
- Mrs. Macdonald
- Miss Gertrude Marston
- Miss H. Metcalf
- Mr. J. W. Meyer
- Mr. F. H. Miller
- Professor A. E. Milne
- Mr. Earl Minert
- Mrs. Minert
- Mr. Alfred Miranda
- Mrs. I. J. Miranda
- Mr. S. J. Mitchell
- Mrs. Mitchell
- Miss J. Mitchell
- Master J. G. Mitchell
- Captain The Honourable John Mitford
- Mrs. John Moffitt
- Colonel H. A. Moore
- Colonel A. C. Munro
- Mr. Henry Noel
- Mrs. E. Mu lock O’Flynn
- Mrs. Hugh W. Ogden
- Mr. John Ojerholm
- Mr. Carlos Parraga
- Honourable Daphne Pearson and Maid
- Sir Francis Peek
- Lady Edwine Peck and Maid
- Mrs. K. L. Beecroft Pengelly
- Mr. George Pinckard, J.P.
- Mrs. Pinckard and Maid
- Mr. B. C. Pomeroy
- Mrs. Pomeroy
- Mrs. B. G. Preston
- Miss G. Ai. Preston
- Mr. Malte Pripp
- Miss Beatrice Remvick
- Mr. Howard Robertson
- Mrs. Robertson
- Mr. G. V. Robertson
- Mrs. Robertson
- Miss J. Robertson
- Mr. C. Robertson
- Mr. H. C. Roemer
- Mrs. R. Rosenberg
- Mr. Alfred Rosenfeld
- Mr. R. F. Scott
- Mr. W. D. Shaw
- Mr. Harry Shawzin
- Mr. R. P. Silcock
- Miss G. Al. Silcock
- Mrs. Samuel Slater
- Mr. S. W. Snell
- Mr. Rowland Spencer
- Mrs. Spencer
- Mr. G. N. Sperryn
- Mrs. Sperryn
- Mr. G. R. N. Sperryn
- Miss Al. N. Sperryn
- Mr. H. V. Stammers
- Surgeon Capt. H. E. R. Stephens, O.B.E., K.R.S.C., M.B., B.S., D.P.U., R.N.
- Mrs. Stephens
- Mr. Henry C. W. Stockdale
- Mr. W. H. Stokes
- Sir Arthur Sutherland, BART., K.B.E.
- Lady Sutherland
- Mr. N. Tarasca
- Mr. Andrew Templeton
- Mr. W. W. Triggs
- Sir Harry Twyford, K.B.E.
- Dr. Endre Ungar
- Miss I. Webb
- Mr. Emanuel Weingreen
- Mr. Isac Westerborg
- Mr. Herbert Westermark
- Mrs. Westermark
- Air-Commodore H. E. Whittingham, C.B.E.
- Mr. J. Ward Williams
- Mr. H. C. E. Williamson
- Mrs. Williamson Canon
- M. J. Wilson
- Mr. W. Wonnacott
- Mr. E. S. Wood .
- Mr. W. L. Wood
- Mrs. A. Murray Young and Maid
Checking Passengers' Baggage From Southampton to London
Passengers arriving in Southampton may check their luggage for delivery to hotels and residences in London at a flat charge of 1/- per package. This delivery is subject to the usual free allowance of baggage on the railroad, which is First Class 150 pounds, Third Class 100 pounds, with children over three and under fourteen years of age receiving one-half of the allowance, respectively.
Importation of Typewriters and Wireless Sets Into France
Passengers importing typewriters and wireless sets into France for their own use are warned that the entry of these articles is subject to certain restrictions and Customs Duty.
The Customs Authorities at the French ports will not pass Wireless Sets and Typewriters with passengers who are proceeding by the special trains to Paris and the articles must consequently go forward as registered baggage to Paris, at the passengers' expense, i.e.: $2.00 from Cherbourg and $1.50 from Havre.
So far as concern Wireless Sets, after arrival at the French Port, it is necessary to obtain a Certificate of Importation from the American Chamber of Commerce in Paris. It is, therefore to passengers' advantage to pack their typewriters and wireless sets in their registered baggage and to declare same on arrival in Paris.
General Information for Passengers
THE SWIMMING POOL on the Aquitania is located on E Deck and is available to passengers at hours which will be specified on the ship's notice boards.
MEALS will be served as follows:—
- BREAKFAST from 8-00 a.m.
- LUNCHEON: 1-00 p.m.
- DINNER: 7-30 p.m.
BAGGAGE. Questions relating to Baggage should be referred to the Purser or ship's Baggage Master.
BAGGAGE INSURANCE. Passengers are recommended to insure their baggage as the Company's liability is strictly limited in accordance with the terms of the passage contract. Baggage Insurance carrying world-wide cover can be arranged through the Purser's office.
BANKING—FOREIGN MONEY EXCHANGE. A branch of the Midland Bank is available on board the ship where passengers wishing to exchange money, or transact other banking business will receive every attention.
CATERING. Passengers are invited to advise the Restaurant Manager or Head Waiter of their preference in the matter of diet and cooking and they can be assured of every attention to their wishes. Cooks of various nationalities are included in the kitchen personnel. It is suggested that passengers order their meals in advance, and the aforementioned officials will readily assist passengers in making their choice.
CHEQUES. Passengers are advised that the Purser cannot accept private cheques.
CHANGES IN ACCOMMODATION. The Purser alone is authorized to make changes in accommodation and may only do so on payment of any difference in fare which may be required according to the Company's current tariffs.
COMPLAINTS. Passengers entertaining any cause for complaint are requested to communicate particulars to a responsible officer in the ship, so that an opportunity may be afforded to adjust matters.
CUSTOMS EXAMINATION. All articles liable to Customs duty must be declared. Any passenger who is in doubt should see the Purser or Baggage Master who will provide the latest information available.
On arrival baggage will be grouped alphabetically in Customs shed for examination. To help the passing and claiming of baggage passengers should have one of the Company's labels, bearing the initial letter of their surname, affixed to each piece. The bedroom stewards have a supply of these labels and will affix them prior to landing.
It is for passengers themselves to see that all their baggage is passed by the Customs authorities on landing, and they are specially requested to claim their baggage before leaving the Customs shed, otherwise delay and extra charges for carriage will be incurred in forwarding to destination any baggage not accompanying passengers directly from the ship.
DECK CHAIRS. CUSHIONS AND RUGS are available for hire and can be obtained through the Deck Steward at the price of 5/- each article. (Each rug is contained in a sealed envelope and bears a serial number worked into the material, thus enabling passengers to identify their own rugs.)
DOGS. Passengers are notified that dogs should be handed over to the care of the livestock attendant and that they are not allowed in Public Rooms or on the Passenger Decks.
FIRE PRECAUTIONS. Passengers are specially requested to exercise care in disposing of cigar and cigarette ends and matches and to make use of the receptacles provided for the purpose in the different parts of the ship, in view of the serious consequences which can arise from carelessness in this respect. Throwing lighted cigarettes, etc., overboard should also be avoided.
FIRE AND LIFEBOAT STATIONS. Passengers are earnestly requested to acquaint themselves with the notice in the staterooms regarding lifeboat and fire stations.
The Captain specially appeals to passengers to assist him by promptly mustering at their appointed stations at all times when passenger boat station muster is being held.
Only by immediate attendance at this important muster can passengers obtain the necessary instructions which are so vital to the well-being of all on board. The cooperation of every passenger is earnestly desired.
HAIRDRESSING SALOONS. Situated on "B" Deck are fully equipped with modern appliances for the treatment of the hair.
LANDING ARRANGEMENTS. The Purser will furnish passengers with a small card, detailing the landing arrangements, before arrival.
LANDING CARDS. It is necessary that passengers present their landing cards, together with passports to the immigration Inspector for endorsement before leaving the ship.
LIBRARY. The ship has a fully-equipped library and passengers are invited to borrow the volumes—no charge will be made.
PASSENGERS’ MAIL INWARD AND OUTWARD STEAMERS. Passengers expecting urgent letters or telegrams should notify the Purser's Office. For the convenience of passengers, telegrams and postal matter are received aboard and distributed but without any responsibility whatsoever on the part of Cunard White Star Limited for non-delivery, mis-delivery or delay.
It will assist the system of delivery if letters are endorsed prominently in the top left-hand corner. "Passengers' Mail" and addressed care of Cunard White Star at port of departure or arrival and also bear the following particulars:
Name of passenger (in full)
Class of Travel (Inward or Outward) Passenger per (name of ship)
Date of departure or arrival—
ACCOMMODATION ADDRESSES. When it is desired to use any of the Company's Offices as accommodation addresses, it is essential that the envelopes be endorsed prominently in the top loft-hand corner "Passengers' Mail—to await instructions" and be addressed care of the appropriate Cunard White Star Office or Agency. Cunard White Star Limited allow their offices to be so used and forward letters, telegrams and postal matter for the convenience of passengers only and shall be under no responsibility whatsoever for non-delivery, mis-delivery or delay.
PASSAGE TICKETS. Passengers are requested to hand their passage tickets to their bedroom stewards as soon as possible after embarkation.
PAYMENTS. Passengers should obtain a receipt on the Company's form for any payments made on board for additional passage money, rugs, chairs, excess baggage, etc.
PORTHOLES. As it is dangerous for passengers to handle the ports they are requested to ask the bedroom steward to open and close the ports in the staterooms as may be desired.
PROFESSIONAL GAMBLERS are reported as frequently travelling in Atlantic ships and passengers are warned to take precautions accordingly.
RADIO TELEPHONE SERVICE. Passengers can speak from this ship to practically any part of the World.
Rates per call of Three minutes or less
- Great Britain and Northern Ireland: £1. 16. 0.
- New York : $9.00
Each extra minute
- Great Britain and Northern Ireland: £ 12/-
- New York: $3.00
The above rates are increased when the vessel is more than halfway across the Atlantic, the rate to Great Britain being £3. 12. 0. (three minutes)—plus £1. 4. 0. each extra minute in the case of a Westbound ship and $18.00 (three minutes) plus S6.00 each extra minute to New York when the vessel is Eastbound.
RADIO AND CABLE MESSAGES. Information and rates will be supplied by the Radio office.
RADIO RECEIVERS AND ELECTRICAL APPARATUS. Private radio receivers or other electrical apparatus must not be operated or connected to the ship's electrical supply circuits without official approval, application for which should be made to the Purser. Passengers using loud speakers are requested to avoid disturbing their fellow passengers.
RETURN ACCOMMODATION. For the convenience of those passengers who may be returning from Europe to the United States or Canada and who have not yet made the necessary arrangements the Purser will be pleased to radio for any accommodation required. This will enable passengers to complete their arrangements before leaving the ship and will consequently save them time and trouble after landing.
ROTARIANS travelling by this ship are invited to inspect the Rotary Register at the Purser's office and subscribe their names. The Purser will be glad, providing circumstances permit, to arrange an informal meeting during the voyage.
SPECIAL NOTICE FOR ROUND TRIP PASSENGERS. All passengers holding return tickets are requested to communicate with the most convenient Company's office, if possible at least a week in advance of their intended sailing from Europe so that the necessary formalities may be arranged in connection with their passage.
If for any reason the holder of a return ticket should be unable to travel by the sailing shown thereon, immediate advice should be given to the nearest Company's office, so that any accommodation held can be released and new reservation made in sailing selected.
STEWARDS SPEAKING FOREIGN LANGUAGES. Stewards speaking a number of European languages are available for the convenience of Passengers and may be identified by the badge worn on the lapel of their coat bearing the flag of the country the language of which they speak.
THE SURGEON is authorized to make customary charges for his services, subject to the approval of the Captain.
A REGISTERED NURSE is on board, whose services are available as necessary under the direction of the ship's Surgeon.
TRAVEL INFORMATION. The Purser's office is at the disposal of passengers for furnishing detailed information concerning steamer, rail or air connections and arrangements can be made for tickets and reservations to be obtained.
VALUABLES. In their own interests passengers are advised not to leave articles of jewelry and other valuables lying about. Articles not required for frequent wear may be deposited with the Purser and will be placed in an envelope sealed in the presence of the passenger for custody in the ship's safe. A receipt will be given but no liability as to contents can be accepted.
Passengers are advised to protect themselves by insurance, which can be arranged on board on application to the Purser.
VALETING SERVICE. A Clothes Pressing Room, in charge of an expert attendant, is provided and work of this kind will be carried out for passengers at the following charges:—
GENTLEMEN
- Lounge and dress suits: 4s. 0d.
- Lounge and dress coats: 2s. 0d.
- Trousers and breeches: 2s. 0d.
- Overcoats—heavy: 4s. 0d.
- Overcoats—light: 3s. 0d.
LADIES
- Suits, Costumes, Coats, frocks or dresses: 4s. 0d.
- Dress coats and plain cloaks: 4s. 0d.
- Skirts: 2s. 0d.
- Special charges for— Garments — Velvet, Silk or pleated Fancy Dress, Blouses and Scarves.
Painting of the RMS Aquitania Included in the Cunard Line RMS Aquitania Cabin Class Passenger List for 17 May 1939. GGA Image ID # 170af193c1
Passenger List Information
RMS Aquitania Cabin Class Passenger List – 17 May 1939
Description
GGA is privileged to present a Cabin Class Passenger List from the illustrious RMS Aquitania, dated 17 May 1939. This exquisite document commemorates a westbound voyage from New York to Southampton via Cherbourg, under the command of Captain J.C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R. As one of the final transatlantic journeys before the outbreak of World War II, this passenger list offers a poignant snapshot of a world on the cusp of monumental change.
Elegantly adorned with a striking painting of the RMS Aquitania, the front cover exudes the maritime grace for which the “Ship Beautiful” was celebrated. The passenger roster is a veritable who’s who of society, featuring influential figures from aristocracy, commerce, the arts, and the clergy.
Notable VIP Passengers
The passenger list reflects the prominence and international appeal of the Aquitania. Among the travelers, the following individuals stand out as VIPs due to their societal, cultural, and professional significance:
- Princess Margaret Boncompagni and Maid
- A member of Italian nobility, Princess Margaret’s presence underscores the Aquitania’s reputation as a vessel of choice for European royalty and aristocracy.
- Lady Anne Bridgeman
- As a titled member of British high society, Lady Bridgeman represents the refined clientele who traveled aboard Cunard’s premier liners.
- Elizabeth, Lady Cheylesmore
- Known for her patronage of the arts, Lady Cheylesmore’s voyage highlights the vessel’s appeal to Britain’s cultural elite.
- The Right Reverend Arthur Doubleday (Bishop of Brentwood)
- A prominent Catholic cleric, Bishop Doubleday’s presence emphasizes the ship’s role in accommodating influential leaders across various sectors.
- Dr. George A. Buttrick
- A distinguished theologian and preacher, Buttrick was widely respected in religious circles, underscoring the Aquitania’s appeal to intellectual luminaries.
- Professor A. E. Milne
- A leading figure in mathematics and astrophysics, Milne’s inclusion affirms the liner’s ability to attract renowned academics.
- Sir Arthur Sutherland, Bart., K.B.E., and Lady Sutherland
- A prominent British businessman and philanthropist, Sir Arthur’s presence, alongside his wife, highlights the ship’s popularity with influential industrialists.
- Sir Harry Twyford, K.B.E.
- As a knighted public servant, Sir Harry’s journey aboard the Aquitania illustrates the vessel’s prestige among governmental leaders.
- Air-Commodore H.E. Whittingham, C.B.E.
- A distinguished officer in the Royal Air Force, Whittingham exemplifies the ship’s connection to military and political spheres.
- Lady Edwine Peck and Maid
- A socialite of significant repute, Lady Peck’s presence reaffirms the ship’s ability to host the crème de la crème of society.
Historical Significance
The RMS Aquitania, celebrated for its unmatched elegance and Art Deco interiors, was one of the last remaining four-funnel liners in operation by 1939. This passenger list not only serves as a relic of pre-war maritime luxury but also offers insight into a world on the brink of transformation.
The documented roster provides a fascinating glimpse into transatlantic travel during a pivotal year. The inclusion of European aristocracy, American industrialists, and prominent intellectuals underscores the ship’s role as a nexus for international elites.
Historical Note
This RMS Aquitania Cabin Class Passenger List is an extraordinary artifact of maritime history and 20th-century social records. Its illustrious passenger roster and connection to one of history’s most celebrated liners ensures its noteworthy place among ocean liner ephemera.
