Fort Massapeag Archeological Site

Fort Massapeag is an archaeological site in Sunset Park that preserves the remains of a fortified settlement from the 17th century. The excavation areas show defensive ditches, foundation remnants, and other structures that reveal what the former trading station looked like.

The site was established in 1656 by Peter Stuyvesant, a Dutch colonial administrator, as a trading post. Its founding rested on an agreement with Lenape leader Tackapausha to facilitate commerce with Native American peoples.

The location reveals how different peoples coexisted and traded for centuries in this space. Visitors can observe the physical traces of this shared history through the excavated foundations and settlement patterns visible across the park.

The site is located in Sunset Park and can be reached near Fairfax Road and Gloucester Road. It received National Historic Landmark recognition in 1993 and remains open to the public for exploring the archaeological remains.

The site served as a wampum production center where Native American artisans crafted shell bead currency. This manufacturing activity made the location economically vital to the colonial trade networks of the era.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 40.86667,-73.53333

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:02