17. Ellis Island Was the First Stop for All Immigrants
The story of Ellis Island as the gateway for every immigrant to America is a common misconception. In reality, many immigrants arrived before Ellis Island opened in 1892, passing through earlier entry points like Castle Garden in New York. Others entered the country through different ports such as Boston, Philadelphia, New Orleans, or even overland from Canada and Mexico. Ellis Island played a major role, but it was far from every newcomer’s first step on American soil.
