Far Eastern Jewish Central Information Bureau: Correspondence

Identifier
WL514
Language of Description
English
Alt. Identifiers
  • 70491
Dates
1 Jan 1938 - 31 Jan 1939
Level of Description
Collection
Languages
  • German
Source
EHRI Partner

Creator(s)

  • Far Eastern Jewish Central Information Bureau

Biographical History

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The Central Information Bureau for Jewish War Sufferers in the Far East was founded in 1917 by Sam Mason, a special delegate sent by the Hebrew Immigrant Society (better known as HIAS) in New York. Its function was to deal with the problem of refugees attempting to reach America (and other countries) from the Far East. The main office was established in Harbin, but branches were also set up in Yokohama, Japan, and Vladivostok on the eastern seaboard of the Soviet Union.

Though the Bureau continued to deal with the problems of victims of the 1914-1918 First World War until the late 1920's, it changed its official name to The Far Eastern Central Information Bureau in 1923 and took its cable address “DALJEWCIB” which became the organization's name in everyday use. At this time Meir Birman became involved in the Bureau's work and was to manage it until its dissolution some 25 years later.

Archival History

The custodial history of the originals prior to deposit is unknown.

Scope and Content

This microfilm collection of correspondence between the Far Eastern Jewish Central Information Bureau (DALJEWCIB) and individuals and other Jewish organisations offers a valuable insight into the experiences of German and Austrian Jewish émigrés in the Far East. The personal accounts contain descriptions of the outward-bound voyage and of the climate and conditions in the host country, along with details on obtaining work and accommodation. Note that many of the letters are copies or extracts from originals. Some newsletters and newspapers are also included.

System of Arrangement

When the papers were filmed, the original order was retained: 514/I: correspondence arranged according to place of emigration and 514/II: correspondence arranged according to profession. Note that the material is in reverse chronological order within each sub-category.

Conditions Governing Access

Open

Conditions Governing Reproduction

Use R:\Document collections\MF54\Working Images\05 Frames 506-896; R:\Document collections\MF54\Working Images\06 Frames 1-397

Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements

Microfilm

Subjects

Places

  • Shanghai
This description is derived directly from structured data provided to EHRI by a partner institution. This collection holding institution considers this description as an accurate reflection of the archival holdings to which it refers at the moment of data transfer.

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