Emigration to America caused a great deal of concern two hundred years ago. The “mania” to emigrate had taken deep hold of the population, who were seeking greater economic stability than could be found in the UK at that time.
“EMIGRATION.–The Plymouth Paper says, “We have had to touch more than once on this painful topic, and we are again impelled to revert to it.– Whatever may be the real cause, it is too true that the mania has taken deep hold of the population of this port and the neighbouring parts around, large portions of which have resolved and are resolving to become the inhabitants of the American land. During the past and present week in particular many have embarked : among others, Mr. Hornbrook, a woollen manufacturer, from the neighbourhood of Tavistock, who is said to have taken the whole of his establishment, consisting of 16 men and apprentices, and four women, for the avowed purpose of carrying on his future concern at Pittsburgh, the Birmingham of America. We could mention other names, which the public would hear with some surprise. A silversmith at Plymouth is employed almost from morning to night in furnishing the emigrants with gold and silver in exchange for Bank paper; and were we to state the amount thus exchanged, and which thenceforth may be considered as totally lost, as well as the possessors, to the mother country, it would be quite evidence enough, if any be wanting, of the spirit of emigration.”
Stamford Mercury, 5th June 1818