Everyone In New Jersey Should Take This Rare Tour Of An Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital
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Kristen
Author
Ellis Island is one of the United States’ most historic destinations. Tourists flock from all over the world to explore its hallowed halls, echoing with tales of hope and despair. Many associate the attraction with New York City but, in 1998, the Supreme Court decided that 90% of the island actually belonged to New Jersey. It is something every New Jerseyan should see and this tour allows you to see it like never before.
For many, a stop here was the starting point on a journey to a better life in the "land of opportunity." Others were turned away due to disease or any indication that they may become a ward of the state. It was a place where dreams could come true in an instant, or be shattered in seconds. In 1897, a mysterious fire burned the entire complex to the ground. In 1900, the Main Hall was rebuilt. Pictured above, this is the building most of us are familiar with.
It houses three floors of exhibits documenting daily life on the island. You'll walk into the baggage room and continue on to discover photographs, artifacts and interactive elements. You'll hear first-hand accounts and journey step by step through the immigration process. An incredible experience, guided ranger tours are available on a first come, first served basis.
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The nation's first public health hospital, it operated between 1902 and 1930. The hospital complex was built in stages, with a separate building for patients with infectious diseases being completed in 1911; many of those who entered its doors never left. Tens of thousands were treated for ailments including cholera, measles, diphtheria, tuberculosis and scarlet fever; the lucky ones survived.
For many years, the hospital complex was abandoned and left to decay. Recently, efforts have been made to preserve this piece of history. In 2014, the first tours were offered on a limited basis. Tours require close-toed shoes and participants must be at least 13 years of age. An art exhibit has even been installed for you to enjoy, featuring life-size historic photographs of Ellis Island immigrants on 22 interior walls. While striking, the images are also a bit disconcerting.
The "Hard Hat" Tours are $53.50 ($49 for seniors) and include the cost of your ferry ride. Ferries depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. A portion of your purchase will support the restoration and maintenance of the hospital.
Along the 90-minute guided tour, you will explore facilities including the laundry room, contagious disease wards, kitchen and even the autopsy room. Fascinating, though undeniably creepy, you will experience Ellis Island like never before.
Several tours are offered throughout the week. For a schedule, click here. To tour another unique spot in New Jersey, check out this article on Fort Hancock.
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