Producer, Lorie Conway, tells Robin Young, the host of "Here & Now," what inspired the near decade long research which became the foundation for the film and book, and filming the 22 abandoned hospital buildings, before restoration efforts began.
"There are times when the crew here at on TVonlineReviews feels conflicted about recommending this or that PBS documentary....Then, a documentary like tonight’s Forgotten Ellis Island comes along – a film so well made, so beautiful and so informative that we feel there’s nothing else for us to say, other than: Watch it."
- TVonlineReview, 2/2/09
Maria (Kosizbroda) Stallings
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My Great Grandfather was depo
2009-07-29 12:26:27
Our family has never gotton over the tragedy of how my Great Grandfather was separtated from his daughters and sent back to the Ukraine on June 2 1914 even though his son in law vouched for him and signed an affidavit that he would never require public assistance. He was said to be suffering from "Bright's Disese" and "Senility" though in the records of the extensive Q & A the labor dept put him through, his answers are more than competant. If you ever do a follow up story, our family both in the US and back in the Ukraine will be glad to tell you our story.
I never knew this part of Ellis Island even existed...I am surprised that more of this story wasn't a part of our history classes...my grandparents never told me that people were sent back, children separated from parents, etc. the buildings look as though they might have been beautiful in their won right as one time...I would LOVE the opportunity to photograph some of these pieces of history...thanks for bringing this to light, and life.
This was a very special program for me. My grandparents and great grandparents began their new lives here in the USA coming through Ellis Island. THANK YOU so much for such a beautifully done documentary. It was just wonderful. Also my compliments to the photography done so beautifully. What sensitivity! The minute reflections of the Statue of Liberty in mirrors and windows were just such a terrific touch. This represents the best of what television offers. Thanks ever so much!
SEE THIS SHOW and tell your family about it!
I was lucky to be able to see the PBS national debut of this outstanding production last evening. It is a wonderful combination of history and art showcasing Lorie's unique ability to tell a story that will have a lasting impact on the viewer. Thank goodness for Ellis Island. Although it was not perfect, we can't let it be Forgotten due to its role in creating the diverse America that we all treasure.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this special. I am grateful for the opportunity to see the videos of the patients and doctors of this event in history. Thank you..
Why is it that idiots like Michael Moore get Oscars, and movies like this are ignored? I have recently come to work as an Immigration Officer for the US Government, and enjoy learning about the history of the subject. I thought this a well-produced piece that showed not only the dark and serious side of early 20th Century immigration, but also the caring, compassionate side of the subject as well. Additionally I must say that the Physicians and Nurses of the US PHS were then, and continue today to be a credit to the country and to their Service.
Thank you for nearly 10 years of amazing work to produce this documentary. It enveloped me. I'm wanting to learn more about Ellis and with it public health. Your script was sensitively done and carried with it the feel of what these people experienced.
Just finished watching it on PBS. Got goosebumps seeing family name on ledger page, and cried again when my Aunt's interview and family photos appeared. I did SO wish that I wasn't the only family member alive to see it, as Linnea passed in 2000 and my Mom two yrs later, but now millions will see how some families suffered back then.
Saw that credits were trimmed from vers we saw at premiere to fit network time slot, but not sure what else was. GREAT job Lorie! Glad to have been a small part of it, and hope that many will buy the book and/or DVD!
I very much enjoyed seeing "Forgotten Ellis Island," and I look forward to seeing it again on PBS in February, 2009. Thank you for not contemporizing it. Doing so would have been a discredit to our ancestors who entered the United States of America through Ellis Island.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this special. I am grateful for the opportunity to see the videos of the patients and doctors of this event in history. Thank you..