Nederlands
Dutch
Financial DistrictThe history of Dutch in the region stretches back to the early 17th century, and the language persisted long after the arrival of the British in 1664. Dutch immigrants continued to arrive in New York across the centuries, with significant numbers of Dutch Jews from Amsterdam and families particularly from the southern part of the Netherlands coming to the city, certain upstate areas, and Paterson, New Jersey.
W
hen New York was New Netherland, with its headquarters at what is now Peter Minuit Plaza at the southern tip of Manhattan, Dutch was the lingua franca of a highly multilingual entrepôt. Even after the British took over in 1664, Dutch language and culture persisted, mixing with English, and was likewise used by migrants who came from across Europe and by enslaved Africans living in the area, remaining until today in numerous place names.
Note that the language above may be used throughout the New York area — this is just one significant site.