Description
United States Shipping Commissioner wage book (SAFR13564, HDC 19) is dated 1905. It contains information on the pay and allowances
of seamen. The item is available for research use without restrictions.
Background
The Shipping Commissioners Act of 1872 established offices to oversee the signing of sailors to ships. The Act required that
seamen on American ships sign their articles in front of an appointed United States Shipping Commissioner, only after having
proved their sobriety and to ensure the sailor wasn't signed by a crimp. Much of the effectiveness of the Act was minimized
because boardinghouse keepers refused to furnish crews for ships in port.
Restrictions
Some material may be copyrighted or restricted. It is the researcher's obligation to determine and satisfy copyright or other
case restrictions when publishing or otherwise distributing materials found in the collections.
Availability
This collection is open for use unless otherwise noted.