New Amsterdam Map 1660

The map is now in the possession of the british library. The blue border in the map shows the approximate boundary of new amsterdam in 1660 superimposed over a map of lower manhattan today. As illustrated on the map, pearl street was the original east river water line, named for the pearly oyster shells along the shore.

The dutch settlement in the new world that became new york, following the plan sent october 6, 1660 by governor peter stuyvesant to the west india company in holland, with additions concerning persons, places and events until the year 1699. Over the next few years they surveyed and laid claim to a broad swathe of the coastline, its primary attraction initially being to source beaver fur. The castello plan officially entitled afbeeldinge van de stadt amsterdam in nieuw neederlandt (dutch, picture of the city of amsterdam in new netherland).

This original street grid still exists today but has been enlarged with landfill since the city was founded.

It provides a detailed view of the layout and land use in new amsterdam, including fort amsterdam, streets, homes and businesses, the canal, and the wall along the northern edge of the city that was built to keep the british out. Development on landfill has extended the boundaries of the city on all. The streets and buildings aren't listed in much detail, but there are some interesting bits on the map, such as hudson's river and longe isle land. Author jacques cortelyou (1660) new amsterdam (dutch new york).