California, Los Angeles, Passenger Lists, 1907-1948

What is in This Collection?

This collection includes passenger lists from 1907 to 1948.

The passenger lists are digital copies of the original records. The earliest records are handwritten pages. Later records are usually handwritten on pre-printed pages. The records are arranged by the date of entry into port.

This collection consists of lists for those arriving at San Pedro, Wilmington, or Los Angeles, California, 1907-1948. It corresponds to NARA Publication M1764: Passenger Lists of Vessels Arriving at San Pedro/Wilmington/Los Angeles, California, June 29, 1907 - June 30, 1948.

The information was supplied by the immigrant or a traveling companion (usually a family member). Incorrect information was occasionally given, or mistakes may have been made when the clerk guessed at the spelling of foreign names.

Passenger arrival lists known as customs manifests date back to 1820. Congressional action in 1891 resulted in federal immigration officials recording the immigrants’ arrival. The passenger arrival list was used by legal inspectors to cross-examine each immigrant during a legal inspection prior to the person being allowed to live in America. Only two percent of the prospective immigrants were denied entry.

Additional records and/or images may be added to this collection in the future.

To Browse This Collection

What Can These Records Tell Me?

The following information may be found in these records:

Passenger List

• Name, passenger number, and arrival date
• Port of entry
• Nearest relative or friend in place of departure
• Final destination (city and state)
• Who paid for passage
• Whether or not passenger has been to U. S. previously
• When here previously and where passenger stayed
• Name and complete address of persons to be joined
• Condition of health
• Physical impairments
• Physical description

Collection Content

Sample Image

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  Passenger list 1928