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Ellis Island Closed Until Further Notice
As of June 2013: Due to the conditions caused by Hurricane Sandy, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum will be closed until further notice. A projected reopening date has not yet been established, follow our twitter account for updates. More »
The Oral History Library
The Ellis Island Oral History interviews are available to researchers and interested members of the public in the Oral History Library, located on the third floor of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. People wishing to use the complete interviews, both as recordings or on-screen transcripts may do so by using the specially designed computer stations in this room. Simple instructions found on the computer screen assist the user with locating any desired interviews and pertinent information. These computers contain the oral history interviews only and do not contain general immigration records such as ship manifests, passports etc. Begun in 1973, the oral history project has grown to number over 1700 interviews. Each interview includes an examination of everyday life in the country of origin, family history, reasons for coming to the United States, the journey to the existing port, experiences or the ship, arrival and processing at the Ellis Island facility and an in-depth look at the adjustment to living in the United States. Approximately fifty interviews are added yearly by full time and volunteer staff members.
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Did You Know?
Annie Moore was the first immigrant processed at Ellis Island on January 1, 1892, after she arrived from Ireland on the SS Nevada. Charles Hendley of the Secretary of the Treasury's office inspected Annie, she was then given a $10 gold coin by Immigration Superintendent Colonel John Weber.