Collections

Emigration gallery

Between 1830 and 1930 about forty million people left Europe in search of a new and better life.

About nine million of them sailed from Liverpool, then the largest emigration port in the world. These people were mostly travelling to North America, Australia and New Zealand - the ‘New World’.

Most who sailed from Liverpool were ordinary people leading ordinary lives. Many found their better life, others were less fortunate.

Many of them, and their descendants, made major contributions to the development of the countries to which they emigrated.

This gallery tells their story, including

• Tales of hope of the emigrants, leaving poverty and persecution to grasp the opportunities offered by the 'New World'
• The effect on Liverpool and the shipping companies, lodging houses and other businesses which flourished in the city
• Life on board the sailing vessels and the dangers faced at sea
• The growth of steamship companies such as White Star, Cunard, Allan, Inman, Guion and National in the 19th century
• The great liners of the 20th century
• The end of an era, as restrictions were placed on the numbers of immigrants to some countries and air travel became more popular

150th anniversary of the sinking of the Royal Charter

To mark the anniversary of the sinking of this famous emigrant ship on 26 October 2009 we are holding a weekend of special events at the museum. You can also see a number of items from the wreck on permanent display. Find out more in our Royal Charter web pages.

Leaving from Liverpool

Follow a 19th century family on a journey of discovery as they emigrate to Australia in the online interactive feature Leaving from Liverpool.