9. Ellis Island – Hurricane Sandy’s Legacy
When Hurricane Sandy struck in 2012, storm surges inundated Ellis Island, flooding its museum and endangering priceless immigration archives. Restoration crews faced the delicate task of salvaging both the historic structure and millions of irreplaceable records. Months of meticulous work returned the museum to public life, preserving the stories of generations who entered America through its doors. This recovery stands as a testament to the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage against nature’s unpredictable force. Read more from the National Park Service.
