NEW-YORK— AS IT IS ; BEING THE COUNTERPART OF THE METROPOLIS OF AMERICA **Alme Sol. curru nitido diem qui Promis, et celas ; aliusque. et idem Nasceris ; possis nihil urbe Roma Visere majus !" Hor. NEW- YORK: PRINTED BY PRALL, LEWIS & CO., No. 76 NASSAU-STREET. 1851. Entered according to Act oi Congress in the year 1850, by PR ALL, LEWIS & CO. the Clerk's Office of the District court of the Southern District of New-York \im;ic \n Adt'F.H ri9RH Prkss. 76 Xassau-street. MODEL OF NEW- YORK The object of this pamphlet is to convey a more vivid idea of the plan of representation adopted in the construction of the Model of New- York, now being exhibited in different portions of the Union, and its character as a work of art, than can be conveyed in a transient an- nouncement, as well as to facilitate the examination of those to whose inspection it may be presented. At the same time, it comprises many important and interesting statistics in relation to the metropolis, and should be preserved, if only for reference. Most persons receive a wrong impression as to the nature of this work. The idea of a representation in model of the details of a city containing half a million of inhabitants seems absurd. But this is the fact. The Model of New- York is no less than a perfect miniature of the great emporium of commerce, presenting with incredible accuracy, every object, whether a building, a tree, or a fence, that any citizen could discern within the precincts of his own residence. ACTION OF THE COMMON COUNCIL RELATIVE TO THE MODEL OF NEW- YORK. It wiil be seen by the following preamble and resolution that this work is exhibited under the sanction of iLe city authorities. " Whereas, the Mayor and Common Council of this city have visited and inspected the Model of New- York, executed by E. Porter Belden, Esq. which visit and inspection have proved in the highest degree satis- factory, therefore u Resolved, That, in the opinion oi the Common Council, this work of art is a very correct, faithful, and beautiful delineation of our city, and forms a noble monument to the taste and genius of its projector; and that the Common Council commend the same to the favorable notice of the au- thorities of other countries, as conveying a just and correct idea of our city, its situation, buildings, public grounds, s5ec. &c. " Adopted by the Board of Aldermen, October 26, 1S46. "Adopted by the Board of Assistants, Nov. 9, 1546*. '•'Approved by the Mayor, Nov. 11, 154-5. "D. C. VALENTINE, " Clerk of Com. Coun. of N. Y." CIRCULAR OF THE EDITORS OF NEW-YORK, ADDRESSED TO THE EDITORS OF REVIEWS, MAGAZINES AND NEWSPAPERS THROUGHOUT THE UNION. New- York, 5th May, 1S47. "The Editors and. Proprietors of the following journals, published in the city of New- York, take this method of introducing the Model of this city, by E. Porter Belden, Esq., to the notice of the editors of Reviews, Magazines, and Newspapers, throughout the Union. This work, con structed with great care and expense, is, what it professes to be, a most accurate miniature in wood of our metropolis. As a work of art and mechanical skill, it is of the highest order. It cannot be placed upon the level of a map or painting; for it goes much farther, and, without aiming at a ficticious effect, presents natire itself upon a reduced scale, bo that we seem to be gazing upon the actual citv and surrounding waters. 3 The business and commerce of New-York can be better seen by a casual inspection of this Model, than by days spent in actually visiting the business localities of the city. This great work has met with the most flattering reception in our city, and we rejoice that we can assure oui friends throughout the country, that by extending to it the favorable in- fluence of their respective journals, they will lend their aid to a work ol the greatest genius, thereby advancing the cause of science and art." Freeman Hunt, Editor and Proprietor of the Merchants' Magazine. Thomas P. Kettell, Editor and Prop, of the Democratic Review. Geo. H. Colton, Ed. and Prop, of the American Review. Lewis Gaylord Clark, Editor of the Knickerbocker Magazine. John Allen, Proprietor of Knickerbocker Magazine. Wm. H. Starr, Ed. and Prop, of the Eureka, or Journal of the So- ciety of Inventors, and the Farmer and Mechanic. Hale & Hallock, Eds. and Prop, of the Journal of Commerce. Jas. Watson Webb, Ed. and Prop, of the Courier and Enquirer. Robert A. West, Ed. Commercial Advertiser, for Francis Hall, now n Europe. Townsend & Brooks, Eds. and Prop, of the New-York Express. William C. Bryant & Co. Eds. and Prop, of the Evening Post. Frederic Hudson, Ed. N. Y. Herald, for Jas. Gordon Bennett now in Europe. M. S. & A. E. Beach, Eds. and Prop, of the New- York Sun. Dinsmore & Morrill, Eds and Prop, of the True Sun. H. Fuller, Ed. and Prop, of the Evening Mirror The following Commendation has received the signatures of THOUSANDS OF THE PRINCIPAL CITIZENS, including the officers of the city government, in its various departments, artists, architects, the clergy of the city, and professional and business men generally. " The undersigned, having examined the Model of New- York, by E. Porter Belden, are highly pleased with the result, and have no hesitation in pronouncing it to be, so far as their knowledge extends, a most accurate and beautiful representation, as well as a work that deserves the attention of the whole civilized world." This commendation, with its thousands of signatures, is open for in- spection at the exhibition room. CIRCULAR OF THE CLERGY OF NEW-YORK, addressed to the CLERGY THROUGHOUT THE UNION. M We, members of the clerical profession, satisfied of the accuracy and the high character of the Model of this city constructed hf Mr. E Portei 4 Belden and his assistants, do hereby recommend it to the clergy generally as a work of genius, and as belonging to that class of exhibitions which deserve the attention of the religious community, that they may supersede the frivolous and immoral amusements prevalent throughout the country.*' (Signed by the Clergy of various denominations.) CIRCULAR OF THE CLERGY AND TEACHERS OF NEW- YORK, addressed to THOSE INTERESTED IN THE EDUCATION OF YOUTH THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY. " The undersigned, clergy and teachers of the city of New- York, would hereby commend to the notice of those interested in the education of youth, the Model of New- York, as a work calculated to exalt and re- fine the mind, and to communicate at the same time, interesting and valuable information. The minds of the rising generation, eager for amusement, can, with great profit, be directed to those works that will in- crease their taste for science and art, and cause them to reflect upon what has been accomplished by human genius : and surely no work can better produce this result, than a perfect miniature of the Metropolis of our Re- public, portraying, with the accuracy of science, and the beauty of art, the labor of two centuries — the business, the commerce, and the residence of half a million of souls." (Signed by Teachers and the Clergymen of the various denominations.) The following is an extract from the Communication of Prof. 0. W. Morris, of the New- York Deaf & Dumb Institution, published in the leading daily papers of New- York, in September, 1S46. Inst, for Deaf and Dumb, Sept. 15, 1S46. " Do the people of New-York know of the unparalleled Model that is in their midst, in which every public building, every house, and I might eay, every shanty is faithfully represented ? * * M It fell to my lot, a few days since, to accompany there some of the pupils of the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb in this city, and if any thing more were wanting to convince me of the truthfulness of the Model, than my own observation, I should have been satisfied by seeing these children of nature, with their eloquent manner and speaking looks,, point out place after place and building after building, and indicate their plea- sure by calling the attention of each other to them. " The architecture of the public buildings is faithfully represented, even to the stained glass in the windows of the churches. The lamp posts had nearly escaped my observation, when I saw them pointed out by a very intelligent boy, to a young lady with an expression of satisfaction, that even in the minutice, all was correct." * * * (Signed) W. MORRIS 5 HISTORY OF THE MODEL. The construction of the MODEL OF NEW- YORK Was a most unpremeditated enterprise. Its origin is to be traced to a few experiments in architectural representation, entirely unconnected with any purpose of public exhibition, which ]ed to large and unexpected ex- penditures, and in the progress of which certain facilities in producing copies of the objects desired were developed, and many inventions foi expediting the different operations of the work devised. The time and expense devoted to the object were disproportioned to the value of the end attained. It became apparent that neither reimbursement, nor value to society, could attend the employment of the experience acquired, unless di n c ted to a more important object. The construction in model of the great emporium of America, presented peculiar claims to this notice. The undertaking was determined on. The first blow of the work was struck in July, 1S45. In the same month of the succeeding year, a duplicate of New- York was thrown open to the inspection of its citizens.* The Model of New- York thus completed, was far different from the Model of New-York at first devised. A representation of the general appearance of the prominent structures was aimed at: a perfect fac simile of every building in the city was produced. A few weeks it was thought would afford sufficient time for the accomplishment of the object : more than a year was consumed. Twenty or thirty men were deemed a suffi- cient force to employ: the number commenced with about twenty, and gradually increased to more than one hundred and fifty, A few thousand dollars, it was supposed, would complete the work : more than $20,000 were expended. * The work was not entirely completed for some months subsequent to this date. 6 After the entire completion of the work, a meeting of the artists and others who had been employed in its prosecution was held in the Minerva Rooms, Broadway. Reporters of a large part of the daily press were pre- sent on this occasion, who prepared and published in the several papers with which they were connected, minute accounts of the proceedings oi this meeting, which were subsequently copied by all the journals of note in the vicinity. As these proceedings refer to many details connected with the progress and subdivision of the work, and give a list of the in- dividuals employed in the various departments, we will insert the report as it appeared in the principa journals, and thus close this brief sketch of the history of the Model of New- York. From the Morning Courier and New-York Enquirer, Nov. 9, 1846. New- York Journal of Commerce, Nov. 11, 1S46 and the other leading journals of New New- York of contiguous dates. " GREAT MEETING OF ARTISTS. " At a meeting of the artists and artizans employed upon the Model of New- York, held on Wednesday evening last, John Evers, Esq., was ap- pointed Chairman, and Chas. McDonald, Secretary. The following list of nearly one hundred and fifty of those employed in the different depart- ments of the work, was read by Mr. H. C. Hal!, who has acted in tho capacity of Treasurer and Book-keeper during the undertaking. * Architectural Work and General Superintendence— By 3Ir. W. P. Withey. "Platform of the Model — By Messrs. A. E. Moulthrop, E. Bishoo, and Assistants. " Surveying and Map Department — By Messrs. J. Murphy, R. Morrison, and As istants. "Modelling of Buildings— By Messrs. P. A. Edinger, R. Molov. E. Brown, C. De- raarest, T. Barnes, R. Search©, M. L. Mann, J. B. Price W. Price, C. Qullen, W. Harris, A. Burnhain, W. E. Shelden, G. Carrol!, 0. G. Taylor, L. D. Bcrge. J. L. Hunt, G. Douglass, H. Me-chant, J. White, C.Peterson, W. Griffith, J. Wilson, M. Swift, W. II. Fa'uchil 1, and W. Thompson. *T£ESS — By Messrs. C. H. Judson, J. B. Hinton, A. P. Butler, and C. H. Lewis. " K evations, Depressions, and Wharves— By Mr. H. Stow. " Fences— By Messrs. H. Murphy and T. A. YounY 'Steamboats — By Messrs. E. B Cunningham and S. B. Cunningham. Shipping— By Messrs. C. Davis, A. W. Hogg, T. Hogg, Jr.. and S. Hoax. " Painting of the Public Buildings, Steamboats, Shipping, &c. — Bv Messrs. E. W. Ja<:kson, J. Y, Brush, H. Pvover, J. Wells, W, Payisoo, G. M. Gard .er, J. Ropes, J. P. Taylor, and T. F. Gray. '• Paivting of the Private Buildings — Bv Messrs. J. W. Rover, A. Eiffe, A Miller, M. Hurlbat, A. M. S auuton, J. Langstein, E. McAulev, M. A. McCaulv, E. Bond, E. Garev, J. King, S. Ward. Z. Martin. L. Martin, M. L. Moffat S. J. Good, H. Good, P. Harris, L. Guthrie, J. Guthrie, M. Guthrie, D. Moore. J. Wilkius, S. Weston, L. Brown- lee, D. Stokes, and P. D. Coolican. " S :enic Effects — By Messrs C. McDonald, E. Richmond, B. Clark. T. Shepherd. W- F. Whittington, C. G. Thompson, L. Nephe.v, J. Roche, 31. Conroy, T. Griffiin, F. Boo'h, Jr., 31. Lyons, and T. Dreasy. •• Inspection of the Modelling — By J. H. Plumb, F. B Booth, and J. J. Palmer. "Frams Work: of the Cavopt — By Messrs. P. Tiers, J. Crisp H. L. Farnham, J. S. Cluttcibuck, J. D. Cox. E. J. Phillips, and J. Case. •'The Paintings of THi Cam op* — By Messrs. J. Evers, E. P. Barnes, E. C. Coatee, vud J. H. Kimberly. Canvas fur the Paintings — By Messrs. T. Kelly, S. N. Dodg*, and E. Dechaux. Carvfd Ornamental Work— Bv Messrs. J. H. B. Jackson, J. D. Darlineton. T. Y>\U lard, Jr., R. Gunning, W. Gunning, J. Dully, W. Murphy, S. T. Gary. H. Tompkins, R. Joseph, awd S, Clark. 7 "Gilding — By Messrs. J. McPeake, II. Cunningham, and II Scardeafietd. "Ornamental Painting— By Messrs T. T. Hogg, J. C. Whitmore, S. A Dodge, J Peck, and J. C. Hefle. "Iron Framr Work— By Messrs Cornell & Jackson. "Drapeky — By Messrs. Solomon & Hart. "Lights and Glasses.— By Messrs. Benjamin Pike & Son. " Book-Keipkr and Treasurkr— H. C. Hall. " Th« Wholk— By E. Porter Belden. " After the acceptance of this report, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted : " Resolved, That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to E. Porter Belden, Esq., the constructor of the Model of New- York, for the liberality of feeling, and the gentlemanly deportment exhibited towards us, in the progress of this work. " Resolved, That in this undertaking, which would have baffled the efforts of almost any other man, he has evinced the taste of the artist, the Skill of the mathematician, and the energy, the patience, and the perse- verance of the man of genius, and that he has achieved a triumph which has justly immortalized his name. " Resolved, That we will use our humble endeavors to promote the success of this work, by testifying to its accuracy, its beauty, and its finish of execution. " Resolved, That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by its officers, and submitted to the leading journals of the city for publication. " The passage of these resolutions was accompanied by complimentary remarks from several of the artists present, at the close of which, Mr. Belden arose and addressed the meeting with some appropriate remarks, returning his thanks to the artists engaged upon the work for this expres- sion of their regard, and assuring them of the satisfaction he felt in having congregated together a body of men so well calculated to carry out ideas, which he might conceive, but which he could never have executed with- out their assistance. " The following resolution was then adopted : " Resolved, That if this Model should be destroyed by fire, or other acci- dent, while we are living, we will hold ourselves in readiness at a mo- ment's warning to rally to the standard of Mr. Belden for its re-construc- tion. " At the close of the meeting, the following resolution was passed by those engaged exclusively upon the Model: " Resolved, That our thanks be presented to Messrs. Evers, Barnes and Coates, for the splendid embellishments with which they have graced our work in the views of the mercantile and manufacturing establishments, represented upon the Canopy of the Model. " JOHN EVERS, Chairman. M Chas. McDoNALr, Secretary." 8 DESCRIPTION OF THE MODEL. The Model of New- York is a piece of mechanism entirely different from a map or painting. On an immense platform Kvcry Object of tlie City* is Represented In Carved Wood, with its relative size, proportions and color, so that the Model DIFFERS FROM THE ACTUAL CITY ONLY IN POINT OF SIZE. So extensive and minute is the representation that 150 ARTISTS AND ARTISANS were employed in its construction, and its cost exceeded $20,000. The Harbor and Surrounding Waters are represented with their ac- customed Shipping, Packets leaving and entering the port, Steamers ply- ing through the rivers, Tow-boats conducting the Barges and Canal-boats up and down the North River, and indeed the whole Business and Com- merce of New-York can be seen to better advantage by an hour's visit to this Mode], than by a week's inspection of the actual City and Harbor. Over the whole Model is an IMMENSE CANOPY Of Carved and Ornamented Work, in Gothic Architecture, nearly fifteen feet high. This Canopy is supported by twelve elaborately carved columns, the bases of which rest at the sides and corners of the Model, and is mounted with pinnacles forming compartments which contain a collection of NEARLY ONE HUNDRED OIL PAINTINGS, REPRESENTING THE LEADING BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS AND PLACES OF NOTE IN THE CITY. These paintings were executed by the first artists, and, independent of the Model, form a sufficient attraction for the admirers of the fine arts. The Carved Work of the Canopy is most exquisitely executed and richly decorated with Gold and Brilliant Colors. f But we will turn our attention to the prominent objects of the work. In the following description the visitor is supposed to commence the examination of the Model at the South West corner, proceeding to the north, and completing the circuit of the Model. WEST SIDE. 1. The first object that meets our wiew, as we thus gaze upon the liliputian city stretched before us, is the Battery, in all its loveliness of verdure, reminding us of the time when M the old burghers would repair oi * For the minute details of the representation see post. p. 14. f A description of the architectural plan of this Canopy had been written with a view to publication. At the desire of the Editors of the Tribune, who were struck with the novelty of its arrangement, and who were preparing an account of the Model, the MS. was loaned to them ; and they, with remarkable liberality, made it the basis of their description of this part of the work, in a lengthy article on the Model publ Vihed in their paper. July 13. 1846. a portion of which, but sufficiently I arge for the purpose, will be found on pages 21 and 22 of this pamphlet. It is there fore deemed unnecessary to repeat the description here. 9 an afternoon to smoke their pipes under the shade of the branches, con- templating the golden sun, as he gradually sunk in the west, an emblem of that tranquil end toward which themselves were hastening; while the young men and the damsels of the town would take many a moonlight stroll among these favorite haunts, watching the chaste Cynthin tremble along the calm bosom of the bay, or light up the white sail of some gliding bark; and interchanging the honest vows of constant affection."* 2. The semi-circular building situated on a mole, and connected with thj Battery by a bridge, is Castle Garden, erected in 1S07 as a fortifica- tion, but now used as a fashionable place of amusement. 3. Proceeding to the north-east from the Battery in a perfectly straight line, a distance of nearly 2 1-2 miles, is Broadway, the great thorough- fare of New -York. 4. At the southern extremity of Broadway is the Bowling Green, an ellipse, containing a fountain which can be seen playing upon the Model. 5. Opposite the Bowling Green, on the corner of Broadway adjoining the Battery, is the House occupied by Sir Henry Cli:jton, now the resi- dence of Andrew H. Mickle, Esq. Ex-Mayor of the city. 6. The lofty spire so prominent in this part of the Model, is that of the costly Trinity Church, (Episc.) The model of this building is composed of over 800 pieces of wood and metal. 7. Trinity Church stands at the head of Wall-street. The various Banks and other edifices connected with the monetary and commercial interests of the city, can be seen in various parts of the street. 8. The marble structure, with Ionic porticos, is the Custom House. 9. The magnificent Merchants' Exchange is a short distance below. 10. The blocks between the Merchants' Exchange and the Bowling Green, were the scene of the fire of 1845, which destroyed more than $7,000,000 of property 11. A short distance north of the Custom House, is the Post Office. formerly the Middle Dutch Church, but now leased to the general govern- ment. During the Revolution, the interior wood-work was destroyed by the British, and the building used for military purposes. At one time it contained 3,000 American prisoners 12. The next spire, as we proceed up Broadway, is that of St. Paul's Church. This miniature building consists of over 1000 pieces. 13. Opposite St. Paul's Church is the American Museum, of marble. 14. The large granite structure adjoining St. Paul's, is theifsTOR House. 15. We have now reached the City Park, containing the City Half, in the center, the New City Hall on the north side, and the Hall or Re- cords and the Rotunda, the latter occupied by the offices of the Aims- House Department, on the west side. The southern portion of the Park is ornamented by a beautiful fountain represented upon the Model. * W. Irving. 10 16. The spire adjoining the Park, is that of Dr. Spring's Church 17. Columbia College, embowered with trees, is now prominent. IS. St. Peter's Church, (R. Cath.,) of granite, is near the College. 19. The visitor cannot have proceeded thus far without often gazing at the water-craft which crowds the docks of the North River. Here is an Albany steamer leaving the pier on her upward trip. There a tow boat is conducting half a score of barges to their destination. The whole river teems with the activity of travel and trade. 20. Washington Market stands on the line of the river. 21. Beyond the Park is the terminus of the Harlem Rail Road. The rails are seen upon the Model extending the whole length of the city, with here and there cars leaving or entering the city. 22. Stewart's Marble Store is at the north corner of the Park. 23. Above Stewart's is the New- York Hospital, with its towering elms. 24. The spacious Broadway Tabernacle, (Cong.,) is nearly opposite. 25. The Society Library next presents its fagade of Ionic columns. 26. The Halls of Justice, comprising the City Prison and other budd- ings of Egyptian architecture, are seen beyond the last named edifice. They are known in popular parlance by the appellation of " the Tombs." 27. Above " the Tombs" are the Gas Works with their lofty chimneys 28. The New-Haven R. R. Depot is the marble building near the Gas Works, on Canal- street. A train of cars is leaving the depot. 29. Center Market, with a cupola, is a few blocks above. 30. The beautiful inclosure near the visitor from the point he now oc- cupies, is St. John's Park, in front of which is 31. St. John's Church, (Episc.,) with a lofty and graceful spire. 32. The blocks near the river are crowded with Lumber and Coal Yards. The piles of boards and shingles are easily discerned on the Model, while the heaps of coal consist of the natural article. 33. At the foot of Canal-street is the Clinton Market. 34. The old Country Seat of Aaron Burr is situated four blocks from the river. It is easily discerned by its numerous trees. 35. Nearly in the center of the Model stands St. Patrick's Cathedral, (R. Cath.,) a large building with two spires or turrets. 36. A short distance above appears St. Bartholomew's Church. (Ep.) 37. On the next corner stands the Lafayette Place Church. (D. Ref.) 3S. Near by is St. Thomas's Church, (Epis.,) with two towers. 39. We now come to Washington Square, facing which are two of the most beautiful edifices in the city. 40. The New- York City University is the large Gothic structure. 41. Adjoining the University is Dr. Hutton's Church. (Dutch Ref.) 42. The portion of the city above Washington Square, is the location of the most Fashionable Residences in the city. Some of the dwellings are of costly magnificence. 43. The wide street which, without a deviation from a right line, runs 11 * from river to river, is Fourteenth-street. All the streets above this run likewise across the island, and are numerically designated. NORTH SIDE. 44. The prominent Church in 14th St., is that of the Annunciation 45. Jeiferson M\rket, with a watch tower and an alarm bell, is a short distance beyond. 46. One block east of the market are two churches of stone. The one nearest the visitor is Dr. Ph lltps's. (Pres.) 47. The other is the Church op the Ascension. (Epis.) 4S. Dr. Potts's Church (Pres.,) is one block still farther to the east. 4 9. The beautiful oval inclosure, with a fountain, in this part of the Model, is Union Place. 50. The Church op the Puritans adjoins Union Place. 51. Grace Church, the splendid edifice below, is one of the most imposing structures in the city. The model of this building is a most elaborate piece of workmanship : it contains over one thousand pieces ; it required five weeks to complete it, and cost over seventy-five dollars. 52. Madison Square s near the border of the Model. 53. All the streets running northerly in this portion i f the city, are de- nominated Avenues, with numerical adjuncts 54. In the Fourth Avenue, the first east of Madison Square, is the Harlem Rail-Road, A train of cars is seen on the Model leaving the city. 55. The Telegraph Wires are seen in the same avenue, as likewise 56. Calvary Church, a grotesque building with two spires. 57. Gramercy Park is the small s uare near Calvary Church. 58. The beautiful edifice with turrets is the Free Academy. 59. The collection of buildings at the north-eastern corner of the Model, belongs to the Aims-House Department. The name f Bellevue is ap- plied to this location. The grounds formerly belonged to Lindley Murray. EAST SID . 60. The stream on this side of the Model is the East River. 61. The first prominent object presenting itself, on turning the corner of the Model, is Stuyvesant Square, in front of which is 62. St. George's Church, (Epis.,) a substantial edifice of stjne. 63. Sr. Mark's Church, (Epis.,) surrounded by trees, is seen at some distance below. In the adjoining g:aveyard re: t tlu re nains of Peter Stuyvesant, the last governor of New-Netherland A pear-tree planted by his own hand is in the vicinity, and represented on the Model. 64. The Opera House, a sand stone building with pi^ters, is a few blocks beyond the last named church. Here was the scene of the recent 'earful riot, in which twenty-three lives were 1 >st. 65. T ir Novelty Works, an extensive manufactory of steam engines and other machinery, are situated on the Eist River Sfi Tompkins Square is he large public ground before the visitor. 12 67. The Ship- Yards, with vessels on the stocks in all stages of pro- gress, are very conspicuous on the shores of the river. 68. A portion of Wallabout Bay is seen at the southern termination of this side of the Model. 69. The Artificial Island formed by wharfing, and containing a depot for coal, is connected with the Navy Yard. 70. A Portion of Brooklyn now comes in view ; but before entering upon the description, we will turn the next corner of the Model. SOUTH SIDE. 71. The Navy- Yard is now the great object of interest to the visitor. The large ship-houses are seen near the water. The Naval Lyceum is the building with pillars, on the main avenue. The Commodore's residence stands on an elevation near the east wall of the Yard. 72. The first church on leaving the Navy Yard is Roman Catholic. 73. A second Roman Catholic Church appears a few rods beyond. 74. The church with a square tower is St. Ann's, (Epis). 75. Dr. Cox's Church stands on the high elevation near the water. 76. Brooklyn Hights, which terminate the portion of Brooklyn re- presented on the Model, afford one of the most beautiful views in the vi- cinity of New- York. The expansive sheet of water dotted with numerous sails, with the emporium of commerce on the opposite shore, presents a most interesting and imposing scene. 77. As our eyes again rest on the busy metropolis, we notice the Man- sion of William B. Crosby, Esq., surrounded by trees, late the residence of his father-in-law, Col. Rutgers, from whom Rutgers Institute and Rutgers-street derive their names. 78. Dr. Krebs's Church, of stone, with a square tower, next appears. 79. The floating Church of our Savior, (Epis.,) for seamen, with its spire and turrets, is seen at the foot of Pike-street. 80. Not far distant is the Sectional Dock used for elevating vessels. 81. The Commercial Part of the City is now before the visitor. These docks are crowded with vessels at all seasons of the year, and more or less are always leaving and entering the port. 82. The marble edifice with a flagstaff, is the United States Hotel. S3. Fulton Market is situated on the river in the same vicinity. 84. Wall-street now again appears. The blocks immediately south of this part of Wall-street were those destroyed by the great fire of 1835. The loss was estimated at over $20,000,000. 85. The United States Revenue Boarding Office, with a tower, is situated at the southern termination of the city. We have now completed a casual examination of the Model, but, to do justice to the work, thousands of other objects should be inspected. Over five millions of objects are represented — certainly sufficient to present new points of interest at each successive examination. 13 GENERAL CHARACTER OF THE PLAN OF REPRESENTATION. This model is a perfect fac simile of New York, representing every street line, building, shed, park, fence and tree 5 the elevations and depressions ; the shipping, steamboats, wharves, railroad cars, pavements, awnings, lamp posts and every other object in the city to the number of millions. The district rep- resented includes the whole of New York, the harbor, the East and North Riv- ers, and the greater part of Brooklyn. The whole rests on a platform 20 by 24 feet in size, representing the ground, jrjjon which are carved the elevations and depressions of the city. On this the streets and parks are laid out, and every building in the city — even every shed and rear building in the interior of blocks, however small — is represented in per feet miniature, in its own exact position, with its relative size, proportions ar,d color. The utmost accuracy has been preserved and the minutest objects are repre sented — even the lines between the brick, stone or other material of which each building is composed. The following tremendous numbers may astonish the reader, but will be found to be no less correct. There are represented upon this Model Over 200,000 Buildlugs, including Houses, Stores and Out Buildings, " 3,500,000 Windows and Doors, Over 35,000 Fences and Walls « 150,000 Cnimnies, " 30,000 Trees, " 20,000 Awning and Lamp Posts, " 5,000 Pieces of Shipping, from tlie Sail Boat to the Packet. But perhaps there is nothing thai will show the immensity of the work more thau the number of bricks, billions being almost too small a denomination to ex- press the number. These statements are freqnently not believed or not appre- ciated before an inspection of the Model, in consequence of the apparent impos- sibility of a representation so minute and so extensive ; but every visitor acknow- ledges that no terms can be used to describe adequately the magnitude of the work. But its extent is not the only merit of this Model. Its accuracy to the mi- nutest details is astounding. Many individual buildings are composed of hun- dreds of pieces, while some of the more elaborote public edifices consist of over a thousand pieces. It was in progress for more than a year, and upwards of 100 persons were employed in its construction, including the first artists, American and European. It will be borne in mind, that this Model is vastly different from a map or a painting. It is inconceivably superior to any representation upon paper or can- vass j each building being a perfect miniature building, and the whole differing from, Vie actual city only in point of size. So many elaborate and accurate descriptions of the Model have been given by all the journals of New York, that any further account is rendered unnecessary, and the reader is requested to peruse a few extracts from these articles. Perhaps no stronger argument could, be adduced in proof of the the accuracy and beauty of the Model than the universal enthusi- asm with ivhichit has been received by the New York Press, A few short extracts from the hundreds of enconiums pronounced upon it by the Reviews, Magazines, and the Daily and Weekly Press of New York, are subjoined. 1846. tne well-known vessels and steamers in the bay and rivers. Nothing now in this city is better worth seeing ; and if it is to be exhibited over the Union, it will give people in distant places a per- fect idea of the American Metropolis. To see it to advantage, it must be stud- ied minutely. Knickerbocker Magazine, Aug. 1846, Think of this entire metropolis, and a part of Brooklyn, represented by the individual street, lane, alley, house, open lot, tree — every tiling in short which the city is and which it contains; the whole perfect in its proportions, and every part entirely correct in its scale ! It is truly a wonderful exhibition, and reflects great credit upon its enterpris- ing proprietor, E. Porter Belden, Esq. Christian Parlor 31ag. Sept. 1846. Sights in the City. — In this great metropolis ample provision is made for the gratification of the tastes of the curious of all characters, and no slight effort is made to entrap the unwary stranger and attract him where he would not willingly and knowingly be found. There are two places of resort which we think of at the moment, to which we can with entire propriety invite the citizen and the stranger who may have an hour or two to appropriate in exam- ining the wonders of art. * * * * The other city sight, which is spoken of with astonishment by all who have seen it, is Belden's miniature of New York city, in which every house, public and private, every tree, post &c. is ac- curately copied or carved in wood. — Visiters at one glance can thus obtain a perfect view of the whole city, and a part of Brooklyn. It is a monument of patient labor and curious art. Knickerbocker, Sept. 1848. Looking the other day at Mr. Belden's Model of New York, (that most faith- ful 'picture in little' of our great me- tropolis,) and admiring the admirable proportion which has been so accurate- ly preserved in every feature of the From the American Rev., Auj The Model of the City of New York. — Among the many happy pro- ductions of the modern art of perspec- tive drawing, we have always been particularly interested in the ceroscopic or bird's eye views of great cities. Lon- don, Paris and Rome especially, taken in this way, have been to us particular stud.es; and we may safely say that we have gained in one hour a better knowledge of the physical aspect of those " places powerful and eke re- nowned,' 1 ' than we have from reading any books. But no such pictorial view, however skillfully executed, can equal in faithfulness and reality of impres- sion the exhibition of a city in carved blocks of wood, by which every street and building, with all the docks and water-craft shall be reproduced to the eye, with an exact attention to propor- tion. We do not know that w T e have evef been more struck with any curious work of an than with the " Model of New York city," now on exhibition, constructed by Mr. E. P. Belden. The felicitous minuteness displayed in this creation — for it is a creation — is wonder- ful. The whole piece is constructed on several compartments, which, united, make a platform of nearly thirty feet square. The city is thus represented entire, together with all Brooklyn, and the North and East rivers, with their forests of masts and water-craft. Ev- ery street is seen, no longer or wider than it should be in comparison with every other. Each building, large or small, whether the Astor House, the University, or a sentry-box, is carved out of a separate piece of wood, and put in its place, with the exact color and proportion that belong to it. — Prob ibly not a man in the city but could at once point out his own dwelling. Some of the larger structures, as Trin- ity and Grace churches, the City Hall, the University, the Custom- House, and Merchants' Exchange, are exquisitely shaped and finished, and would fetch high prices as models. The number of separate pieces composing some of thorn amount to several hundreds.-— Grace has over one thousand. So mi- nute is the work that the very awning- posts are given, and all the rigging on vast miniature city, we were irresistibly led to think of Gulliver in Lilliput. In- deed, it required nothing but a thousand or two 1 humans' bustling through the little streets to have made the illusion complete . 15 From the IV, Y. Jonr. of Commerce, Feb. 7, 1S4G. Model of New York. — A most in- genious piece of mechanism has been lor some time past in process of con- struction at No. 360 Broadway. It is nothing less than an actual Model of New York, — including every building, street, wharf, park, fcc. &c. In *hort, it presents this great metropolis in min- iature, to the eye, at one view, with its innumerable objects all carved in wood, according to their actual proportions and relations to each other. The a- mount of labor bestowed upon it, is necessarily great. From N. Y. Sun, Feb. 1S46. It is no more nor less than a Model of this entire city, representing its ev- ery object. For"enterprize and perse- verance, Mr. Belden cannot be beaten. N . Y. Herald, Feb. 1^46. What an immense amount of labor must be requisite, thus to present to the eye a perfect miniature of every object in this great metropolis. N\ Y. Express, Feb. 1S46. E. Porter Belden, Esq. the proprietor of the Model of New Haven, now ex- hibiting at the Granite Building, is con- structing at 360 Broadway one of the most remarkable pieces of mechanism we have ever heard of. It is an actual miniature in carved wood of this entire city. N. Y. Eve. Mirror, March 3d. 1^46. The work is supposed by many to be merely continuous block lines running along the sides of streets, representing roofs and houses — a sort of birds-eye view of the city. Such is not the case — it is a perfect model of New York (as high upas 32d street) and a portion of Brooklyn, Governor's Island, &c. — Every house in the city, with trees and tenements appertaining thereto, will be found in its proper place and represent- ed correctly in all respects — length, breadth, height, color — even every win- dow front and rear, chimnies &c. N. Y. Sun, March 11, 1S46. The long desired Model of this city, is, we are happy to announce, now in course of construction, and will be shortly completed. It is to Mr. E. Por- ter Belden, a gentleman of well known ingenuity, and constructor of the cele- brated Model of New Haven, Ct. that the public will be indebted for this in- teresting work. Every street, alley, 16 lane, building, shed, or yard in this city or Brooklyn will be faithfully represent- ed and accurately put down. It will in % short be a perfect miniature of New York — the Metropolis of America — the fourth city in the world, and from its name alone will attract more attention, in this and the old country, than any- thing of the kind ever exhibited. It will be composed of carved wood, and no pains or expense will be spared to render it complete to the minutest par- ticular. We heartily wish Mr. Belden that success which he so justly merits. N. Y. Sun, March 1*, 1^46. What is this Model of New York like ? When will it be ready for exhibition ? Questions like these are continually be- ing put to us — We will therefore for the benefit of our readers at large, endeavor to give them the requisite information. On a platform of nearly thirty feet square, the artist has contrived to rep- resent the whole city of New York aud part of Brooklyn, in carved wood, to- gether with the shipping and steam- boats, lying at the various wharves, so as to convey a more accurate impres- sion to the eye, than any painting could possibly effect. Not only are the pub- lic buildings, churches, &c. exact sp«c- imens of architecture on a small stale, but every inhabitant of New York will be enabled to recognize his own dwell- ing. In .fact the whole expanse o streets, lanes and houses, will lie stretched out before the visiter as it would appear to a person viewing it from a balloon — with this advantage- that he will be spared the nervous reel- ing incidental to an aeronautic expedi- tion, and be enabled to view it (romany point he pleases. We shall recur to this interesting subject in a few days and review it more in detail. N. Y. Sun, March 23, 1^46. Model of New York. — This splen did work, now constructing by E. Porter Belden, Esq. for magnitude of design, exactness of detail and beauty of execu- tion, surpasses anything hitherto pro- duced. Every house taken singly, will bear close examination, and every mer- chant ship or steamboat, if placed in a glass case, would be considered a fin- ished specimen of skilful workmanship and bear the scrutiny of the naval pro- fession. Each distinct part would form a beautiful picture. There is Trinity Church with its magnificent gothic spire — Grace Church with its light Norman arched windows and rich tracery— our noble Exchange and Custom House — the City Hall and Gallery of Arts — the vast and substantial Astor Houise — old Tammany, and Stewards elegant new- marble building i'i Broadway — Cottage Place in the ninth ward, with its fairy like piazzas to every story — and the gloomy Egyptian Tombs. There are the Novelty Iron Works with their foundries and workshops, the yard filled with miniature machinery — the numer- ous lumber yards tilled with limber, coal yards with piles of genuine Peach Orchard and Liverpool, and the stone yards with blocks of real granite and marble. The Harlem railroad, with the trains of baggage and passenger cars are faithfully represented, and the dif- ferent Parks and the beautiful Battery, covered with groves of trees, rivalling the verdant appearance of nature itself. The particular form of every roof and chimney is complete, and the interior buildings to the smallest shed and fence, are duly attended to. There are the churches, school houses, hotels and markets — lamp posts, liberty poles, flag staffs, awning posts — nothing is omitted. The splendid mansion and the meanest shanty — each has its rep- resentative in this magnificent and com- prehensive model. On the opposite side of the East river is the Navy Yard with the men of war lying moored — the city of Brooklyn stretching out into the bay — while the water is covered with merchantmen and smaller vessels, — the steamer Great Britain, a perfect fac similie of that gigantic steam ship — the North Caroli- na^ guard-ship, and 300 square rigged vessels, lying at the different wharves, with an innumerable number of smaller craft. To crown all, the natural ap- pearance of the marble, granite or brick of which the buildings are composed, combines to render the whole thing unique of its kind. In a word it pre- sents as exact a view of New York, as the city itself would if viewed through the inverted end of a telescope. In conclusion we can but feel certain, that this great undertaking of Mr. Belden will be duly appreciated not only by the citizens of this metropolis and" the sis- ter cities of our republic, but by the in- habitants of those foreign countries, to whose shores Mr. Belden may see fit to transport the great city of the New World ; and that it will be to him the source of an ample fortune. N. Y. Tribune, April 4, 1846. Mopel or New York. — Our readers have already noticed that E. Porter Belden, Ksq. proprietor of the Model of New Haven, is constructing a Model oi the city of New York, in carved wood, at 360 Broadway. This we conceive to be one of the greatest undertakings ever attempted. The Model is constructed upon an im- mense platform representing the ground with all its natural elevations and de- pressions, and the eye of the spectator takes in at one view every object with its relative size, proportions and color, from the Battery to Beilevue Hospital. Indeed it would seem as if by some immense mechanical power, the whole city had been compressed into smaller limits, accurately preserving its outlines and minutest traits . This description seems almost incred- ible, but it is not the least exaggerated — at any rate the work is fast approach- ing to completion, when every one will have the opportunity of judging tor himself, whether his house is accurately represented or not. The steamboats and shipping which are shewn at the fullest season, togeth- er with the Navy Yard at Brooklyn and the men of war lying at anc hor, will add to the interest of this stupendous spec- imen of mechanical skill. Our readers may easily conceive the superior advan- tages wmich a model possesses over a painting, as in the latter although the objects in the foreground are distinctly portrayed, those in the back ground are necessarily obscure ; while in viewing the former, the spectator may choose his own position and inspect if from all parts of the compass as his own fancy may dictate. Everything combines to rentier this one of the most curious ex- hibitions ever submitted to the public, and we have no doubt it will meet with extensive patronage. N. Y. True Sun, April 16, 1^16. We understand that the proprietor of this great work is now engaged in erect- ing a splendid Canopy to overhang trie Model. This is a most beautiful speci- men of gothic architecture, supported on splendid columns, with carved pin- nacles. N. Y. Tribune, April 17, 1S46. The immense labor and great inge- nuity displayed in the construction of the Model of New T York, is the theme of admiration of all those persons, who have been permitted to view this great work while in progress. When com pleted w T e question if it will not be re. 17 cognized throughout the United State.* by the soubriquet of Nevi York Junior, from the strong family likeness it bears to its elder sister. A better subject for a model could not have been selected) as perhaps there is no city in the world possessing the same natural advantages of situation. It presents with its surrounding scenery, a line field for the display of the artist, which Mr.Belden, with his natural tact, has not failed to avail himself of to the fullest extent. From the " Commercial Articl?/' of N. Y. Tribune, April 22, 184G. We have frequently had occasion to call the attention of the manufacturing and trading community to the many ad- vantages ot advertising, but it remained for Mr. E. Porter Belden, the talented proprietor of the splendid Model of this city, which he has now nearly comple- ted, to make the public exhibition of a work of art the vehicle of advertise- ments the most attractive and exten- sive. This Model, with its magnificent can- opy, will be the greatest work of the kind ever undertaken either in this country or Europe, and, in its exhibi- tion in all the important cities of both Hemispheres, will be visited by thou- sands ; and when we consider that im- provements in our manufacture.:, in the modes of transit, and the removal of restrictions on trade, will create demand for many of our products and manufac- tures hitherto unthought of as articles of export, the importance to our manu- facturers and traders of becoming known throughout the whole civilized world, cannot be overrated. We should wish to give the world, in connection with this miniature of our city, a proof of our immense trade. A new era in com- merce is commencing, and we hope that that enterprise which has so honorably marked the history of American trade, will take advantage of this splendid op- portunity which native talent presents of seeking a market in every quarter of the globe, thereby promoting the wealth and happiness of our people, and taking our high place among the great com- mercial nations of the world. N. Y. Eve. Post, April 23, 1846. Model of New York. — E. Porter Belden, Esq. who projected and execu- ted the beautiful model of New Haven, emboldened by his success, afterwards planned a model of New York and its 18 environs, to be carved in wood ; and undismayed by the obstacles and difii- gtllties that so vast an undertaking would naturally present, has, by in- domitable perseverance and mechanical skill, brought his labors nearly to a close. It is the most surprising and elabor- ate piece of mechanism ever achieved, The life like appearance of this minia- ture city is so deceptive, that it required no very great stretch of the imagination to fancy you hear the hum and buzz of the dwellers within. The spectator can not fnil to he im- pressed with the beauty of the public buildings, churches &c, while the dwelling houses, and even the interior buildings, present the most finished ap- pearance, and bear witness to the pa- tient and sedulous attention of the pro- prietor. Thousands are under the im- pression that the model consists ot a number of rough and indistinct objects, laid down in lines of streets, giving in the aggregate, an idea of the general appearance of the city. Little are those persons aware of the actnaJ na- ture of the work, or of the intense ap- plication and mechanical skill, that has been brought into play in consummating' the result. During the last twelve months, in fine or foul weather, the in- defatigable employes of Mr. Belden may have been seen at their respective posts, pencil in hand, surveying every street, lane, or back alley, nook or corner, of this great metropolis. Every house or tenement, to the smallest shed in the rear of the blocks, has been modelled from sketches made by good draughtsmen, and this, when completed, has been subjected to the rigid scrutiny of competent persons. — The manner in which every minute de- tail has been managed is truly astonish- ing — the particular pitch of the roofs, and proportionate size of the doors, windows, chiinnies&c, are all preserv- ed — even the lines of the brick work, stone, or whatever the buildings are composed of, is imitated. Thns our fellow citizens cannot fail to recognize their own dwellings and other familiar objects, and the inhab- itants of distant cities, by having this beautiful miniature brought 10 their firesides, will derive from it all the ad- vantages of an actual visit to this great metropolis, without incurring the ex- penses and inconveniences attendan' upon a sojourn in a large ci*y. 4