BallinStadt

BallinStadt Review

This museum and family-research center tells the fascinating story of European emigration to the United States and elsewhere. The museum is on a peninsula where in the late 19th century the HAPAG shipping line began construction of a complex for passengers from across Europe who came to Hamburg to embark on trans-Atlantic ships; it was completed in 1907.

When they landed in the United States, immigrants were subjected to thorough physical examinations. Those who were deemed sick were quarantined for weeks or returned to their home country. To reduce the likelihood of trouble, HAPAG began examining passengers before they left Hamburg for new shores. During the first 34 years of the 20th century, about 1.7 million people passed through emigration halls. Processing this many people took a long time. Hamburg officials did not want foreigners roaming the city. To accommodate visitors for several days or months, the shipping company built a town, complete with a hospital, church, music hall, housing, and hotels. The emigrant experience comes to life with detailed reproductions of the buildings (all but one was demolished); firsthand accounts of oppression in Europe, life in the "city," conditions during the 60-day Atlantic crossing, and life in their new home; authentic artifacts; and interactive displays.

As compelling as the exhibits are, the main draw is the research booths, where you can search the complete passenger lists of all ships that left the harbor. Research assistants are available to help locate and track your ancestors. From St. Pauli, the museum can be reached by S-bahn or Maritime Circle Line at St. Pauli Landungsbrücken No. 10.