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The island became the property of the US government in 1808, and for most of the 19 century it served as a site for the execution of pirates and criminals.
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The first immigrant to pass through Ellis Island in 1892 was Annie Moore, a 15-year-old Irish girl.
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In 1954 the US government finally closed down the immigration inspection port at Ellis Island.
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After two decades of disuse, it opened up for tours in 1976.
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Following some major restoration work, the island today stands as a symbol of America's immigrant heritage that attracts over 2 million visitors a year.