The Journey Begins — Leaving the Russian Empire
The borders of modern states do not always accurately reflect the areas of Ukrainian settlement in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Consequently, when our clients search for their Ukrainian roots, they may find puzzling references to Austria, Poland, Romania, or Bohemia in their ancestors’ immigration records.
It’s crucial to understand that administrative and national boundaries were not yet fully established, and various national states controlled many traditionally Ukrainian territories then. For example, a significant portion of Ukrainian lands was temporarily governed by the Russian Empire, which is why “Russia” may appear on their immigration papers.
Living under occupation was particularly challenging and complex for many Ukrainians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Economic hardships, political oppression, and religious discrimination (especially against Jews) made emigration an attractive option. But how did ordinary peasants or Jewish townsfolk manage to leave?
One standard route was through the Black Sea ports of Odesa or Mykolaiv. Ships from these ports connected travelers to larger European ports like Hamburg or Bremen, from where they could board transatlantic liners bound for the United States or Canada. For those living in the western regions of present-day Ukraine, the journey often began by crossing the border into Austria-Hungary, traveling through cities like Lviv or Krakow, and continuing westward.
This step—leaving their homeland—was often the most difficult. The process required funds for travel and overcoming bureaucratic challenges, such as obtaining passports and permits to exit the empire. Many opted for risky, undocumented escapes, crossing borders on foot, or bribing officials.
Financing the Dream of a New Life
The dream of starting fresh in the United States or Canada came with a steep price. For Ukrainian peasants and Jewish townsfolk in the Russian Empire, the cost of emigration—tickets, travel expenses, and initial resettlement—was often out of reach. So, how did they manage?
Many families pooled their resources to send just one member overseas, often a young man. This pioneer would find work abroad, save money, and eventually bring the rest of the family over. Others borrow funds from friends or relatives, repaying the debt once they settle and earn a stable income.
There was an additional lifeline for Jewish emigrants: charitable organizations like the Jewish Colonization Association (JCA) supported families fleeing persecution. These groups provided financial aid, facilitated travel, and helped settlers find work and housing abroad.
Despite these options, the journey was far from luxurious. Most traveled in the cramped steerage compartments of transatlantic ships, enduring weeks of unsanitary and overcrowded conditions. Yet the hope of a better future kept them going.
A New Beginning in North America
Arriving in the United States or Canada marked the start of a new chapter—but not without challenges. Most emigrants from Ukraine and other parts of the Russian Empire first landed in significant ports like New York (Ellis Island), Halifax, or Quebec City. Here, they underwent rigorous inspections, with officials checking their health and documents.
Once cleared, their journey continued inland. In the U.S., many settled in industrial cities such as New York, Philadelphia, or Chicago, finding work in factories, mines, or construction. In Canada, government policies actively encouraged settlers to move west, offering free or affordable land in provinces like Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.
These emigrants brought their skills, traditions, and dreams, shaping the cultural landscape of their new homes. They worked hard to build a better life for their families, staying connected to their roots while adapting to the opportunities and challenges of a new world.
Through these incredible journeys, Ukrainian emigrants and others from the Russian Empire left an indelible mark on North American history—a legacy that continues today.
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