National September 11
Memorial & Museum

Home > New York State Photographs > New York > National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The sky was a thin white and the clouds had subdued the sun, its muted light cast a solemn atmosphere over the city. The cool June morning hung heavily in the air, accentuated by an eerie stillness.

At the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, bronze plaques surrounded the reflection pools, bearing names of those who had been taken too soon in the terror attacks on the World Trade Center. As people wandered around solemnly, their eyes tracing the lists of names pausing every now and then to brush their finger lightly across some of them, a token of respect for the ones gone too soon.

Off in the distance, you could see the magnificent curved wings of the Oculus World Trade Center transportation hub, rising up in defiance against tragedy. You were drawn towards it like a beacon of hope in a sea of sorrows. In its presence, you felt comforted that even though there was darkness, light can still be found if you look hard enough. You lingered for a moment before walking away to find something better than what has already been lost.

National September 11 Memorial & Museum

Rising from the ashes, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum stands as a solemn reminder of those who perished during the terror attacks of 2001. Brave souls who lost their lives at the World Trade Center in New York City, at the Pentagon, and aboard four hijacked aircraft will never be forgotten. The memorial also honors six innocent people killed seventeen years prior to the disaster at Ground Zero, once known as the esteemed World Trade Center site.

The Memorial

The memorial is a solemn reminder of the tragedy that occurred on that fateful day. The two large reflecting pools, set deep within the footprints of the original Twin Towers, are each nearly an acre in size and surrounded by bronze panels inscribed with the names of all those lost in both attacks. As waterfalls cascade down the sides of these pools, the atmosphere changes from tranquil to haunting; a sorrowful reminder of loss and devastation.

The Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum stands as a solemn reminder of the tragedy that unfolded on 9/11. Its opening on May 21, 2014 marked an important day in history, and although it has been years since the attacks, it still remains a place of mourning and remembrance. Guests visiting the museum are overcome with emotion as they explore the expansive collection of artifacts, documents, and multimedia displays that tell an all-encompassing story of horror, sorrow, bravery, heroism, courage and survival.

Exhibits and Collections

The museum's exhibits cover various aspects of the events of September 11, 2001, including the history of the World Trade Center, the events of that fateful day, the personal stories of the victims, survivors, and first responders, and the global impact of the attacks. The collection includes items salvaged from the World Trade Center site, such as pieces of the buildings, damaged emergency vehicles, and personal belongings of those who perished.

The "In Memoriam" gallery at the World Trade Center Museum is a haunting testament to those who lost their lives and a heart-wrenching reminder of the devastating losses of that day. Photographs of each victim, silently watching from the walls, pay tribute to individuals whose bright futures were tragically stolen away. The museum also features the "Survivor's Stairs," which served as a precarious passage for many desperate souls fleeing the South Tower. The somber images linger in the air, forever immortalizing the victims and reminding all who visit of the terrible cost of that fateful day.

The museum stands tall and proud, a monument to the strength of the American people. Its design is crafted with meticulous precision — every corner and wall serving as an ode to those who perished in such a horrific tragedy. Inside, visitors are met with reverent silence, their eyes paying homage to the victims, their hearts feeling both sorrow and admiration for the resilience that kept the nation from crumbling. The air thickens with emotion, giving palpable form to the courage of those who remain.

Educational and Commemorative Programs

In addition to its exhibits, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum offers educational programs for students and teachers, public programs and events, and special exhibitions. These initiatives aim to deepen understanding, promote dialogue, and provide opportunities for healing and commemoration.

Visiting

The memorial plaza is free and open to the public daily, providing a peaceful place for visitors to pay their respects. However, admission fees are charged for entry to the museum to support its operations and educational initiatives.

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum stands resolutely against the sky, an unforgettable reminder of the lives lost to terror. It serves as a place of reflection, education, and healing for people from all around the world, radiating strength and unity in defiance of tragedy.