From 1892 to 1954, some 12 million immigrants to the United States passed through inspection at a small eastern seaboard land mass known as Ellis Island. From his position as a clerk with the executive division of Ellis Island, Augustus F. Sherman, a gifted amateur photographer, captured more than 250 images of these ethnically diverse individuals. DePaul University’s Art Museum, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., is pleased to present “Augustus Frederick Sherman: Ellis Island Portraits, 1905-1920,” now through June 13.

An opening reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. April 17. Eighteen members of the Middelstadt family—representing three generations—will attend the reception and view a photograph of their forbearer: 9-year-old John Middelstadt, who is pictured with his parents and seven other siblings shortly after their arrival from Germany.

Sherman’s privileged status allowed him to photograph immigrants who were being detained for further questioning during their processing. He took photos of adults, groups, families and children, and his subjects were often clad in colorful national costume or folk dress of their homelands.

“These photographs encapsulate a pivotal moment in the subjects' lives,” explained Louise Lincoln, director of the museum. “Many are trying to present themselves as desirable future citizens; they look eager and aspirational. Others are simply overcome by the stress of the experience and they look exhausted or wary. The images are a vivid reminder of the challenges immigrants faced and the opportunities that drew them here.”

The DePaul Art Museum is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.; Friday from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For more information about “Ellis Island Portraits” or other museum programs and exhibitions, please call 773/325-7506 or visit the Web site at http://museums.depaul.edu/artwebsite/.

Editors’ Note: J-PEG images from Augustus Sherman’s collection are available upon request. Several members of the Middelstadt family reside in the Chicago area and are available for interviews.