Three Kinds of Help at Ellis Island

In the early 1900s, many people moving to the United States passed through Ellis Island in New York Harbor. They came from different countries after long sea trips. Some workers checked travelers before they could leave. Other workers helped with daily needs. The headings below name three kinds of help.

Help with Words. Travelers did not all speak English. An interpreter was a worker who could speak more than one language. When a traveler and a worker did not share a language, an interpreter helped them understand each other. This helped travelers answer questions and learn what to do next.

Help with Money. Travelers often carried money from their home countries. Money clerks exchanged this money for American money. The clerks had to know how much each kind was worth. After the exchange, travelers could use their American money to buy food or tickets for the next part of their trips.

Help with Meals. Some travelers needed to wait on the island. Cooks prepared food in busy kitchens. They used large pots to make meals for many people. Dining room workers served the food. A caption for a picture of this room could read, “Meals for Waiting Travelers.” These workers helped people eat while they waited.