Irish immigrants who survived the Great Hunger embarked on perilous sea journeys, arriving at the Port of New York filled with hope. For many, this destination marked the beginning of a new life in a new land; for others, it was the end of their journey.

Thousands of Irish famine immigrants perished at the Staten Island Marine Hospital and Quarantine Station, currently the location of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal and its surroundings. Two cemeteries directly connected with Irish Famine history and immigrants exist on Staten Island. Locals protested the proximity of refugees and sick people, and events culminated in violence in 1858.

Author Loretto Leary will discuss the historical significance of Staten Island to Irish Famine immigrant history and their experiences at the Quarantine Station.

Loretto Leary is the Secretary of Ireland's Great Hunger Museum of Fairfield, and the Co-Chair of the Connecticut-Ireland Trade Commission.