History101.NYC is an ad-free learning resource available to the public at no charge. The project is dedicated to exploring New York’s fascinating past. We restore vintage photographs and prints that document the City's history and heritage. We also research the natural forces that shaped the environment, along with the people who formed the landscape and culture.
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.
1664: Dutch Surrender of New Amsterdam
On August 27, 1664, four English frigates sailed into New Amsterdam's harbor and demanded its surrender, eventually convincing Peter Stuyvesant to cede the territory.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
1676: New York City Hall and The Great Dock
Illustration of the old Great Dock near City Hall, one of the primary ports welcoming travelers and merchants to the New York Harbor.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
1679: Dutch Cottage in Old New York
Illustration of a quaint Dutch cottage in a residential section of Manhattan.
Artist Credit: G. Hayward & Co. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
1689: The Trainbands Signing Jacob Leisler's Declaration
Print shows English militia members signing an accord which officially established New York under the dominion of the English crown.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
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.
Artist Credit: G. Hayward & Co. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
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
Artist Credit: Julia M Colton. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
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.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. New York Public Library
1696: Captain Kidd In New York Harbor
Illustration of Captain Kidd, a famous Scottish pirate approaching New York's famous Harbor.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. New York Public LibraryNext 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