November 12 in American History

November 12, 1954 — Ellis Island closes

The immigration station in New York Harbor processed its last arrival and shut its doors. Over 62 years, some 12 million immigrants had passed through Ellis Island on their way into America — and roughly 40% of Americans today can trace an ancestor to that hall.

Common Questions

What happened on November 12 in American history?

In 1954: Ellis Island closes. The immigration station in New York Harbor processed its last arrival and shut its doors.

Why is November 12 significant?

The immigration station in New York Harbor processed its last arrival and shut its doors. Over 62 years, some 12 million immigrants had passed through Ellis Island on their way into America — and roughly 40% of Americans today can trace an ancestor to that hall.

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