When New Amsterdam was first settled, residents whose windows faced the streets were required by the Common Council to put lighted candles in the windows in 1697. By the 1700's whale oil lamps were lighting the streets funded by a city tax. The light quality was dim, they were flammable which required a system of watchmen, and relatively expensive. By 1809 the city had grown enough to require over 1600 lamps. The first experiment with gaslight in the park took place in the summer of 1812. Studies were undertaken. Reports were written. Experiments were undertaken. Temporary tin pipes were laid under Chatham Street and Dey Street and a few store windows were lit up. The estimate for lighting the city came to several hundred thousand dollars which required an alternative approach.
