The Landing at Kip's Bay was a British landing during the New York Campaign in the American Revolutionary War on September 15, 1776. This happened on the eastern shore of present day Manhattan. Heavy advance fire from British forces in the East River caused the militia guarding the landing area to flee ultimately making it possible for the British to land with no effort at Kip's Bay.
As for the rivers, the colonists were aware you must have water to successfully maintain life whether it be human life or plant life, it is necessary. Also being close to water helped them in the workforce, like carrying out trade or fishing It was a "win win" for them.
