How far would you travel to find a better life? What if the journey took weeks under difficult conditions? If you answered "Whatever it takes," you echo the feelings of the 12 million immigrants who passed through these now quiet halls from 1892 to 1954. Ellis Island afforded them the opportunity to attain the American dream for themselves and their descendants. Come hear their stories.
Ellis Island Museum of Immigration
Over 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island during the peak years of 1892-1924, most through this building which opened in 1900.
Ellis Island's Registry Room
The Registry Room, also known as the Great Hall, is where millions of immigrants were inspected. They were required to pass both a medical and legal inspection before being allowed to enter the United States.
Ellis Island Museum of Immigration
Visitors to the museum today arrive by ferry, just like immigrants did a century ago.
Replica Inspection Desk in the Registry Room
Inspectors at Ellis Island would conduct the legal examination from behind desks like these a century ago.
Bird's Eye View of Ellis Island
Ellis Island was expanded from just a couple acres to over 30 to make room for a large immigration processing station, that included a state of the art hospital complex.
