Augustus Frederick Sherman (1865–1925) worked in senior clerical positions at Ellis Island. He was there briefly in 1893 as a clerk in the Executive Division; and permanently, in more senior positions, from 1895–1925. He was division chief, with the title of chief clerk, 1909–1921; and, finally, confidential secretary to the Commissioner, 1921–1925. In 1916, in the absence of the Commissioner and the Assistant Commissioner, Sherman took over routine affairs on the island, as he was regarded as third in command. He was an untrained, yet highly gifted photographer who created hundreds of images documenting the new arrivals to America. Fascinated by the diverse origins and cultural backgrounds of his subjects, Sherman created a riveting series of portraits, offering viewers a compelling persp