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A detailed look at the significance of the 9/11 Memorial Glade

What is the Memorial Glade at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum?

9/11 Memorial & Museum

In the wake of the harrowing events of 11 September 2001, a wave of resilience and compassion swept across the globe. Responders, recovery workers, survivors, and communities united in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Today, the 9/11 Memorial Glade stands as a testament to their unwavering courage and sacrifice. Stay on this page to discover the story behind the Glade, a place where honor, remembrance, and hope converge.

Where is the Memorial Glade?

The Memorial Glade at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is located just west of the Survivor Tree, approximately where the primary ramp that was used during the rescue and recovery effort once stood. It is easily accessible on foot from different points within the memorial grounds.

You can access the Memorial Glade from the entrance by following designated pathways within the memorial site. From the entrance, you will typically have to walk through the memorial plaza, passing by various memorial features and reflecting pools to reach the Glade.

A brief history

  • 11 September 2001: The Memorial Glade at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum finds its origins in the aftermath of the 2001 terrorist attacks, where the resilience of responders and recovery workers inspired a vision for a lasting tribute to their sacrifice.
  • 6 April 2019: The 9/11 Memorial Glade’s six stone monoliths were installed using a 600-ton crane and an assist crane.
  • 30 May 2019: The Glade was officially dedicated, coinciding with the 17th anniversary of the end of the recovery effort, symbolizing a somber yet powerful acknowledgment of those affected by the toxins at the World Trade Center site.

Design and construction

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Crafted with reverence and meticulous planning, the Memorial Glade at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum stands as a testament to resilience and remembrance. Designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, the Glade features a pathway bordered by six monumental stone monoliths, symbolizing strength and unity.

These monoliths, weighing between 13 to 18 tons each, incorporate steel salvaged from the original World Trade Center site, infusing the memorial with profound significance. The installation process involved a 600-ton crane and skilled craftsmen from Vermont.

Inscription

On 30 May 2019, the Memorial Glade at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum was solemnly dedicated, marking the 17th Anniversary of the end of the recovery effort. Designed to honor the selflessness and sacrifice of responders, survivors, and community members, the Glade's inscription poignantly encapsulates its purpose:

“This Memorial Glade is dedicated
To those whose actions in our time of need
Led to their injury, sickness, and death
Responders and recovery workers
Survivors and community members
Suffering long after September 11, 2001
From exposure to hazards and toxins
That hung heavy in the air
Here and beyond this site known as Ground Zero
And at the Pentagon
And near Shanksville, Pennsylvania
In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks.
Here we honor the tens of thousands
From across America and around the world
Who came to help and to heal
Whose selflessness and resolve
Perseverance and courage
Renewed the spirit of a grieving city
Gave hope to the nation
And inspired the world.”

How do I visit the 9/11 Memorial Glade?

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Walking through the Memorial Glade is a meaningful experience for anyone visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Access to the Glade is included with general admission tickets to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, providing you with the opportunity to explore this solemn tribute alongside the museum's exhibits. However, it's important to note that access to the Glade does require purchasing a ticket to the museum. Visitors cannot access the Glade without first obtaining museum admission. The Glade is situated in close proximity to the museum's entrance, making it easily accessible for those touring the museum.

Frequently asked questions about the 9/11 Memorial Glade

The 9/11 Memorial Glade is a dedicated space within the 9/11 Memorial & Museum site honoring those affected by the 9/11 attacks.

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