The Assembly districts were made up of entire towns, or city wards, forming a contiguous area, all in the same county.

The approximate party strength at this election, as expressed by the vote on Governor was: Republican 265,000; Democratic 198,000; and American 130,000.

The Legislature met for the regular session at the Old State Capitol in Albany on January 6, 1857; and adjourned on April 18.

On April 7, the Legislature elected Henry H. Van Dyck (R) to succeed Victor M. Rice as State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

[1] On April 15, the Legislature passed "An Act to establish a Metropolitan Police District, and to provide for the government thereof."

The Metropolitan Police was headed by a Board consisting of five Commissioners (appointed by the Governor, and confirmed by the Senate) and the Mayors of New York City and Brooklyn.