Bill Baker interview...in his own words

WILLIAM “BILL” HALE BAKER AND FAMILY

Bill was invited by Save Ellis Island to return for a guided tour and a visit to the staff house, which he once called home during a brief period of his childhood. Bill fondly reminisced about spending evenings playing in his backyard, where he enjoyed stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, just a short distance away. He also recalled learning to ride his bike along the pathways in front of what was once the contagious diseases hospital. Today’s visit was a family affair; Bill was joined by his wife, their two children and their spouses, as well as four grandchildren. To learn more about Bill’s experiences living on Ellis Island, you can read the interview below.

BILL HOLDING A CHILDHOOD PHOTO

In Bill’s words…

I lived on Ellis Island from September 1949 until approximately March 1951. My father was a medical doctor and a commissioned officer in the U.S. Public Health Service. He was assigned to Ellis Island after his previous assignment at the U.S. Public Health Service Hospital in Lexington, KY. He had also completed part of his residency in psychiatry at Ellis Island. While most doctors and nurses at Ellis Island commuted to the hospital, at least one doctor was required to live on the island full-time. There may have been a few nurses residing there, but it’s more likely that they were only present for overnight shifts.

BILL AND HIS FAMILY TOURING ELLIS ISLAND'S SOUTH SIDE

I remember the views of the Statue of Liberty and major ocean liners, such as the Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth, from our yard. Each day, I took the Ellis Island ferry to Battery Park and from there the ferry to Governor’s Island.  This was during my kindergarten and first-grade years. I was especially fascinated by the Ellis Island ferry and the seamen involved in the process of docking and departing. The entire New York harbor scene was always visible from our yard, captivating my imagination.

TOURING THE MORGUE

I met many other nurses, doctors, and patients during that time, but I only remember a few names, including Charley, who mowed the grass and picked up litter.  The Head Nurse at the Ellis Island Hospital, Ms. Brave, was a dear friend to me, almost like an aunt or grandmother. Additionally, one of my father’s patients, a merchant seaman named Tom Trimble, escorted me to and from school every day. He also helped with various odd jobs around the house. Another patient, Jimmy O’Shea, assisted my mother by babysitting my newborn little brother, Barry.

REMINISCING IN THE STAFF HOUSE 

At ages 5 and 6, I understood very little about the history of medicine and immigration. I learned most of what I know from the restoration of Ellis Island, the information provided by Save Ellis Island, and my contributions to the Oral History Project around 1986. I now realize the unique and significant role the Ellis Island hospital played in shaping our country into the melting pot it is today. I also have a greater appreciation for the hospital’s contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, as well as psychiatric care. Although the hospital was winding down its mission during my visit, there were still a small number of immigrants being examined and treated, which made me very aware of the boundaries of the quarantined section that I was instructed to avoid. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to witness the work of the hospital up close.

BILL AND FAMILY

I hope that visitors gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of immigration policy and the essential role played by the hospital, its doctors, and nurses in implementing these policies while staying true to their medical principles and values. I want these visits to leave a lasting impression, showcasing both the hospital buildings and the vital mission carried out within them. Additionally, I hope visitors feel a sense of pride in the Ellis Island hospital's contribution to making our country a global leader in modern medical research and practice. Lastly, I hope they are inspired by the breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, and lower Manhattan.

Bill shared some of his memories as well as home video footage that was filmed while his family lived on Ellis Island.
Click the image below to view on youtube:

The Staff House, where Bill lived, along with other historic buildings on Islands 2 and 3 of Ellis Island, are being preserved and restored by the National Park Service nonprofit partner, Save Ellis Island. To see the building where Bill lived and to tour the Ellis Island Hospital, see program information. To donate to the restoration of this iconic restoration project see DONATE now. To schedule an education program you can reach Irene Mone by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

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