#88 Ellis Island: The Immigrant Story

For millions of Americans, Ellis Island is the symbol of introduction, the immigrant depot that processed their ancestors and offered an opening into a new American life. But for some, it would truly be an 'Island of Tears', a place where they would be excluded from that life. How did an island with such humble beginnings -- 'Little Oyster Island', barely a sliver of land in the New York harbor -- become so crucial? Who is the 'Ellis' of Ellis Island? And how did it survive decades of neglect to become one of New York's most famous tourist attractions?  FEATURING our special guest Tanya Bielski-Braham who walks us through her own family immigration experience -- from Poland to America. www.boweryboyshistory.com THIS SHOW WAS ORIGINALLY RELEASED ON JULY 31, 2009 THIS IS A SPECIAL ILLUSTRATED PODCAST -- Chapter headings with images have been embedded in this show, so if your listening device is compatible with AAC/M4A files, just hit play and a variety of pictures should pop up.  The audio is superior than the original as well. (This will work as a normal audio file even if the images don’t appear.)

Om Podcasten

Included here are the Bowery Boys back catalog of shows from our first year. If you'd like to hear our new episodes, simply search for New York City History: The Bowery Boys and subscribe. New York City history is America's history. It's the hometown of the world, and most people knows its familiar landmarks, buildings and streets. Why not look a little closer and have fun while doing it? The Bowery Boys, Greg Young and Tom Meyers, have lived in New York for the last fifteen years and have been curious about the city since the day they arrived. Join them for a fun take on history, a "romp down the back alleys of New York City." Each week, they look into another fascinating aspect of the Big Apple -- the people, the places, its beginnings and effects on American culture.