While on our history trip to the northeastern states, we ferried to Ellis Island to walk in the footsteps of twelve million immigrants who entered the United States through the Ellis Island Immigration Station.
After checking their possessions in the baggage room, immigrants headed towards the Registry Room, which began the long process of inspection for admittance into the country.
And…. it turns out that I was so busy reading about and listening to first-hand accounts that I didn’t take very many photos! This is such an amazing experience for anyone who has the opportunity to visit! If you don’t get a chance to go, be sure to take this virtual tour. You’ll get to hear many of the same accounts!
Before heading to the Statue of Liberty, we found the Ferrell Family on the American Immigrant Wall of Honor®.
Then… we were off to see Lady Liberty!
Even though Isaac fell asleep, this was the highlight of his trip. He still talks about “The Statue from Liberty.”
In 1886, the Statue of Liberty was given as a gift from France to the United States in celebration of the alliance formed during the American Revolution. It has become the symbol of hope and freedom for millions of people since its installation. It was broken down into 350 pieces to ship it to the United States and erected on a granite pedestal inside the walls of Fort Wood.
Broken shackles at her feet symbolize an escape from tyranny. In her left arm she holds a tablet with the date of the Declaration of Independence in Roman numerals. Her crown’s seven spikes symbolize a sunburst spreading enlightenment and reason throughout the world. And the torch and flame represent truth and justice enlightening the world.
Studying Immigrants to America? Try these free resources!
Out of Many One: Reading Comprehension and Writing Skills through the Study of Immigration
Sojourners and Citizens: A Study of Immigration and Citizenship
Immigration — Coming to America
Our favorite books about Immigration
The Memory Coat by Elvira Woodruff. A family leaves their Russian home to come to America and must pass the dreaded inspection at Ellis Island. A story that tugs at the heartstrings!
When Jessie Came Across the Sea by Amy Hest. Beautiful story about a granddaughter’s journey to America and how she saves money to purchase a ticket for her grandmother to join her. A story of perseverance and love.
The Long Way to a New Land (I Can Read Level 3). A great reader that follows a Swedish family who leaves their home in Sweden to come to a land of opportunity.
Draw Write Now Book 5: United States, From Sea to Sea, Moving Forward. Step-by-step instructions for drawing patriotic images and symbols, along with historical persons such as George Washington and Lewis & Clark, as well as wagons, astronauts, and more.
882 1/2 Amazing Answers to Your Questions about Titanic. If you have a student who is interested in Titanic, this is a great book. Our oldest read it through several times throughout his elementary education.
What Was Ellis Island? A simple independent read or read aloud for younger children. Includes great historical insets and illustrations.
