Over half of all Americans today have ancestors who arrived here through the prominent gateway. They came searching for the chase to find freedom in a new life. Many found this freedom after a 3-7 hour inspection; not to mention the waiting lines. Others however, were denied access, and at times, separated from their family. For them, this island became known as the “Island of Tears”. Ellis Island is the most known spot of immigration into America, although it is not the only spot. Ellis Island was not only the gate way to America, it had also served as a training station for over 60,000 men for the Coast Guard during World War II.
In 1990, a museum was opened to share the stories of over 12 million immigrants, plus stories from some of the workers as well who saw first hand what it was like then. 
Located on a 12-acre Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty is probably the most recognizable attraction of the United States. The statue was a gift from the French and it stands as the symbol of democracy and freedom. The pieces to the statue were imported on the French ship “Isere”. There were 300 copper pieces that took up a total of 214 crates. The ship nearly sunk from the rough waters on the way to America, but it arrived on June 17, 1885.
Something that most people don’t notice when viewing Lady Liberty, is the broken chains around her feet. These represent the free forward movement.
There is so much for your group to learn at Ellis Island. You are sure to be touch by some of the stories that these immigrants have lived through.
