How do I retrieve multiple files from my trashcan?

I removed everything from my "finder" to my trashcan; I found that I had multiple duplicates in images, and I thought that was an easy way to get rid of them. But then my iPhoto started acting weird and when I contacted support, was told that I had to "put back" each file. There are roughly 17,000 images. I am overwhelmed to say the least. Suggestions? I tried highlighting several at a time, but that doesn't work.