Have you tried the search at Ancestry? Yes, the time period makes a significant difference. You can look for NARA microfilm. This pages lists "US Ports of Arrival and their Available Passenger Lists 1820-1957". http://www.genesearch.com/ports.html Ancestry search: http://www.ancestry.com/search/ This page shows what ports with dates covered: http://www.ancestry.com/search/rectype/default.aspx?rt=40 Although a subscription is required to see the actual manifests, you can search for the names you are seeking. Then, you can post here or on one of the boards or mailing lists for a look up, or check to see if your library has access to the Library Edition of Ancestry. Other lookup sites include: http://genforum.genealogy.com/recordlookups/ http://genforum.genealogy.com/immigrants/ If the people were naturalized citizens, you could get their naturalization papers for more information; check the courthouse where they lived. They also may be listed in the Social Security Death Index if deceased and you can use the SS-5 letter to send for their SS application, which is filled with information: http://ssdi.rootsweb.com/ http://www.ancestry.com/learn/library/article.aspx?article=919 Best wishes for success in your search, Mary T Hoitt wrote: > Hi Mary, > > My family came to New York in 1950 and 1951. The site you offered me only gives information until 1913. Any other suggestions? >