Research


Scope and Content Note

These are bound volumes of minutes of the legislative and executive sessions of the Council of the Colony of New York, established by the British colonial government in 1664. The council shared executive and legislative powers with the governor. Minutes include laws, orders, and resolutions concerning: establishment and organization of courts; granting and settlement of land; regulation and construction of buildings, streets, and wharfs; trade and commerce, including restrictions on exports; trade and relations with Indians; and levying of taxes.

Of special importance are minutes of the first meeting of the Colonial Legislature (April 9, 1691). The Colonial Legislature consisted of a council appointed by the Governor and a House of Representatives elected by the people. In the minutes of the first meeting, James Graham, Speaker of the House, is authorized to address the Council.

In another notable document (May 16, 1670) English Colonial Governor Lovelace reappointed Jan Jurians Beeker to teach Albany youth "to read and wryte."