We are perhaps afforded an idea of the number of such vessels in the region of the metropolis by the story of the gathering of all the local clans in their raid on New Amsterdam in September, 1655. On that occasion it is probable that every available craft was brought into service, and there were only about sixtyfour in all. From such contemporary drawings as recorded their appearance, they were usually heavy and clumsy hollowed logs, some with high projections overhanging bow and stern, very unlike the graceful and agile birch-bark craft of the inland waters.

Probably the type was a development of local conditions, influenced by the strong tides, floating ice, rough water, and the carriage of goods in bulk. In particular their use in fishing required strength enough to carry loads of shellfish, and heavy sea-going fish such as sturgeon. They were often of great size and admirable workmanship, says Winthrop, and sometimes "so great as one will carry eight men." A canoe in which the envoys of the Dutch authorities returned from a visit to Rockaway carried eighteen natives with them to New Amsterdam, a trip which occupied from early morn to 3 p.m.