Werpoes

In 1524, Giovanni da Verrazzano, the explorer observed Werpoes Village. A Munsee Lenape settlement near the Collect Pond, which served as the main water source during early European settlement. The village had fertile land for crops, and nearby Kalck Hoek contained oyster shell middens. Werpoes was at the southern end of Wequaesgeek Road.

Some archaeologists believe its residents may have sold Manhattan Island to European settlers in 1626, instead of the more commonly referenced northern groups.