It’s no secret that the USA is a country built on immigration, however, I never imagined the diversity of the melting pot of people that were coming through the Ellis Island immigration station in New York during the early part of the 20th Century!
The Ellis Island immigration station processed a staggering 12 million immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Its peak year was 1907, during which over 1 million immigrants, between 3,000 and 5,000 per day, were processed during a single year.
The immigrants mostly came from Europe and its periphery, and most entered the USA after just a few hours of questioning. Some, however, were detained for longer periods.
It was during this detention period that Augustus Francis Sherman, Ellis Island’s chief registry clerk, spent his time persuading the new arrivals to put on their finest clothes or national dress and be photographed by him.
His photographs, which simply had his subject’s place of origin as caption, were first published in National Geographic in 1907.
A most incredible statistic is that 100 million of America’s 322 million people can trace their ancestry back to individuals that arrived in the country via the Ellis Island immigration station. Take a look at these beautiful vintage portrait shots:
Source: mashable
Photos: Augustus Francis Sherman
Watch the Oldest Recorded Footage of New York City
Watch super-rare footage of old NYC that goes back to the late 1800's, complete with a corresponding map to show you where exactly it was shot from.
A Short Lesson in New York's Architectural History
There's no city that can compare to New York's architecture. Let's dive into it.
The Surprising Origin of the Frozen TV Dinner
Frozen 'TV dinners' once dominated the American market. This is the surprising origins story of this popular food.
Everything You Didn't Know About Central Park
We're sharing all the nitty-gritty about Central Park's history, some facts you almost certainly didn't know, and some vintage iconic photos of the Park.
20 Nostalgic Images of Circulating Libraries
Way before Amazon, the visit of the bookmobile was one of the most exciting moments. These 20 nostalgic images capture the circulating libraries of the past.
QUIZ: What Do You Remember About the Cold War?
The Cold War (1947-1991) dominated the politics during most of our lives. So, looking back, how much do you remember about the war that brought us to the brink?
17 Fascinating Facts That You Probably Didn't Know
17 tidbits of information that you probably didn't know and will probably surprise you.
Want to Fool Your Own Brain? Have a Look at These Illusions
Optical Illusions That'll Make You Doubt Your Eyesight!
You'll Never Guess How These Optical Illusions Work
Here are three incredible optical illusion videos that have taken the internet by storm. Can you solve the mysteries that you're about to see?
These Female Celebs Have Aged Like Fine Wine (28 Pics)
These female celebrities are aging just like fine wine.
20 Maps and Charts That Explain the World in Unique Ways
Time for some more fascinating and informative maps that show interesting aspects of our planet.
Here Are 18 Rare Photos You Won't Find In History Books
These are the RAREST vintage photos ever...
15 Lovely Christmas Quotes That Will Fill Your Heart with Joy
These beautiful Christmas are sayings everyone can be thankful for!
Video Box: The Most Amazing Guinness Records!
Don't miss these 16 world record-breaking feats, performed by both humans and animals alike!
A Beautiful Story About True Love and Devotion
This beautiful story gives true credence to the words: "True Love"
13 Fascinating Facts About International Intercourse!
These facts will shed a fascinating light on intercourse in the world.
Of the Transformative Power of Classical Music...
A fascinating TED talk by Benjamin Zander.
7 Notable Han Dynasty Inventions That Changed the World
Here, we look at some of the great inventions from the Han dynasty of China that had a great impact on the world.
16 Helpful Charts and Guides Worth Saving
We’ll never get enough of useful charts, maps, and guides like these!
These Photos Will Help Restore Your Faith in Humanity!
These pictures will surely put a smile on your face, and they may even make you cry tears of happiness. However, most importantly, we hope they inspire you.
6 Short Stories to Help You Stay Motivated in Life
If you’re feeling down, rather than surf the internet for cat pictures or drowning your sorrows by reading junk, check out these inspirational and powerful Short Stories
These Feel-Good Facts Warmed My Heart...
These feel-good facts would warm anyone's heart.
The Secrets Behind 5 Famous and Beloved Magic Tricks!
Get to know the secrets behind well-known magic tricks with these 6 fascinating explanations.
25 Photos That Capture Profound Historic Moments
We can see a whole century of monumental events go by in these photos...
Son of a Terrorist Speaks: Why I Choose Peace
The son of a famous terrorist, Zak Ebrahim's story is shocking and surprising.
The Story of Skidboot: An Amazing Dog!
The story of Skidboot is a happy and sad one...
20 Astounding Facts That Will Skew Your Perception of Time
These 20 mind-bending facts will show you just how warped your perception of time really is. Enjoy!
14 Nostalgic Pics to Take You Back to the Good Ol’ Days
These photos will instantly trigger your nostalgia.
Do You Remember the Moments That Defined the 1960s?
The 1960s were a hugely important decade, setting the tone for the next 50 years that succeeded then. Here are 10 of the things that defined the decade.
These Common Words Began as Mistakes - Unbelievable!
Some spelling and grammar mistakes change a student’s grade for the worse, others transform the language forever.
7 Conspiracy Stories that Turned Out to be True
These stories are shocking... and they turned out to be true!
Why You Might Want to Consider Switching to a Futon Bed
In this article, we will learn what a real futon bed is and if it is better for spine health than a western bed.
10 Richest People From History You Should Know About
A look at 10 of the richest people that lived in history. From emperor Mansa Musa to Muammar Gaddafi, it presents the insane sums these people had.
Hello, January: Inspiring Quotes to Greet the New Month
Let’s start the new year with these amusing and inspiring January quotes.
The Battle of Midway: Exploring a Decisive WWII Victory
In this clip from the history channel, we dive deep into the great naval fight - the Midway Battle.
A Moment in History: The Ghost Army that Scared the Nazis!
One of the most fascinating army units during World War II was constantly at the front lines, but never did any fighting...
Wishing You a GREAT 4th OF JULY! Celebrate America!
Be proud of being an American and share one of these meaningful 4th of July cards with everyone. HAVE A GREAT 4TH OF JULY!
How Clean Are Hotel Rooms, Really? Find Out the Answer!
Hotel rooms always look clean and fresh, but are they?
26 Vintage Celebrity Photos Filled with Undeniable Charm
Let's take a look at 26 vintage photos filled with undeniable charm.
Inside the Male Psyche: The Silent Fears They Never Share
There are some things that a man never shares with anyone.
What People Need When the End Is Nigh: A Profound Talk
BJ Miller is a palliative care physician with some amazing insights. Discussing what happens to our thoughts as we pass away, he shares some profound thoughts.
Travel Back in Time With These Rare Moments From History...
Some photos date as far back as to the early 20th Century, with a few prototype designs that would eventually pave the way for the technology we use today. Take a stroll down memory lane with these Rare moments.
These 3 Breakthroughs Are Making Historians Jump for Joy!
Learn about some of the most fascinating findings that archaeologists and historians have recently uncovered. Get ready to be amazed!
Benjamin Franklin's Wisdom Has Echoed Throughout the Ages
In addition to being one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin left many a thought to ponder. Here are 15 of his most famous quotes.
You Will Love This Collection of Rare Historical Photos
This amazing collection of vintage photographs will give you a unique glimpse of the past.
The Stories of These Women from History are Inspiring
Read the inspiring stories of these amazingly strong women.
The Incredible Story of a Boy Surviving 49 Days at Sea!
This Indonesian teenager managed to survive almost 50 days at sea while adrift in a floating wooden hut. Learn all about his amazing story here.