Research

Reports of goods imported (Manifest Books) to New York


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Overview of the Records

Repository:

New York State Archives
New York State Education Department
Cultural Education Center
Albany, NY 12230

Summary:
These reports of goods imported to New York Colony consist of single page reports containing the name and type of sailing vessel, name of captain, place from which shipment originated, and an itemized list of goods. Most entries document importation of rum but also shipments of cocoa, wine, gin, and brandy are recorded. Scattered reports document the importation of slaves primarily from the West Indies. Many volumes were severely damaged by the 1911 Capitol fire.
Creator:
Title:
Reports of goods imported (Manifest Books) to New York
Quantity:

5 cubic feet

Inclusive Dates:
1740-1775
Series Number:
A3196

Scope and Content Note

This series consists of 24 surviving volumes of reports of goods imported (manifest books) to New York Colony. The remainder of the volumes was destroyed in the New York State Capitol fire of 1911. Damage and loss of information in surviving reports varies depending upon the particular volume. Fragments of a few badly burned reports from the years 1774 and 1775 are also extant.

Each single page report contains the name of sailing vessel, type of vessel, name of captain, place from which shipment originated, and an itemized list of "dutiable goods and commodities" imported. Itemized lists of goods include quantity and intended recipient. The veracity of each report and the fact that no additional "slaves, wine, rum or other distilled liquors, shrub, cocoa, or dutiable dry goods" were imported is attested to by the vessel captain. Each report is also endorsed by Abraham de Peyster, who served as Treasurer of the Province of New York from 1721 until his death in 1767.

The vast majority of reports document the importation of rum, although shipments containing cocoa, wine, gin, and brandy are also recorded. Scattered reports document the importation of slaves. Places of origin include, but are not limited to Amboy, Antigua, Barbados, Boston, Jamaica, Madeira, Montserrat, New Brunswick, New Haven, New London, Philadelphia, Rhode Island, St. Kitts/St. Christopher, St. Vincent, and Suriname. Vessels documented are predominantly sloops, but brigantines, scows, and schooners also appear.

Alternate Formats Available

Microfilm is available at the New York State Archives.

Microfilm: 2 reels; 35 mm.

Other Finding Aids

Available at Repository

Roll list.

Access Restrictions

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.

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