Ellis Island is one of the most famed entryways to America in all US history. Ellis Island was a product of necessity; the 19^th century saw turmoil and instability throughout the whole of Europe. This resulted in the largest mass migration of people in all history to date, many of whom sought life in America. An immigration facility called Castle Garden has been used prior, but was ill-equipped to handle the massive influx of immigrants coming to the US. Ellis Island immigration facility opened January 1, 1892.