Speech #890048604

For all of us. the Presidents proclamation called to mind once again the unique role Ellis Island has played in our history. The island came into Federal possession in 1800. Its symbolic role as gateway to a new land and a new life for citizens of foreign lands was assumed 90 years later when the Federal Bureau of Immigration undertook to develop the island as an immigration station. Ellis Island was our official host to 70 percent of all those who immigrated to this country between 1892 and 1954. By the millions they came. the "little people" and those who were later to achieve prominence in their new country. They came seeking refuge. liberty. and freedom. They helped forge our unique American heritage. and they lent their skills and energies to the job of building Americas position as a world power. Ellis Island was the birthplace of many millions of Americans. Stepping into the shadow of the torch of liberty. these immigrants from many lands were born into a new world. In 1954. the use of Ellis Island as host to our immigrants was discontinued. It remains. however. nationally symbolic of our friendship to those of other lands and of our indebtedness to those who have helped to make America the Nation it is today. The island is. therefore. eminently qualified for protection and preservation for generations of Americans yet to come.