One day we took the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We always thought that the statue was on Ellis Island, but we learned that was not so.
Of course, the statue was a gift from the people of France on the occasion of our nation's 100th birthday (uh, that would be 1876 for the history challenged!). The ferry ride departed from the south side of of Manhattan Island and offered great views of the skyline.
Lady Liberty on her own (l) and with some very famous visitors (r).
From 1892 to 1954, over 12 million immigrants entered the United States through the Ellis Island facility. This includes Barb's grandfather, who entered the US at the age of 6. This was one of the most important stops on our itinerary, for Barb to stand in the place of her grandfather's arrival ... to see what he saw and take in what he must have experienced. It was a precious time.
The main building as we approached from the water.
The main hall, outside and inside.
We tried to look up the records of his arrival in the hall of records but were unable to find any in the short time we had. Maybe some day we will return and be successful.
On the return ferry trip to Manhattan, we saw the famous Brooklyn Bridge (in the distance) and the Staten Island Ferry.
It was a great afternoon.
Coming up next .... other notable landmarks.
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