Document: Ordinance|Director General and Council concerning timely building on lots in New Amsterdam

WHEREAS the Director General and Council have long ago warned the community by proclamation, to improve their lots on the Island of Manhatans, which formerly were measured out too large and great for building thereon and whereas some persons desire to build, but cannot find a suitable place, where they conveniently may erect a house,— Therefore the said Director General and Council have deemed it advisable, to inform everybody for the last time, that they must properly improve their lots or in default the Director General and Council will give them to the persons, who are willing to build here in the City of New Amsterdam, as convenient places, allowing to the present proprietors such satisfaction as the Surveyors in their discretion may deem adequate. Let everybody be hereby warned and if anybody intends to build, let him report to the Secretary; which done, proper orders concerning his lot shall be given.
Done etc. December 15, 1648.