GOING THROUGH ELLIS ISLAND 



13 



sage, whether in United States before, whether ever in prison, whether 

 a polygamist or anarchist, whether coming under any contract labor 

 scheme, and personal marks of identification such as height, and color 

 of eyes and hair. Any discrepancies in the answers are noted. The 

 immigrant is also required to show what money he has. All who do not 

 meet these questions satisfactorily or who hold medical certificates of 

 classes A or B, are held for a rigid examination before a Board of 

 Special Inquiry, which decides whether or not they shall be admitted. 

 Each of these boards consists of three members, the decision of two 

 members being final. The hearings of the boards are private, but a 

 complete copy of the proceedings is made and filed in Washington. 



Those who are to be deported are held on the island until the vessel 

 on which they came is ready for its return voyage. In the event of de- 

 portation being ordered, the alien may appeal from the decision of the 

 board to the commissioner of the port, from him to the commissioner- 

 general of immigration, and then to the Secretary of Commerce and 

 Labor. 



Those immigrants who have passed satisfactorily and are bound for 

 New York City are sent to the " New York room " to await friends or 

 responsible parties who come for them. This is one of the most dra- 

 matic and thrilling spots on the island, for it is the reunion place of 

 friends, relatives and lovers. The Irish girl who came two years ago 

 meets the sister and the old mother. The one is pale, nervous, and clad 

 in New York garb: the others have never seen the ocean until their 



Theib first Photograph. 



