Abraham De Peyster statue at Foley Square

Artist: George Edwin Bissell

Collection: Art in the Parks - NYC Department of Parks and Recreation

Date: Installed, 1896; Moved, 1972; Moved, 2004; Moved, 2009

Mayor Abraham De Peyster (1657–1728) was born in New Amsterdam, now known as Manhattan. De Peyster came from a prosperous mercantile family. He was influential in the young city; he had many positions, including Alderman, Dutch Mayor, member of the King’s Council, and acting Governor. By the end of his life, De Peyster was allegedly one of the city’s wealthiest inhabitants. The sculpture has moved around several times in lower Manhattan.

He among other things, donated the land for the original City Hall, which later became Federal Hall.