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| photo: saveellisisland.org |
It is estimated that approximately 40% of Americans can trace a family member to Ellis Island,
and that some twelve million people passed through those gates between 1892 and 1954. And although part of the island's rich history has been preserved, many buildings have fallen into great disrepair.
Save Ellis Island's goal is to work with the National Park Service to preserve the Ellis Island Hospital building by raising $250 million dollars.
French artist JR's photography is a part of a new fundraising tour of Ellis Island that brings visitors to the hospital. Select areas of the 750-bed facility, like the laundry where original equipment that once cleaned 3,000 items a day, are on display on this "hard hat tour" to raise awareness of the state of repair that is needed.
If you will be in New York any time soon, be sure to add it to your itinerary. I know I will!