Ellis Island opened on January 1, 1892 as a Federal Immigration Station. Over 40% of Americans can trace their roots to Ellis Island. More than 12 million immigrants passed through their doors from 1892-1954.
Over 3 million people visit this landmark each year.
Have you ever wondered what it was like to be an immigrant at the turn of the century? The West Hempstead Public Library has many books which describe the experience. Here are just a few:
Cannato, Vincent. American Passage: The History of Ellis Island. 974.712 C
Carmack, Sharon. Family Tree Guide to Finding Your Ellis Island Ancestors. 929.1 C
Foner, Nancy. From Ellis Island to JFK. 974.712 F
Heaps, Willard. The Story of Ellis Island. YA 974.712 H
Kilian, Pamela. Ellis Island: Gateway to the American Dream. [OVERSIZE] 974.71 R
Shapiro, Mary J. Gateway to Liberty. 974.712 S
More books can be found in the Children's Room. Check J 974.71.
Websites of interest:
Ellis Island Passenger Search
Interactive Tour of Ellis Island