Ellis Island served as the primary immigration processing station for the United States from 1892 to 1954. At its peak, it processed thousands of immigrants each day, serving as a gateway to America for over 12 million individuals who sought a better life. The island's facilities included a hospital, a detention center, and numerous processing areas, where immigrants underwent medical checks and legal examinations. However, by the mid-20th century, the significance of Ellis Island began to wane due to changing immigration policies, including the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 and increased enforcement at borders. These changes marked a notable decrease in the number of arrivals at Ellis Island.

The last immigrant to be processed on November 12, 1954, a Norwegian man named Arne Peters, symbolically represented the end of a significant chapter in American immigration history. After processing Peters, federal officials announced the closure of the station, which reflected a broader transformation in U.S. immigration practices, migrating towards more streamlined processes requiring immigrants to arrive at established ports of entry.

Following its closure, Ellis Island was abandoned for several years, succumbing to nature’s reclamation and urban decay. Its buildings fell into disrepair, although the legacy of Ellis Island continued to resonate within American culture and identity. Preservation efforts began in the 1980s, leading to a major restoration that culminated in the establishment of the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which opened in 1990. This museum celebrates the contributions of immigrants to American society and educates future generations about their experiences.