Where to find historical information?

A surprising amount of information is in the public domain and free to obtain. Here are some resources and collections that have been helpful.

Historical RecordsFamily Search: This site is free if you make an account and allows you to search for and download most census, immigration, and other records of genealogical interest.
– United States National Archives
Ellis Island
Digital
Photograph
Collections
NYC Digital Archives
“1940s NYC” is a helpful tool
Brooklyn Public Library
New York Public Library
– Library of Congress
Neighborhood InformationGowanus Canal History
Greater Ridgewood Historical Society