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New York - Ellis Island National Monument
Ellis Island National Monument
U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
Ellis Island is a symbol of America's immigrant heritage. For more than six decades 1892 to 1954 - the immigrant depot processed the greatest tide of incoming humanity in the nation's history. Some twelve million people landed here; today their descendants account for almost 40% of the country's population. Opened on January 1, 1892, Ellis Island ushered in a new era of immigration with each newcomer's eligibility to land now determined by federal law. The government established a bureau to process the record numbers that were arriving at the end of the 19th century. Fleeing hardships such as poverty, religious persecution, or political unrest in their homelands, they journeyed to the United States in search of freedom and opportunity. More than 70% landed in New York, the country's largest port. First and second class passengers were processed on board ship, but third or steerage class were ferried to Ellis Island where they underwent medical and legal examinations in the Main Building.
Immigrant Processing. During peak periods at Ellis Island as many as 5,000 people each day would be checked, questioned, and sent on their way. for the vast majority, the processing took between three and five hours. For others, a longer stay meant additional testing, and for an unfortunate two percent, exclusion and a return trip home.
From the outset, Ellis Island bulged at its seams. Originally a three-acre island barely visible above high tide, the land expanded over the years to 27-1/2 acres which supported 35 additional buildings. Despite the growth, the station's facilities remained inadequate (except during the immigration lull of World War I) until 1924. After that, quotas on immigration drastically stemmed the incoming tide.
No longer needed for mass processing, the station became a detention and deportation center for undesirable aliens. It was also used as a hospital for wounded servicemen during both world wars and as a training facility by the U. S. Coast Guard. On November 29, 1954, the government closed the island and it remained abandoned until President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized the essential unity of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, placed the deserted facility under the care of the National Park Service on May 11, 1965. The Statue has no peer as a symbol for the American dream of freedom and opportunity and Ellis Island is the timeless reminder of the courage and energy it took to turn that dream into a reality.
The Ellis Island immigrants were as diverse as the nations from which they arrived. The majority claimed European ancestry. Newcomers also came from other parts of the world including the West Indies, Asia, and the Middle East. Of the millions of people processed at the immigrant facility, men by far made up the greater proportion. Many came to America seeking steady work and a decent living. Once established in America, they sent for their wives and children.
Immigrant Museum. In recognition of the significant role Ellis Island played in American history, the Main Building was refurbished in time for the immigration depot's centennial in 1992. Centerpiece of the restoration project was the construction of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Covering 200,00 square feet the museum tells the poignant story of the immigrants who entered America through the golden door of Ellis Island. The museum features exhibits, restored areas and educational facilities including an interactive learning center for children.
The Ellis Island Museum is self-guided. A video presentation on the first floor gives an overview of the exhibits to help you plan your visit. A special film in the first and second floor theaters along with four major exhibits bring the immigrant experience to life. Please inquire about access for the disabled at the information desk. Taped audio tours are available in English, French, Spanish, and German at a nominal charge on the first floor.
Museum Highlights.
- More than thirty separate galleries filled with artifacts, historic photos, posters, maps, oral histories, and ethnic music, all telling the story of what happened at Ellis Island depot and to the newcomers who helped settle America.
- Two theaters featuring Island of Hope, Island of Tears, an award-winning film documenting the Ellis Island experience.
- Treasures From Home, a collection of priceless family heirlooms brought to America by Immigrants.
- An innovative learning center with state-of-the-art technology that teaches school children of all ages about their cultural heritage. Use of the center is by reservation only.
- Peopling of America, eleven graphic displays that chronicle four centuries of immigration history, from pre-Colonial times up to the present day.
- Silent Voices, an exhibit of photographs and artifacts that describe an abandoned Ellis Island.
- An oral history collection containing hundreds of taped interviews with immigrants who were processed at Ellis Island. Use of the collection is by appointment.
- Two separate gallery areas that display special events throughout the year.
More than two thousand artifacts including personal papers, jewelry, tools, religious articles and clothing are on display in the museum. Among prized items: a wooden hatbox carried by a new arrival as she passed through Ellis Island.
Ellis Island is one of the country's most important historic sites. It is also one of our most heavily visited monuments. Careful planning will make your trip more enjoyable. The Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry provides transportation to Ellis Island from Battery Park in New York and Liberty State Park in New Jersey from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, with extended hours in the summer. For ticket rates and schedule information call (212) 269-5755. For further information, contact the Superintendent, Statue of Liberty National Monument, Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004.
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