Page:A collection of thirty thousand names of German, Swiss, Dutch, French, Portuguese and other immigrants in Pennsylvania.djvu/8



In compliance with the Laws of Pennsylvania, Masters of Ships importing emigrants from the continent of Europe, furnished, on their arrival at the port of Philadelphia, exact Lists of all imported foreigners The original Lists are still preserved in the State Department, at Harrisburg, and, but for these, comparatively few of living millions would now scarce be able to determine with certainty the time of their ancestors' arrival. Those who can appreciate motives, and sacrifices made, feel a laudable curiosity to know the names of all, who were "in perils in the sea," with their progenitors. This curiosity, the Editor hag attempted to satisfy, by the plan of arrangement adopted—grouping the names of a band of co-adventurers; thus investing them with additional interest. He may have done more. This Collection may lead to the recovery of rights to inheritances, that might otherwise remain unestablished. It is not, however, presumed that this, in itself is judicial evidence; but may suggest modes of proof. One of the main objects, among others, of this publication, is to preserve names, which indifference or accidents might forever place beyond reach. And what can be a greater source of satisfaction to the descendants of those whose names are thus preserved, than a collection of this kind, and by this means hand names down to millions of a living progeny? If an old newspaper, with a grandfather's name, is carefully preserved, as a memento, why not value this proposed collection of thirty thousand names? Why not procure a copy at once, at a price within the reach of thousands? Hereafter, no opportunity may present itself. To afford those, who desire copies, an idea of the plan of arrangement, size of type, page and quality of paper, a specimen has been issued. The volume will make nearly 500 pages. An Introduction, embracing general remarks, a complete catalogue of all the baptismal names tha occur, with their significations, will be prefixed. (Continued—see third page cover.)