Saturday, October 03, 2009

Social History Saturday: Ellis Island Photographs

The New York Public Library has a fascinating digital collection, Ellis Island Photographs from the Collection of William Williams, Commissioner of Immigration, 1902-1913 at http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/explore/dgexplore.cfm?topic=history&collection=EllisIslandPhotograp&col_id=165.

This collection really gives you a feel for the experience of seeing Ellis Island as it was in the early 20th century. It also provides a glimpse of the immigrants coming through, in their native costume.

Whether your ancestor came through Ellis Island or not, this collection provides you with a glimpse of the life of early 20th century immigrant which can only help as you search for your immigrant ancestors.

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