Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Great Hall
Huddledonbenches,immigrantsawaitedexam-
inations that would determine whether they
would be granted entry. A doctor watched as
they ascended the stairs and marked letters in
chalk on those who showed signs of conditions
needing special inspection.
The vast interior of the Great Hall
Medical Examining Line
Interpreters guided immigrants through their medical examinations. The most
dreaded were the “eye men,” looking for symptoms of trachoma, a disease that
caused blindness. It was the reason for more than half the medical detentions and
meant sure deportation.
Dormitory
Immigrantswhoweredetainedforfurtherexaminationsslepthereinseparatequar-
tersformenandwomen.Althoughtheprocesswasnerve-wracking,onlytwopercent
of those seeking refuge were sent back.
Railroad Ticket Office
ThosetravelingbeyondNewYorkwereferriedtorailroadterminalsinNewJerseyto
continue their journeys. Agents could sell as many as 25 tickets per minute.
