First Ellis Island Immigrant Honored
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A permanent memorial was dedicated in Queens yesterday for a historic Irish-American icon.
A grave marker for Annie Moore, the first immigrant to come through Ellis Island in 1892, was unveiled by family members in Woodside's Calvary Cemetery.
Moore’s fate remained a mystery until genealogists located her previously unmarked grave two years ago.
"It represents so many of the stories of Americans today, and that was really a driving factor in why we stepped up and why we wanted to honor her," said Teresa Smith-DeHesus, Moore’s great-granddaughter.
"I think she represents a lot of what we are all about. And how we came to make a better life and raise our children," said Irish immigrant Geraldine Colton.
"She represents all the Irish in America, the success of the Irish in America,” said Francis McCormack, who carved the gravestone. “Without those people, without the Annie Moores, we probably wouldn't be here today."
Genealogists say after immigrating to New York Annie Moore lived on the Lower East Side. Five of Moore's children are also buried in Calvary Cemetery.