Library Lecture Series

The Jacob Leisler Institute partners with the Hudson Area Library to present four lectures annually of the latest scholarly research at no cost to the public.

These popular talks tell the little-known story of the weaving of New York’s vibrant European, African, and Native American cultures into a rich tapestry from 1664 to 1773.

The 2024 Lecture Series speakers have so far included:

Dr. Simon Middleton of The College of William & Mary presented "Making Sense of Early Currencies in North America," focusing on the diverse types of currencies colonial Americans used.

Dr. Owen Stanwood of Boston College presented "A French Fabulist in Leisler’s New York," which explores European fantasies about the American interior in the Age of Leisler.

Toya Dubin of The Mapping Early New York Project presented her digital map project of New Amsterdam at the time of Jacob Leisler in the settlement. Her presentation included an introduction to the 3D map of New Amsterdam in 1660 and the stories behind the work to maintain the model's historical accuracy.