Carefree Children Playing in Ships Steerage, 1910s

This photograph features steerage children playing aboard the ship Friedrich der Grosse, captured between 1915 and 1920. The Friedrich der Grosse was a German ocean liner that primarily transported immigrants to the United States. During this period, travel in steerage, the lowest class on a passenger ship, was often cramped and not very comfortable. Though conditions were basic, many families chose this option for its affordability as they sought new opportunities in America.

In the image, we see young children engaged in play, a small reminder of the innocence and resilience of youth, even amid the difficult circumstances of long sea voyages. Steerage was generally crowded, with families sharing limited space. The photo offers a glimpse into daily life for countless immigrant families who left everything behind in search of a better future. It highlights both the challenges faced during the journey and the sense of community that often developed among passengers.

This snapshot captures a moment in time that reflects the broader wave of immigration during the early 20th century, marking a significant era for many individuals and families. Ships like the Friedrich der Grosse were crucial in shaping the demographic landscape of the United States, as millions crossed the Atlantic to forge new lives.