Ellis Island Immigrant: Arvid Ebba

My birthday

Nov 13, 1833

I was born in Stockholm, Sweden. I have a twin brother that is older than me. My childhood revolved around picking, harvesting, planting, and taking care of the garden with my brother. My mother and father took care of the livestock. When I turned 10 I was able to switch positions and help with livestock. My brother and I were sent to Ellis Island, at the age of 14, to earn money for more crops. I am writing this to inform you about my journey.

Getting notified

Dec 18, 1847

I was out in the garden when I was approached. They asked me to come and I didnt know what to say. They took me and I didn't even have enough time to say goodbye. When my brother and I were working in the garden they took us both. We were eventually sepreated and I don't know where he went. I wonder where I am going and what will happen. I guess I will find out.

The Trip Over

Dec 21, 1847

I am on this steerage in the middle of the ocean and have barely any room to write. I am ill right now and don't know if I will last. We have around 1-3 more weeks left. I already experienced one death and I know there will be plenty more to come. There are mostly men on this steerage. The people are not pleasent. I was searching for my brother and found no results, tomorrow I am going to try again.

Arriving and my thoughts

Jan 13, 1848

I came off board and there were people surronded. I saw faces that looked like my mother and father. I thought and prayed about them everyday. I looked at all the relieved faces. They were also some scared faces. "When will I be back" is what I thought. I never imagined my life to change in this direction in such a short period of time.

Getting my job/first day

Jan 14, 1848

I was put into a shelter to sleep and then they woke me up bright and early. They led me into a factory and I was horrified. I was so scared because the people surrounding me gave me harsh looks. I gather around what my instructor has stopped by. My job is making different kinds of products. Before the guy left he stopped and told me all the rules and punishments that could happen. I'm looking forward to go home.

Working

Jul 29, 1848

I am still working in this old factory and have been treated poorly. I have been beaten by a guard that was watching over me. My life here is a lot worse than Sweden. I work long days. I work from sunrise to sunset non-stop. I get enough food so that I can work. The guards are coming over now so I have to put this away until next time...