Village Preservation is fortunate to have within our Historic Image Archive one of the largest crowdsourced collections of photographs connected to the World Trade Center, the September 11th attacks, and the 9/11 aftermath and recovery, especially as experienced in and by residents of our neighborhoods. Initially developed in response to a call in 2021 to share images to mark the 20th anniversary of the attacks, our collection has grown to over 800 pictures from dozens of sources. It includes images of the original World Trade Center throughout the years, largely from the perspective of our neighborhoods; of the attacks and the destruction of the towers, as captured from our streets and rooftops; and finally, of the sadness, anger, memorials, and resilience and recovery on full display in our communities in the days, weeks, and years that followed. 

As we approach 25 years since 9/11, we’ve created a new curated tour of these images, generously donated by members of the public, from just after the World Trade Center was built, through the recovery, public gatherings, and commemorations in our neighborhoods that followed. Each shares a poignant perspective on our relationships to the original towers and complex; to the destruction as it unfolded a quarter century ago; and to the response and recovery rooted in our neighborhoods, sharing the stories behind them. 

Do you have historic images connected to our neighborhoods or NYC history you’d like to donate? Learn more HERE.

Explore more Village Preservation maps and guided tours HERE.