National Ellis Island Family History Day

National Ellis Island Family History Day has been set aside annually to recognize the achievements and contributions made to America by Ellis Island immigrants and their descendants. Historically, April 17 marks the day in 1907 when more immigrants were processed through Ellis Island than on any other day in its colorful history -- 11,747 people. Ellis Island Family History Day was first celebrated on April 17, 2001 to commemorate the opening of the American Family Immigration History Center at Ellis Island.