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The island became the property of the US government -
The first immigrant to pass through Ellis Island in 1892 was Annie Moore, a 15-year-old Irish girl. -
Ellis was the busiest immigration station in the United States
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During the 19th century, immigrants mainly came from Ireland, Germany and Scandinavian countries, but by the end of the century, more and more people were arriving from Southern and Eastern Europe. -
In 1954 the US government finally closed down the immigration inspection port at Ellis Island. -
After two decades of disuse, it opened up for tours in 1976. -
Today, Ellis Island represents a symbol of American immigrant heritage and attracts over 2 million visitors annually