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Finding Aid to the Alien Enemy Registration Affidavits, 1918
SFH 48  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
Affidavits for San Francisco residents, labeled Registration Affidavit of Alien Enemy [male] and Registration Affidavit of Alien Female, arranged alphabetically by surname. Summary sheets of registration affidavits collected by each police district, arranged by district and then alphabetically by surname.
Background
On November 16, 1917, all males in the United States older than 14 who were "natives, citizens, denizens, or subjects" of the German Empire were required to register as alien enemies. In 1918, an act of Congress included women aged 14 and older. The U.S. Attorney-General requested that the San Francisco Police Department administer the regulations under the general supervision and direction of the United States Department of Justice. Registration affidavits were filed at police district stations. Then each district sent its collected registration affidavits along with a summary sheet to the Chief Registrar. Each "alien enemy" was issued a registration card with photograph and identifying information, which he was required to have on his person at all times. He also needed permission from the local registrar to travel or change place of residence. Certain areas were also off-limit zones as deemed by the military. The Armistice was declared on November 11, 1918, and all regulations on enemy aliens were lifted December 25, 1918.
Extent
9.0 cartons (9 cubic ft.)
Restrictions
All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the City Archivist. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the San Francisco Public Library as the owner of the physical items.
Availability
The collection is open for research. Please call the San Francisco History Center for hours and information at 415-557-4567.