We’ve been finding records of early Indian immigrants to San Francisco advertising for jobs. Here are some of the ads we found.
1899: Hotel or pantry work
“A young East Indian would like a position as porter in hotel or pantry work. Address box 2275, Call office.”
1905: Languages and cookery
“An honest East Indian, 26 years old, with fair education in Persian, Afghanese and Hindustani languages, and who reads, writes, and speaks English and Spanish, desires to work for a private family or U.S. officer; understands something about English cookery and knows all about the Turkish and Persian cookery; is willing to do work of any kind in such a place. K. K., 607 California at. SF”
1907: Reliable bookkeeper
“Position by an energetic and reliable East Indian A1 book keeper, with thorough knowledge of auditing; systematic and accurate at trial balances; good correspondent and general office man; can furnish best of references and bond, if required; prefer with banking corporation or wholesale house in city or country; salary no object to start with.”