Life Stories
Annie Moore
On January 1, 1892, Annie Moore, a 15 year old girl from County Cork, became the first immigrant processed at Ellis Island. In honor of the 100th anniversary of this milestone, a commemorative statue of Annie Moore was erected at Ellis Island, and at her Irish departure point, Cobh, in County Cork.
Read more of the story of Annie Moore
John Solan
John Solan was born in Ireland on April 11th 1842. He was the son of Patrick Solan. The family emigrated to America in 1847. His mother died in Buffalo and his brothers, Michael and Patrick, died the same year.
John Solan's account of emigrating, arriving in America and description of life in America can be read here.
Annie O'Donnell
Annie O’Donnell (1880-1959) was born in Lippa, near Spiddal, Co. Galway. She left her native Galway for America in 1898, one of 15,175 Irish women who left that year. They far outnumbered the men, and most of them went into domestic service.
Read more about Annie's life and her letter of 5th May, 1902 which speaks of the aching sadness of children leaving home.