U.S. Virgin Islands, Applications for Travel Identification Cards, 1918

The U.S. acquired the Virgin Islands at the onset of World War I in Europe, with the transfer being completed in March 1917. With travel restrictions in place during World War I, identification as U.S. citizen by right of birth in the Virgin Islands was necessary to travel to the United States. This collection includes applications for travel identification cards made during 1918.

Applications included a letter to the Government Secretary with the following information:

• name (and signature)
• photograph
• date and place of birth
• expected ship of departure and date
• reason for visit (often including addresses of relatives)
• address in U.S. Virgin Islands
• occupation
• age
• complexion
• hair
• height
• marks
• date

On the image following the application, you'll typically find proof of birth, which is often a baptismal or birth record, so be sure to page forward until you reach the end of the file.