Exploring Dutch Heritage Through Research 

Exploring Dutch Heritage Through Research 

The Maps of New Netherland

These historical maps reflect expanding European awareness, charting New Netherland’s rivers, settlements, and contested boundaries.

Maps from Europe’s Age of Discovery reveal how New Netherland and the Northeast took shape. Charting New Netherland, 1597–1682 traces a growing understanding of the land, capturing not only territory but the ambitions of sea captains, mapmakers, and empires. These digital exhibitions feature three centuries of maps collected by Bert Twaalfhoven, a Dutch immigrant whose extraordinary collection was later donated to Fordham University, as well as a guided journey through the lost world of New Netherland—from the House of Hope on the Fresh River, today’s Connecticut, to Fort Casimir on the South River, now the Delaware.

Charting New Netherland

Maps from Europe’s Age of Discovery reveal how New Netherland and the Northeast took shape. Charting New Netherland, 1597–1682 traces a growing knowledge of the land. These maps record not only territory but also the ambitions of sea captains, mapmakers, and empires.

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Maps of Bert Twaalfhoven

This exhibit highlights three centuries of maps collected by Bert Twaalfhoven, a Dutch immigrant who came to the United States during World War II. After studying at Fordham University, he pursued a business career and later donated his collection there.

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A Tour of New Netherland

This exhibit takes the reader through this lost world from the House of Hope on the Fresh River, today's Connecticut, to Fort Casimir on the South River, known today as the Delaware.

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About New Netherland Institute

For over three decades, NNI has helped cast light on America's Dutch roots. In 2010, it partnered with the New York State Office of Cultural Education to establish the New Netherland Research Center, with matching funds from the State of the Netherlands. NNI is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

About New Netherland Institute

For over three decades, NNI has helped cast light on America's Dutch roots. In 2010, it partnered with the New York State Office of Cultural Education to establish the New Netherland Research Center, with matching funds from the State of the Netherlands. NNI is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.