January at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

It's been many years since I last visited the Statue of Liberty, the imposing giant lady at the mouth of New York Harbor.

The first time I ever visited the Statue was during the US Bicentennial in 1976. I was there with my parents and my sister, Barbara, on a beautiful summer's day. We toured the Statue and enjoyed the tall ships that had filled the Harbor in celebration.  As a young girl, I also enjoyed watching the sailors that had flooded the city! 

Ticket stub for entry to the Monuments

I have been back a few times since then, but that first time always shines brightest in my minds eye.

When my friend Kathy asked if I would accompany her on a trip to the Statue in early January I thought it would be a great idea. The winter had been mild  and the weather on the day of our visit was balmy.

The first stop on our journey that started at Liberty State Park on the New Jersey side, was Ellis Island. Ellis Island was the first stop of immigrants to the United States, where they were processed and either allowed to enter the country or, for the unlucky ones, returned to their countries of origin.

For a visit inside the Statue of Liberty be sure to arrive early in the day for the free special tickets. Unfortunately, by the time we arrived on the day of our visit, all the tickets had been given out.

 Downtown Manhattan Views from the Ferry

 Ellis Island

The ferry takes visitors close to the entrance of  the building on Ellis Island where the immigrants were processed and housed. Since hurricane Sandy several years ago, when the island and building sustained severe damages, only some of the exhibits have been restored.

 Stairs inside Ellis Island Building

 View from a window of Ellis Island Building

 Great Hall at Ellis Island

Wash Basins at Ellis Island sleeping quarters

Cots at Ellis Island Building

 Photos of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island

 The Statue of Liberty

The next stop was the Statue of Liberty. So gigantic it can be seen for miles afar, the Statue comes into relief as the ferry nears. I have always had a special place for this iconic statue that symbolizes so much that is important to people all over the world. Freedom! The statue is imposing and it's green color is vivid and gives it depth. I was sorry not to be able to climb the narrow inside steps to the top. Yet, since I have been fortunate to experience it in the past, I was still able to enjoy my recent visit.

The Statue of Liberty is one of those iconic places in the world, filled with so much emotion and special meaning. I was really glad to be able to experience again it recently so unexpectedly.

Thank you Kathy!

Enjoy!

Maria