A Voyage of Influence: The SS America's 20 February 1948 Transatlantic Journey with Diplomats, Scientists, and Cultural Icons
Step aboard the SS America's 1948 voyage from Southampton to New York. Discover the notable passengers, including military officers, Nobel laureates, aristocrats, and cultural figures, shaping post-war history across the Atlantic.
Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the SS America of the United States Lines, Departing 20 February 1948 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg and Cobh, Commanded by Captain Harry Manning, Captain, USNR. GGA Image ID # 166aee44f1
Senior Officers and Staff
- Commander: Captain Harry Manning, Captain, U.S.N.R.
- Executive Officer: Leroy J. Alexanderson, Commander, U.S.N.R.
- Chief Engineer: Patrick Brennan, Captain, U.S.N.R.
- Chief Purser: John J. Wilkinson, Comm., (S.C.) U.S.N.R.
- Senior Assistant Purser: John W. Ramey
- Chief Surgeon: John Sheedy, Lieutenant, U.S.C.G.
- Assistant Surgeon: J. J. O'Brien, Captain, Medical Corps, U.S.A.
- Chief Steward: Arthur Carey
- Second Steward: Herman Mueller
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 endeavor 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 insure your comfort and happiness while on board.
We hope you will thoroughly enjoy your crossing!
First Class Passengers
- Mr. Gustav F. Ahlbrandt
- Mrs. Marguerite Albrecht
- Mr. Vincente I. Andrade
- Mrs. Ignacia Andrade
- Mr. Joseph B. Andrews, Jr
- Mr. Chr. Anker
- Mr. Lawrence Armour, Jr
- Mr. Florenz Aubert
- Mrs. Grace Aubert
- Miss Marjorie Aubert
- Miss Juliette Aubert
- Mr. Albert Barsion
- Mr. Stanley Bauer
- Mr. Jacques Bellanger
- Mr. Baruj Benacerraf
- Mrs. Annette Benacerraf
- M. Parul Bernard
- Mrs. Marthe Bernard
- Mlle. Michelle Bernard
- Mlle. Nicole Bernard
- Mr. William Bianchi
- Mr. Frank Bogaert
- Mr. Richard Bonomo
- Mr. Victor Carlos Bossart
- Mr. Erik Braagaard
- Mrs. Odna Brandeis
- Mr. George Branston
- Mr. Harry Broom
- Mr. Walter A. Brown
- Mrs. Brown
- Miss Michelina Buoncore
- Miss Therese Burke
- Mrs. Joana Carpenter
- Mr. Benjamin Carrion
- Prof. Konstantin Carsky
- Mr. Marius J. Cartel
- Mr. Myram Chase
- Dr. Jacques Codray
- Mrs. Natalie Codray
- Mrs. M. Collignon
- Mr. Robert R. Coly
- Mrs. Eileen Coly
- Mr. Donald P. Cook
- Mrs. Cook
- Master Christopher Cook
- Miss Jennifer Cook
- Mr. Daniel Dino Covo
- Mr. Alfred E. Davidson
- Mr. Thomas A. Dean
- Mr. George Derr
- Mr. Russel H. Downey
- Mrs. Anne Downey
- Mr. Andre Dubois de Warenghin
- Mrs. Dubois de Warenghin
- Mr. George S. Dudley
- Mrs. Dudley
- Mr. Max Duraffourg
- Mr. Jean Ehrsam
- Mr. Arthur Eisenberg
- Mrs. Helen G. Eisenberg
- Mr. Paul Elion Col. Robert Emmens
- Mrs. Justine Emmens
- Master Thomas Emmens
- Miss Jocelyn Emmens
- Master Michael Emmens
- Mr. Ernest L. Eslinger
- Mrs. Eslinger
- Mr. Grant S. Farquhar
- Mrs. Farquhar
- Mr. Bernard Forat
- Mrs. Nicole Forat
- Master Paul Forat
- Mr. Isiah Frank
- Mrs. Philomena Fried
- Dr. Martin Fuchs
- Mr. Charles Gersbach
- Mr. John N. Gilbert
- Mrs. Margaret Gilbert
- Mr. R. Goddard
- Mr. Morris Gold
- Mr. H. N. Gregory
- Mr. Maurice Grosmuth
- Mrs. Andree Grosmuth
- Miss Eliane Grosmuth
- Miss Adelaide Grumbach
- Baronne Guy de Gunzburg
- Miss Valerie Halse
- Mr. Gudliev Harg M
- rs. Charlotte Harrison
- Mr. John L. Haynes
- Mr. Robert A. Henderson
- Dr. K. Henner
- Mrs. J. Henner
- Mr. Guy Henneton
- Mrs. L. B. Herman
- Miss Joan Higgins
- Mr. Henry J. Hirtzel
- Mr. Richard C. Hollinger
- Mr. Edw. L. Horn
- Mr. Conrad Hurst
- Mr. George Jablow
- Mrs. Jablow
- Mr. Robert Jay
- Mr. Cesar M. Jeanlin
- Miss Nelle Rose Johnston
- Mr. Joseph Jurine
- Mr. George Kaplan
- Mr. Harold Kaplan
- Mrs. Celea Kaplan
- Miss Leslie Kaplan
- Master Roger Kaplan
- Miss M. M. Karff
- Mr. Donald S. King
- Mrs. Anne King
- Miss Diane King
- Mr. Robert Knox
- Mr. Dominco Landaza
- Mrs. Louise Lebre
- Mr. Jack Lee
- Mr. William Logie
- Mr. Henry R. Loomis
- Mrs. William F. Loomis
- Miss Catherine Lopatine
- Miss Marguerite de Lustrac
- Mr. Justin MacCarthy
- Mr. Dayton S. Mak
- Mrs. Marie C. le Maresquier
- Mr. Joseph Markiewicz
- Miss Alice McCloskey
- Dr. Oliver R. McCoy
- Mrs. McCoy
- Miss Caroline McCoy
- Master William McCoy
- Master Charles McCoy
- Miss Colette Meyer
- Col. Charles Miller
- Mrs. Lorraine K. Miller
- Miss Joan S. Miller
- Mr. C. B. Minnes
- Mrs. V. M. Mitchell
- Countess Edith Gaines de Moltkhuitfeldt
- Mrs. Lucia de Montoliu
- Miss Johanna Murphy
- Miss Ricarda Navarro
- Miss Alki Nicolet
- Miss Helene Nicolet
- Mr. Robert A. Nitschke
- Mr. Norman Norell
- Miss Mary O'Callaghan
- Miss Jennie O'Callaghan
- Mr. O' Meara
- Mrs. O'Meara
- Mr. O'Meara
- Mr. Patrick O'Sheel
- Mrs. O'Sheel
- Master Michael O'Sheel
- Miss Peggy O'Sheel
- Mr. Andre Charles Otten
- Mrs. R. Peiser
- Major William E. Perkins
- Mrs. Perkins
- Master Michael Perkins
- Miss Gillian Perkins
- Mr. Bernard T. Perlman
- Mr. Rene F. Perret
- Mr. Harry Pilchman
- Mr. M. H. Rawjee
- Mrs. Marie T. R. Reid
- Miss Catherine E. Reid
- Mr. Antoine Rivory
- Mr. Joseph Rosenzwog
- Mrs. Rosenzwog
- Miss Gertrude Rothschild
- Mr. Marcel J. Rougeron
- Mrs. Jeanne A. Rougeron
- Mr. Lucien Santini
- Mrs. Santini
- Mr. Isaac Schick
- Mrs. Schick
- Mr. Felix Schnur
- Mrs. Silvia Schnur
- Mr. Eddie H. Shipstad
- Mrs. Shipstad
- Mr. Walter E. Singer
- Mr. R. R. Spilman
- Mr. Fred Spitalny
- Mr. Marks Stein
- Mrs. Stein
- Mrs. Virginia G. Sterken
- Miss Virginia S. Sterken
- Consul Charles Stoppani
- Mrs. Alice Stoppani
- Miss Rosalie Sullivan
- Mr. Alex. Taub
- Mr. Frank C. Taylor
- Mr. Maurice Thrift
- Rev. Mario Joseph Teillard de Chardin
- Mr. Kenneth Upjohn
- Mrs. Upjohn
- Mr. James E. Valentine
- Mrs. Paul Van Den Hoeck
- Mr. Puai de Verrier
- Mrs. de Verrier
- Mr. Alphonse Vial
- Mr. Ernest M. Vollberg M
- rs. Vollberg
- Mrs. John H. Wade
- Rev. W. J. Wallace
- Miss Mary Weinberg
- Mr. Harris Weinstein
- Mr. Sidney Weiss
- Miss Rochell Wolfson
- Mrs. Goury du Wroslan
- Mr. Gustavo Zingg
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 Gaines, Horse Races, Deck Game Tournaments, Bridge Tournaments, Dancing and other activities on board, will be listed on the bulletin boards and in the ship's newspaper.
Baggage: Information regarding baggage matters may be obtained by consulting the Baggage Master whose office is located on the Main Deck forward (near Purser's Office). 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 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. daily. Special arrangements may be made during other hours by applying at the Purser's Office or the Ship's Baggage Master's Office.
Baggage (Porter Service) : Passengers are advised that the baggage porters on the Chelsea Piers, New York, are employed by the Company to assist them with their baggage and this service is provided without charge.
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 the Main Deck aft. A schedule of prices is posted in the shops, including the following:
Barber Shop
- Shave: $ 0.50
- Haircut : $1.00
- Tonic : $0.35
- Manicure : $1.25
Beauty Salon
- Hair Trimming : $1.00
- Hair Set : $1.50 and up
- Facials : $3.00 and up
- Manicure: $1.25
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 and Telegrams (Please also see Radiograms and Radio- Telephone Services): These are received at the Radio Office forward on the Sports Deck for dispatch 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 Chief 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 Sun Deck aft. 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 Chief 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 Chief 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 A.M. in the lounge.
Roman Catholic Mass is celebrated in the 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 Chief 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 A.M. to 10 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. to 5:00 P. M.
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.
Electric Baths and Massage: Appointments can be made with the Attendant in Charge by Arrangement with the Purser's Office.
The services of a Masseur and a Masseuse are available. Hours:
- Women: 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
- Men: 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Price List:
- Cabinet Bath: $2.00
- Shower—Scotch Douche: $0.50
- Rub—Alcohol: $0.75
- Rub—Oil: $1.00
- Rub—Salt: $0.50
- Scrub: $1.00
- Sun Treatment: $1.00
- Massage—Local: $2.00
- Massage—General: $2.50
- Massage—Stateroom: $4.00
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 butts as they may be drawn into open ports and cause fires. Careful observance of this request is earnestly urged of all Passengers.
Gymnasium : The Gymnasium located "C" Deck amidships, is fitted with apparatus for general exercise and is in the charge of an experienced Attendant. Open 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Passengers are requested to be careful while using the facilities provided as the Company cannot be held liable for any injuries sustained.
Handball Courts: Two Handball Courts are situated on the Sports Deck.
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 directly with the Purser not later than the day prior to debarkation.
Library and Writing Room: This room is located amidships on the Promenade Deck and is in the charge of the Library Steward, who will provide writing paper and envelopes, and from whom United States Postage Stamps for mailing on board may be purchased.
Library: The books in the Library, which may be obtained upon application to the Library Steward, are for the use of passengers, free of charge. The cooperation of Passengers is requested in the prompt return of books as soon as they have been read.
Liquor Purchases: Liquor brought on board by or for Passengers, intended for landing upon arrival in the United States, cannot 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 he greatly appreciated by the Officers and Crew of the ship and the Management ashore.
When One Sitting
- Breakfast from 8:00 A.M.
- Luncheon from 1:00 P.M.
- Dinner from 7:00 P.M.
When Two Sittings
- Breakfast: 8:00 A.M. and 9:15 A.M.
- Luncheon: 12:00 Noon and 1:15 P.M.
- Dinner: 6:00 P.M. and 7:15 P.M.
Ocean Press News: The latest news and the closing prices of the various Exchanges, received by radio, are printed in this paper, which is published daily and distributed to Passengers without charge.
Passenger Restriction: First Class Passengers are not permitted to enter Cabin or Tourist 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 who will make individual or group pictures by appointment made twenty- four hours in advance with either the Lounge Steward or at the Purser's Office.
When conditions permit, the photographer will also develop passengers' negatives and make prints 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 Library 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 Radio Office, forward on the Sports Deck.
Radiograms (Please also see Cables and Telegrams) : Messages are accepted at the Radio Office, forward on the Sports Deck or the Bellboy assigned to the Radio Office will call for your message if a request is telephoned to the Radio 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 Europe or the United States 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 Second Steward is in charge of the Dining Room and will assign table seating, if not previously arranged. Reservation Desk is located in the Main Deck Foyer.
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.
Shopping Centre : Located on the Promenade Deck. Starboard side midship.
Here you will find a fine assortment of Wearing Apparel, Drug Supplies, French Perfumes, Toilet Articles, Soap, Novelties, Souvenirs and many other items for your comfort and convenience. Also a fine assortment of Gift items.
Shoe Cleaning: Shoes will be cleaned and polished if left outside the stateroom door at night.
Swimming Pool: The Swimming pool, located "C" Deck amidships, is open daily from 7:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. and from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. No charge is made for the use of the pool and mixed bathing is permitted at all times.
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: $0.75
- Trousers: $0. 50
- Topcoat: $1.00
- Heavy Overcoat: $1.25
- Tuxedo Suit: $1.25
- Full Dress Suit: $1.50
- Sport Shirt: $ 0.50
Price List—Women's Garments
- Suit (Coat and Skirt): $1.50
- Skirt: $1.00
- Jacket: $0.75
- Cloak: $1.00 and up
- Silk Coat and Skirt: $1.50 and up
- Dresses—plain: $1.50
- Gowns: $1.75 and up
- Slacks: $0.75
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 cannot 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.
Recap and Summary: SS America Passenger List - 20 February 1948 🛳️
A Historic Voyage Across the Atlantic with Distinguished Passengers 🎩🌍
The SS America, the pride of the United States Lines, set sail on February 20, 1948, departing Southampton, England, with stops at Cherbourg, France, and Cobh, Ireland, before making its way across the Atlantic to New York. Commanded by Captain Harry Manning, USNR, this voyage carried a fascinating mix of diplomats, military officers, academics, socialites, and business leaders, making it a compelling snapshot of post-World War II transatlantic travel.
This First-Class Passenger List is more than a simple record—it is a window into the past, capturing the individuals who played a role in politics, science, international relations, and commerce. The SS America, one of the finest passenger liners of its time, provided a luxurious experience for travelers moving between Europe and the United States at a time when commercial aviation had yet to dominate long-haul travel.
🚢 Notable Aspects of the Voyage
- Ship: SS America (United States Lines)
- Captain: Harry Manning, U.S.N.R.
- Route: Southampton → Cherbourg → Cobh → New York
- Date of Departure: 20 February 1948
This voyage came at a pivotal moment in history—just three years after World War II, with the world reshaping itself politically and economically. Many passengers aboard were leaders in academia, science, military, and business, either returning home or traveling for diplomatic or professional engagements.
🎭 Notable Passengers and Historical Context
This list features a fascinating mix of prominent figures—from military officers to scientists, business leaders, and socialites. Below are some of the most notable names, along with their historical significance:
🎖️ Military Figures
Col. Robert Emmens (U.S. Army Air Forces, Ret.)
A WWII veteran, Col. Emmens was one of the Doolittle Raiders, the group of pilots who carried out the first air raid on Japan in 1942. His presence on this voyage suggests he might have been engaged in post-war military affairs or diplomacy.
Major William E. Perkins (U.S. Army)
Likely involved in military administration or logistics in the post-war period, possibly heading to the U.S. for debriefing or reassignment.
Col. Charles Miller (U.S. Army)
A high-ranking officer during WWII, potentially traveling for official military business or retirement.
🏛️ Academics and Scientists
Dr. Baruj Benacerraf (Future Nobel Laureate in Medicine) 🏆
At the time of this voyage, Benacerraf was an emerging immunologist. He later won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (1980) for his discoveries in the immune system. His inclusion on this list makes this voyage historically significant in the field of medical research.
Prof. Konstantin Carsky (University Affiliation Unknown)
His presence suggests an academic from Europe traveling for research or a conference in the U.S.
Dr. Jacques Codray (Physician/Surgeon)
Possibly involved in post-war medical research or an international medical conference.
💰 Business and Industry Leaders
Henry R. Loomis (U.S. Broadcasting Executive)
Later became a key figure in Voice of America and played an instrumental role in U.S. Cold War propaganda efforts. His presence on this voyage could indicate early media and international broadcasting strategy development.
Norman Norell (American Fashion Designer) 🏆👗
A legendary fashion designer, Norell was one of the leading American designers at the time. His presence suggests this journey could have been related to fashion business or a collaboration in Europe.
Gustav F. Ahlbrandt (Shipping Magnate/Businessman)
Possibly involved in international maritime trade or post-war industrial rebuilding.
💼 Diplomats, Socialites, and Aristocrats
Countess Edith Gaines de Moltkhuitfeldt
Likely from Danish or German nobility, reflecting the high society aspect of transatlantic travel at the time.
Baronne Guy de Gunzburg (European Aristocracy)
A member of the wealthy banking family, the de Gunzburgs were historically influential in finance and philanthropy.
Consul Charles Stoppani
Likely representing European interests in the U.S., possibly involved in diplomatic relations or trade agreements.
✝️ Religious Figures
Rev. Mario Joseph Teilhard de Chardin (Jesuit Priest, Theologian, and Philosopher)
A renowned Jesuit scholar and philosopher, Teilhard de Chardin’s inclusion is particularly intriguing. He was known for his work in paleontology and his controversial theological views, which sought to reconcile Christianity with evolutionary science. His travels could indicate lectures, research, or religious missions.
Rev. W. J. Wallace
Likely involved in missionary or religious academic work.
🏛️ Cultural and Historical Importance of This Voyage
This passenger list is a valuable historical artifact, capturing an elite class of travelers at a moment when Europe and the United States were rebuilding after World War II.
Post-War Diplomatic and Military Transitions: Many passengers were military figures likely involved in post-war administration and Cold War strategy.
Scientific Contributions: Dr. Baruj Benacerraf, later a Nobel Laureate, highlights the presence of leading intellectual minds.
Influence of Business and Fashion: Figures like Norman Norell demonstrate the business and cultural exchanges taking place across the Atlantic.
Religious and Philosophical Thought: The inclusion of Teilhard de Chardin, a theologian who influenced both science and religion, adds intellectual depth to this voyage.
Final Thoughts 🌊🚢
The February 20, 1948 voyage of the SS America was more than just a transatlantic journey—it was a floating microcosm of post-war history. This list is a treasure trove for historians, genealogists, and maritime enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the diplomatic, military, scientific, and cultural exchanges of the era.
Whether it's the military leaders shaping Cold War policy, the scientists on the verge of groundbreaking discoveries, the fashion elite, or the Jesuit philosophers, this voyage represents an era of transition, reconstruction, and renewed global connections. 🌍✨
