New York City - Day 4 (Last Day)

It was exactly a week ago that my mom and I were spending our last day in the New York City area. We actually didn't go into the city on Sunday, but we could see it across the river as we spent the morning at Ellis Island and Liberty Island. 

It was especially interesting to visit Ellis Island after researching our family genealogy a few years ago. Some of our ancestors (on both sides of my family) came to Ellis Island when they arrived in the United States. I wonder how they felt as they were crowded in the lower deck steerage area of the steamship for the 8-11 day voyage from Amsterdam to the United States. What were their impressions as they docked at Ellis Island - waiting in the large baggage room while clutching all their belongings, moving to the registry room and undergoing medical and legal exams without speaking English. How many of them purchased a snack at the island's dining room? I know my great-grandfather purchased a banana here and ate it - peel and all - because he had never seen one before. Did any of them have relatives or friends that were waiting here for them? Were they afraid, excited, or both as they entered this country and their new life? 

This was originally the Baggage Room, the first stop for immigrants at Ellis Island.

A short ferry ride took us from Ellis Island to Liberty Island where we had an hour to walk around and see the Statue of Liberty as well as get lunch before the (very) long trip home. 

It was a whirlwind trip - we saw and experienced a lot and had a great time together. 

Thanks, Mom, for going with me to New York City.