Cunard White Star Archives (1934-1949): Passenger Lists, Menus & Maritime History

The Cunard White Star Line (1934-1949) was formed as a merger of the two once giant steamship lines - The Cunard Steam Ship Company and the White Star Line. The depression years had taken their toll on a number of transatlantic steamship lines. After World War II, traffic, especially tourist traffic had recovered and the Cunard line purchased the remaining assets of White Star Line in 1949.

From 1934-1949, Ships with Names that eneded in "ia" were part of Cunard Line and if the name ended in "ic" - the ship was part of White Star Line (originally). After 1949, ephemera for the SS Georgic and SS Britannic were consolidated under Cunard.

Front Cover, Horse Racing Program on Board the RMS Laconia, Undated but Circa 1930s.

1930s - Horse Racing Program - RMS Laconia

Hilarious Horse Racing Program dating from the 1930s performed on the deck of the RMS Laconia of the Cunard White Star Line. Entries included Eve by Rib out of Adam, Jealousy by Nose out of Joint, Stampede by Sale out of Basement, etc.

Front Cover, "Samaria" Jockey Club Horse Racing Program from the 1930s.

1930 - Horse Racing Program - RMS Samaria

The ever-popular "Horse Racing" program from the 1930s, this one on the RMS Samaria of the Cunard White Star Line. Presented by the "Samaria Jockey Club, race entries included Headache by Cocktails out of Various, Slender by Diet out of Vanity, and many more.

1934-10-06 RMS Britannic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 6 October 1934
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Cobh And Galway
Commander: Captain P. R. Vaughan, D.S.C., R.D. (Cmdr. R.N.R. Retd.)

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Laconia Cabin and Tourist Class Passenger List - 16 March 1935.

1935-03-16 RMS Laconia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin and Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 16 March 1935
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain B. B. Oram, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, SS Georgic Farewell Dinner Bill of Fare 20 April 1935

1935-04-20 SS Georgic Farewell Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 20 April 1935 featured Fricandelles à l’Allemande, Tournedos of Beef, St. Laurent, and Pouding Wilhelmina for dessert.

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Berengaria First Class Passenger List - 26 June 1935.

1935-06-26 RMS Berengaria Passenger List

Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 26 June 1935
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain Sir Edgar Britten, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Samaria Third Class Passenger List - 27 July 1935.

1935-07-27 RMS Samaria Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 27 July 1935
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Galway
Commander: Captain J. McRostie

1935-09-04 RMS Majestic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 4 September 1935
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. Irving, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Berengaria Tourist Class Passenger List - 11 September 1935.

1935-09-11 RMS Berengaria Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 11 September 1935
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain Sir Edgar Britten, R.D., R.N.R.

1935-09-14 RMS Scythia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 14 September 1935
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Cobh (Queenstown)
Commander: Captain G. R. Dolphin

Front Cover, RMS Aquitania Passenger List - 18 September 1935

1935-09-18 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 18 September 1935
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. V. Peel, R.D., Commodore, R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Aquitania Farewell Dinner Bill of Fare - 23 September 1935

1935-09-23 RMS Aquitania Farewell Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 23 September 1935 featured Supreme of Brill - Vin Blanc, Veal Pöjarskies, and Plum Pudding -- Brandy Sauce for dessert. Autographs and great graphics and lyrics for the song "Auld Lang Syne."

1935-10-04 RMS Britannic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 4 October 1935
Route: Le Havre and Southampton to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain W. A. Hawkes, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Lancastria Cabin Class Passenger List - 5 October 1935.

1935-10-05 RMS Lancastria Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 5 October 1935
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Galway
Commander: Captain E. Edkin, O.B.E., R.D., A.D.C., R.N.R.

Menu Cover - Kosher Dinner Menu, RMS Queen Mary, Cunard Line, 8 June 1936

1936-06-08 RMS Queen Mary Strictly Kosher Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from Monday, 8 June 1936 featured Boiled Fresh Salmon, Fried Haddock and Corn on the Cob.

Kosher Luncheon Menu, RMS Aquitania, Cunard Line, 8 July 1936

1936-07-08 RMS Aquitania Strictly Kosher Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from Wednesday, 8 July 1936 featured Baked Fresh Haddock, Omelette Portugaise and Frankfurters with Sauerkraut.

1936-07-24 RMS Samaria Cabin Class Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 24 July 1936
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Greenock
Commander: Captain J. McRostie

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Samaria of the Cunard Line, Departing 24 July 1936 from Liverpool to New York and Boston via Belfast and Greenock

1936-07-24 RMS Samaria Tourist Class Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 24 July 1936
Route: Liverpool to New York and Boston via Belfast and Greenock
Commander: Captain J. McRostie

Front Cover, Cabaret Concert Program on Board the RMS Samaria, Thursday, 30 July 1936.

1936-07-30 Cabaret Concert Program - RMS Samaria

A Cabaret Concert in the Tourist Class Smoking Room onboard the RMS Samaria of the Cunard White Star Line on 30 July 1936. This charity concert benefited British, American, and Canadian Seamen’s charitable organizations.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Antonia of the Cunard Line, Departing 31 July 1936 from Liverpool to Montreal and Quebec via Greenock and Belfast

1936-07-31 RMS Antonia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 31 July 1936
Route: Liverpool to Montreal and Quebec via Greenock and Belfast
Commander: Captain W. Sewell Quinn.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 5 August 1936 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1936-08-05 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 5 August 1936
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. V. Peel, R.D., Commodore, R.N.R.

1936-08-08 RMS Britannic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist and Third Class
Date of Departure: 8 August 1936
Route: Southampton and Le Havre to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain G. Gibbons, R.D., R.N.R.

1936-08-21 RMS Samaria Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 21 August 1936
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Greenock
Commander: Captain J. McRostie

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Line, Departing 26 August 1936 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1936-08-26 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 26 August 1936
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. Irving, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 2 September 1936 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1936-09-02 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 2 September 1936
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain Sir Edgar Britten, R.D., R.N.R.

1936-10-17 RMS Georgic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 17 October 1936
Route: Southampton and Le Havre to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 9 June 1937 from New York to Southampton via Cherbourg

1937-06-09 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 9 June 1937
Route: New York to Southampton via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. C. Towley, R.D., R.N.R.

1937-07-24 RMS Georgic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 24 July 1937
Route: Southampton and Le Havre to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain B. B. Oram, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Ausonia of the Cunard Line, Departing 7 August 1937 from Southampton to Montreal and Quebec via Le Havre

1937-08-07 RMS Ausonia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 7 August 1937
Route: Southampton to Montreal and Quebec via Le Havre
Commander: Captain W. C. Battle, D.S.C., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Queen Mary Farewell Dinner Bill of Fare - 8 August 1937

1937-08-08 RMS Queen Mary Farewell Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare Card from 8 August 1937 featured Fillets of Sole Chesterfield, Chicken Halibut, Sauce Victoria, and Régence Pudding for dessert.

1937-09-03 RMS Franconia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 3 September 1937
Route: Liverpool to Boston and New York via Belfast and Greenock
Commander: Captain B. H. Davies

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Laconia of the Cunard Line, Departing 11 September 1937 from Liverpool to New York via Dublin, Galway and Boston

1937-09-11 RMS Laconia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 11 September 1937
Route: Liverpool to New York via Dublin, Galway and Boston
Commander: Captain C. H. Bate, R.D., R.N.R.

1937-09-17 RMS Georgic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 17 September 1937
Route: Le Havre and Southampton to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain B. B. Oram, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Scythia of the Cunard Line, Departing 25 September 1937 from Liverpool to New York and Boston via Dublin and Galway

1937-09-25 RMS Scythia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 25 September 1937
Route: Liverpool to New York and Boston via Dublin and Galway
Commander: Captain E. Edkin, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

1937-10-16 RMS Georgic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Members of the American Legion (First, Tourist and Third Class)
Date of Departure: 16 October 1937
Route: Southampton to New York via Le Havre and Cobh
Commander: Captain B. B. Oram, R.D., R.N.R

Front Cover of a Cabin and Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Carinthia of the Cunard Line, Departing 15 January 1938 from Liverpool to New York and Boston via Greenock

1938-01-15 RMS Carinthia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin and Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 15 January 1938
Route: Liverpool to New York and Boston via Greenock
Commander: Captain P. A. Murchie, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, SS Georgic Luncheon Bill of Fare - 14 March 1938

1938-03-14 SS Georgic Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 14 March 1938 featured Epicurean Ham & Dill Pickles, Cassolettes à la Toulouse, and Loganberry Flan for dessert.

Front Cover, SS Georgic Luncheon Bill of Fare - 16 March 1938

1938-03-16 SS Georgic Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 16 March 1938 featured Smoked Sturgeon, Roast Rib of Beef, Shredded Horseradish, and Lemon Cheese Cakes for dessert.

Front Cover, SS Georgic Luncheon Menu - 18 March 1938

1938-03-18 SS Georgic Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 18 March 1938 featured Fried Deep Sea Scallops, Sauce Remoulade, Fillets of Mutton, a la Parisienne, and Apricot Pie for dessert.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Line, Departing 1 June 1938 from New York to Cherbourg via Southampton, Commanded by Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

1938-06-01 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 1 June 1938
Route: New York to Cherbourg via Southampton
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Line, Departing 10 August 1938 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1938-08-10 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 10 August 1938
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, SS Georgic Farewell Dinner Bill of Fare - 18 August 1938

1938-08-18 SS Georgic Farewell Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 18 August 1938 featured Deep Sea Scallops, Sauce Rector, Croquettes à la Reine, and Coupe Danicheff for dessert.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Franconia of the Cunard Line, Departing 19 August 1939 from Liverpool to New York and Boston via Belfast and Greenock

1938-08-19 RMS Franconia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 19 August 1938
Route: Liverpool to New York and Boston via Belfast and Greenock
Commander: Commanded by Captain P. A. Murchie, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 20 August 1938

1938-08-20 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 20 August 1938 featured Sauté of Beefsteak, Bourgeoise, Sea Bass, Portugaise, and Zwieback Pudding for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 21 August 1938

1938-08-21 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 21 August 1938 featured Grey Mullet, Provençale, French Lamb Stew, and Gooseberry Pie for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 22 August 1938

1938-08-22 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 22 August 1938 featured Smelts à l'Anglaise, Canneroni à la Capri, and Ice Cream and Wafers for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Dinner Bill of Fare - 22 August 1938

1938-08-22 RMS Franconia Dinner Menu

Vintage "Get Together" Bill of Fare from Monday, 22 August 1938 featured Poached Halibut, Sauce Crevette, Paupiette of Beef, Portugaise, and Vanilla and Strawberry Ice Cream and Wafers for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 23 August 1938

1938-08-23 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 23 August 1938 featured Braised Ox Tail, Bourguignonne, Poached Hake, Crème au Gratin, and Vermicelli Pudding for dessert.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Aquitania of the Cunard Line, Departing 24 August 1938 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1938-08-24 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 24 August 1938
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Dinner Bill of Fare - 24 August 1938

1938-08-24 RMS Franconia Dinner Menu Card

Vintage Bill of Fare from Wednesday, 24 August 1938 featured Duckling Cutlets, Clamart, Roast Quarters of Lamb, Mint Sauce, and Neapolitan and Vanilla Ice Cream and Wafers for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 25 August 1938

1938-08-25 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 25 August 1938 featured Navarin of Lamb, Primeurs, Sirloin Steak, Maître d’hôtel, and Plum Pie for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Dinner Bill of Fare -25 August 1938

1938-08-25 RMS Franconia Dinner Menu Card

Vintage Bill of Fare from Thursday, 25 August 1938 featured Fillet of Flounder, Meunière, Prime Sirloin and Ribs of Beef, Horseradish, and Chocolate and Vanilla Ice Cream and Wafers for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 26 August 1938

1938-08-26 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 26 August 1938 featured Welsh Rarebits, Lamb Chops , and Apple Pie for dessert.

Menu Items, RMS Franconia Dinner Bill of Fare - 26 August 1938

1938-08-26 RMS Franconia Dinner Menu Card

Vintage Bill of Fare from Friday, 26 August 1938 featured Poached Halibut, Ménagère, Entrecote Steak, Crisp Onions, and Seville Pudding for dessert.

Front Cover, Cunard Line RMS Alaunia Tourist Class Passenger List - 27 August 1938.

1938-08-27 RMS Alaunia Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 27 August 1938
Route: Southampton to Québec and Montréal via Le Havre
Commander: Captain J. Foyster

Front Cover, RMS Franconia Luncheon Bill of Fare - 27 August 1938

1938-08-27 RMS Franconia Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 27 August 1938 featured Navarin of Lamb, Primeurs, Braised Round of Beef, Jardinière, and Tapioca Pudding for dessert.

RMS Franconia Farewell Dinner Bill of Fare - 27 August 1938

1938-08-27 RMS Franconia Farewell Dinner Menu Card

Vintage Bill of Fare from 27 August 1938 featured Poached Salmon, Lobster Sauce, Fried Filet of Sole au Citron, and Bavarois à la Russe for dessert.

1938-09-07 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 7 September 1938
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Laconia of the Cunard Line, Departing Saturday, 10 September 1938 from Liverpool to New York and Boston via Dublin and Galway

1938-09-10 RMS Laconia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 10 September 1938
Route: Liverpool to New York and Boston via Dublin and Galway
Commander: Captain W. C. Battle, D.S.C., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin and Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Ausonia of the Cunard Line, Departing 15 October 1938 from Southampton to Montreal and Quebec via Le Havre

1938-10-15 RMS Ausonia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin and Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 15 October 1938
Route: Southampton to Montreal and Quebec via Le Havre
Commander: Captain C. H. Bate, R.D., R.N.R.

1938-10-15 RMS Britannic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Members of the American Legion (First, Tourist and Third Class)
Date of Departure: 15 October 1938
Route: Southampton and Le Havre to New York via Cobh
Commander: Captain A. T. Brown, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 29 October 1938 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1938-10-29 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 29 October 1938
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. Irving, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Third Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 12 November 1938 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1938-11-12 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 12 November 1938
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain G. Gibbons, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Lancastria Dinner Bill of Fare - 7 May 1939

1939-05-07 RMS Lancastria Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from Sunday, 7 May 1939 featured Fried Chicken, Honey Glazed Pineapple, Grenadins of Veal with Noodles, and Fresh Pears Flambés for dessert.

1939-06-07 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 7 June 1939
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. C. Townley, R.D., R.N.R

1939-07-08 SS Georgic Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 8 July 1939
Route: New York to London via Cobh (Queenstown), Southampton, and Le Havre
Commander: Captain G. R. Dolphin, R.D., R.N.R.

1939-07-12 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Third Class
Date of Departure: 12 July 1939
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Commodore R. B. Irving, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R

Front Cover of a Cruise Passenger List from the SS Carinthia of the Cunard Line, Departing 25 July 1939 from New York to Quebec, Gaspé, and Halifax and returning to New York

1939-07-25 SS Carinthia Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cruise
Date of Departure: 25 July 1939
Route: New York to Quebec, Gaspé, and Halifax and returning to New York
Commander: Captain W. C. Battle, D.S.C., R.D., R.N.R.

1939-09-09 RMS Aquitania Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 9 September 1939
Route: Southampton to New York
Commander: Captain George Gibbons

1940-12-26 RMS Queen Mary Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 26 December 1940 featured Broiled Haddock, Sauce Robert, Beefsteak and Kidney Pie, and Sago Custard Pudding for dessert. This Bill of Fare was prepared for "Officers".

1947-02-13 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin
Date of Departure: 13 February 1947
Route: Southampton to New York
Commander: Captain C. M. Ford, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R

1947-05-24 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 24 May 1947
Route: New York to Southampton
Commander: Captain C. G. Illingworth, R.D., R.N.R

1947-09-11 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 11 September 1947
Route: Southampton to New York
Commander: Captain J. D. Snow, R.D., R.N.R

1947-09-19 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist
Date of Departure: 19 September 1947
Route: Southampton to New York
Commander: Commodore C. G. Illingworth, R.D., R.N.R

1947-09-25 RMS Media Passenger List

Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 25 September 1947
Route: Liverpool to New York
Commander: Captain R. G. Thelwell, O.B.E., R.D., R.N.R

Front Cover, RMS Mauretania Luncheon Bill of Fare - 17 October 1947

1947-10-17 RMS Mauretania Luncheon Menu

Exquisite Bill of Fare from 17 October 1947 featured Braised Ox Tail, Jardinière, Breaded Escalope of Veal with Cole Slaw, Guinea Chicken with Succotash, and Pineapple Crush Pie for Dessert, The elegant cover included a Portrait of James II after Sir Godfrey Kneller.

Front Cover, RMS Queen Mary Luncheon Bill of Fare - 23 December 1947

1947-12-23 RMS Queen Mary Christmas Themed Luncheon Menu

This post war Christmas Season Bill of Fare featured Potage St. Germain, Grilled Fresh Herrings with Mustard Sauce, Tenderloin Hamburger Steak with Garmi Saratoga Potatoes and Compote de Fruits.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 14 May 1948 from New York to Southampton via Cherbourg

1948-05-14 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 14 May 1948
Route: New York to Southampton via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain C. M. Ford, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 24 June 1948 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1948-06-24 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 24 June 1948
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain C. M. Ford, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 2 July 1948 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1948-07-02 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 2 July 1948
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain J. D. Snow, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 7 August 1948 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1948-08-07 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 7 August 1948
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain C. G. Illingworth, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 31 October 1948 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1948-10-31 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: Halloween, the 31 October 1948
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain C. M. Ford, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the RMS Mauretania of the Cunard Line, Departing 7 September 1948 from Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg

1948-09-07 RMS Mauretania First Class Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 7 September 1948
Route: Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. G. Woollatt, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Mauretania of the Cunard Line, Departing 7 September 1948 from Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg

1948-09-07 RMS Mauretania Cabin Class Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 7 September 1948
Route: Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. G. Woollatt, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the RMS Mauretania of the Cunard Line, Departing 28 September 1948 from Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg

1948-09-28 RMS Mauretania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 28 September 1948
Route: Southampton to New York Via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. G. Woollatt, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of 1949 Brochure on Tourist Class Accommodations on Cunard White Star Ships.

1949 Brochure - Cunard White Star Tourist Class on the "Big Four"

This 1949 booklet is your gangplank. Step aboard and see for yourself the spacious public rooms and tasteful cabins wherein relaxation and recreation are the rules of the day. Tourist Class on the "Big Four" of the Cunard White Star Line.

Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the RMS Mauretania of the Cunard Line, Departing 26 April 1949 from Southampton to New York Via Le Havre and Cobh

1949-04-26 RMS Mauretania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 26 April 1949
Route: Southampton to New York Via Le Havre and Cobh
Commander: Captain R. G. Thelwell, O.B.E., R.D., A.D.C., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the RMS Mauretania of the Cunard Line, Departing 4 May 1949 from New York to Southampton Via Cobh and Le Havre

1949-05-04 RMS Mauretania Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 4 May 1949
Route: New York to Southampton Via Cobh and Le Havre
Commander: Captain R. G. Thelwell, O.B.E., R.D., A.D.C., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Cabin Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 6 May 1949 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1949-05-06 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Cabin Class
Date of Departure: 6 May 1949
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Commodore C. M. Ford, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 27 August 1949 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1949-08-27 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 27 August 1949
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain R. B. G. Woollatt, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover, RMS Queen Elizabeth Dinner Bill of Fare - 28 August 1949

1949-08-28 RMS Queen Elizabeth Dinner Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from Sunday, 28 August 1949 featured Fried Filet of Sole, Anglaise, Roast Chicken, Chipolata Sauce, and Plum Pudding, Sweet Sauce for dessert.

Front Cover, RMS Queen Elizabeth Luncheon Bill of Fare - 29 August 1949

1949-08-29 RMS Queen Elizabeth Luncheon Menu

Vintage Bill of Fare from 29 August 1949 featured Corned Brisket of Beef and Vegetables, Vienna Steak, Tomato Sauce, and Ice Cream for dessert.

Front Cover, Today's Program of Events for Tuesday, 30 August 1949 on Board the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard White Star.

1949-08-30 Program of Today's Events - RMS Queen Elizabeth

Program of Social and Sporting events onboard the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard White Star Line for Tuesday, 30 August 1949. Today's activities included movies, concerts, Rotary meeting, children's tea party, horse racing, cocktail hour, BBC newscast, dancing, and community sing-a-long.

Front Cover of a Youth Argosy (Students) Passenger List from the RMS Samaria of the Cunard Line, Departing 9 September 1949 from London to Quebec via Le Havre

1949-09-09 RMS Samaria Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: Youth Argosy (Students)
Date of Departure: 9 September 1949
Route: London to Quebec via Le Havre
Commander: Captain A. B. Fasting, R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a First Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Elizabeth of the Cunard Line, Departing 14 October 1949 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1949-10-14 RMS Queen Elizabeth Passenger List

Steamship Line: Cunard Line
Class of Passengers: First Class
Date of Departure: 14 October 1949
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain C. M. Ford, C.B.E., R.D., R.N.R.

Front Cover of a Tourist Class Passenger List from the RMS Queen Mary of the Cunard Line, Departing 22 October 1949 from Southampton to New York via Cherbourg

1949-10-22 RMS Queen Mary Passenger List

Class of Passengers: Tourist Class
Date of Departure: 22 October 1949
Route: Southampton to New York via Cherbourg
Commander: Captain H. Grattidge, O.B.E.

=== Beginning in 1950 Cunard absorbed all of White Star Line. Voyages after 1949 for ships of the Old White Star Line ending in "ic" can be found under the White Star Line collection. All other Cunard ships are located under the Cunard Line. ===

The Merger of White Star Line with Cunard Steamship Company

In 1928 a new Oceanic(III) was proposed, and her keel was laid down that year at Harland & Wolff, but the final ship was never completed. She was to have a new diesel-electric propulsion system and maintain the thousand-foot dimensions that had initially been planned for Gigantic, and the unbuilt Ceric (1913).

As White Star faced financial troubles through the bungling of Lord Kylsant at the end of the twenties, Oceanic's keel was dismantled, and the steel was used in two new smaller ships built for the White Star, RMS Georgic & RMS Britannic.

Both of these ships would enter service in 1930 and would be the last liners White Star ever built. In 1933, White Star and Cunard were both in serious financial difficulties because of the Great Depression, falling passenger numbers and the advanced age of their fleets, notably White Star.

Work had been halted on Cunard's new giant, Hull 534 (later the Queen Mary), in 1931, to save money. In 1933, the British government agreed to provide assistance to the two competitors on the condition that they merge. The agreement was completed on December 30, 1933.

The merger took place on May 10, 1934, creating Cunard-White Star Limited. White Star contributed 10 ships to the new company while Cunard contributed 15 vessels. Because of this, and since Hull 534 was Cunard's ship, 62% of the company was owned by Cunard's shareholders, and 38% of the company was owned by White Star's shareholders.

A year after this merger, the last of the "Olympic Class" ships the Olympic was removed from active duty. Two years later, in 1937, she was scrapped. Paneling from her First Class lounge was salvaged and installed in the restaurant of the White Swan Hotel, Alnwick, Northumberland, England.

In 1947, Cunard acquired the 38% of Cunard White Star it did not already own, and on December 31, 1949, it acquired Cunard White Star's assets and operations, and reverted to using the name "Cunard."

From the time of the 1934 merger, the house flags of both lines had been flown on all its ships, with each vessel flying the flag of its original owner above the other; after 1950, only Georgic and Britannic, the last surviving White Star liners, continued to fly the White Star burgee on a regular basis, above the Cunard house flag. All other ships flew the Cunard flag over the White Star flag until 1968.

Recap and Summary of the Cunard White Star Archival Collection

The Cunard White Star Archival Collection is an extensive and meticulously curated resource documenting the history of the Cunard-White Star Line from its merger in 1934 until 1949, when Cunard fully absorbed White Star Line. This collection provides a wealth of passenger lists, menus, onboard entertainment programs, and other ephemera, offering a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of transatlantic ocean travel.

This resource is highly valuable for:

Teachers and Students: An exceptional primary source for studying the history of ocean travel, the Great Depression's impact on maritime industries, and post-war transatlantic migration.
Genealogists: Passenger lists provide vital documentation for tracing ancestors who traveled between Europe and North America.
Historians: A deep dive into how the merger shaped the maritime industry and the luxurious onboard experiences of travelers.
Maritime Enthusiasts and Collectors: Rare ship menus, event programs, and documents paint a vivid picture of life at sea.

Notable and Most Interesting Content

The collection is a treasure trove of maritime history, but certain items stand out for their historical and cultural significance:

1. Passenger Lists (1933-1949)

Why it’s interesting: These lists detail transatlantic voyages of various classes, including first-class luxury travelers, working-class emigrants, and even military personnel during wartime.
Example: The 1935-06-26 RMS Berengaria Passenger List represents an era of high-society travel, while the 1947-09-25 RMS Media Passenger List provides insight into the post-war resettlement era.
Relevance: Ideal for genealogists and historians tracking migration patterns, notable passengers, and ship movements.

2. Onboard Entertainment & Programs

Why it’s interesting: Reveals the leisure activities available on ocean liners during the 1930s and 1940s.
Example: The 1930s Horse Racing Programs from RMS Laconia and RMS Samaria feature witty, creative race names like "Eve by Rib out of Adam" and "Headache by Cocktails out of Various."
Relevance: A rare look at shipboard social life, showing the humor and camaraderie among passengers.

3. Fine Dining at Sea - Vintage Menus

Why it’s interesting: These menus provide insight into the culinary sophistication and cultural trends of the time.
Example: The 1935-04-20 SS Georgic Farewell Dinner Menu included dishes like Fricandelles à l’Allemande and Pouding Wilhelmina, while the 1947-12-23 RMS Queen Mary Christmas Luncheon Menu reflected post-war holiday traditions with festive selections.
Relevance: Perfect for food historians and those interested in gourmet travel experiences of the past.

4. Cabaret Concert Program (1936)

Why it’s interesting: A charity concert program from the RMS Samaria benefiting British, American, and Canadian seamen’s organizations.
Relevance: Highlights the role of ships as cultural hubs and the philanthropic activities tied to ocean travel.

5. World War II Impact & Post-War Resurgence

Why it’s interesting: The collection covers wartime operations and the resurgence of passenger traffic in the late 1940s.
Example: The 1940-12-26 RMS Queen Mary Officers' Luncheon Menu reflects dining conditions during the war.
Relevance: Essential for military historians exploring how passenger liners were repurposed for wartime service and their role in post-war migration.

Final Thoughts

This Cunard White Star Archival Collection serves as an indispensable historical record of ocean travel, social history, and the evolution of luxury liners during a pivotal era. Whether researching family history, studying maritime commerce, or exploring the lavish lifestyles of transatlantic travelers, this collection is a goldmine of firsthand accounts and rare documents.

Cunard White Star Archives (1934-1949): Passenger Lists, Menus & Maritime History

The Merger of White Star Line with Cunard Steamship Company

Recap and Summary of the Cunard White Star Archival Collection

Notable and Most Interesting Content

1. Passenger Lists (1933-1949)

2. Onboard Entertainment & Programs

3. Fine Dining at Sea - Vintage Menus

4. Cabaret Concert Program (1936)

5. World War II Impact & Post-War Resurgence

Final Thoughts

Cunard White Star Collection
GG Archives

Primary Collections

Cunard White Star Archives (1934-1949): Passenger Lists, Menus & Maritime History

The Merger of White Star Line with Cunard Steamship Company

Recap and Summary of the Cunard White Star Archival Collection

Notable and Most Interesting Content

1. Passenger Lists (1933-1949)

2. Onboard Entertainment & Programs

3. Fine Dining at Sea - Vintage Menus

4. Cabaret Concert Program (1936)

5. World War II Impact & Post-War Resurgence

Final Thoughts

Cunard White Star Collection GG Archives

Primary Collections

Cunard White Star Collection
GG Archives