Examples of Collection
RG. 36: Records of the Bureau of Customs. Philadelphia District. Records of the International Exhibition of 1876. 1875-1877.
Chinese Immigration Issues in Philadelphia
Concerning: Soo Hoo Fun, arrested in Mt. Carmel
Customs – Port of Philadelphia. E1057 Records of Arrivals and Clearances. Vol. 4: 1810-1816
This book lists passenger name, port of origin, etc.
[Note: this was the original book that the port officer wrote in. Its about 12” by 18”]
Some years ago, the archives put together an exhibit on the Tea Trade with China. Ask a librarian if you're interested in this
Records of Customhouses in the Mid-Atlantic States, Philadelphia, PA
This contains information about: "Packages and Contents"; "by Whom Shipped"; "To whom consigned"; "Places of consignee’s residence"; "Ports of destination"
Librarian's Recommendations
RG 36. Bureau of Customs, Port of Philadelphia
China Trade with Philadelphia, 1790's - 1820's
1876 Expo - Centennial Exposition. Asian countries had exhibits and NARA holds these exhibit records. Japan is much better represented than China.
RG 685. Chinese Exclusion - lots of case files (as seen above). Philadelphia and Baltimore District Offices, 1882-1910's
Microfilm - State Department. All East Asian Countries.