Philadelphia Maritime Exchange records
Creation: 1875-1957Abstract
The Philadelphia Maritime Exchange was formed in 1875 for the purpose of circulating marine intelligence relating to the port of Philadelphia. The records consist primarily of account books, including journals (1912-1942), ledgers (1875-1896), cash books (1875-1957), trial balances (1897-1903, 1911-1941), and invoice books (1922-1925).
Dates
- Creation: 1875-1957
Creator
- Philadelphia Maritime Exchange (Organization)
Extent
5.5 Linear Feet
Historical Note
The Philadelphia Maritime Exchange was formed in 1875 for the purpose of circulating marine intelligence relating to the port of Philadelphia. The organization was maintained by membership dues collected from merchants, importers, shipowners, tug and lighter operators, suppliers, and others connected with the maritime trade of the lower Delaware River. The Exchange maintained a newsroom, collected and published maritime statistics, and established a reporting station at the Delaware Breakwater to telegraph news of arriving ships to the city. It also promoted river dredging and other port improvements.
Scope and Content
The records consist primarily of account books, including journals (1912-1942), ledgers (1875-1896), cashbooks (1875-1957), trial balances (1897-1903, 1911-1941), and invoice books (1922-1925). There is a minute book of the proceedings of a joint committee of the commercial bodies of Philadelphia, formed in 1885 to consider legislation governing bills of lading; a letterbook containing instructions to agents (1914-1921); and a letterbook (1927-1929) containing correspondence of H.W. Wills, assistant secretary of the Joint Executive Committee on the Improvement of the Harbor.
Access Restrictions
No restrictions on access; this collection is open for research.
Language of Materials
English
Finding Aid & Administrative Information
- Title:
- Philadelphia Maritime Exchange records
- Description rules:
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description:
- English
- Script of description:
- Latin
Revision Statements
- 2021: Laurie Sather
Repository Details
Repository Details
Part of the Manuscripts and Archives Repository
