A South Prospect of Ye Flourishing City of New York in the Province of New York in America, 1717.
Often referred to as “The Burgis View” after its creator William Burgis, this circa 1717 depiction of Manhattan Island from the vantage point of Brooklyn Heights offers a tantalizing look at daily life in the colony. Initially printed by Harris of London, “The Burgis View” underwent numerous reprints in subsequent years, often with minor additions and subtractions that make identification a puzzle. This copy, donated to the Jacob Leisler Institute by Trustee Gary Laube, has details consistent with the earliest version, but the specific printing year is unknown. Please enjoy a glimpse of colonial New Yorkers about their day while we try to solve this mystery.
