New Rochelle – rich in history always. As you drive though the wide tree lined streets of New Rochelle, you will see many historic markers, and statues. One such statue is of Governor Jacob Leisler – but who was he? Why was a statue built and erected in New Rochelle?
The Jacob Leisler Monument is a bronze sculpture created by American artist Solon Borglum and located in the city of New Rochelle, in Westchester County, New York. The monument was erected by the Huguenot Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Huguenot Association of New Rochelle [1] to the memory of Jacob Leisler, 17th-century advocate of the Huguenot settlers and said to be the first chief executive of the province of New York to draw his power directly from the people.[2] The unveiling of the statue on June 24, 1913, was the principal event in the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of New Rochelle.[3] The monument, cast by the Roman Bronze Works, is the only existing statue of Leisler. (Courtesy of Wikipedia)
Jacob Leisler was a German born Protestant who came to New York under the employ of the Dutch West Indian Company as a soldier. He left that company, became a wealthy merchant and became a judge in one of the several public offices he was appointed to. In 1689, and during the accession of William 111 and Mary 11 English Revolution, he led an insurrection called Leisler’s Rebellion, supported by the common man and he appointed himself Lieutenant Governor of the Province. New Rochelle? During this period, he purchased land from Pelham Manor, reserving a portion to help create the Huguenot settlement of New Rochelle in 1689 (courtesy of Wikipedia). However, he was wrong in thinking that William 111 and Mary 11 would back him, and when he refused to turn over power to the newly elected Lieutenant Governor in 1690, there was an insurrection . He was arrested in 1691 and ultimately hung along with his son-in-law. Many thought it was unjust, and the entire facts were not relayed to England at the time of his arrest. The conviction was overturned 4 years later and his estate was returned to his heirs.
New Rochelle, so much history. A great place in which to reside.
New Rochelle is GREAT!
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