My Great Grandpa, Antonio Valente, was born in Sicily, Italy in 1901. He grew up poor, living with his family on a small farm. He worked with his father, mother, sister, and two brothers every day to help support them. When he was around 17, he was sent to America to raise money for his family and send it back to Italy.

Antonio traveled to America on a large steam ship. He sailed for about 8 weeks. He was in the cheapest section, consisting of many immigrants packed into very small, tight areas. Disease was common, the water was always dirty, and the smell was often unbearable.

After a grueling boat ride, Antonio arrived at Ellis Island. He went through physical and mental examinations and interviews, got his paperwork checked, and was off to start his new life in America.