In July 1995, I launched my first website — WorldVillage.com — one of the earliest family-friendly destinations for software reviews, games, and educational content.
Built on curiosity and a love for the web, WorldVillage became one of the first 20,000 sites ever created. Within a year, we had nearly a million visitors. But as the years passed and the Internet evolved, the site faded into the background.
Here’s the crazy part: 30 years later, I still own it.
And when I asked ChatGPT how many of those original websites are still online today, the estimate was jaw-dropping — maybe 250 total, and only a few dozen still in the hands of their original owners.
In this episode, I revisit the story of WorldVillage — how it began, what it became, and why I’m now considering bringing it back.
đź’¬ Here’s what I’d love from you:
What should I do with this piece of Internet history?
Should I revive it as a “Cool Site of the Day”-style project — celebrating what’s still great about the open web?
Drop your ideas and feedback in the comments.
— Joel Comm
#JoelComm #WorldVillage #InternetHistory #RetroWeb #VintageInternet #1990sWebsites #TechHistory #WebRevival #DigitalArchaeology #OldInternet #CoolSiteOfTheDay #Rediscover #EarlyWeb
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