The iconic V-J Day in Times Square photograph now has a new home.
Many will remember the passionate kiss captured on camera between a man in a navy uniform and a nurse after the announcement that Japan had surrendered, ending World War II. The image appeared on page 27 in LIFE magazine in 1945. Over 70 years later, this image, along with many others, is being donated to the New-York Historical Society.
In anticipation of its move to downtown Manhattan, Time Inc. is taking care to give its assets the care they deserve; which means that the estimated seven million documents and artifacts in its archive will be entrusted to the New-York Historical Society, museum, and library. The archive’s earliest materials date all the way back to 1898 and include personal papers from founders Henry Luce and Briton Hadden. The collection also includes memorabilia such as an autographed boxing robe and gloves from Muhammad Ali. Time Inc. has made a name documenting and preserving the 20th century, and now that torch is being passed.
The New-York Historical Society is “dedicated to fostering research and presenting history and art exhibitions and public programs that reveal the dynamism of history and its influence on the world today.” Their mission perfectly dovetails into the missions of Time Inc. – to create content and experiences that educate, entertain, and inspire the world.
So what is the story behind the famed V-J Day in Times Square photo? According to a New York Post article, it turns out the woman being kissed wasn’t even a nurse! Even more, the sailor was in fact on a date with another woman who he is still married to this very day. Looks like we’ll now have the opportunity to see wonderful moments in history such as this on display for many years to come.