Print this page

Journey of an Irish Immigrant

Immigrant icon HIRES

Liverpool - 1894 - Journey of an Irish Immigrant follows the path of immigrant, Maggie McLaughlin and her sister, Annie as they make their way across the Atlantic. 
     The voyage begins in Liverpool, England with a depiction of the sisters' preparations and the items commonly found in immigrants' trunks.  While centered on the sisters' journey, the program encompasses the broader immigrant experience, focusing on the harsh conditions of the boats and the courage it took to sail across the ocean.
     Though transatlantic travel was challenging, Maggie and her sister engage a Russian family in a high-stepping Irish dance aboard the boat.  Once in America, the immigrants are then subjected to the rigorous examinations (including physical exams and testing one's capacity to find work) at Ellis Island.  As they embark on their new life in America, some of the newly arrived travelers face the prejudices encountered by many in "the land of opportunity."

Maggie McLaughlin - is a fictitious Irish woman emigrating from County Cork, Ireland.  She is in search of a richer life in America.  Maggie is strong and hopeful as she confronts the exploitation and discrimination of her people upon her arrival.

Best for grades 4 - Adult

Image Gallery

{gallery}61{/gallery}