There is a book called THE VALUE OF A DOLLAR: 1860-1989, edited by Scott Derks. Detroit: Gale Research, Inc., 1994. ISBN no. 0-8103-6841-2. Price about $69.50. This is a terrific book that tells you what all kinds of things cost in various time periods. It lists steamship fares in the general time period you are seeking but they are mostly transatlantic. This is one of the most interesting and useful reference books I've seen in a long time. It would be very useful for writers who need accurate period info. Where else could find the cost of a featherbone corset ($.18) in 1898? Or tuition at the University of the City of NY Law School in 1896 (2 years for $200)? Well worth looking at. I couldn't put it down. ;-) Mary Lou Caskey, Assistant Director Mid-York Library System, Utica, NY Go to your public library and find this book. You'll love it!