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I'm Born in Switzerland
My life growing up in Switzerland was very tough. I was 13 when my parents died, and I had no one but my older brother. My brother took good care of me and I got married at the age of 18.Then two years later my husband lost his job and we couldn't pay for our house any more. We needed a new home, and that is why I am writing this to tell you about my journey as an immigrant. -
The first day in Ellis Island
I have been on a boat for 10 days with my husband and we finally see the island. Everyone gathers around to look at the station. It is extremely crowded and gross when a boat is filled with dirty people. I just can feel the fresh new life coming through me as we get to the port. The wooden walkway falls for everyone to get off the boat. The people are rushing to get into the station. All I am happy about is to get off that boat. I step off into the grass and I just fall because I'm so happy. -
Immigration Station
There is just one problem with this criterion of what to do. I am very scared that I will be embarrassed when they make me take off my clothes. I just saw another woman do it, and she looked miserable. Also, there are people getting their eyes swept by Q-tips. Then it's my turn, and I get shaky and sweaty, and they can see that I'm a little nervous. I get through it with pain in my eye and without taking off my clothes. I go to my husband and we go to the dormitories to sleep. -
Textile Factory in New York City
The day at work is a frustrating time for me. I see horrific things happening that will never leave my mind. The worst part of that is that my boss is a lot scarier. He has no respect for his workers and I feel bad that I even say that I work for him. The air isn't clean and I've started developing a slight cough. I see new people coming to work every day and I just think about how they don't know what is actually going to happen. Every day I hope there will be new opportunities for me. -
Robbed in New York City
I was walking home when someone came and started talking with a low scratchy voice. It was normal for me because people roam the streets all the time. This was different, and I only knew once it hit me. The guy had slapped me across the face, and started pulling on my purse. I pulled back and he punched me in the gut. I couldn't defend myself because the pain felt like I had been shocked. He took my purse and ran, while I was sitting on the street feeling the tears coming down my face. -
Homestead act in Minnesota
My husband and I took a chance to have free land and set out for Minnesota. The trip was brutal and nerve-racking. We get to our piece of land that we will call home, and I am the happiest person in the world. I knew that we could have good life, and be safe with the comfort of a big piece of land to protect us. We have plenty of food and will live a proud life. This ranch is an answer to our prayers and couldn't be any better.
