Myth: Ellis Island immigration officials changed my ancestor’s name
In fact, questions were used to confirm the immigrant’s identity, check them against the manifest and reasons for coming to the US. They had tickets and documents to board the ship. To leave their own country they often needed emigration or other identity papers. Immigrants likely changed their own name to fit in better with neighbors, a job, etc.
Myth: Language barriers created misinformation or other problems
Customs was quite familiar from where immigrants were coming based on the shipping company, prior experience with particular routes and vessels, etc. Thus, customs officials with appropriate language skill were assigned to arrivals to read most documents and communicate with most immigrants. Many officials were fluent in multiple languages.
Myth: Between 1892-1954 everyone coming to the port of New York came through Ellis Island
While lower class immigrants in steerage came through Ellis Island, 1st and 2nd class passengers quickly passed through a special immigration facility.
Myth: Most Americans had an ancestor who passed through Ellis Island
In addition to New York, European immigrants also entered through Baltimore, Boston, New Orleans and other ports, plus via Canada. In New York, prior to 1892 they arrived through Castle Garden. Ellis Island operated from 1892 to 1954.
Part Myth: Wait times at Ellis Island were long and arduous
Most immigrants waited 3–5 hours, after which they saw a clerk and a doctor. The medical exam, which on average took about six seconds, was performed by trained physicians to spot the signs of conditions that would require a separate, more detailed examination.
Part Myth: Ellis Island was called “Island of Tears” because so many were sent back to Europe.
Only 2 % of the people who came were ultimately turned back.