When the ferry landed at Ellis Island and passengers debarked where did they first go what happened there?

Upon disembarking from the ferry at Ellis Island, immigrants found themselves in the Baggage Room, a bustling area where they could deposit their luggage and other belongings. The room was also a place where they could exchange currency and receive guidance from officials.

Second Stop: The Registry Room

From the Baggage Room, immigrants made their way to the Registry Room, where their personal information was recorded. This included details such as their name, age, occupation, and country of origin. The information was documented on an individual card, which would be used for further processing and identification throughout the immigration process.

Third Stop: The Medical Inspection

After completing the registration process, immigrants underwent a mandatory medical inspection. Doctors and nurses examined each passenger for signs of contagious diseases, such as trachoma, tuberculosis, and yellow fever. Those who were deemed unfit for entry would be detained at Ellis Island's hospital for further evaluation and possible deportation.

Fourth Stop: The Interview

The medical inspection was followed by an interview with an immigration inspector. During the interview, the inspector would ask the immigrant questions to determine their eligibility for entry into the United States. These questions typically covered topics such as the immigrant's background, family ties, work experience, and ability to support themselves financially.

After completing the interview process, immigrants were categorized into one of three groups:

- Admitted: Those who passed the medical inspection and interview and were allowed to enter the United States.

- Detained: Those who required further investigation or medical treatment before being admitted or deported.

- Deported: Those who were deemed inadmissible and sent back to their home country.

The process of entering the United States through Ellis Island could be lengthy and challenging, but it marked the beginning of a new life in a new land for millions of immigrants.