The Great Read: He Documented the History of New York’s Lower East Side. Where Will His Archives Go?

Clayton Patterson, the street photographer, has thousands of images, video and paraphernalia from the neighborhood's conflicts and characters. Now he doesn't know what to do with them.

May 19, 2025, 2:01 p.m. Eastern time On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. John Taggart for The New York Times He Documented the History of New York's Lower East Side. Where Will His Archives Go? Clayton Patterson, the street photographer, has thousands of images, video and paraphernalia from the neighborhood's conflicts and characters. Now he doesn't know what to do with them. Open now If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here. Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018