Photo Archive research part 1

Over the course of several months, I researched the history of Randall’s and Wards Island. The Islands have been witness to a complex military, commerce, and municipal ventures. With most of the physical sites erased by the passage of time, I turned to photo-archives for historic imagery. Hoping to understand more by seeking out historical buildings and landmarks that I felt visually represented the islands fascinating history dating back to Colonial times.

This week was spent pouring over New York City Public Library’s Picture Collection located inside the beautiful Bryant Park branch on 5th avenue.