Exploring Dutch Lower Manhattan: From New Amsterdam to New York City

New York City is one of the world's greatest metropolises thanks to the Dutch, who landed in Lower Manhattan exactly 400 years ago. How did the Dutch company town of New (Nieuw) Amsterdam evolve into the city we know and love today? And what was it about the Dutch culture that made this place so different and special? It's time to hit the streets and uncover the stories and remnants of New York City's origins.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the roots of New York City throughout Lower Manhattan, which dates back to the arrival of the Dutch in 1624.

Led by licensed New York City Tour Guide Ann McDermott, this on-the-ground exploration will include:

• An overview of the European families who came here, including which ones went on to become fabulously wealthy through commerce and trade in lower Manhattan
• A walk down the island's original shoreline to see Manhattan’s oldest preserved archaeological sites hiding in plain sight
• How the municipal government was formed and what industries helped build this place into the international trade center it is today
• The story of 23 original Jewish settlers who escaped persecution in Brazil and went on to found the oldest Jewish congregation in America, which is still thriving
• Unpacking the Castillo Plan, the long hidden map of Nieuw Amsterdam from 1660, which tells us who lived where and what they did for an occupation
• Fun facts along the way including how Wall Street got its name to which Lower Manhattan office building was built over the original Dutch Street (and must allow access to the public because of it)

Afterwards, you’ll have an appreciation for the history that took place here, and how the names of the wealthy and powerful dynasties we know so well — like Cortlandt, Roosevelt and Vanderbilt — got their start on Manhattan's most southern tip.

See you there!

*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking!

**This tour concludes at 94 Maiden Lane

About Ann

Licensed New York City Tour Ann McDermott spent a good portion of her life working in and around Lower Manhattan. She is a native of Brooklyn with a keen interest in New York and its history. She knows these streets very, very well!

Testimonials

"Very interesting. Nice guide and nice group." -Rhonda

"Wonderful reminder of the crucial role the Dutch played in shaping the culture of New York." -Ronald

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Staten Island Ferry (Just Inside Beside Elevator), 4 Whitehall Street, New York, United States