Ground Zero Museum Workshop

Living on the west coast I've never understood why the tragedy of 9-11 has had such a huge emotional impact on me. I suffered no personal loss. Still, the event has taken a greater toll on me than I can explain. I still feel tearful and choked up looking at pictures and thinking about that day. When I visited NYC this August, I hoped that I would somehow feel better after visiting Ground Zero in person, but when I got there I didn't feel much. The area was all enclosed with construction vehicles everywhere, noise, dirt; a fairly generic development site. It gave me no peace. A visit to St Paul's chapel was gut-wrenching but very valuable and made me feel closer to those who had tried to help. Finally, I got to the museum. I had no idea what to expect. The small group was ideal...I didn't feel like a tourist being rushed through a money making organization. Listening to the fireman (who had participated in rescues) talk about 9-11 and it's aftermath, I felt honored to be able to listen to him. Gary Suson was at the museum when we visited, so that was an honor as well. Everything was displayed with total respect to those lost and those left behind. Being there made me feel more in touch with what had happened. I think that one of the reasons I've felt so empty and sad about 9-11 is that there was no way for me to help that day. I was one of the millions of people who could only watch. I am understanding now that this is where alot of my grief comes from. Frustration and inability to help. Not unique feelings, I'm sure. I think that visiting the ground zero museum is an act that can help one to better embrace and maybe understand their feelings about that day. Being around tangible remnants, pictures, recorded words...all of this helped me to feel a little more connected with what happened . Hearing some stories about survivors was very touching. Being able to hold a couple of items from the collapsed Trade Center buildings helped to confirm the reality of what happened. Knowing that survivors and relatives of victims come to the museum sometimes and find some comfort there, somehow, makes me feel privileged to share the space. And for them to know that people care enough and have a need to come to the museum is important as well. What I've written is more about the emotional experience, but I think that may be why most people would sign up for this museum visit. There are many things to see. You should expect to have a lump in your throat the whole time you are there. Tissue boxes are thoughtfully placed around the room to wipe away tears. I know that I'll go back every time I visit New York. I recommend this activity above anything else you may be thinking of doing in NYC. Whether you are a resident or a tourist, I am sure this place will bring something special to your heart. Peace and Love to All

Our group consisted of my husband and I and my cousin and his fiancee. We read about this museum, but we were a little concerned that maybe it was just some random person who was in New York that day and ran to Ground Zero just to grab some stuff to make money off of it later. We almost decided against it, but looking back now I realize that would have been a huge mistake. This museum was so powerful. Seeing these photos and actual pieces from this tragedy made it feel like I had actually lost a family member. The funny thing is that we were from North Carolina and didn't know any of the victims personally. Just seeing how total strangers risked and lost there lives trying to save the lives of people they themselves didn't even know makes you realize that no matter how different we are we still have human emotions. The photographer Gary Suson brings these emotions back to life with his photos and pieces from that tragic day. As I stated before, we didn't know any of the victims, but we will never forget them either. We stayed in New York for 4 days and this by far was the was the best of anything that we did. I, myself am not a very emotional person, but when I left this tour I had tears in my eyes. It's sad to think back at this tragedy and I can't believe it's almost been 6 years ago. It still feels like yesterday. But seeing this museum makes me appreciate everyday that I wake up and seeing the effort from the whole country that day and even to this day makes me proud to say that I love the United States of America. This is a must see for everyone. IT IS WORTH EVERY PENNY!!!

This intimate museum displays photos and some artifacts from the recovery operation at the World Trade Center. Although small, the museum has 100 exhibits - all suitable for children. Highly recommended as a tribute to the amazing stamina of the rescue workers.

I stumbled upon this activity via the internet and the experience had such an impact on me that I will "never forget" this small museum. The things you will see, hear and experience are incredible. Don't be fooled by the size of this small New York flat that houses the incredible photos shot by Mr. Suson. The intimate setting and limited tour space (only 12 to 25 people) allows for a comfortable and inviting experience that EVERYONE should try. I highly suggest going to the museum prior to going to the World Trade Center site, it will change the way you see the WTC site. It was hard to hold back tears, yet I learned so much and heard the most amazing stories of love and dedication.

We truly enjoyed the Ground Zero Museum. Gary's pictures gave us a feel of what it must have been like during the many months he was allowed into Ground Zero. The exhibits were all in good taste. Gary even came in during our "tour" and was very happy to answer questions that we had. I highly recommend this tour for anyone living in or visiting New York City.

It was O.K . The neighborhood didn't seem like the best place to be, even the cab driver said are you sure this is the right address?, but once we were greeted at the door by a nice looking young lady, I felt better. I expected the museum to be bigger than it was, and was a bit disappointed, because there were more pictures than items displayed. We took my grandson with us (11yrs old) I think he enjoyed it, because he liked the companion? (electronic listening devise) and he could go at his own pace and view what he wanted. The tour guides were very friendly and knowledgeable, but I thought the souvenirs were a bit pricey. $6.00 for a postcard. It was nice to visit once, but I don't think I will go back.

We attended this not sure of what to expect. It surpassed our expectations. Although a small museum it was filled with emotions and allowed you to be reflective of everything you were seeing. The individual audio descriptions allowed guest to reflect individually rather than as a group. I purchased one of the books and just finished reading and looking at the pictures last night. I remember when President Kennedy was shot and as a little girl, I still have the books, articles and other items. In a recent trip to Dallas, I visited the small museum there where the shots rang from and caused me to reflect on all those years ago. This experience at the Ground Zero Museum will be one of those lifelong memories to hold close to my heart as well. Thank you for giving us this opportunity. The only problem was that the Taxi driver did not know anything or where the museum was located.

i am a photographer myself and was very much moved by both the photographs and artifacts. It captured the sincerity of the tragedy and brought to life that moment, that was both moving and timeless. From artistic point of view I found it to be like a master photographer, . Thank you for the opportunity to meet and talk to Gary. Charles Stone

The Museum Workshop Tour was definitely one of the major highlights during our trip to NY. The Museum and tour are intimate, personalized, heroic, and heartwarming. The pictures do not dwell on the trajedies of September 11th, they display our heroes and how America and New York City has rebuilt and can still stand tall and proud. It was a delight getting the opportunity to meet Gary.

We were a group of 11 (ages 80 to 10). We were very impressed by our visit. I believe the adults got much more out of the presentation than the children; however, I am sure the children came away with much more of an understanding of this terrible event than they had going in. It is such an emotional experience. Every picture has a story and they all tug at your heart. I found the story of the two fathers particularly touching. The museum brought tears to my eyes and a feeling of gratitude for firemen everywhere (and of course particularly in this incident) who gallantly go into terrible situations. I felt such pride in the courage and determination of the firefighters who determinedly went back day after day searching for remains. Our country needs to stand behind them now and take care of the health problems they are encountering due to their efforts.

This is a one-room museum packed with powerful, moving information about 9/11. We were lucky that Gary Marlon Suson happened to be there the day we reserved and he told the stories behind the photos that he took. A handful of people are allowed in at a time. There are couches and chairs to sit in to watch a video and then to browse at pictures on the walls as well as actual remnants. Celtic music is playing in the background. Tissues are available, and you will need them. You will learn some personal stories behind the tragedy. I have no personal connection with anyone involved in this tragedy, yet I feel extremely connected especially after seeing this museum. This tour is a must when visiting NYC; it was one of the highlights of our trip.

I wasn't sure what i expected from the tour but i know what i got out of it. It was the most moving experience and it really showed you to appreciate the workers of New York. Gary Marlon Suson has let the outside world in on what he captured in 9 months at ground zero. He honors the deceased and the living in a way that words can not explain. His pictures and items recovered from ground zero tell a story that is fascinating. I would HIGHLY recommend EVERYBODY to visit this museum.

This was a very touching experience. I would recommend to anyone - go to this museum. After the events on 9/11, this is a healing experience. To come face to face with the realities of what happened through Gary Suson's pictures is something I will never forget. "Never Forget 9/11"

I was so touched by Mr. Suson's photo's and other items in the exhibit. Being able to listen to Mr. Suson tell the story of each picture and object made the experience even more emotionally moving. Mr. Suson, I am so glad you have shared your work with those of us who can not even begin to imagine what it was like for everyone during the recovery effort. I believe you missions is a success! Jill Levy, Texas

The room is small but brings the whole 9/11 recovery together. Most people will never see this but everyone should. The day I went we were lucky to have Gary Suson there to talk and answer questions. The pictures really capture the emotions and heartache of the people doing the work. Being able to hold the artifacts in my hands was humbling.