The Maps of Bert Twaalfhoven
2) Nova Belgica et Anglia Nova. (New Netherland and New England), 1635.
Mapmaker: Willem Blaeu
This is the engraved version of Adriaen Block's 1614 manuscript map that formed the cornerstone of the New Netherland claim from Cape Hinlopen, just south of the Zuyd Rivier (Delaware River), to Nova Francia. However, the name New England is added based on the 1616 John Smith map (backdated to 1614) that formed the original New England claim. Block's original naming of the Cape as New Holland is missing and Fort Good Hope, built in 1632 in the Fresh (Connecticut) River on land purchased from the Pequots has not been noted. Note that Hudson's river is here called Mauritius River so named by Henry Hudson after stadholder (governor) Prince Maurice. Ellis Island is prominently featured as Oesters (Oysters) Island suggesting it to be a major transit point for trade with the natives west of the river. Also prominently featured are Adriaen Block Eylandt and Hendrick Christiaens Eylandt (today called Noman's Island) so named after these first explorers who charted the region during their journeys of 1611, '12, '13, and '14 The map is the first one to illustrate North American animals, particularly the fur bearing kind that lured many traders. It also depicts Indian canoes and villages. Block was the first European to circumnavigate Manhattan and Long Island.
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