Why Alexandra Had To Visit Ellis Island In 1923 Season 2

Warning! This article contains SPOILERS for 1923 season 2, episode 3. When we first meet Alexandra (Julia Schlaepfer) in 1923, her journey through Ellis Island reveals a painful chapter of history that many immigrants faced. The depiction of her experience at this infamous immigration processing station highlighted the harsh realities of arriving in America during the early 20th century. While striving for a new beginning, Alexandra encountered a slew of challenges: invasive medical exams, discrimination, and the overwhelming feeling of being an outsider. This segment of the show parallels Timothy Dalton’s controversial scene, but it carries significant weight within Alexandra’s narrative.

The story of Alexandra is not just about her arrival; it reflects the greater struggles of the Dutton family as they navigate their own hardships. Throughout 1923 season 2, the audience has observed a persistent theme of trauma and resilience, with Alexandra’s trials at Ellis Island foreshadowed subtly from the onset.

Understanding Alexandra’s Journey to Ellis Island

The Lack of Documentation

Alexandra’s journey through Ellis Island was primarily caused by the absence of proper documentation. As mentioned by a guard on the ship, the first-class passengers had already sorted their travel documents at the U.S. Embassy in London, while Alexandra lacked any identification. She was branded as an undocumented immigrant, which led her directly to Ellis Island.

Sadly, Alexandra’s circumstances meant obtaining the necessary paperwork was unattainable. Traveling without the support of her family and as a woman on her own, securing a travel visa would have exposed her secret intentions. Moreover, the little money she had was spent on the ticket itself; she had to sell her belongings just to afford it.

Restrictions on Pregnant Immigrants

The Discrimination Faced by Immigrants

Another unsettling aspect of Alexandra’s experience was the prevailing ideology that barred pregnant women from immigrating to the U.S. The underlying reason was simply grotesque: the U.S. government wanted to avoid what they termed “undesirables” from birthing children on American soil, as it would entitle those children to citizenship. Many ethnic groups, including Irish immigrants—of which Alexandra was misidentified—faced extreme discrimination during this era.

Between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, America was inundated with immigrants fleeing violence, hunger, illness, and impoverishment. Ellis Island served as the tollgate for these hopeful newcomers, ostensibly to check for diseases and maintain public health. However, many immigration officers often turned away “undesirables”—a term laden with bias encompassing ableism, racial prejudice, and misogyny, barring access to those deemed less than acceptable.

A Different Path for Alexandra

The Advantages of Royalty

Considering all that Alexandra endured at Ellis Island, it’s sobering to think that her situation could have been radically different. If she had been able to secure her travel documents from the U.S. Embassy, she would have traveled under her royal title of Alexandra of Sussex, potentially receiving privileges that would have spared her from the horrors she faced.

Furthermore, had Alexandra and Spencer married on land instead of at sea, they would have held a valid marriage certificate. This simple document would have been enough to demonstrate her legal association with an American citizen, likely allowing her to bypass the scrutiny she faced at Ellis Island. Instead of undergoing invasive inspections and harsh interrogations, her entry into the U.S. would have been far more welcoming in 1923.

In summary, Alexandra’s arduous experience emphasizes the struggles faced by many immigrants, especially women like her. If her circumstances had been just a tad different, the painful trek through Ellis Island could have been avoided. Thus, the story of Alexandra is more than a fictional narrative—it’s a reflection of historical injustices and the resilience of countless individuals who fought for a better life.