Once I read the reason why people picked New Orleans, it came as such a  simple solution and IT WAS SIMPLE! Back in the mid 1800's, Cotton was the Southern United States largest export. Ships by the dozen flocked to New Orleans to hall the cash crops throughout the world. The problem was with the shipping industry there was no items for which New Orleans did not have. In order for the ships Captain to be profitable, it was a necessity to figure out what products could be sold on the market in New Orleans. With such an influx of goods, such as; spices, perfumes and other assorted item. The Captains had a hard time making any  profit on the things he brought back.

The Solution, People! At this point in time many changes had occurred in the Europe. Wars were raging people wanting to start a new life. Most Passenger ships charge such an huge amount, the average citizen could not afford the transportation. But the cotton ships could charge a rate reasonable enough for the lower income group and still make huge profits both ways. 

Most of these ships did not port in  the major ports. Just regular ports of trade. Harve, France was one of these ports. Most Cotton shipments went to Mulhouse. This was where in the industrial section of the country was. Waterways made it exceptionally easy for the average traveler to get from Alsace to Harve in a short period of time for little money. 

The Cotton ships normally charged half the fare of a normal passenger ship. Of course living in a steerage compartment did not seem to appealing, I am sure. But it was an opportunity to get to a new world. Have a new hope and start a new life.

Many ships took up to 40 days to arrive at their destination.  Cramped quarters and pitching ships make for many sick people. Many people did die on this voyages. It was something I am sure everyone was aware of. 

I noted on one Voyage 19 people past away out of 44. There must have been an out break of some virus. It was not easy going by no means.  It is as if it was an act of fate that anyone person actually survived. I have to admit I am grateful for one thing, my Great, Great Grandfather who did make it!

HomePage