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The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are shining symbols of America’s rich history and the promise of freedom. Located in the heart of New York Harbour, these landmarks have welcomed millions of immigrants seeking a new life and opportunities in the United States. The Statue of Liberty, which is a gift from France, represents hope and democracy. Similarly, Ellis Island tells the story of immigrants’ journeys to America. Together, they offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing stories of bravery, determination, and the search for a better life. Our youth camp offers unique opportunities to explore history, interesting facts, exciting experiences, and more!
Your journey to these iconic landmarks will start with a beautiful ferry ride from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. The ferry ride itself is a treat, as you can enjoy panoramic views of New York Harbour, the Manhattan skyline, and Lady Liberty standing proudly in the distance.
The Statue of Liberty, or “Lady Liberty,” as she’s popularly known, was a gift from France to the United States, celebrating the centennial (hundredth anniversary) of the American Declaration of Independence. Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor, designed the statue, while Gustave Eiffel, the genius behind the Eiffel Tower, engineered it. Standing at an impressive height of 305 feet from the ground to the tip of her torch, she quickly became a symbol of freedom and democracy.
Constructed in France, the statue arrived in the United States in 350 individual pieces, packed into 214 crates, and was assembled on Liberty Island. Imagine the excitement and curiosity of New Yorkers back then as they watched this grand lady rise piece by piece on their skyline!
The Statue of Liberty is more than just a monumental statue; she’s a symbol of hope and freedom for people worldwide. Her torch represents enlightenment, lighting the way to liberty, while the tablet she holds inscribed with “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI” (July 4, 1776) marks the date of American independence. The broken chains at her feet signify the abolition of slavery and freedom from oppression.
1. Changing Colours: The Lady Liberty wasn’t always green. She was initially a shiny copper colour, like a new penny, but over time, the copper oxidised and turned the iconic green we see today.
2. Sneaky Height Increase: The statue stands at 151 feet, but with her pedestal and foundation, she reaches 305 feet, making her an impressive figure on the New York skyline.
3. Wind Sway: Lady Liberty’s design allows her to sway with the wind! Her torch can move up to 5 inches in strong winds, and her entire structure can sway up to 3 inches. This flexibility ensures she can withstand the harsh elements.
Explore: Visitors to the Statue of Liberty can take guided tours or explore independently. A visit to the pedestal (a base or foundation supporting the statue) offers stunning views of the New York City skyline, while those who are more adventurous can climb the 354 steps to the crown. The crown’s narrow spiral staircase may be challenging, but the breathtaking view is worth every step!
Ellis Island, located just a short ferry ride from the Statue of Liberty, was the busiest immigration inspection station in the United States from 1892 to 1954. Over 12 million immigrants entered through its doors, making it a crucial gateway for those seeking a new life in America.
Upon arrival, immigrants were subjected to rigorous inspections and interviews. They had to undergo medical exams to ensure they weren’t bringing contagious diseases into the country. The processing could take hours or even days, with some families facing the heartbreaking reality of being separated if a member was deemed unfit to enter.
Ellis Island serves as a museum today, committed to the preservation of the immigrant experience. Visitors can explore exhibits filled with photographs, artefacts, and personal stories that bring the island’s history to life. One of the most moving exhibits is the American Immigrant Wall of Honour, which lists the names of over 700,000 individuals who passed through Ellis Island.
1. Not the Original Immigration Station: The original immigration station was Castle Garden, located in Battery Park, Manhattan. After Castle Garden closed in 1892, Ellis Island took over this role.
2. The Original Building was Destroyed in a Fire: In 1897, a devastating fire destroyed the original wooden immigration station on Ellis Island. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but many immigration records were destroyed. The current building, made of fireproof materials, opened in 1900.
3. The Island Grew: Ellis Island was originally much smaller, but the landfill from the construction of New York City’s subway system and excess earth from other projects expanded it to its current size.
Explore: On Ellis Island, guided tours delve deeply into the immigrant experience. You can walk through the Great Hall, where thousands of immigrants once stood, and visit the restored dormitories where newcomers stayed while awaiting their fate. The museum’s interactive exhibits and films offer a poignant look at the hopes and struggles of those who passed through its doors.
A visit to these world-famous attractions is a sightseeing trip, a journey through time, and a deep exploration of the American spirit. These landmarks are powerful reminders of the struggles and victories of millions who came searching for a better life and contributed to the creation of rich American history. Join our summer program to explore fascinating icons of NYC and more!
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