NEW YORK, NY (AP).- More than 3,000 letters, drawings and other objects of appreciation sent to New York firehouses after the 2001 terror attacks are being given to the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

The "Dear Hero" collection was gathered and preserved by a ground zero volunteer when firehouses began dismantling their displays of letters and drawings. The items will now be part of the museum's permanent collection.

The collection includes many letters from children, many beginning with the words "dear hero." It also includes artwork and decorative quilts. A U.S. flag is made from paper and dollar bills; a large wreath is covered with small white teddy bears.

The chief curator, Jan Seidler Ramirez, says the museum will rotate selections from the collection.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.