Ellis Island served as one of the nation's premier immigration stations from 1892 to 1954. Over 12 million people were processed through this station. 40% of America's population can trace their ancestry through Ellis Island.
Most immigrants who traveled to America were third class or steerage passengers aboard the ship. This was the cheapest way to get to America. Those who could afford a little bit more money for their tickets (first & second class) were processed much quicker upon their arrival at Ellis Island, aboard the ship, not at the Ellis Island facility.