At the top of the stairs you are ushered into a large crowded room with minimal seating on wooden benches. You wait your turn to be called into room after room to prove that you are worthy. Worthy of what, you ask? Worthy to stay in the US. You endure a humiliating physical and are introduced to a small hammer that checks your reflexes. You must prove that you can read in your native language. You must prove that you will not become a menace to society. You must prove that you can take care of yourself. And... you must have someone willing to sponsor you and promise to support you until you can support yourself.
You endure all of this after sailing on a boat for 1-2 weeks in steerage accommodations that are anything but luxurious. Seasickness is common. You're scared and don't understand what people are saying to you because you do not speak English.
There are dormitories, infirmaries, and cafeterias. You arrive penniless but you are still expected to pay for your meals.
The dates? 1890 - 1924
The place? Ellis Island
Many who arrived during those 34 years were allowed to stay. About 2% were sent home. Some families were broken up because one member or another was sick. Those family members never saw each other again. Some were sent home because they were thought to "become a public charge."
Those selected to stay were not allowed to leave the island until their sponsors arrived to pick them up.
Back to that X. What did it mean? It was a mark placed on the coats of those who struggled going up that flight of stairs. It was the first test they had to pass. Those who struggled were at a disadvantage in their ability to remain in the US.
As I toured Ellis Island recently I couldn't help but marvel at what my grandparents had to endure to enter this country in the early 1900s. Both of my grandfathers arrived first, established themselves then sent for their wives and children. I had always thought that they were simply documented on Ellis Island and entered the country. I never realized how involved that immigration process was at that time.
Ellis Island was very enlightening for me. It is a must see!
New Items
We recently introduced a new item to our collection - key rings. Key rings are made of pine needles and have a solid center. There is a silver toned or gold toned key ring to attach your keys. These key rings were first introduced at the Shaker Heritage Summer Craft Fair in July and they have proven to be quite popular!
The first batch is pictured below. Several other center designs have been added. Check them out at one of our upcoming shows!
Upcoming Events
Speculator Craft Fair is one of our favorites and is coming up on Thursday, Aug 8. Join us at the Speculator Ball Field, Routes 8 & 30, Speculator, NY from 9-4. Santa and I will be in the pavilion.
We are excited to announce that we have added a new event - The Carrot Festival at Agudat Achim, Troy-Schenectady Rd, Schenectady, NY. Sept 8 from 10 - 4. I'll be inside the building. See you there!
Until Next Time...
Diane
