Those 70ish Girls

Monday afternoon, we took the short ferry ride to Ellis Island. I will admit I was not fully aware of the part it played in the history of America.

On the ferry ride to Ellis Island..

It was the gateway for over twelve million immigrants in the over sixty years it was in operation (1892 – 1954).

As many as forty percent of all current U.S. citizens can trace at least one of their ancestors to Ellis Island.

At first most of the people who immigrated to America were from northern Europe. Later, things began to change and more and more immigrants began pouring in from southern and eastern Europe. They made long and difficult trips across the ocean in the hopes of a better life. Many were escaping poverty, famine, drought or religious persecution. 

Often times the husband would come first to get established before his family came. It might be years before a reunion could be arranged and sometimes so much had changed, and there had been so little communication, the families couldn’t face their new life and challenges together. Other times, the families left behind, found they couldn’t leave their homes in the old country.

Once here, the immigrants had to be registered and processed before they could leave and begin their new lives. They usually traveled by train unless they remained in the New York area. 

There were many countries represented and so many different languages spoken, that communication was difficult. Some were sick and weak when they got off the ship. They had to prove they had the skills to support themselves, or a family that was already here and established. Some were found to be criminals. About ten percent were sent back because the criteria could not be met. Sometimes Ellis Island was referred to as the island of tears.

During the peak years, those arriving had to wait in long lines to be processed in the room pictured below.

These young women are meeting their future husbands for the first time. Enlarge the plaque below by tapping on it with your fingers and read about these arranged marriages.

The old train station near the island is deserted and eerie.

I took this picture from the ferry…It‘s my favorite of the day.

Going by the Statue of Liberty on the way back…

There are many recorded human interest stories about the people of Ellis Island and what they endured. They tell of the successes and the failures of these people who became a big part of the rich texture of our past and molded our future. 

I encourage you to look up some of the other interesting facts about this very significant piece of American history. It was quite an experience to stand where they stood…to look at the small dormitories they slept in, and see displays of personal items the immigrants brought with them. Items that represent many different cultures. Families have generously donated these treasures to the museum.

There was also an area that showed what was left when it closed suddenly and how it began to deteriorate until it became part of the Statue of Liberty project and restoration began.

It was an enlightening experience…

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We left our spot in Jersey City on Sunday and made our way to Washington DC. We’ve been on the go ever since. Maybe I’ll be able to quit chasing my tail tomorrow and catch up.

I gave up chasing my tail around. I’m trying to help MG relax…

 On our walk before we left…

On the way out of town…

Thanks for letting us share this adventure with you. It really adds to the fun…