The Ellis Island immigration processing checkpoint was established in 1892 to serve as the main reception center for immigrants entering the United States through the Port of New York. It was created as a response to the increasing number of immigrants coming to the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The federal government decided to centralize the immigration process and streamline the screening and documentation procedures. Ellis Island was chosen for its proximity to New York City and its location in the middle of the harbor, making it an ideal place to process and inspect incoming ships.
