1. The Hospital Was Used as a Training Ground for the Coast Guard

The Ellis Island Hospital closed to immigrants in 1930 due to tightening restrictions on immigrants in the United States— think anti-immigration legislation and the Great Depression. However, the land continued to be used up until 1954 for a variety of services. The FBI used it for an office. German prisoners of war were held there, as were sick and wounded U.S. soldiers.

Between 1939 and 1954, the United States Coast Guard used Ellis Island as a training ground for over 63,000 enlisted men and officers. Our guide informed us that the recreational center on the hospital grounds hosted entertainers for the servicemen. 

There’s so much more to discover on the Untapped Cities Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital. The tour is offered every Saturday and select Sundays. Tickets sell quickly, so sign up soon for this truly unique experience!

Behind-the-Scenes Hard Hat Tour of the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital

Next, check out 9 Surprising Uses of NYC’s Ellis Island Throughout History. Get in touch with the author at freshcoffeestains.com.