History of NYC - 1600s
In the 1620’s, the Dutch settled what would be known as New Amsterdam – a modern european village in a pristine New World. For four decades it endured, until the first Anglo-Dutch war which led to the Netherlands surrendering the colony to Great Britain, eventually leading to the creation of New York in its place.
1626: Purchase of the Island of Manahatta
A letter written by merchant Peter Schaghen to directors of the Dutch East India Company stated that Manhattan was purchased for 60 guilders worth of trade.
1630: Coat of Arms of New Netherland
Much of the symbolism of New York's Official seal is derived from it's Dutch roots in the form of New Amsterdam's Official Coat of Arms.
1650: Fort Amsterdam
Fort Amsterdam circa 1650. Taken from "De Nieuwe en Onbekende Weireld," by Arnoldus Monatanus, Amsterdam
1660: Residence of Jacob Leisler
Illustration of the home of German-born colonist and entrepreneur Jacob Leisler located on "the Strand", or what we know today as Whitehall Street.
1660: Map of New Amsterdam, Manhattan Island
An illustrated map displaying early settlements and boundaries of New Amsterdam - a fledgling town occupied by an increasing amount of Dutch settlers.
1664: Earliest View of New Amsterdam
Earliest known image of New Amsterdam from a copperplate made by Augustyn Heermanns.
1667: New Amsterdam Harbor
Illustration of New Amsterdam, a small city on Manhattan Island, New-Holland, North America. The image depicts the harbor and multiple ships taking port.
1674: The Blockhouse and City Gate
View of the Schoeinge or street piling on the East River shore near present Coenties Slip - the dock and river front to Wall Street
1680: Corner of Exchange Place & Broad Street
Colorized illustration of pedestrians in front of a Dutch-style house, constructed on the north east corner of Exchange Place & Broad Street.
Next Chapter: History of NYC - 1700s
During the 18th Century, New York City was still largely rural, but rapidly expanding as more settlers arrived from Europe. The city would also play instrumental roles in attain... Continue Reading
