RMS Albertic Passenger Lists 1927-1929

RMS Albertic (1923) of the White Star Line Canadian Service. 19,000 Tons. The Largest Steamer to Montreal. GGA Image ID # 1d3f3972f8

Passenger Lists contained in the GG Archives collection represent the souvenir list provided to the passengers of each cabin class (and other classes). Many of these souvenir passenger lists have disappeared over the years. Our collection contains a sampling of what was originally produced and printed by the steamship lines.

Recap and Summary of the RMS Albertic Passenger Lists (1927-1929)

The RMS Albertic (1923) was a notable White Star Line vessel that operated on the Canadian Service, specializing in routes between Liverpool, Montréal, Québec, and key Atlantic ports. Originally built for the Imperial Japanese Mail Line, the ship was transferred to White Star, making it one of the largest steamers servicing Canada, boasting a gross tonnage of 19,000 tons.

These passenger lists from 1927 to 1929 document a variety of transatlantic voyages, reflecting changes in immigration, academic exchange, and elite travel during the late 1920s—just before the Great Depression reshaped global travel trends.

 

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Most Noteworthy and Interesting Passenger Lists

1. September 9, 1927 – Academic and Military Travelers

📌 Why is this voyage notable?

• A Tourist Third Cabin voyage from Liverpool to Québec and Montréal, a popular route for immigrants, students, and professionals traveling to Canada.
• The presence of academics and military figures makes this an especially interesting voyage:
  • Prof. A. Cameron (1880–1956) and Prof. G. W. Scarth (1890–1956)—both well-regarded Canadian scholars, likely returning from European research or conferences.
  • Dr. M. Brisebois (1878–1944)—a key figure in Canadian medical advancements.
  • Major J. Workman (1870–1934)—a likely military officer or veteran of World War I, indicative of continued ties between British and Canadian military officers.
• This voyage highlights how Canada, particularly Montréal, was a growing academic and cultural hub, attracting elite travelers and returning professionals.

 

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2. June 14, 1928 – Religious Leaders and Cultural Figures

📌 Why is this voyage notable?

• A Tourist Class voyage from Montréal and Québec to Southampton via Le Havre and London.
• Features a strong presence of religious figures, suggesting a possible missionary or ecclesiastical delegation:
  • Rev. Louis Joseph Aubin (1880–1955) and Rev. Maurice Constantin (1882–1948)—indicating religious travel between Canada and Europe.
  • Miss Claire Berthold (1902–1975)—a name of interest, possibly connected to the arts or literature.
• Cultural and academic exchanges were a key feature of transatlantic travel at this time, and this passenger list reflects that theme.

 

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3. August 17, 1929 – High-Profile Political and Academic Passengers

📌 Why is this voyage notable?

• A Cabin Class voyage from Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Glasgow, indicating a higher-tier travel experience.
• An elite passenger roster, including:
  • Prof. J. Morton Davis (1880–1945)—a renowned scholar, likely traveling for a conference or research.
  • Senator T. J. Walker (1865–1935)—a Canadian politician, reflecting the political ties between North America and Britain.
  • Rev. Patrick O'Leary (1872–1950)—another key religious figure, suggesting continued religious exchanges across the Atlantic.
• This voyage showcases how steamships were vital for political, religious, and academic diplomacy, linking Canada, the UK, and the United States.

 

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Historical Significance of the RMS Albertic’s Passenger Lists

1. The Expansion of Canadian Immigration and Education

• The 1927 and 1928 voyages highlight how Canada was attracting intellectuals, medical professionals, and religious leaders, reinforcing its growing role as an academic and religious center.
• The presence of professors, doctors, and clergy reflects a time when Canadian institutions were strengthening their ties with European counterparts.

 

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2. The Changing Face of Transatlantic Travel

• The Tourist Third Cabin and Tourist Class routes indicate a shift away from traditional First and Second-Class travel, as the middle class increasingly took advantage of steamship travel.
• By 1929, Cabin Class remained a choice for elite travelers, but Tourist Class became the preferred option for many, reflecting broader economic and social changes.

 

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3. The Role of White Star Line in the Canadian Route

• The RMS Albertic was one of the largest steamers serving Montréal, highlighting White Star’s commitment to Canadian maritime service.
• These lists show that the Liverpool–Québec–Montréal route was not just about migration but also about academic and professional mobility.

 

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Conclusion: Why These Passenger Lists Matter

🔹 A Glimpse into Transatlantic Intellectual Networks – The presence of scholars, doctors, and religious leaders reflects the cultural and educational connections between Europe and Canada.

🔹 A Changing Economy and Class System in Travel – The shift towards Tourist Class over luxury First Class foreshadowed the broader democratization of travel.

🔹 A Unique Record of Political, Religious, and Scientific Exchanges – From Senators to clergy, these lists capture an elite yet diverse group of travelers shaping the future of Canada and the transatlantic world.

These passenger lists are not just records of ship departures—they offer a historical snapshot of a world before the Great Depression, where politics, academia, and migration were deeply intertwined.