1911, During the Height of Immigration
Immigrants waited on long benches to speak to an inspector to see if they'd be on the next ferry to New York or have to await more tests. A staircase had been added to one end of the hall. The lights and windows were still intact, as was the tiled Gustavino ceiling. The Ellis Island Museum was opened in 1990. Only 17 of the 28,282 ceiling tiles had to be replaced.
1974, After 20 Years of Neglect
1997, After $150 Million in Restoration