Cornelius Jacobsen Mey (fl. early 1600s) was the first director of New Netherland in 1624, appointed by the Dutch West India Company. A seasoned explorer and trader, he led early Hudson and Delaware expeditions. Cape May, New Jersey, was named in his honor.
Peter Minuit (c.1580–1638), a Walloon-born merchant and diamond cutter, served as Director-General of New Netherland from 1626 to 1631. He is best known for purchasing Manhattan from the Lenape for 60 guilders. Later, he helped establish the Swedish colony of New Sweden.
Wouter van Twiller served as Director of New Netherland from 1633 to 1638. His administration expanded trade but was criticized for weak leadership, particularly after the Dutch lost control of territory in Connecticut.
Willem Verhulst was the second director of the Dutch colony of New Netherland, serving in 1625–1626. He oversaw early settlement efforts on Manhattan before being replaced by Peter Minuit.
