Thursday, April 12, 2018

Ellis Island

Before we headed over to the Statue of Liberty we first ferried over to Ellis Island. I'd been there more recently, but not since I taught a social studies unit on immigration; so I was rather excited to visit with my new knowledge about this historical site.
The Registration Room is such a stunning space. But knowing how many people were stuck in there, standing on line, for hour and hours makes it a touch harder to stomach the beauty. I was able to tell mom how inspectors would watch people come up the stairs, looking for any ailments that could prevent them from gaining immediate entry. 
There was a special exhibit of photographs from the other side of the island. Much of which is still abandoned. It was haunting to see photos of the isolation wards decaying and desolate. There was also a great piece on what people found when they first began to explore the island in the 60s before it was rehabbed into the museum.
Every trip to Ellis Island is powerful. Our family didn't come through Ellis Island, but knowing the trip others made for a start at a new life is special and humbling to think about. 


   

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13 thoughts on the matter:

Tom said... {Reply}

...over the years I've found it interesting of how people's name became shortened in Ellis Island.

Shelbee on the Edge said... {Reply}

I have never visited Ellis Island but have always wanted to and I travel to the city often enough, so I am not sure why I haven't made this a priority. So fascinating! Thank you for sharing!

Shelbee
www.shelbeeontheedge.com

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said... {Reply}

I've always wanted to go to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. I've made it to NYC several times in my life but never was able to get to the island. Lovely photos!

Dara @ Not In Jersey said... {Reply}

Definitely an interesting place to visit. I think my family did come through there which makes it even more interesting!

Heather{Our Life In a Click} said... {Reply}

I need to get there!

Jill Foley said... {Reply}

I'm sure we visited Ellis Island when we visited the Statue of Liberty, but I don't remember much of it....it was almost 29 years ago! I remember we visited on my mom's 40th birthday.

Gina Kleinworth said... {Reply}

A whole lot of history there!

Lea said... {Reply}

Interesting!
Thanks for hosting!

Taz + Belly said... {Reply}

This was one of my favorite places we visited on our last NYC trip! So beautiful and moving.

csuhpat1 said... {Reply}

Wow, so very powerful. I really need to take a visit there. I have been to Angel Island which is the "Ellis Island" of the West. Thanks for sharing. Thanks for hosting and I hope that you have a wonderful weekend.

Klara S said... {Reply}

Interesting place.
Thank you for hosting.

Mitzi said... {Reply}

I've never been, but it looks way cool!

betty-NZ said... {Reply}

What a sobering and inspiring place! Thanks for sharing.