Ellis Island was the busiest immigration station in the United States. It was open from 1892 to 1954. More than 12 million people came through the island during that time. Most of them wanted a better life in America. People called the island the "Island of Hope."
The first immigrant to arrive at Ellis Island was a girl named Annie Moore. Annie was 15 years old and came from Ireland. She traveled with her two younger brothers. They were going to meet their parents in America. Today, a statue of Annie stands on the island.
Ellis Island grew a lot over the years. It started out as a small island. Workers added more land to expand it. By 1906, the island was big enough for a power station, a hospital, laundry rooms, and a cafeteria.
Immigrants had to pass several tests before they could enter the country. Doctors checked each person for illness. Inspectors asked questions to see if immigrants could support themselves in America. Immigrants also had to show they had some money. After 1917, they had to prove they could read. Most people finished in just a few hours, but some people did not pass and were sent back home. Families were sometimes split apart during this process. That is why the island also became known as the "Island of Tears."
Today, Ellis Island is part of the National Park Service, along with the Statue of Liberty. The main building is now a museum where visitors can learn about the immigrants who once passed through the island.
