"Island of Hope, Island of Tears"
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 “America's Golden Door” from 1892 to 1954. Ellis Island afforded them the opportunity to attain the American dream for themselves and their descendants. Come hear their stories.
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The Stilled Passage
Join photographer Philip Calabria on a photographic journey through Ellis Island's Un-Restored Buildings. Through January 6, 2013.
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Be A Prepared Junior Ranger!
Do you have a Junior Ranger in your family? If so, be sure to download and print the Ellis Island Junior Ranger book before you visit us. Have fun!
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Looking for Your Ancestors?
Here are some helpful hints and a list of resources to help you in your search!
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Stay Connected!
Get up-to-the-minute information that may affect your visit on our Twitter feed; view Ellis Island photos on Flickr; RSS fills you in on latest news.
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2 Islands, 1 Park
Ellis Island Immigration Museum is part of Statue of Liberty National Monument. Learn more about Liberty Enlightening the World!
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Did You Know?
![passenger manifest passenger manifest](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20121018105534im_/http://www.nps.gov/ner/images/ELIS_manifestR2.jpg)
Since the passage of the "Steerage Act of 1819", passenger manifests have been required for all arriving vessels to be delivered to the U.S. Government and reported to Congress. This document, used for inspection at Ellis Island, has become an important starting point in researching family history.