Swaanendael colony.
In anticipation of the establishment of patroonships (see
patroons), a partnership was formed by directors of the Dutch West India Company for making settlements on the
Delaware River.
Godyn, Bloemart,
Van Renssclaer, and others were the partners.
They sent (Dec. 16, 1630) a ship and yacht, under the command of
Pieter Heyes, with some colonists, and in the spring purchases of land were made from the Indians on both shores of
Delaware Bay.
Near the site of the present town of
Lewes, Del., a colony was planted, and the spot was called Swaanendael.
In 1632 this little colony was destroyed by the Indians.
Swaanendael was sold to the West India Company in 1633.