Ellis Island, New York
Ellis Island immigration building. A gateway to millions of immigrants from Europe from 1892 to 1954. The immigrants of Europe who went in search of the promised land had to alight here before they were checked, documented and allowed to enter the United States. The original building was constructed in 1892 a wooden structure which was destroyed by fire in 1897. The old building in the picture was then constructed and inaugurated in 1900. During the period from 1892 to 1954 when it was closed close to 12 million people entered USA through this gateway. Surprised why Indians did not utilise the opportunity to emigrate to the promised land. Photo courtesy : Kiran Mani