H ERITAG E
Some Useful Advice for Emigrants to America Here is the English translation of an advertisement pamphlet published in 1870 by an emigration agent in Gothenburg. He offers some advice to prospective customers before they leave Sweden for America. In particular, note the dig at Irish passengers in paragraph 12, and the SwedishNorwegian criticism of Denmark in paragraph 15 for offering emigrants cheaper fares across the Atlantic.
W
hen someone decides to emigrate to America, the following questions arise: Which shipping line and which routes should I choose in order to avoid dangers and obtain the greatest advantages; what belongings should I carry with me; and, lastly, which destination should I aim for, so as to maximize my chances to find work, etc. Since these questions should be answered before departure to ensure that the journey might be embarked upon with confidence, I the undersigned will address them based on many years of experience. No.1: Anyone who is doing well in Sweden should remain there, rather than venturing out into the unknown. However, should your income not cover your expenses, then do travel to America while you still have the means to do so. Any remaining savings may be used on arrival to start a new business. Even though America has its problems, it also offers advantages that no other country can match. No. 2: Anyone afraid of hard physical labour should not emigrate. No. 3: As long as you do not have unrealistic expectations, you will succeed.
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Swedish Press | May 2020 20
No. 4: Stay sober, honest and industrious, and you will succeed better there than anywhere else, because these are qualities that are respected and rewarded in America. Over there, laziness is despised and hard work is esteemed. No. 5: Commence your journey with a firm resolution to establish a home. Apply patience, energy and persistence, and you will succeed. No. 6: Choose Chicago as your destination, and accept immediately whatever position you are offered. No. 7: People who do not possess professional skills should continue westward via Nebraska, e.g. to Iowa, Missouri or Kansas, since jobs are readily available there, as is arable land on favourable terms. No. 8: Farmers, craftsmen and labourers, as well as maids, can always count on a secure and adequate income. No. 9: Make sure that your trunks and bags are clearly marked, and don’t leave cash inside. No. 10: Do not leave Gothenburg or England without ensuring that your accompanying luggage is present. Otherwise report the situation to Headquarters. No. 11: When buying your ticket in Gothenburg, make sure that you are not embarked on one of the old steam freighters. Instead, ask for accommodation on the new Royal Mail Steamers whose prices are equally reasonable.
