-
New York
Hours later when we were allowed to leave the island, we went into the heart of New York on our way to look for a job. It was disgusting. We decided we don’t want to live in New York, its full of trash and dead things. Wherever I turned Americans were staring at us with disgusted faces. Maybe it is just because of the smell of the city. Or because of our red hair and "accents". We saw a sign in a window while walking down the street. It said "WORKERS NEEDED:RAILROAD." We filled out the forms. -
Ellis Island
My name is Steven O'Reilly. I just arrived on Ellis Island. I came from Ireland to seek a job and own land. I have brought my brother-in-law Emmett Doyle. On our way to Ellis Island we were put at the bottom of a boat, crowded with a lot of foreigners whom didn’t speak the same language. When we finally made it onto the island, we went to baggage and dropped off our luggage for inspection. The whole process on Ellis island was crowded and long. -
Railroad
Today Emmett and I were departed to work on the railroad. They split us up to do different jobs. I am connecting the tracks, while Emmett was setting the bombs in the mountains. Former workers say we work about 12 hours a day and its very harsh in the summer and winter because of the temperatures. I'm glad we immigrated here in the spring, because the temperature is perfect to be working long hours in. -
Period: to
Immigrant Timeline
-
New Journey
Its been 2 years since Emmett and I started working on the railroad. We have saved up enough money to buy a farm and sail our families over to the United States. They will be coming over on the Titanic, leaving on April 10th. They should arrive a few days after. Since our families will be living here from now on, Emmett and I have quit the railroad and have decided to find other work available. -
Titanic
We heard the news last night. The Titanic had hit an iceberg in the ocean and had sunk hours later. We have had no sign of our families. A lot of children and women were rescued in life boats, but not all. We have no idea where they are, or how to contact them. Were just hoping they are okay. We haven't been out to check on the farm or animals in days. We just sit inside next to the phone hoping to get a phone call from them. I'm starting to lose hope. -
The End
Its been 4 years since the titanic sunk. There is still no sign of our families. Emmett passed away 1 year ago from depression. I miss him dearly, but I'm glad that he is hopefully happy with his family. Even though I am now all alone, I feel that coming to the USA was the best choice I have ever made.
