Jacob Leisler Papers

The Jacob Leisler Papers Project, hosted by the Jacob Leisler Institute for the Study of Early New York History, is a comprehensive archival initiative focusing on Jacob Leisler, a German-born merchant who led a rebellion in colonial New York in 1689. The project houses over 4,000 documents, including original manuscripts, genealogical records, microfilms, rare books, prints, maps, and other visual materials. These resources not only pertain to Leisler’s life and his administration but also encompass the broader context of late-seventeenth- and early-eighteenth-century New York and the Atlantic World. The collection features correspondence from various family members and associates, offering insights into the political and social dynamics of the period. This repository serves as a vital resource for scholars and researchers interested in colonial American history and the complex narratives surrounding Leisler’s rebellion and its aftermath.