Inside NYC's Department of Records in downtown Manhattan - Notes From All Over

Synopsis

Eileen Flannelly, the Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Department of Records, discusses the agency's role as the keeper of the city's history. Established in 1977 by her uncle, the department includes Municipal archives, the records management division, and City Hall libraries. Eileen highlights various historical records, including Mayor LaGuardia's correspondence and subject files on topics like rent control and post-war problems. She reflects on the origins of record-keeping in New Amsterdam, where disputes among residents led to the creation of official records. Eileen also mentions the significance of filmed footage, including Muhammad Ali boxing on the steps of City Hall and Mayor Lindsay's collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock to announce the first New York City film office. The department preserves these moments, showcasing the continuity of human experiences from the 17th century to today.