Skip to main content

Attacks of 9/11

An artist in lower Manhattan recalls how he watched the Twin Towers fall, then spent years honoring the lives lost.

On that fateful flight, American heroes and the accidents of history combined to save the US Capitol from likely total destruction.

Editor’s Note: James Reston Jr.

On that fateful flight, American heroes and the accidents of history combined to save the US Capitol from likely total destruction.

Editor’s Note: James Reston Jr.
September 11, 2001 was my daughter’s first day of kindergarten—a new school a long subway ride up the spine of Manhattan. Rebecca’s inaugural school day consisted of half an hour meeting other children, followed by a four-hour walk home.
THIS IS A VERY INTERESTING PLACE TO WORK.

A taste of the horror to come in Manhattan

Saturday, July 28, 1945, dawned overcast and sultry in New York City. I’d missed my train from Grand Central Station to Bangor, Maine, where I was attending a summer camp for girls.
In the aftermath of last September’s attacks, there was, for the first time in my memory, a good deal of talk about the War of 1812.

The events of 9/11 were horrific, almost beyond comprehension. But when our nation was sorely tried before, it emerged stronger and better than before.

The events of 9/11 remind us that outside attacks have always brought Americans together.

Has the present ever seemed more of a bully than it does just now? Not long after the terrorist attacks, The New York Times ran an essay that pretty much said that there was no way to view them historically.

WE’VE SEEN IT (ALMOST) ALL BEFORE.

Enjoy our work? Help us keep going.

Now in its 75th year, American Heritage relies on contributions from readers like you to survive. You can support this magazine of trusted historical writing and the volunteers that sustain it by donating today.

Donate