SS America’s 5 September 1947 Voyage: A Transatlantic Passage of Hope & Renewal
Explore the historic September 1947 voyage of the SS America, as it carried military leaders, religious figures, intellectuals, and entertainers from post-war Europe to the U.S. This journey captured a world in transition, with individuals seeking new beginnings and global cooperation in the wake of World War II.
Front Cover, Tourist Passenger List for the SS America of the United States Lines Departing 5 September 1947 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg and Cobh, Commended by Commodore Harry Manning. GGA Image ID # 1e2ed26c53
Senior Officers and Staff
- Commander: Commodore Harry Manning Captain, U.S.N.R
- Executive Officer: Leroy J. Alex Anderson, Commander, U.S.N.R
- Chief Engineer: Patrick Brennan, Captain, U.S.N.R
- Chief Purser: John A. Lock
- Tourist Purser: Henry L. Moreno
- Chief Surgeon: John Sheedy, Lieutenant, U.S.C.G
- Assistant Surgeon: Herbert S. Mullholland
- Chief Steward: Arthur Carey
- Chief Tourist Steward: Henry Luerssen
List of Tourist Passengers
- Miss Laura Acock
- Miss Ruth Ader
- Mrs. Jead R. Affleck
- Mr. Rainer Ambrosius
- Mrs. Rainer Ambrosius
- Mr. William Anderson
- Mrs. Ellen G. Anderson
- Miss Jean M. Anthony
- Miss K. Carey
- Master Paul Grossi (6 yrs.)
- Mr. Patrick Clancy
- Mr. Jack Comien
- Mr. John Conlon
- Miss Marion Croll
- Mrs. Catherine Cronin
- Mrs. David Bailey
- Mrs. C. J. Bechu
- Mrs. Emily Bell
- Mr. Carlo Bernardi
- Miss Francine Blumenfeld
- Mrs. William Bodie
- Mrs. Amy Bolwell
- Mrs. Matilde Braun
- Miss Margaret Braun
- Master Wm. Braun
- Mrs. Honora Brennan
- Mr. Thomas Byrne
- Miss Shirley Davis
- Mr. P. T. Davis
- Mr. Henry de Marcellus
- Mr. Robert de Marcellus
- Mr. Roland de Marcellus
- Mrs. Evelyne de Marcellus
- Mr. R. Diamant
- Mrs. S. Diamant
- Mrs. Margaret Finnegan
- Mrs. Leah Fireman
- Miss Rita Fireman
- Mr. Jack Fireman
- Mr. Michael Flanagan
- Mr. T. M. Fletcher
- Miss Nellie Flynn
- Mr. Michael Freyber
- Mr. Hugh T. Frize
- Mrs. M. V. Gardner
- Mrs. Margit Geering
- Miss E. Geering
- Mr. Harold Geering
- Miss June R. Gray
- Miss Mary Ann Gray
- Mr. James Hagerty
- Mrs. Marie A. Hoffman
- Mr. Nicholas Horowitz
- Mr. Aron Horowitz
- Mrs. Ida Horowitz
- Mr. Samuel N. Jackson
- Rev. Bro. James
- Mr. Theodore Janacek
- Mrs. Marie Janacek
- Mrs. Nora Kelly
- Miss Rosemary Kelly
- Mr. Patrick Kennally
- Miss Johanna Kenny
- Mrs. K. Keppler
- Miss Kathleen Kiernan
- Mr. George Koehler
- Mr. Anton Kuenzli
- Mr. Marcel M. Lancelot
- Mrs. Marguerite Lancelot
- Miss Kathleen Laverty
- Mr. Samuel Lewin
- Mrs. Loda Lewin
- Miss Merlene Lipman
- Mr. Thomas Mackenzie
- Mrs. Thomas Mackenzie
- Rev. Bro. Malachy
- Mr. Patrick T. Maiinion
- Mr. William Mayer
- Mrs. Margaret McCarthy
- Master Charles McCarthy
- Mrs. Elizabeth McGill
- Miss Kathleen McGill
- Miss Annie McLernon
- Mrs. Alice McNeill
- Miss Bernadette McNeill
- Miss Alice McNeill
- Mrs. Nora McNulty
- Mrs. Shirley McNulty
- Miss Patricia McNulty
- Master Kevin McNulty
- Mrs. Lili Meillard
- Miss Alice Meredith
- Mr. Leo Misselder
- Miss Ermina Misselder
- Rev. Robert P. Mohan
- Miss Mary Molloy
- Mrs. Margaret Monaghan
- Mr. Rose Motcham
- Mrs. Rose Movsovicius
- Master Leon Movsovicius
- Miss Norah Nally
- Mr. Robert Ruttledge
- Mrs. Vera Newman
- Mrs. Katherine Ruttledge
- Miss Eileen Ruttledge
- Mrs. Florence O'Connor
- Mr. Michael Ryan
- Mrs. Anne Ryan
- Master James Ryan
- Master Thomas Ryan
- Master John Ryan
- Rev. Bro. Patrick
- Mrs. Z. Polotto
- Mr. James C. Phelan
- Mrs. Anna Philbin
- Mr. Michael Philbin
- Master John Philbin
- Miss Mary Philbin
- Mrs. Rose Picou
- Mr. J. Pilley
- Mrs. M. Pulley
- Master J. Pilley
- Mrs. Esther Purnell
- Miss Mary Rasmussen
- Mrs. Jessie Robertson
- Mr. Jack B. Rohan
- Mrs. A. Ronault
- Mrs. E. H. Ross
- Mr. Jacob Rupp
- Mrs. Jacob Rupp
- Mrs. Jessie Russell
- Mrs. E. Schoen
- Mr. John Sinclair
- Mrs. John Sinclair
- Miss Margaret Sinclair
- Mrs. Doris Skuse
- Mrs. P. Skuse
- Mrs. Sylvia B. Southall
- Mrs. A. L. Strong
- Mrs. Mary J. Sullivan
- Miss Anna Svoboda
- Sister Mary Celsus
- Sister Mary Alicia
- Sister Mary Brigida
- Sister Mary Gerard
- Sister Mary Conleth
- Sister Mary Agnes
- Miss Hannah Twomey
- Miss Alyce van der Veen
- Mrs. Nicole Verge-Bellier
- Mr. Vincent Wall
- Mrs. Vincent Wall
- Miss Eileen Wall
- Miss Noreen Wall
- Mr. Fred Wallenborn
- Miss Simone Weksler
- Mrs. Jessie Whitten
- Miss K. J. Whittard
- Miss Jean Whyts
- Miss Mary E. Wilhelm
- Mrs. Daisy W. Williams
- Mr. Nicholas Wood
Greetings
We bid you a hearty welcome on board the America, the largest, fastest and finest ship of the American Merchant Marine.
It is the aim and endeavour of our company to maintain on this great liner, service and cuisine of the highest standards, and to provide every facility which will add to the pleasure of the voyage. Every officer and every member of the crew is interested in your welfare and will do his utmost to ensure your comfort and happiness while on board.
We hope you will thoroughly enjoy your crossing !
United States Lines.
Information for Passengers
Information Forms : Please fill out and return your Information Form to the Purser's Office, at your very earliest convenience. The information requested is necessary for the completion of passenger manifests and landing cards, the ordering of train equipment, etc. Failure to provide this information promptly may delay your debarkation.
Amusements on Board : Moving Pictures, Bingo Games, Horse Races, Deck Game Tournaments, Dancing and other activities on board, will be listed on the bulletin boards.
Baggage : Information regarding baggage matters may be obtained by consulting the Baggage Master at the Purser's Office in the "B" Deck Foyer. The Company accepts no responsibility for baggage or parcels left on board, except by arrangement with the Baggage Master.
Baggage Room : The Baggage Room is open to Passengers from 10:00 am to 11:00 am and 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm daily.
Baggage Insurance : The Company's liability for loss of or damage to baggage and valuables is strictly limited, but Passengers can protect themselves by Baggage Insurance which may be purchased at the Purser's Office on board.
Barber Shop and Beauty Salon : These facilities are located on "A" Deck. A schedule of prices is posted in the shops.
Bellboy Service : Bellboys are available at all times during the day, answering calls in the absence of the Bedroom Steward or Stewardess. They will also deliver messages at the Passenger's request.
Cables, Radiograms and Telegrams (Please also see Radio Telephone Service) : These are received at the Purser's Office and should be handed in at least an hour before the arrival of the steamer at any port.
Catering : Arrangements may be made with the Chief Steward to continue any diet necessary to the Passenger's health or habits during the voyage. Passengers are also invited to advise the Dining Room Headwaiters of their preferences in diet and cooking so that every attention can be given to their wishes.
Changes in Accommodations : Changes in accommodations can be made only by the Purser, who must collect difference in fare, if any. A receipt will be issued on the Company's official form.
Children's Playroom. The Children's Playroom is located on the Main Deck. A Matron is in attendance.
Complaints : It is the desire of the Company and the Ship's Staff to make your crossing as pleasant as possible. Any complaint regarding service should be reported promptly to the Purser or the Chief Steward so that corrective action can be taken immediately.
Customs Examination : In order to avoid difficulty in Customs examinations, all articles liable to duty must be declared. Passengers should consult the Purser or Baggage Master for the latest available information regarding the Customs regulations of any specific country.
Deck Chairs, Chair Cushions and Steamer Rugs : Deck Chairs can be rented for the voyage on application to the Deck Steward, at $2.00 each; Chair Cushions, $1.00 each; Rugs, $1.50 each.
Divine Services : Protestant Service is held Sundays at 11:00 am in the First Class Lounge.
Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated in the First Class Lounge. The hours of the Masses are announced on the bulletin boards and in the ship's newspaper. A permanent altar is available and complete facilities for celebrating Holy Mass are at the disposal of Roman Catholic clergy by arrangement with the Purser.
Doctor (Ship's Surgeon) : The Doctor's Office is located on Main Deck aft. The Doctor is authorized to make customary charges, subject to the approval of the Commander, for the treatment of illnesses not originating on the voyage.
In the case of illness contracted on the voyage, no charge will be made. Medicine prescribed will be provided free in all circumstances. A Registered Nurse is in attendance.
Doctor's Office Hours
- 9:00 am to 10:00 am
- 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Dogs, Cats or Other ANIMAL Pets : Pets are not permitted in staterooms, public rooms or on the passenger decks, and must be placed in care of the Kennel Attendant. The kennels are located on the Sports Deck.
Electrical Appliances : Passengers are cautioned against using electric irons or other appliances in staterooms, because of the serious danger of causing a short circuit in the lighting system. Please call your Bedroom Steward before attempting to use current for any except usual purposes.
Fire and Lifeboat Stations : Passengers are urgently requested to familiarize themselves with the notice in their staterooms regarding Emergency Station and Life Boat Number, and also to take part in the Fire and Boat Drills.
Fire Precautions : Passengers are particularly asked to use care when disposing of cigar or cigarette ends and matches and to place them in the receptacles provided for the purpose in the different parts of the ship. Do not throw overboard lighted cigar ends or cigarette ends as they may be drawn into open ports and cause fires. Careful observance of this request is earnestly urged on all Passengers.
Interpreters : Should the services of an Interpreter be required, application may be made at the Purser's Office.
Laundry: A limited laundry service is available to Passengers. A list with prices may be obtained at the Purser's Office. Your Bedroom Steward or Bellboy will pick up and deliver laundry to your room. Settlement of laundry account should be made direct with the Purser not later than the day prior to debarkation.
Liquor Purchases : Liquor brought on board by or for Passengers, intended for landing upon arrival in the United States, can not be considered as baggage and the Company will assume no responsibility therefor.
The Company will however arrange for such liquor to be kept in the custody of the Baggage Master, who will issue a check against which delivery will be made on the pier, at the same time and place all other baggage is assembled for Customs inspection.
The Company does not assume liability for parcels of liquor taken into and kept in the stateroom.
Lost and Found Articles : These may be claimed or left at the Purser's Office.
Mail : Passengers are requested to call at the Purser's Office for Mail and Telegrams, where forwarding addresses may also be left.
Meal Hours : Passengers are earnestly requested to observe the FIXED Hours for meals.
Compliance with this request will aid the Chief Steward and his Staff to maintain a high standard in the kitchen and improve the service in the Dining Room, and your cooperation will be greatly appreciated by the Senior Officers and Staff of the ship and the Management ashore.
When One Sitting
- Breakfast from 8:00 am
- Luncheon from 1:00 pm
- Dinner from 7:00 pm
When Two Sittings
- Breakfast 8:00 am and 9:15 am
- Luncheon 12:00 Noon and 1:15 pm
- Dinner 6:00 pm and 7:15:00 pm
Passenger Restriction : Tourist Class Passengers are not permitted to enter First or Cabin Class accommodations.
Payments on Board : Passengers are requested to obtain a receipt on the Company's form for any additional passage money, deck chair, steamer rug or chair cushion hire, cables, telegrams or baggage charges paid, on board.
Photographer : The ship carries an expert Photographer and arrangements for individual or group pictures may be made by applying at the Purser's Office.
Passengers are invited to leave their own negatives at the Purser's Office for developing and printing at reasonable rates.
Ports in Ship's Side : Passengers should not attempt to open ports. The Bedroom Steward will render this service when desired, provided it is not contrary to the Commander's orders and weather conditions permit.
Careful observance of this precaution will avoid accidents, assure the comfort of Passengers, and will prevent injuries to Passengers and damage to baggage and personal effects.
Portable Typewriter : A Noiseless Portable Typewriter is available without charge for Passengers' use. The Purser's Office will deliver it to your room upon request.
Postage Stamps. These can be purchased from the Lounge Steward. Letters can be mailed on board.
Professional Gamblers : Passengers are reminded that professional gamblers are reported as frequently traveling on transatlantic passenger ships and are warned to take precautions accordingly.
Radio-Telephone (Ship to Shore Telephone Service) : Information concerning this service may be secured at the Purser's Office.
Round Trip Passengers : Passengers holding return tickets, who are undecided about their addresses abroad, should send this information to the nearest office of the Company as soon as possible after landing, so that they may be promptly advised of possible changes in sailings and other matters pertaining to their return passage.
Those who hold return tickets are requested to communicate with our nearest office immediately on arrival in the United States or Europe to confirm their reservations and learn of any necessary formalities to be arranged prior to sailing.
If for any reason the holder of a return ticket is unable to travel by the sailing indicated on the ticket, immediate advice should be sent to the Company's nearest office so that the accommodations held may be resold and other reservations arranged. Otherwise the passage money may be forfeited.
Seats at Table : The Chief Steward is in charge of the Dining Room and will assign table seatings, if not previously arranged. Reservation Desk is located at the Chief Steward's Office on "B" Deck.
Service Clubs : Rotarians, Kiwanians, Lions and members of similar organizations are invited to register their names at the Purser's Office so that the ship's officers may be able to acquaint them with other members of their respective organizations who are traveling in the ship.
Shoe Cleaning : Shoes will be cleaned and polished if left outside the stateroom door at night.
Valet Service : Valet Service is provided for the convenience of Passengers. Apply to your Bedroom Steward for this service :
Price List—Men's Garments
Suit (2- or 3-pieces) $1.00
Coat .75
Trousers .50
Top Coat 1.00
Heavy Overcoat 1.25
Tuxedo Suit 1.25
Full Dress Suit 1.50
Sport Shirt .50
Price List—Women's Garments
Suit (Coat and Skirt) $1.50
Skirt 1.00
Jacket .75
Cloak 1.00 and up
Silk Coat and Skirt 1.50 and up
Dresses—plain 1.50
Gowns 1.75 and up
Slacks .75
Valuables : Passengers are cautioned against leaving money or valuables in their staterooms. They should be delivered to the Purser's Office for safekeeping, and a receipt for same will be given on the Company's form. The Company can not accept responsibility for loss or damage beyond the limitations stated in the contract ticket and Passengers are therefore advised to protect themselves by insurance, which can be purchased at the Purser's Office.
United States Head Tax.
All Westbound Passengers to the United States must pay U.S. Head Tax of $8, except American Citizens and non-citizen children under 16 years of age when accompanied by parents.
Publication Number 4G-7127P1/6Ca
Title Page, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 22073cb8cf
List of Senior Officers and Staff, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 22071928dd
United States Lines Passenger Offices, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 220740a857
How To Know The Ship's Officers By Their Sleeve Stripes, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 22074eb835
Time on Shipboard, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 22085fd01a
Greetings to Passengers, SS America Tourist Class Passenger List, 5 September 1947. GGA Image ID # 2208660afe
🚢 The Grand Voyage of the SS America – September 5, 1947 🌊✨
As the world transitioned from the aftermath of World War II into the early days of reconstruction and recovery, the SS America of the United States Lines embarked on a remarkable journey across the Atlantic. Departing from Southampton, England, on September 5, 1947, with stops at Cherbourg, France, and Cobh, Ireland, the ship carried a diverse group of passengers seeking new beginnings, reunions, and professional endeavors in the United States.
Under the esteemed leadership of Commodore Harry Manning, U.S.N.R., this voyage was more than just a transatlantic crossing—it was a symbol of resilience, opportunity, and post-war global unity. With a notable list of passengers, including religious figures, military personnel, intellectuals, and influential social figures, the ship reflected the era's social, political, and economic landscape.
🌟 Notable Passengers & Their Impact
⛪ Religious Leaders: Faith in a Time of Rebuilding
Rev. Bro. James, Rev. Bro. Malachy, and Rev. Bro. Patrick – These religious brothers, likely from a Catholic monastic order, were traveling either for missionary work, theological conferences, or reassignment to a new parish in the U.S.
Sister Mary Celsus, Sister Mary Alicia, Sister Mary Brigida, Sister Mary Gerard, Sister Mary Conleth, Sister Mary Agnes – A group of Catholic nuns, possibly part of an order engaged in charitable, medical, or educational services. Many European religious communities were heavily involved in post-war humanitarian efforts, and their journey suggests a mission of aid and education in America.
Rev. Robert P. Mohan – Likely a priest or minister, his presence highlights the importance of spiritual leadership during a time when millions sought comfort and guidance in faith.
Historical Context: 🕊️ With millions displaced and economies in turmoil, religious institutions played a vital role in relief efforts, providing shelter, education, and moral guidance. The presence of so many clergy members and nuns underscores the global effort to rebuild shattered communities.
🎓 Academics & Intellectuals: Shaping the Post-War World
Miss Francine Blumenfeld – Possibly a professor or researcher, given the trend of European intellectuals relocating to the U.S. following the war.
Mr. Samuel N. Jackson – Could be connected to political, legal, or economic affairs, potentially traveling to the U.S. for reconstruction-related discussions or university lectures.
Historical Context: 🎓 The late 1940s saw a surge in intellectual migration, as scientists, economists, and social theorists from war-ravaged Europe relocated to the U.S. to teach, collaborate, and contribute to rebuilding efforts.
🎭 Cultural & Entertainment Figures: A New Wave of Talent
Miss Simone Weksler – A name that could be linked to music, theater, or film, indicative of the European cultural migration to Hollywood and Broadway post-war.
Miss Jean M. Anthony & Miss K. Carey – Likely actresses, musicians, or writers, whose presence reflects the influence of European talent in post-war American entertainment.
Historical Context: 🎶 As American cinema and theater grew in prominence, European artists sought opportunities in Hollywood, Broadway, and major publishing houses. This period saw a cultural fusion that enriched American arts.
🏅 Military Figures: Bridging Nations in a New Era
Commodore Harry Manning, U.S.N.R. (Commander of the SS America) – A renowned naval officer, Manning was celebrated for his leadership in wartime convoys and transatlantic operations. His expertise in naval logistics and strategy made him a key figure in America’s post-war maritime strength.
Executive Officer Leroy J. Alex Anderson, Commander, U.S.N.R. – A senior naval officer, reflecting America’s ongoing military and strategic interests in the post-war era.
Chief Surgeon John Sheedy, Lieutenant, U.S.C.G. – A United States Coast Guard medical officer, likely providing medical care for both military personnel and civilians traveling on the SS America.
Historical Context: ⚓ After World War II, many military officers transitioned into civilian roles, particularly in maritime operations, international diplomacy, and reconstruction efforts. Their presence aboard the SS America underscores the ongoing military-civilian cooperation in global recovery.
🏛️ Business & Political Influencers: A World in Transition
Mr. Samuel Lewin & Mrs. Loda Lewin – Possible business leaders or investors, reflecting the movement of capital between Europe and the U.S. as nations rebuilt their economies.
Mr. Jacob Rupp & Mrs. Jacob Rupp – Likely part of a business delegation or diplomatic effort, possibly facilitating trade agreements between war-torn Europe and the American market.
Historical Context: 💼 The late 1940s marked the beginning of the Marshall Plan, an initiative aimed at rebuilding Western Europe’s economies. Many business leaders, economists, and political figures traveled between Europe and the U.S. to establish trade partnerships and financial agreements.
📍 The Route: A Journey Through History
✔ Southampton, England – A major port for war brides, diplomats, and European emigrants heading to America.
✔ Cherbourg, France – A critical departure point for French elites, American expatriates, and business professionals navigating post-war Europe.
✔ Cobh, Ireland – A historic departure hub, often associated with Irish emigration to the U.S.
✔ New York City, USA – The final destination, where passengers would begin new careers, reunite with loved ones, or start fresh in post-war America.
This historic route connected war-torn Europe with the prosperity and opportunities of the United States, symbolizing hope, renewal, and transatlantic unity.
🔍 Final Thoughts: A Voyage of Hope & Transformation
The September 5, 1947, journey of the SS America was not merely a transatlantic crossing—it was a reflection of the world’s recovery from war, the migration of talent and intellect, and the strengthening of transatlantic ties.
With war brides reuniting with their American husbands, religious figures on missions of service, business leaders forging new financial agreements, and cultural icons influencing a rapidly changing society, this voyage was a microcosm of the global transformation occurring in the late 1940s.
Through military cooperation, intellectual exchange, faith-driven missions, and economic resurgence, these passengers played a role in shaping the post-war world, proving that even amidst hardship, humanity’s drive for progress, innovation, and unity remained unshaken. 🌍🚢✨
