The inauguration of the Ellis Island immigration processing facility in 1892 under the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, as well as the later popularity of Emma Lazarus' poem "The New Colossus," encouraged an immigrant connection. This connection continues today with many immigrants choosing to call America their new home because of the Statue of Liberty and its role in welcoming those seeking a better life. Ellis Island opened its doors to applicants for the first time on Wednesday, February 5, 1892. The island at that time was a federal military reservation near Lower Manhattan owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After more than 70 years of service, the last inspection tour of Ellis Island concluded on November 3, 1924. President Calvin Coolidge signed a joint resolution on January 8, 1925, that terminated the lease between the United States and France and transferred responsibility for the site to the newly formed Department of Homeland Security. On February 10, 1925, Secretary of Commerce Herbert Hoover announced that the government would build a new immigration station on the site to replace Ellis Island. Statue of Liberty National Monument was established by Congress on August 2, 1936. The monument includes all of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island as well as some surrounding land. Immigration has been a key factor in establishing the history of America and this famous statue plays an important role in promoting understanding of American identity.