Ellis Island Facts

Ellis Island is an island in New York harbor. It was the landing place for millions of immigrants in 19th and 20th century, till 1954. In 1965 this island was made a part of statue of liberty national monument. Here are some interesting facts about this island.

1: Name of island

This island was purchased by a man, named Samuel Ellis. HE worked there as a tavern owner. After his death, his sons sold this island to the state of New York and it became the property of United States, but its name is the same, based on the name of his first owner.

2. Uses of island

Initially the island was used to store ammunition and weapons. Later it turned into immigrant’s station.

3: Heart break island

As it was an immigration station, so many unwanted immigrants were sent back from this place. So, some immigrants were use to call it a heart break island.

4. Number of immigrants

Ellis Island is no longer used as a immigration station, but around 12 million people passed through it in 62 years.

5. Immigration museum

An immigration museum is now established on the island, as a remembrance of its work as an immigration station.