The story of Jonas Mapes tells of his ancestors, five families that settled on Long Island before 1670, his youth on Long Island's North Fork, his move to New York City to begin a career as a merchant tailor and his rise to Major General in the New York State Militia. General Mapes played a major role in defending his city against an expected invasion by the British in 1814 and served as well in those years as a New York City alderman. In retirement he welcomed Lafayette upon his return visit in 1824 and celebrated the opening of the Erie Canal in the following year with other New York leaders.