This database of over 13,000 names was created from the original World War I draft cards, stored in the Southeast Branch of the National Archives in East Point, Georgia. It currently includes draft boards #150 (part), #151 and #152 which were located in the borough of Manhattan, New York City. The area, on the east side of Manhattan, generally includes East 96 to East 106 Streets; from First Avenue through Second, Third, Lexington and Madison Avenues, but not inclusively.

Most registrants in this area appear to be Jewish, mainly from Eastern Europe. The second largest ethnic group appears to be Italian. Occasionally, cards were signed by registrants in Hebrew or Russian. An effort was made to enter the data in a consistent manner, but some inconsistencies were unavoidable. Place of birth was usually input exactly as presented by the registrant. Therefore, the viewer will see "Russia Poland", "Poland Russia", etc. When only "Galicia" was written, then "Galicia" was input into the database. In more than a few cases, birth year or date were estimates.

For a general explanation of World War I draft registration and a list of all draft board locations in New York City, see the Italian Genealogical Group article published in Oct 1997 (updated March 17, 1990), World War I Selective Service System, Draft Registration Cards 1917-1918. See also JewishGen's InfoFile on this subject.

Researchers may obtain copies of these records in-person at the National Archives-Northeast Region, 201 Varick Street, 12th floor, New York City (Manhattan) or by writing to the National Archives - Southeast Region, 1557 St. Joseph Avenue, East Point, GA 30344. A fee of $10 is charged for mail requests. Microfilms may also be ordered through any Mormon Family History Center.

This database was generously donated to the Jewish Genealogical Society of New York by Carole Glick Feinberg. A copy is available also at the Southeast Branch of the National Archives. Researchers wishing to contribute additional NYC draft boards should notify the JGSNY@aol.com. To avoid duplication of effort, we will try to maintain a list of WW1 draft board volunteer efforts currently underway.

Acknowledgments: Charles Reeves, Director of Archival Operations; Lonnie McIntosh, Administrative Officer; Richard Rayburn, Archivist; Roger Miller, Archives Aide. In Memoriam: Gary Fulton, 47, Archivist, who passed away before this database was completed, September, 2001
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