How Many Immigrants Passed Through Ellis Island?

The U.S. government acquired what was then known as Little Oyster Island from Samuel Ellis, who made his fortune in New York after immigrating from Wales. The Immigration Station on the island was designed by two architects, Edward Tilton and William Boring, who earned gold medals for the design at the Paris Exposition in 1900. Before its opening in 1892, about eight million immigrants to the U.S. were processed at Castle Garden Immigration Depot during its 35-year existence.

After World War II began, Ellis Island served as an internment camp for people coming from countries that were unfriendly toward the U.S. At one point toward the end of the war, over 7,000 Japanese, Germans and Italians were detained at Ellis Island. Then, under the Internal Security Act of 1950, the U.S. deemed Communist and Fascist sympathizers unfit for U.S. citizenship, which resulted in a dramatic reduction in foreign detainees at Ellis Island.

The importance of Ellis Island cannot be overstated since it was the place where so many of our forefathers were processed before heading to all parts of the U.S. Extensive research by the federal government on the importance of Ellis Island in the history of the U.S. reveals that about one of three Americans having European heritage had relatives who passed through Ellis Island on the way to a better life. Because Ellis Island played such an important role in the development of the U.S., it is no wonder that efforts to sell the island failed once its use ended. Instead, it was included in the Federal Record of Historical Places, and Lee Iacocca was charged with the responsibility to restore it to its position of greatness by President Ronald Reagan.

Today, Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a must-see when you travel to New York City. Accessible only by ferry, the Ellis Island Museum and its exhibits are too numerous to view completely, even if you have set aside a full day to see them. A highlight of your visit is the film "Island of Hope, Island of Tears," narrated by Gene Hackman. It will add a perspective to your visit like nothing else you will see.

If you are traveling with your family, allow plenty of time for your visit to Ellis Island Immigration, because you may wait for the ferry ride alone for an hour or two. If possible, plan your visit during the week and set aside a couple of days for your visit so can take in all that the museum offers.