Ch. 1: Early Mannahatta

Question 1

4 types of data and sources

Answer 1

1) British headquarters map
2) Randel Farms maps
3) Modern measurements
4) Other sources

Question 2

British headquarters map

Answer 2

1776: British forces captured Manhattan Island
• Physical size: 10’ x 3’ Scale = 1” : 800’
• Illustrates natural features, including hills, wetlands, streams, marshes, forests, beaches, rivers, ponds, streams, cliffs, coves, and bays.
• Insanely accurate for it’s time
• Used for strategy, affection, ambition

Question 3

Randel Farms maps

Answer 3

Created by John Randel, Jr.
• Comprehensive survey of Manhattan
• 1808 – 1810: The Commissioners Plan • 1811 – 1817: Geodetic Survey
• 1,549 markers and 98 iron bolts • 1818 – 1821: Farm Maps
• 92 distinct “Farm Maps” • 32” x 20” each
• Scale: 1” = 100’
• 90’ total feet long

Question 4

Modern measurements

Answer 4

Sanders, self proclaimed "stander- on-rocks"
• GPS and altimeter
• Randel's markers and other
landmarks
• Churches
• Cemeteries

Question 5

Other sources

Answer 5

Includes:

• > Written and recorded accounts
• > Maps, Illustrations, and Paintings
• > Can be exaggerated, not as accurate

Question 6

Data Synthesis

Answer 6

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
• Program that helps gather, manage, and analyze data.
• Many different variables, but one constant variable is space
• Sanders used GIS to “georeference” historical maps

Question 7

What does Mannahatta mean?

Answer 7

Land of many hills

Question 8

3 major rivers

Answer 8

Hudson, East, Harlem

Question 9

Ecological niches

Answer 9

Defined by a combination of plants and animals and;
• soil, water, and other inorganic materials
• 55 unique neighborhoods across 22 square miles
• Marine (x5)
• Estuarine (x11) • Palustrine (x9)
• Lacustrine (x2) • Riverine (x5)
• Terrestrial (x23)

Question 10

Highest elevation

Answer 10

Fort Washington ( Present: Bennet Park, Washington Heights)

Question 11

Water

Answer 11

• 66 total miles of streams and brooks
• 300+ natural springs
• Sanders located 98
The Collect Pond
• Covered 48 acres; 60 ft deep
• Formed by receding glaciers
• City's main fresh water source 1600-1800 • Drained and filled in 1813/15
• Canal street