New York, 1900s – In the early 20th century, the United States witnessed an unprecedented influx of immigrants yearning for a life of freedom and prosperity. These brave souls, hailing from distant lands, set their sights on the shores of America, particularly New York City, where the Statue of Liberty stood as a symbol of hope and welcome.

Between 1820 and 1920, a staggering 34 million immigrants embarked on the arduous journey to the land of opportunity. As steamships sailed towards Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty extended her open arms, echoing the inscription that read, “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

Unlike earlier waves of immigrants, who primarily hailed from English-speaking countries, the new arrivals after 1900 predominantly came from non-English-speaking European nations. Southern and eastern Europe, with countries like Italy, Poland, and Russia, became the principal sources of immigrants, bringing diverse cultures and languages to the United States.

While the dream of a better life beckoned them, the immigrants faced numerous challenges. Many struggled to adapt to the unfamiliar American way of life, and the United States, in turn, grappled with the task of absorbing such large numbers of newcomers. The majority chose to settle in American cities, particularly New York, where job opportunities were abundant. However, this concentration of immigrants led to overcrowding, placing strains on city services and infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, most immigrants managed to find work, even if it meant taking jobs that native-born Americans deemed undesirable. Over time, their perseverance paid off, and many were able to improve their living conditions and create a future for themselves and their families. The gateway for these dreams, Ellis Island, became America’s largest and busiest immigration station from 1892 to 1924. Over 12 million immigrants were processed there, with an average inspection process lasting 3-7 hours. Ellis Island was either a beacon of hope or a place of tears, depending on an immigrant’s fate.

In the Registry Room, Public Health Service doctors conducted rigorous medical examinations to identify any signs of disease or disability that might make an immigrant ineligible for entry. The fear of contagious diseases, such as cholera, tuberculosis, and trachoma, weighed heavily on the minds of the officials.Those deemed healthy were free to enter the “New World,” starting their new lives in America.

However, for those found sick, their journey was halted, and they faced days, weeks, or even months in hospital wards, hoping for a clean bill of health.Ellis Island did not welcome everyone with open arms. Unescorted women and children likely to become public charges, stowaways, criminals, anarchists, and those deemed “immoral” were detained. Approximately 20 percent of immigrants were temporarily held, half for health reasons and the other half for legal reasons.

Tragically, not everyone’s American dream would come true. More than 120,000 immigrants were sent back to their countries of origin, and over the island’s half-century of operation, more than 3,500 souls succumbed to their hardships while on Ellis Island.Despite the struggles and the heartbreak, Ellis Island remained a testament to the resilience and determination of millions who sought a new beginning in America. The descendants of these immigrants continue to shape the nation’s rich tapestry, reminding us of the power of hope, courage, and the pursuit of a better life. Ellis Island stands as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of those who helped build the United States into the diverse and vibrant nation it is today.