The Annie Moore statue in Cobh (a similar one can be found in New York) commemorates the young Irish emigrant who became the first immigrant to be processed at the Ellis Island Immigration Station in New York City on 1st January 1892. Annie, aged 15, and her two younger brothers, Anthony and Philip, left Cobh (then known as Queenstown) aboard the SS Nevada, embarking on a journey to reunite with their parents in the United States.

The statue, located at the Cobh Heritage Centre, depicts Annie holding her brothers’ hands, symbolising hope, courage, and the dreams of millions of Irish emigrants who left Ireland during the 19th and early 20th centuries in search of a better life. The sculpture captures the innocence and determination of the young girl as she steps into a new world.

A twin statue of Annie Moore stands at Ellis Island in New York, creating a symbolic link between the two ports that played such a significant role in the history of Irish emigration. The Cobh statue serves as a powerful reminder of the hardships faced by Irish emigrants and the enduring legacy of their contributions to the countries they settled in.

The Annie Moore statue is a popular attraction for visitors to Cobh, offering a touching connection to Ireland’s emigration history and the personal story of one young girl who became an iconic figure in the Irish diaspora.