Zachary Wigley

Most immigrants of the time came from Eastern Europe.

Most Europeans came to America between 1870 and 1919

I would be afraid of trying to fit in with the style and customs of the new county.

I would be exited that the long and uncomfortable journey was finally over.

Ellis Island was an immigration station from 1892 to 1954, and 40% of Americans' family history connects to Ellis Island

The conditions on the ship were not very comfortable or clean. First and second class passengers had cabins, but most people in third class had to stay in the large open area under the ship, called steerage.

Upon arrival, immigrants would see the Statue of Liberty and cheer that the long journey was finally over.

Some things that I would take with me would be some food, a few clothes, something to occupy my time while waiting, and some money to exchange.

If I were the parents, I would be afraid that they would take the kid away and send them back to the home country

A doctor would look over people for about 6 seconds for any signs of illness. If they thought a person had a disease, they would mark their clothes with a piece of chalk.

Ellis island was known as the "isle of tears" to the people who did not pass the health or legal exams. Those people either had to stay at Ellis island for a few weeks or months, or go back to their country.

I would feel overjoyed that I had finally made it that far, and it would be good to see all my friends and family.