The Dutch Influence on NYC: From Windmills to Wall Street (and Everything In Between)
New York City: the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, a melting pot of cultures... but wait a minute, before you get swept away in a bagel-fueled frenzy, let's take a step back and talk about the OG settlers, the ones who got the whole party started: the Dutch. That's right, folks, before it was skyscrapers and Broadway shows, it was tulips and... well, maybe not exactly tulips, but definitely a different vibe.
So, What Did the Dutch Leave Behind? (Besides Their Love of Stroopwafels)
Fear not, stroopwafel enthusiasts, there's plenty for everyone! Here's a crash course in Dutch NYC:
Place Names Galore: Ever wondered why Brooklyn sounds vaguely like a breakfast cereal? Thank the Dutch settlers who named it after the Dutch city of Breukelen. Same goes for Harlem (Haarlem), Coney Island (Conyne Eylandt, meaning "Rabbit Island"), and even Wall Street (Waal Straat, or "Walloon Street"). So next time you get lost, blame the Dutch (but don't worry, those pretzel stands will always guide you home).
The Spirit of Enterprise (and Maybe a Little Shenanigans): The Dutch were all about trade and getting things done. This can-do attitude definitely rubbed off on NYC, which became a major commercial hub. Though, rumor has it, they also enjoyed a good time (ahem, Peter Stuyvesant and his infamous peg leg), which perhaps explains the city's never-ending energy.
A Legacy of Tolerance (Well, Mostly): Compared to the strict Puritans of the time, the Dutch were known for being a bit more relaxed. This emphasis on religious freedom helped attract a diverse population to New Amsterdam, laying the groundwork for NYC's multicultural identity. (Though, let's not forget their sometimes rocky relationship with the Native Americans.)
But Wait, There's More!
Architectural Gems: While most Dutch buildings have been replaced by towering steel giants, you can still find some architectural remnants. The Dyckman Farmhouse in Inwood is a fantastic example, and don't forget the New York Dutch Room at the Met, showcasing their domestic style.
Dutch Treats (Besides Just Stroopwafels): Sure, you won't find windmills dotting the skyline (although that would be pretty cool!), but Dutch influences linger in some of your favorite foods. Coleslaw (koolsla) and crullers (krullen) are Dutch-inspired, and let's not forget everyone's favorite breakfast pastry, the doughnut (olykoek)!
So next time you're chowing down on a doughnut while strolling down Wall Street, remember, you're experiencing a bit of Dutch history!
FAQ: How Dutch Are You Feeling?
How to speak Dutch in NYC? Unfortunately, Dutch isn't widely spoken anymore, but knowing a few words like "hallo" (hello) and "dank u wel" (thank you) might impress a local historian.
How to celebrate Dutch culture in NYC? Check out the Tenement Museum or the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum for a glimpse into Dutch colonial life. Head to Greenpoint, Brooklyn, for a neighborhood with a strong Dutch heritage.
How to find the best stroopwafel? This is a highly personal question, but most Dutch markets and bakeries will have them. Just be prepared for a delicious, gooey mess!
How to get to the Netherlands from NYC? Planes are the fastest option these days, but if you find a working windmill, maybe you can hitch a ride (not recommended).
How to convince your friends the Dutch are cooler than the British? Well, that's a whole other debate, but the stroopwafel argument is a good start!
