Ellis Island

Ellis Island
Author: Unknown, 1902, Source: US Library of Congress, Public Domain
  • Opened January 1, 1892 and located in Upper New York Bay.
  • Busiest gateway for over 12 million immigrants seeking entry into the U.S. from 1892-1954.
  • Originally used for oyster farming and as a federal arsenal and military fort.
  • People from around the world came to escape oppression, poverty, disease and violence and to seek a better life in the U.S.
  • Is now part of a National Monument and listed as a U.S. Historic Place.