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American Shores Maps of the Middle Atlantic Region to 1850 The New York Public Library
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Albany

Albany. 1828.
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The bright colors on this map identify the wards, or political divisions, of the city in 1828. The Hudson River is to the right, and a star design provides compass directions. The text in the upper right corner lists government offices, property owners, churches, banks, libraries, and markets. The signature on the map appears to be that of Jno. S. Walsh, and is backwards, as it has bled through from the back of the map.

The state capital, Albany was once known as Beaver Wyck, reflective of the 17th century Dutch fur trade headquartered there. It was renamed in 1664 for James, Duke of York and Albany, who later became King James II of England.
Albany's location at the termination of the canals and railroads made it a center of trade and transshipment. In the 1840s, 18 stage lines and several railroads brought in passengers and goods daily. In the same era, some 27 steamboats and 51 barges regularly transported goods from Albany to New York City.

Albany. 1818.
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Covered by a glaze when produced in 1818, the glaze has since darkened, making this map difficult to read. However, on close inspection the wards, street names, and local landmarks can be seen. At the upper left corner is the Albany city seal and the 1818 state capitol building.

To read more about places in New York State, see:

John Disturnell. A gazetteer of the State of New-York...Albany, 1843.
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