Ellis Island Family History Day

Ellis Island Family History Day is an annual American holiday celebrating all migrants to the United States who came through Ellis Island. It is celebrated on April 17. It encourages all descendants of these people to research their family lineage and learn more about the ancestors who passed through Ellis decades ago.

History

Ellis Island is located in New York Harbor. Since the late 19th century, millions of migrants had passed through its checkpoints, either to find a new life or to try their luck in the States. It was a strong and developing state where many saw excellent prospects. The flow of migrants began to wane in the 1920s, but the island served as a transshipment point until the 1950s.

The date of the celebration was chosen for a reason. It was on this day that the largest number of migrants who were screened and sent to the United States was recorded – 11,747 people.

Before the island was settled, migrants passed through the checkpoint at Castle Garden in New York City. The new checkpoint was opened in 1892. Migrants arriving here were immediately introduced to one of the main attractions, the Statue of Liberty.

Interesting facts

• More than 12 million people passed through Ellis Island over the entire period.
• There used to be a depot on the island, which was demolished and a beautiful castle with a garden was built in its place.
• Today, the island is only accessible to the public for contemplation by ferry ride.

How to celebrate

Find out more details about the island. Take a ferry ride to get a closer look at this iconic place for all of America. Research your family’s ancestry in detail, perhaps your ancestors were migrants who came to the country through this island!

Tell about the holiday on social networks. Ask other users if there are any migrants in their family who came through Fr. Ellis.

When Ellis Island Family History Day celebrated in 2024?

Ellis Island Family History Day is observed on April 17 each year.

Observations