Learning About 9/11
Oral History Overview
The 9/11 TributeCenter is dedicated to teaching about September 11th through the use of oral histories. Tribute's exhibits, tours and programming are built upon hundreds of personal experiences of September 11th. Explore the links below to hear a selection of stories from our oral history collection and learn how to conduct your own oral history.
September 11th Personal Stories of Transformation
September 11th Personal Stories of Transformation is an educational toolkit that highlights the personal experiences of individuals who were deeply affected by September 11th and responded with humanitarian initiatives to serve others. The toolkit offers students an opportunity to utilize primary source materials in print and media and to explore the reasons why oral histories are key to understanding this contemporary history.
Learn how to conduct your own oral history from drafting questions to conducting the interview.
Tribute Center's Exhibits Constructed from Oral Histories
All of the permanent and changing exhibits at the Tribute WTC Visitor Center are based on oral histories. Visit each changing exhibit's website to listen to and read excerpts from related oral histories.
Inside the Fence
The transportation, sanitation, and construction trades played a major role in supporting the recovery efforts at the World Trade Center site after 9/11. This exhibit portrays the cooperation of the men and women in these trades as they approached heartbreaking and unprecedented tasks.
Getting Back to Business
The 9/11 attacks deeply affected the community of lower Manhattan which includes many businesses and residents. This exhibit explores the stories of businesses, both large and small, that had to overcome many obstacles to reopen and rebuild.
Renewing Our American Dream after 9/11
After 9/11, people in ethnic and immigrant communities faced difficult challenges. This exhibit shares the remarkable stories of professionals who dedicated themselves to finding creative solutions and community leaders who worked towards greater civic participation.
USS New York In Tribute
Seven and a half tons of World Trade Center steel has been built into the bow stem of the United States' Naval ship USS New York. Explore the stories of the men and women involved in building the ship and bringing her out to sea.