List of New York City historical anniversaries
A number of New York City historical anniversaries have been commemorated as civic events by centennials and at similar landmark dates. Several of these could be considered founding myths of the city, though there have been disagreements on when it was actually "founded". For example, the Seal of New York City has been variously marked by the years 1686, 1664 and 1625 over its history, by steps attributing an earlier founding date. Sometimes these anniversaries have occasioned major celebrations, and sometimes not.
Years commemorated
Before English conquest
- 1609, September 12: Henry Hudson and his Halve Maen arrive at Hudson River
- 1614, October 11: New Netherland Company founded
- 1623, June 20: Dutch West India Company secures province status for New Netherland
- 1624, May: Cornelius Jacobsen May and WIC ship New Netherland arrive at Hudson River with first settlers to Governors Island, as planned by Jessé de Forest
- 1625: Fort Amsterdam built as new seat of government of New Netherland at site chosen and designed by Cryn Fredericks under Willem Verhulst, and cattle transferred from Governors Island
- 1626, May 24: Peter Minuit and his "purchase" of Manhattan
- 1653, February 2: New Amsterdam municipal rights after lobbying by Adriaen van der Donck
After English conquest
- 1664, September 6: Conquest of New Netherland and Articles of Surrender of New Netherland
- 1665, June 24: Thomas Willett first mayor of City of New York
- 1686, April 27: Dongan Charter
- 1783, November 25: Evacuation Day
- 1789, April 30: First inauguration of George Washington
- 1898, January 1: City of Greater New York