Why is Staten Island part of New York City and not New Jersey?

Staten Island, like any other region, has its own share of legends and folklore. Some are easy to dismiss others are not. One of the most enduring stories surrounds how Staten Island became part of New York instead of New Jersey. read more

While Mr Weinberg is correct, the reason why Staten Island was already part of New Netherland is because of the harbor. If you look at this map you'll see how Upper New York Bay and Lower New York Bay form the harbor. read more

Staten Island, like any other region, has its own share of legends and folklore. Some are easy to dismiss others are not. One of the most enduring stories surrounds how Staten Island became part of New York instead of New Jersey. Mayors and even scholars have repeated the story of a boat race with Staten Island going to the winner. read more

The Duke of York offered to settle the argument with an unusual proposition: Any “small island” in the Hudson River or New York Harbor would be considered part of New York — and “small” meant that a boat could circumnavigate it in less than a day. read more