LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 350th Anniversary of Staten
Island, New York, throughout all of calendar year 2011

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize events of
significance which exemplify the history and development of the State of
New York; and
WHEREAS, Each and every city, town, village and hamlet within its
borders proudly resonates with the rich and noble history of the State
of New York; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commemorate
significant events which represent turning points in our unique history
and which are indelibly etched in the saga of our great Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 350th Anniversary of Staten Island, New York; this auspicious
occasion will be celebrated throughout all of calendar year 2011; and
WHEREAS, First sighted by Giovanni da Verrazano in 1524, Staten Island
was largely populated by the Raritans and Unamis native americans until
about 1630 when the Dutch began to establish settlements on the island;
and
WHEREAS, In 1661, the Dutch established a permanent colony on Staten
Island called Oude Dorp, or Old Town, near South Beach; in 1664, the
English seized Old Town and renamed the island in honor of the Duke of
Richmond; and
WHEREAS, Staten Island played a prominent role during the Revolution-
ary War; and
WHEREAS, On March 7, 1788, the New York State Legislature divided
Staten Island into four towns: Castleton, Northfield, Southfield and
Westfield; a fifth town, Middletown, was added in 1860; and
WHEREAS, Consolidation of Staten Island into the City of New York was
approved by the New York State Legislature in 1897; and
WHEREAS, The April 2010 census count for Staten Island reports its
population at 468,730; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when events of
such historic significance are brought to our attention, they should be
recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of the rich history and enduring contribution
of Staten Island to the heritage of the State of New York, it is the
intent of this Legislative Body to join in honoring Staten Island, upon
the occasion of its 350th anniversary celebration so that present and
future generations may come to appreciate the unique significance which
its history plays in the progression of our State and Nation's evolu-
tion; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 350th Anniversary of Staten Island, New York; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Staten Island Borough President, James P. Molinaro.