enter name and hit return
New York City Wills, 1665-1707
![]()
DAVID CARWITHY, Southold. "Mr. Carwithy being visited with sickness, desires
to set things in order, being weake in body, but in perfect memory." Leaves
to son Caleb "my best suit of clothes and a bed blanket." To daughter Martha a
scythe and a Bible. To daughter Elizabeth Crowner $9 sterling. "As for my
son David I left him his portion when I came from him," but adds 20
shillings. Makes daughter Sarah Curtis sole executrix.
Page 12.--CHARLES DARRIEL, New York, "Merchant." Appoints his "loving and
affectionate friend, Timothy Biggs, of New York, Merchant," his executor.
Leaves to Mr. Wm. Browne, of New York, "a morning gown and other wearing
apparel," and "silk stockings as are in our trunk, in custody of Mr. May of
Boston." To Mr. Cadd, of Boston, a piece of gold. To "my loving brother
Richard Darriel, my silver hat band." To "my sister Jane Darriel, two gold
rings with stones set in them."
Page 27.--CAPT. THOMAS EXTON, New York. "Being sick and weak." Appoints his
loving friends Capt. Sylvester Salisbury and Mr. John Rider, Gent, executors.
"I leave seven Beavers to buy wyne for ye officers and Gentlemen who
accompany my Corps to the Grave." "I leave six choice Beaver skins to be paid
to Capt. Thomas Breedon, of Boston, to satisfy a credit. Captain Thomas
Delaval gave to Mr. Isaac Bedloe." To Mr. Matthias Nicolls "my fine new
Holland shirts which lye in my Black Trunk." To Abigail, wife of Mr. Matthias
Nicolls, "my silver boat, a silver meat fork, and a silver spoon." To Richard
Nicoll, son of Mr. Matthias Nicoll, "my gold seale ring." To Capt. Sylvester
Salisbury a pair of Haire coloured silk stockings and a pair of gloves. To
Capt. John Manning "my belt embossed with silver and gold." To Mr. John Rider
and wife ten Crown pieces, to buy them a piece of plate. To Mr. Thomas
Tiddman, "my Gray Beaver Hatt." To Mrs. Anna Broadhead, widow of Capt. Daniel
Broadhead, "a gold ring with this Poesie on it, `God's Providence is our
Inheritance.'" To Sergeant Patrick Dondell "my Gray French hatt." "My
scarlett coat laced with gold and silver lace, and other coats to be sold,
and 100 guilders of the money to be paid to Uffraw Wessells, and the
remainder to be spent among my fellow souldiers of the garrison of Fort
James." To Henry Conolley a suit of clothes. To Richard Haymer, two goats.
"To Richard Charlton for his paynes in writing this will, four pieces of
eight."
CHARLES MORGAN, Gravesend. Makes wife Katharine sole executrix. Leaves to son
Charles the lot or Plantations recorded to him in the Towne Books of
Gravesend. To my other three sons, Thomas, John, and Daniel, the land and
Plantation I now live on, and the barn that was formerly Slynihah Loras. His
wife is to have the use of the said premises, "to dwell in soe long as shee
shall keepe herself a widow. All this is my mynde and will soe to be."
Mentions daughters Mary, Rachel, and Susannah.
Dated "Thirteenth day of 7th month 1668." Witness Wm. Goulding, Sam'l Spicer.
Proved Oct. 7, 1668. Inventory mentions a very large number of articles of
domestic use, and 6 acres of wheat, 5 acres corn, 4 acres Oats, 2 acres Rye,
7 acres Peas.
Translated from the Dutch language into English by me, Thomas Lovell.
Inventory taken by John Thommasen and Jacob Lieters. Mentions house and 50
acres of land and meadow at Canarsie. Also a list of debts due to the
following persons: Lucas Dicksen, Coenraet Ten Eyck, Hendrick Kip, Jr., John
Guisberts, Gouvert Lockermans, Mr. Hans, Jan Jansen, Reynier Williamse,
Cornelis Clopper, Isaac Bedloe, Laurence Vander Spiegel, Hermanns Wessels,
John Tommasen, Rut Joosten
Page 59.--JOHN STEVENSEN, Newtown. Leaves to sister Mary, wife of Patrick
Harris, house and land, with a share of salt meadow lying by John Borroughs.
"The rest of the upland and the meadow at ye South Sea, to my brother,
Edward." To brother Thomas, "my meadow before John Lorrison's." Makes brother
Thomas executor.
Page 60.--"Whereas SAML MAYO (or Majo) who had sometime an estate in Oyster
Bay, did leave a lot of land he had there in the hands of Anthony Wright, as
security for a sum of money and is since deceased intestate. And the said
Anthony Wright hath made no improvements, although it hath been in his hands
severall yeares, as no legal conveyance has been made to him, and as he is
the only creditor to the deceased in these parts." The said Anthony Wright is
made the administrator, February 2, 1670.
Page 61.--JOHN MARSTON, Flushing. "I will that my two sons, John and
Cornelius, shall live with my well beloved friend John Hinchman and to be
wholly at his disposall till they come of age, and he is to have the
oversight of all my estate." Leaves all to his two sons when of age. Leaves
to daughter Elizabeth a gold ring, and to daughter Katherine a silver
thimble. "This is my full will and my sons' desire, as witness our hands this
14th February, 1670/71."
Page 62.--Whereas JOHN MARSTON, of Flushing, in the North Riding of
Yorkshire, upon Long Island, dyed in ye month of February last, and made a
will wherein he leaves John Hinchman of the same place to be the guardian of
his two sons. Which will according to ye usual custom of the Law ought to be
proved at ye next Court of Sessions, and it soe falling out that noe Court is
to be held until the month of June during which time the estate may be
impaired." The said John Hinchman is confirmed as administrator, April 6,
1671.
Page 65.--THOMAS MORELL, Staten Island. Leaves to Robert Semson, of
Gravesend, Long Island, "a colt, now in ye hands of Christian Woolf of
Gravesend." To Mr. Nicholas Stillwell, of Staten Island, "all other things
and goods that belong to me."
Page 79.--THOMAS HOOD, New York. "I, Thomas Hood, lately a souldier in ye
Garrison of Fort James, being since my arrivall taken sick," makes loving
friends, Richard Patum and John Bugby, executors, and leaves them "my share
of Log wood in the Ketch, `Society,' now riding at anchor in the road of New
York, of which Thomas Edwards is master." "I give ye summe of 300 guilders,
wampum, or ye value thereof, to be spent among my fellow-souldiers in the
Garrison of Fort James." Legacies to friends John Clarke and Richard
Charlton.
Dated October 7, 1671. Witnesses, Francis Yates, John Laureson. Above
executors were confirmed October 14, 1671. States that he had "formerly been a
soldier, but had lately come from the West Indies, in the ketch, `Society,'
and had a share of log wood, a chest of silks, and some other things."
Page 97.--"Whereas Captain RICHARD MORRIS, of this city, merchant, died
intestate, leaving a considerable estate behind him, and whereas his brother,
Colonel Lewis Morris, hath a great interest for the protection of the estate,
it is judged requisite that some extraordinary care should be taken." I have
thought fit to appoint Mr. Matthias Nicoll, mayor of this city, Captain
Thomas Delavall, and Captain Cornelius Steenwych of the Council to His Royal
Highness' Government, Captain John Berry and Mr. Thomas Gibbs to be
administrators, this September, 1672. E. Andross."
Page 98.--JOHN WILLIAMS, New York. Leaves to Anthony Jansen Turk, "all my
tools in the house of Henry Morris in New Jersey, as also whatever I have in
the house of Anthony Jansen, or elsewhere." And all my land in New Jersey
according to the records of Elizabethtown, and he is to pay to Henry Morris a
debt of 40 shillings and the funeral charges. Makes Henry Morris executor.
"Whereas HOPE BARRINTS, a carpenter, died intestate at Breucklyn upon Long
Island, and leaving no relations of wife, children, or other kindred," Mr.
Allard Anthony, Sheriff of New York, is made administrator, February 28,
1671. Francis Lovelace.
Page 108.--JOHN GERLAND, New York. Leaves to "dear wife Susannah, my riding
horse, all other goods except as follows." To my son Sylvester "my Sword
Pistolls and furniture to them belonging." Leaves legacies to second son,
Matthias, and to Gulian Van Layer, "a son by my wife's former husband."
"Earnestly desiring that my Trusty and well beloved brother Mr. Gulian Ver
Planck, and my well beloved friend Francis Rumbout to be the executors of
this will."
Page 113.--"Whereas SAMUEL LANE, late a Souldier in this Garrison, died
intestate, having no relations or kindred in these parts." Alexander
Ward-rappe, "one of his fellow souldiers," is appointed as administrator.
April 26, 1675.
Page 117.--"Whereas ROGER RUGG, merchant, of this city, dyed lately without
making any formal will, yet by a nuncupative will, before sufficient
testimony, some short time before his decease, bequeathed his estate to Mr.
John Rider and his wife of this city, and desiring Captain Nathaniel
Davenport to be assisting unto them, and having made proof of the will before
the Court of Mayor and Aldermen." The said John Rider is made administrator,
August 9, 1675.
Page 121.--"Whereas Captain JOHN UNDERHILL, late of Killingworth, within the
jurisdiction of Oyster Bay, upon Long Island, did in his will bequeath his
whole estate to his wife Elizabeth, during widowhood, and did appoint his
eldest son John, with others, to be trustees for his children," and the said
Elizabeth has since deceased, the said John Underhill is made administrator,
November 4, 1675. Page 122.--"Whereas MR. JOHN WINDER, merchant, and Alderman
of this city, deceased, did make a nuncupative will, and did leave his whole
estate to his wife Sarah, and proof having been made," she is made
administratrix, September 29, 1675.
Page 125.--"The deposition of Katharine Fancy, aged about forty-eight. That
she being at the house of Henry Perring about a week before he dyed, she
heard the said Henry Perring say that he would give his daughter Hannah
Perring all his own accomodations belonging to him in the Towne, and at the
South with the three islands that was given to him by the Towne, and the
ground that did adjoin to his son Joseph Longbothem's lot, for which she was
to give to said Joseph as much at the upper end of his lot. And the said
Perring's wife being by he told her she should have the management and
disposal of all his estate during her life, unless his daughter Hannah should
marry, and after his death his daughter Hannah should have half, and after
his wife's death the other half."
"I William Betts of the Yonckers Plantation, in the Jurisdiction now of New
Orange so called." Leaves to wife Alice, "house, barn and home lot, and
meadows that are lying by my house lot," also one third of my lot in the
Planting Field, during her life. Also leaves her household goods. Leaves to
son Samuel Betts, after his wife's decease, the said house, Home lot and
meadows, and one third of all lands in the Yonckers Plantation. Also a Home
lot next to the home lot of Goodman Newman, in the Town of Westchester. Also
six acres of meadow next to Samel Barrets, in the west meadow of Westchester.
Leaves to son Hopestill Betts, one third of his lands in the Planting Field,
and one third of the rest of his lands in the Yonckers Plantation. Also
"eight acres of fresh meadow lying to the west of Long neck in Westchester."
Leaves to son John Betts, one third of land in the Planting Field and one
third of land in the Yonckers Plantation, also two six acre lots of meadow in
the west meadow of Westchester, next to Consider Woods, and six acres I
bought of Cregier, next to Consider Woods, and the other six acre lot lying
between the meadow of Edward Walters and meadow of Joseph Hunt, of
Westchester. And he is to live with his mother during her life, and manage
her farm and stock. Also leaves to son John, "my house and orchard and two
home lots next to the orchard, and eleven acres of upland by the west meadow
and one and a quarter acres of salt meadow on the south end of Quimby's neck,
all of which lie in the bounds of Westchester." Leaves to daughter Mehitabel
Tippetts 20 shillings. To John Barrett, son of Samuel Barrett, twenty acres
of upland, eastward upon the hills by Eastchester path in the Yonckers
Plantation, and one acre in the west meadows, "my meadow at Yonckers which
hath
been wrongfully taken from me," if recovered is left to his three sons.
Page 134.--"Whereas Samuel Moore, of this city, merchant, dyed, without
making any formal will, yet did leave a nuncupative before sufficient
testimonies." His widow, Naomi Moore, is appointed administratrix. March 25,
1676.
Page 137.--RICHARD TERRY, Southold. Leaves to wife, Abigail, during her life,
"the accommodations in Town, and house and lot that properly belongs to the
house, that is the 4 acres joins to the house, with the orchard. And 8 acres
of land that lyes at the North Sea, and 2 acres in Calves neck, and 1 acre in
the old field, and 2 acres of meadow in the Great meadow at Catchache."
Leaves to son Gershom, "one half of my wood land at Catchache." To son Samuel
the other half, "and a piece of meadow that was my brother Thomas Terry's."
Leaves to daughter Abigail 20 acres of land lying in the Fort neck to her and
her heirs, "that is to say, Thomas Rider's heirs." Leaves to sons Nathaniel
and Richard, "my house and the land which I live upon here at Squash neck,"
with the meadow in Fresh meadow when Richard is twenty-one. Leaves to son
John, after his wife's decease, "the house and accommodations in Towne." "I
leave all my children to be at my wife's command, to be educated and brought
up, both for the good of their Souls and Bodys," till the sons are twenty-one
and the daughters eighteen. Leaves to son Samuel two acres of meadow at
Ackabache. Not dated. Makes wife and son Gershom executors. Witnesses,
Barnabas Wyndes, Sarah Wyndes
"POSTSCRIPT.--When my wife see cause to live in the Towne, my three eldest
sons are to fitt and repair her house in a habitable and comfortable manner."
"Whereas the petition of Margaret Backer, referred to the Court of Mayor and
Aldermen, setting forth that her husband Jacob Backer, about eight years
since, departed from her leaving her with three small children, in a very
poor condition, without making any provision for payment of his debts or for
the maintenance of his family, and that now Mr. Geritt Van Tright, one of ye
creditors hath sued her for his debt, which will undoubtedly provoke the rest
of ye creditors to doe ye lyke." And that "she very much doubts of his life,
not having in several years had any letter or advice from him, but various
reports of his death, since his departure from Holland to the East Indies."
Upon her petition Letters of Administration were granted July 27, 1677.
Page 158.--"Whereas ANTHONY JANSEN of this city, died intestate, upon the
petition of Mattice Grevenrat, his widow, she having produced an inventory,
and likewise produced a contract made between her said husband and herself
before marriage, that the longest liver of them should remain in full
possession of all the estate during the survivor's life." Letters of
administration were granted to her March 25, 1677.
Page 194.--Whereas CORNELIUS DIRCKSEN, late of this city died intestate, and
Gretie his widow hath made application to the Court of Mayor and Aldermen,
for Letters of Administration, they are granted May 9, 1678. Whereas CARSEN
JANS EGGERT of this city did in his last will bequeath his estate part by way
of legacy, and the rest to be disposed of by way of gifts to his next
relations, that is to say the sum of 500 guilders, wampum, to the Lutheran
Church, as a legacy, and to his sister Greetye Jans, wife of Jacob Petersen,
150 guilders, wampum, the rest to be divided equally between his brother
Dirck Jansen De Groot, his sister Greetye Jansen, and Bruyn Ages, the son of
his other sister, Annatje Jans and Bruyn Ages, both deceased, making Hendrick
Williams and David Westells executors, as in said will, and additions the 7th
and 19th of April last. The same was confirmed May 9, 1678.
Page 197.--Whereas MARY JANSEN, widow of Gouvert Lockermans, did in her will
appoint her kinsman Mr. Johanes Van Brugh and Mr. Francis Rumbout, one of the
Aldermen of this city, her executors, in Trust. Said will being dated May 7,
1677, with a codicil November 1, 1677. They are confirmed June 8, 1678.
Page 206.--SAMUEL HOLMES, Gravesend, makes his wife Alice sole executrix. "In
case she marry againe she is to give unto my children every one of them a cow
three years old." Leaves to sons Samuel and Joseph "all my wearing clothes
and carpenter tools." Legacies to daughters Anne, Katharine and Mary. "If
either of my sons doe marry before the decease of my wife, then the lot or
Plantation I bought of Thomas Delavall, they shall have for their use between
them." Makes his loving brothers and friends Richard Stillwell, Jonathan
Holmes, Obadiah Holmes, John Browne and Samuel Spicer, Overseers and
guardians of his children.
Page 208.--Inventory taken February 26, 1678/9. The old House and Home close,
about 20 acres, $230. The Little close next to Arthur Howell's, $21. The two
former Divisions, about 45 acres, $20. A $150 right of Commonage with 20
acres already laid out, $80. The land at the Towne, the Home lot, the land in
the Plains and meadow, $100. Total amount, $1184, 10s. 10d.
Page 216.--HENRY CLARKE, of Poynig Creek, Virginia, May 26, 1679. "I, Henry
Clarke, of New Yorke, late come from Virginia, being sicke," my will is that
the money in my best pocket being 3 shillings and a pair of large buttons
shall be put in the pocket of my best suite, and sent home to England to my
brother-in-law John Harwood, his eldest son, living in Islington." Directs
Mr. Thomas Clarke and Abraham Corbett shall see my negro Francis, delivered
unto Captain John Palmer, of Staten Island, and he is to pay $33, Boston
money for him. "And they shall see me decently buried in the church in New
York." After debts are paid all the rest is to go to the eldest son of his
brother-in-law John Harwood. "I appoint Mr. Samuel Leete, Abraham Corbett,
Henry Filkin, John Corbett, and Richard Walsh, to carry me to my grave, and
to have scarves and gloves,
Whereas WM. MANDEVIL, of this city, merchant, being lately about his
occasions at the Town of Setalcot, dyed there intestate, and Elizabeth his
widow, having requested that she bee made administrator of her husband's
estate, a great part of which lyes in said Town of Setalcot, Letters of
Administration are granted October--, 1679.
Page 228.--Whereas WM. RODNEY late of this city Gent. and Surveyor of
Customs, being bound for this place from the island of Nevis, dyed on board a
certain vessell named "Lovell" in the Sound near unto New Haven, and leaving
no will in writing. Yet as a nuncupative will did declare that he left the
care of his concerns in these parts to Captain John Fowler, of Staten Island.
Upon application Letters of administration were granted to him January --,
1678.
To John Garhson600 lbs of Tobacco, $65s Thomas Styles40044 Mr. Steenwyck80088
Mr. Bridges005010 1/2 Debts due to him from Richard Stockton, Henry Cornelis,
Mr. Osborne, John Van Clem 3 deer skins, Henry ye Shoemaker, 1 pair of shoes
for a boy and 2 pairs for a woman. Adam Mott. Elias Doughty.
Whereas ANNETJE CLAAS CRESSENS, late widow of Daniel Litscho of this city,
deceased, did in her last will give to Hermanus Jansen, her son by a former
husband, the sum of 400 guilders "sewant," and unto Annie Litscho her
daughter by the latter the like sum, and having disposed of the remainder of
the estate that she died possessed of to the children of her said son and
daughter during their lives and then to their children. And did appoint Mr.
Thomas Lamberts of Bedford upon Long Island, carpenter, and Mr. Asser Levy of
this city, merchant, executors, and having made proof of the will, which
remains in the Secretary's office. They are confirmed May 16, 1679
235.--BALTHAZAR DE HART, of New York. "In the name of the Lord Amen. By
these presents be it known to any which shall see these wrightings or shall
read the same, that in the year of our Lord 1672, the 4th day of January on
Thursday, in the afternoone, about 3 of the clock, I Wm. Bogardus, notarie
Publick in New York, admitted by the Hon. Col. Francis Lovelace. . . . Comes
as witnesses those that have these underwritten, unto Balthazar DeHart,
merchant and Inhabitant of this city, a man well known to the witnesses and
mee. Being sickly of body nevertheless having his memory and speech as well
as formerly. Soe as outwardly did appear." He doth bequeath unto his natural
son Matthias DeHart, 2,000 guilders Holland money, which shall remain put and
secured upon the house and lot of said DeHart where hee for the present
dwelleth, lying within this city between the house of Mr. John Lawrence and
the widow of Daniel Litsche, until he comes of age. And he is to have
maintainance with reasonable vittles, and clothes, and likewise to be teached
to read and write, and in a trade also that thereby he may help himself. He
leaves to his natural son Daniel DeHart, . . . . . . . . . . . . a certain
house and lot, as likewise the lot that came of Robert Baulands, belonging
thereto, lying within the city upon the Heere Gracht, where . . . . . . . . .
. . Elias Provoost, smith, for the present doe dwell. Likewise 2 great
stilling kettles, and 60 guilders wampum yearly until he is of age. Also
leaves . . . . . . . . . . . . a certain cedar chest with all that may be
found therein, and a negro woman named Sarah with her 3 children. He doth
make as a gift to his brother Jacobus DeHart all the land in Haverstroo,
purchased by the testator of the Indyans, and a Patent granted by the
Governor, Philip Carterett. He leaves the remainder of his estate to his true
brothers Daniel, Matthias, and Jacobus DeHart, and to the children of his
sister Willennyntie. And that this may be done in the uprighteousest and
truest manner, he appoints Hendrick Van Bomell, Jacob Teunison Kay, his good
and acquainted friends, to administer this will and estate, and Jacques
Cousseau is to take an exact invoice of goods. Dated and past in the house of
the testator, being present Mr. Hans Kierdstede, Chirurgeon, and Timon Van
Borsum as desired witnesses, which with the said DeHart and mee Notary being
subscribed the original hereof the day and year above written.
Page 239.--MARY JANSEN, New York, May 7, 1679, widow of Gouvert Lockermans.
This will is written in the Dutch fashion by Wm. Bogardus, Notary Public.
Leaves to Cornelius, Timothy and Margaretta Van der Veen, children of her
daughter, Elsie Leisler, by Peter Cornelis Van der Veen, each 100 guilders,
in Beavers at 8 guilders a piece. To Anna Bogardus, daughter of Wm. Bogardus,
50 guilders. Leaves the rest of property to her children Elsie Tymans,
married with Jacob Leisler. Cornelis Dirchsen married with Gelise Hendricks
and Jacob Lockermans not married yet. Makes her cousin, Mr. Johanes Van
Brugh, and Mr. Francis Rumbout, alderman of this city, her executors.
Codicil, November 1, 1677. Leaves to son, Cornelis Dircksen, a negro boy. To
daughter, Elsie Leisler, a golden ear ring, made of gold, which was partly
given to her by her grandmother. To son, Jacob Lockermans, her diamond rose
ring. To son, Cornelis, the Great Bible, and to his wife 3 silver spoons. To
Mary, daughter of Johanes Van Brugh, a silver bodkin. To her grand daughter,
Margaret Van der Veen, a silver chain with keys. To granddaughter, Susanah
Leisler, a silver chain with a case and a cushion.
JOHN SHACKERLY, New York, July 23, 1679, "merchant." Leaves to wife Sarah
"one half of all my right to a Plantation at St. Johns creek, and a
Plantation at Mispellin creeke in Delaware." The other half to his two
children Elizabeth and William, both under twenty-one, makes his wife
executor, and Mr. Wm. Merritt and Mrs. Elizabeth Bedloe overseers.
Page 256.--SAMUEL LEETE, New York, July 23, 1679, "Gentleman." Makes this
"will as a codicil to my former will made in England, August 26, 1673." The
Trustees herein named, are to collect all dues, and pay all debts. Remainder
of property is left to his wife Christian. Leaves to Abraham Corbett, "all my
household goods in part payment of what I owe him for meate and drinke." If
any thing is left after payment of debts it is to be sent home to his wife by
Abraham Corbett. Makes Mr. John West and Abraham Corbett Trustees.
Page 272.--Know all men by these Presents that for as much as John Palmer,
Gent., who hath intermarried with Sarah, the widow of John Winder, late of
this city, merchant, did administer upon the estate, and having well and
truly administered according to law, a Quietus is granted, November 8, 1683.
Thomas Dongan.
Page 273.--Know all men by these presents, that whereas John Vincent, did
administer upon the estate of Jacques Cousseau, and being informed that the
said John Vincent hath well and truly administered according to law, a
Quietus is granted, March 23, 1683/4.
The house and lot standing in Albany, near the hill, 1,200 guilders; 50
beavers, 400 guilders; 13 pictures with the King's Arms and an Almanack, 80g.
About 200 bookes, quarto and octavo, the most of them in Strainge Languages;
and a brass pocket watch out of order, 200g. Total, 4,344 guilders. The widow
Alida married Robert Livingston. "Funeral charges as per accounts rendered,
131 guilders."
Page 277.--Whereas ROBERT LIVINGSTON, husband of Alida Schuyler, late widow
of the deceased Dom Nicholas Van Rensselaer, hath, by virtue of Letters of
Administration granted to his wife by Sir Edmond Andross November 30, 1678,
shown a general account concerning the administration, with an inventory
showing the amount to be 3,440 guilders, 3 styvers, in Beavers, charging the
estate with money paid to creditors, being 2302 guilders, 4 styvers, sewant,
and 3,549g., 4 styvers, beavers, as by accounts, all of which we have
examined, and especially the account of Captain Philip Schuyler,
father-in-law to said deceased Van Rensselaer, because of the near relation.
Upon application of Robert Livingston, the account is approved December 30,
1680. Martin Gerritsen. Johnes Provoost.
[NOTE.--Burger Joris, whose name very frequently appears in the earliest New
York deeds, owned a lot on the corner of Pearl Street and Hanover Square,
where the Grace Building now stands. In front of this he opened a narrow
lane, running to the river, and called Burger Joris Path. His wife Engeltie
Mans was born in 1624, and lived to an advanced age.
281.--An Act of the Governor's Council, the sentencing and confiscating ye
land, houses, and estates of the subjects belonging to the States of Holland
which shall be found within these His Royal Highness's Territoryes. Whereas
the States of the United Belgick Provinces have begun and continued a warr
against His Majesty's our Dread Sovereign, his Realms and Dominions, as well
in Europe as upon His Majesty's foreign plantations, to the great effusion of
Christian blood, and the destruction of commerce. In which cases it is not
only customary but consonant to the Law of Nations to make seisure of and
confiscate ye estates of the subjects of these Powers or States against whom
warr is declared. Now Forasmuch as divers persons of the Dutch Nation,
residing near the Dominion, and being the subjects of the said States of the
United Belgick Provinces, and not under oath or obligation or allegiance to
His Majesty, have and do enjoy within this Government, to their use and
behoofe, several houses and lands, the full discovery of which cannot at
present be found, and in respect of the several private Conveyances, Letters
of Attorney, Deputations, Procurations and the like, Therefore the Governor
by, and with the advice of his Council, have thought fitt to enter upon the
Records (without making publication thereof, for reasons and considerations
satisfactory to themselves). And bee it entered upon the Records, that from
and after the date hereof, all the lands and houses lying and being within
the Territoryes of His Royal Highness James, Duke of York, &c., which did
formerly belong, or, anyways now may appertaine to any of the subjects of the
said States or any of the inhabitants under their Dominion, (who are under no
oath or obligation of Allegiance to His Majesty,) are and doe stand sentenced
and confiscated to His Majesty's use. To the end that the rents, profits, and
emoluments, arising from the confiscation of the said lands and houses,
together with the rents, profits, and emoluments received and remaining in
any other hands, by a Procuration or otherwise, may render some support to
the charge of the Government. And it is further ordered and declared that the
entry of this resolution of the Governor and Councill upon the Book of
Records shall stand true and valid to all intents and purposes,
notwithstanding the formality of the Publication is omitted. And the
execution of this decree and order shall and may be lawfully put in practice
at all or any time from and after the date hereof, as fully and effectually
as if the same had been published, declared and manifested. Given under my
hand, this 10 day of October, 1663, in James Fort. Richard Nicolls.
Upon hearing the case of John Poppers, late master of the vessell or
Galliott, called the Hope, now under arrest and riding in the Harbour. And
having received the allegations on both parts, that is to say from Mr. Thomas
Delavall, Plaintiff on the behalf of his Majesty, and from Mr. John Rider in
behalf of the Defendants, and having perused the several examinations upon
oath, as well as of the said John Poppers, as of all the seamen who sayled
from Curacoa hither. We find according to the Laws of the Admiralty in the
like cases, that the vessell or Galliott called the Hope is a lawful Prize,
for that she hath (contrary to his Majesty's laws and Ordinances) now in the
time of Warr, been in a Dutch Port and hath taken in goods there and traded
for and with the King's open and professed enemies. Wherefore she ought to be
confiscated. Wee doe hereby decree that the said vessell, with all her
loading, etc., is confiscated. Done at Fort James, this 22 September, 1666.
Richard Charlton, Clerk.
Page 283.--Whereas the Galliott the Hope, whereof John Poppers was master, is
adjudged to bee a good and lawfull Prize, and therefore confiscated to his
Majesty's use, these are to require and authorize you, Petrus Leandertson,
Thomas Hall, Isaac Bedloe and Samuel Edsall, to view and apprize the said
Galliott as also her lading, etc., according to best knowledge. Given under
our hand at Fort James, New York, the 9 day of October, 1666.
Page 283.--Whereas the Galliott called the Hope was heretofore seized by
order of the Rt. Hon. Colonel Richard Nicolls, Governor, etc., and the said
Galliott being on the 22 day of September last condemned, as a lawful prize,
together with her rigging, etc. Now know ye that Colonel Richard Nicoll and
Captain Philip Carterett, being appointed a sub commission for the disposing
of all prizes, etc., as by their said commission bearing date the 28
February, 1664. Have according to form, at a Publick sale or outcry bargained
and sold unto John Poppers of this city, mariner, to have the said Galliott,
together with all her rigging, etc., for the sum of $117 good and lawful
money. The receipt of which is acknowledged. To him the said John Poppers as a
free vessell to goe or come trade or traffick in any port. Done at New York
on the Island of Manhattan, November 1, 1666. Richard Nicoll, Philip
Carterett.
Page 285.--The proceedings against Richard Russell, John Matthews and Thomas
Weale, souldiers, accused of felony. Deposition taken before the Governor in
Fort James this 9th of November, 1666. The Deposition of Mark Dale. That
Richard Russell, Thomas Weale and John Matthews, being all three together in
company, in some part of the house where he now dwelleth, he and his wife
bought of them, or some of them, two Iron Potts, two Hoes, one pair of
Shears, and three quarters of a Firkin of soape. But cannot precisely
remember what part of ye house it was in, or what day of the week it was, or
what time of the day, or what was paid for the same. But affirmeth that hee
and his wife treated with them, all three together about their having of the
goods, aforesaid, and further deposeth not. The Deposition of Anne, the wife
of Mark Dale, upon oath. That Richard Russell, Thomas Weale and John
Matthews, did sell unto her husband and herselfe, two Iron Potts, two hoes,
one pair of Shears and about three quarters of a Firkin of soape, for 72
guilders wampum. And that the greatest part of the said sum was told by her,
and divided into three parts which she delivered unto Thomes Weale for the
use of himselfe, Richard Russell and John Matthews discounting with each of
them what was due to her from them. But what day it was upon, she cannot
remember, only that it was in the forenoone. She further deposeth that
Richard Russell told her in the back yard of the dwelling house where she now
lives, that he or they were offered 72 guilders for the aforesaid goods by
another and had refused it. Whereupon the deponent said, If you were offered
so much by another, I will give you as much for them, and so the bargain was
concluded, and further this deponent says not.
Page 50.--ANNA MEDFORD. In the Name of God, Amen, know all men that on the
31st day of August, 1669, about 3 o'clock in the afternoon, Anna Medford,
widow of Thomas Hall, did appeare before me, Nicholas Bayard, Esq., Secretary
of the Worshipfull Mayor's Court, being sickly and weak in body." She leaves
all her estate to the two cousins of her deceased husband Unfree Underhill
and Mary Underhill, wife of Richard Hicks. She makes free her negro man named
Frans, on account of his true services, and the desire of her late husband,
and gives him "a small parcel of ground lying about the Great Kill, on the
Island of Manhattan." Makes Cornelius Steenwyck, Johanes Van Brugh, and John
Lawrence "Old Aldermen of the City," executors. Witnesses, Lambert Huyberts
Moll, Abm Ver Planck, Warner Wessels.
Page 54.--Thomas Dongan, Lieutenant-General and Governor, to all, etc. Know
ye that at a Court of Records held in New York on Tuesday the 11 of May,
1686, the will of CHRISTOPHER HOOGLAND was proved, and his wife Catharine was
confirmed as administratrix, April 14,
CHRISTOPHER HOOGLAND, New York. "In the name of God, Amen. Know all men, who
shall see this Publick instrument, that in the year after the Nativity of our
Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, 1676, the 12th day of March, on Monday in the
afternoon about 5 o'clock, did appear in their own persons before me Wm.
Bogardus, Notary Public, residing in New York, admitted by the Rt. Hon. Lord
Edmund Andross, Governor-General, in the behalf of his Royal Highness, James
Duke of York and Albany, etc., and in the presence of the underwritten
witnesses. Mr. Christopher Hoogland and Mrs. Catharine Cregier, joined in
marriage, living within this city and both well known to me and to the
witnesses, the testator being sickly, and the testatrix going and standing
and sound of body, but both using fully and absolutely their sences, memory
and speech." They have nominated and instituted their children, Dirck,
Harman, Martin, Christopher and Frances DeGroot Hoogland, and the children
which they may by the blessing of God get in the future, their lawful
descendants and heirs equally and that the eldest son shall not pretend any
prerogative therein. And further the testators out of special love and
natural affection in matrimony received, and if God pleases to be received,
declare that the whole estate shall go to the survivor for life. If the
survivor remary, an equal division is to be made between the children, and
they are to be caused to learn to read and write, and a trade by which they
may live, and when they come of age they shall receive their portions and the
survivor is not to diminish the right of the children but rather to help and
assist them. And it is their will that the survivor shall not be obliged to
give any account of the estate to the orphan masters of this city "or where
the funeral house may be," or to the testator's friends, excluding them, "All
Laws and Statutes to the contrary notwithstanding." Done at New York in the
house of the testators in the presence of Mr. Francis Rumbaut and Paul
Richards, merchants. Translated from the Dutch, by P. Delanoy.
Page 58.--COENRADT TEN EYCK, New York. "In the Name of God, Amen. Know all
men whom it may concern, that I, Coenradt Ten Eyck, considering my present
weakness," I confirm that matrimonial condition made with my present wife,
whereby she was to have 2,000 guilders, of which I have paid to her creditors
the sum of 1650 guilders, by which there remains the sum of 350 guilders. I
leave to my son Matthias 2,000 guilders, wampum value, to be paid out of the
sum which shall come from the sale of my houses, and to make his profit
therewith without paying any interest for the term of four years, and then he
is to bring it into the common estate. My son Tobias is to have one year's
rent of my two houses, because my other children have a long time had the
benefit of my money and have made their profit therewith. And touching the
tannery, my three sons, Dirck, Tobias and Coenradt, shall have the preference
thereof before others, on condition they pay for the same a reasonable and
civill price upon the estimates of indifferent persons. I appoint and make my
sole and universal heirs my children, Morice, wife of Wessel Ten Broeck,
Jacob, Dirck, Tobias, Coenradt, Hendrick, and Matthias, gotten by my deceased
wife Maria Boise, "head for head, and each in equal proportion." I leave to
my eldest son for his privilege 100 guilders or 12 pieces of eight. Makes his
sons Dirck, Tobias, Coenradt and Hendrick executors
Inventory of estate of JACQUES COUSEAU, January 31, 1682/3, by order of
Mayor's Court. "House and lot sold at vendue to Cornelis Van Bursum, lying in
the Pearle street," 5850 guilders; 1 House and lot upon the Lords Gracht
(Broad street), 8,000 guilders. "Some writing books, accounts and papers,
which we leave to the creditors, and we have valued at 000." Total 14,026
guilders. B. Bayard, Adolph Peters, Abraham Jansen, Paul Richards.
Dated September 10, 1702. Witnesses, J. B. Dutufew, William Creed, Jonas
Wood, Samuel Meel. Proved, October 24, 1702, and Isaac Lenoir, Innholder,
confirmed as executor
Dated September 15, 1671. (Widow mentioned but not named.) Witnesses, B. De
Hart, C. J. Verbeck, Richard Johns. (Not recorded.)
Page 148.--To the Rt. Hon. Edmund Andross Esq. Lieutenant and
Governor-Generall, under His Royal Highness James, Duke of York and Albany,
of all His Majesty's Territori
"Wee the Mayor and Aldermen of this city of New York, Hereby certify that
whereas there was several goods and merchandizes in company with Isaac
Perero, Abraham and Isaac Parveh, which said goods were consigned to Isaac
Continho and Edward Rawlins, in Company. And the said Edward Rawlins being
lately drowned, and an Inventory thereof of the estate so consigned in
company was made the 17th of this instant October, under the hands of
Cornelius Steenwych, John Innyan, Nicholas Bayard and Nicholas Blaske,
amounting to $277, 19s., 6d. Reference thereto had may appear. And the said
Isaac Continho having not only exhibited the said Inventory unto the Court,
and also given sufficient Security to our Sovereign Lord the King, Charles
the 2nd &c. in the sum of $500 to answer the same. Therefore hereby prays
your Honour that you will be pleased to grant him Letters of Administration
of the said estate in company."
Page 279.--Thomas Dongan, Lieut.-General and Governor and Vice-Admirall,
under His Royal Highness, of New York, &c. To all to whom this shall come or
may concerne, know yee that on the day of the date hereof, the last will and
Testament of Joost Adrians, deceased, was proved, and Jan Joosten being
therein appointed as tutor or overseer, he is confirmed as such. Done at Fort
James the 17 day of October, 1683.
Page 281.--An Act of the Governor's Council, the sentencing and confiscating
ye land, houses, and estates of the subjects belonging to the States of
Holland which shall be found within these His Royal Highness's Territoryes.
Whereas the States of the United Belgick Provinces have begun and continued a
warr against His Majesty's our Dread Sovereign, his Realms and Dominions, as
well in Europe as upon His Majesty's foreign plantations, to the great
effusion of Christian blood, and the destruction of commerce. In which cases
it is not only customary but consonant to the Law of Nations to make seisure
of and confiscate ye estates of the subjects of these Powers or States
against whom warr is declared. Now Forasmuch as divers persons of the Dutch
Nation, residing near the Dominion, and being the subjects of the said States
of the United Belgick Provinces, and not under oath or obligation or
allegiance to His Majesty, have and do enjoy within this Government, to their
use and behoofe, several houses and lands, the full discovery of which cannot
at present be found, and in respect of the several private Conveyances,
Letters of Attorney, Deputations, Procurations and the like, Therefore the
Governor by, and with the advice of his Council, have thought fitt to enter
upon the Records (without making publication thereof, for reasons and
considerations satisfactory to themselves). And bee it entered upon the
Records, that from and after the date hereof, all the lands and houses lying
and being within the Territoryes of His Royal Highness James, Duke of York, &c
., which did formerly belong, or, anyways now may appertaine to any of the
subjects of the said States or any of the inhabitants under their Dominion,
(who are under no oath or obligation of Allegiance to His Majesty,) are and
doe stand sentenced and confiscated to His Majesty's use. To the end that the
rents, profits, and emoluments, arising from the confiscation of the said
lands and houses, together with the rents, profits, and emoluments received
and remaining in any other hands, by a Procuration or otherwise, may render
some support to the charge of the Government. And it is further ordered and
declared that the entry of this resolution of the Governor and Councill upon
the Book of Records shall stand true and valid to all intents and purposes,
notwithstanding the formality of the Publication is omitted. And the
execution of this decree and order shall and may be lawfully put in practice
at all or any time from and after the date hereof, as fully and effectually
as if the same had been published, declared and manifested. Given under my
hand, this 10 day of October, 1663, in James Fort. Richard Nicolls.
Page 108.--Jacob Leisler, Lieutenant - Governor, Commander in Chiefe of the
Province of New York under his most excellent majesty William of England, &c
., King, Defender of the Faith, etc. To all to whom these presents may come.
Know ye that at a Court of Sessions, in New York, held the first Tuesday in
August, 1689, the will of WILLIAM COX, merchant, was proved, and Richard
Jones and John Mayle are confirmed as executors. Given under my hand and
sealed with the Seale of the Province at Fort William, in New York, this 10th
day of May, in the second yeare of his Majesty's Reigne, 1690.
Page 292.--Richard Ingoldsby, Commander in Chief, &c. Whereas ADAM MOTT, late
of Hempstead, hath deceased, Letters of administration are granted to his
widow Elizabeth and his son Adam Mott, October 30, 1691.
Major Richard Ingoldsby, Commander in Chief, &c. Whereas THOMAS WALTON hath
lately deceased, leaving goods and chattels, Letters of administration are
granted to Cornelius Coursen, of Staten Island, Principal creditor, November
7, 1691.
Page 302.--Major Richard Ingoldsby, Commander in Chief, &c. Whereas CHARLES
LAMBERT, late of New York, lately deceased on the deep sea on board the
barquentine "St. Mary," Captain Phillip Phillips, commander. Letters of
administration are granted to Wm. Bickley, his uncle and next of kin, at New
York, June 7, 1691.
Page 305.--Major Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas
THOMAS BERRYMAN hath lately deceased leaving a will. And whereas one of the
witnesses is dead, and the other out of the Province and not to be found,
Letters of administration are granted to Jane Berryman, his widow, December
23, 1691.
Page 331.--Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General, Governor, &c. Whereas, on the
9th day of March, 1692, before Henry Beekman and Philip Schuyler, Justices of
the Peace in the Co. of Ulster, the will of PETER L'HOMMEDIEU, late of
Kingston, was proved. Letters of administration are granted to Stephen De
Lancy and Stephen Valleau, and they are confirmed as executors.
Page 333.--Major Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas
THOMAS SLATER, late of the County of Albemarle in Carolina, died on board his
sloop "Hopewell" upon the main ocean, in a voyage from Providence to
Carolina, Letters of administration are granted to Thomas Burroughs,
pewterer, as the principal creditor, May 13, 1692.
Page 334.--Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas the
executors of the will of CHRISTOPHER DEAN, late of this city, deceased, have
relinquished the executorship, Letters of administration are granted to
Hannah Dean, the widow, May 19, 1692.
Major Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas JOHN
ANDERSON, late of New York, died on a voyage to Barbadoes, Letters of
administration are granted to David Kennedy, as principal creditor, June 9,
1692.
Page 338.--Major Richard Ingoldsby, Governor, &c. Whereas PETER HANSEN died
on a voyage to Barbadoes, and left a will but no executors, Letters of
administration are granted to his brother Geritt Hansen, June 26, 1692.
Page 342.--Major Richard Ingoldsby, Captain-General and Governor, &c. To all,
etc. Whereas Doctor JOHN KENNEDY died in a voyage from Barbadoes to this
Province, on the deep sea, on board the Barquentine "Mary," Letters of
administration are granted to Captain Phillip Phillips, as principal
creditor, June 15, 1692.
Page 410.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor in Chiefe, &c.
Whereas THOMAS JOHNSON of late come from England to this city, is deceased,
Letters of administration are granted to Abraham De Peyster, January, 1692.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor in Chief, &c. Know ye that at
Fort William Henry, on February 15, 1692/3, the will of JOHANES VAN HOORN of
New York was proved, and the same is confirmed.
Page 424.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor in Chiefe, &c. To
all, etc. Know ye that on the -- day of -- at a Court of Record held in ye
city Hall in New York, the last will and testament of GERRITT CORNELIUS VAN
EXWEEN was proved, and Letters of administration are granted his widow
Wyntie.
Page 430.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General, and Governor-in-Chiefe, &c.
Whereas JOHN DISHONTON, late of this city, mariner, deceased, upon the main
sea, in a voyage from England to this place on board the sloop "English and
Berwick," intestate, Letters of administration are granted to his wife
Cornelia, June 8, 1693.
Page 7.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas ISAAC
VAN HOOK lately died intestate, Letters of Administration are granted to
Anotje Van Hook the widow, November 15, 1693.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain General and Governor, &c. Whereas JOHN WEST lately
died intestate, Letters of administration are granted to Robert Wharton and
his wife Anne, late widow of said John West, March 9, 1693/4.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor, &c. To all, etc. Know ye
that at New York the 19th of April, 1694, the will of DIRCK VAN DER CLIFFE,
in Dutch, remaining in the Secretary's office, a translation whereof is
annexed, was proved, and Geesie Van der Cliffe, the widow, is confirmed as
executor.
DIRCK VAN DER CLIFFE. "In the name of God, Amen. Know all men who shall see
this present public Instrument, that on July 24, 1686, appeared in their own
persons, before me, Wm. Bogardus, Notary Public, in New York, admitted by the
Rt. Hon. Thomas Dongan, Lieutenant-Governor, &c., and in the presence of the
underwritten witnesses, Dirck Van der Clyff and Mrs. Geesie Hendricks,
married people, living within this city, well known to me and to the
witnesses, and both in good health." The survivor is to have full possession
and disposal of all the estate, and is to maintain the children, and they are
to be taught "to read and write, and an art or trade by which they may live."
He leaves to his son John Dircksen Van der Clyff his sword with a silver
handle. Mentions daughter Maria and the "under aged children" (not named).
"All this being distinctly read to the testators, they declare it to be their
last will and testament." Witnesses, Hans Kierstede, Jacobus Kip.
nventory of the estate of GOUVERT LOCKERMANS. "One Piece of ground over
against Johanes Van Brugh as by Patent." A long list of book accounts showing
a very great number of small debts owing to him. Sworn to by Balthazar
Bayard, August 26, 1692. Total amount 52,072 guilders.
NOTE.--The "Piece of ground" is on the north side of Hanover Square next west
of Hanover street, which is a part of the ancient "Sloat Lane.
egistered for Captain William Kidd and Sarah his wife. An Inventory of all
the goods and chattells of Mr. JOHN OORT, deceased, found in the possession
of his widow Mrs. Sarah Oort, now wife of Captain William Kidd, and appraized
as here underwritten this 19th day of October, 1692, in New York at the
request of said Captain Wm. Kidd. John Smith, Wm. Huddlestone. 1 dozen turkey
worked chairs, $1 1s; 1 Pipe of Madeira wine, $12; 104 ounces of Plate, $101;
total amount, $155. Exhibited for a true and perfect Inventory of all and
singular the goods, rights, credits of John Oort, deceased, by William Kidd
and Sarah his wife, this 26th day of October, 1692.
Thomas Burroughs, administrator of the estate of "THOMAS SLATER of Carolina,
master of the sloop 'Hopewell' who deceased in a voyage from Providence to
Carolina, the sloop being taken up at sea and brought into this Port of New
York, there being none of the sloop's company alive, but two who were
ignorant of navigation." The said Thomas Burroughs exhibits inventory of his
estate. 342 bushels of salt sold for 2s. 6d. per bushel, $42 15s. Sworn to by
Thomas Burroughs November 9, 1692.
Page 379.--Inventory of estate of JAMES LATEY, taken May 1, 1692, by Wm. Le
Count, administrator. 810 acres of land, in several parcels, and a small
island, $109, 10; 7 oxen, $26, 5; 8 cows, $16; 12 pigs,$1, 4; a Turkey hen, 1
shilling; 20 common hens, 10 shillings; 14 geese and ganders, 14 shillings; 4
great negro men, $120; a negro boy, 12 years old, $22; a mulatto, 5 years
old, $15; a little negro boy, 3 months old, $2; 4 negro women, $96; negro
girl, 4 years old, $12; 2 pieces of gold, weighing 2 ounces, $10, 6; 24
Spannish Pistoles (one light), $32; 29 light pieces of 8, $7, 5. Total, $693.
The inventory shows extensive farming operations.
PHILLIP SMITH, New York. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Phillip Smith, of New
York, being sick and weak." Leaves all of his estate to his wife Margaret,
for life or during her widowhood, "but if she marry and take a husband," then
she is to have her thirds only. Rest of estate to his children Phillip,
Margaret, Katharine and Mary.
Page 390.--HENDRICK (or HENRY) BOELEN. "Know all men by these presents, that
I, Henry Boelen, of New York, smith, being sick and weak. I leave to my wife,
Antie Berents, the use of all my estate during her life, and she shall give
to her son Alexander, when of age, such portion as she can conveniently
spare, and after her decease he is to be sole heir, and if he should die the
estate to go to Boelen Roeloffs, my father. If my wife should remarry she
shall secure to my son Abraham Boelen $125, and he is to be instructed to
read and write, and afterwards to learn a trade by which he shall live in the
future. He is also to have my great Dutch Bible as a particular gift and
legacy." Makes Roeler Roeloffen, Jacob Boelen, Dirck Ten Eyck tutors and
overseers, and his wife executor.
Dated May 15, 1691. Witnesses, A. De Lanoy, P. De Lanoy.
Page 401.--Account of Cornelius Steenwyck, administrator of estate of John
Schackerly. Presented by Rev. Henricus Selynus and Margaretta his wife, the
said Cornelius Steenwyck being deceased, and his widow Margaretta having
married the said Rev. Henricus Selynus. This account shows a very extensive
list of small debts due from a large number of persons. January --, 1692.
Quietus granted January --, 1692.
Page 404.--Captain GEORGE BRADSHAW. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Captain
George Bradshaw, of New York, Gentleman, being sicke, Do make this my last
will and testament. I leave to my sister Susannah Bradshaw alias Wentworth,
of Doncaster, in the Co. of Yorke, England, widow, for the use of my son
Richard, all sums she may obtain by virtue of a letter from me to her, out of
the estate of Owen Fritton, late of Gardins in Wales. She paying to my loving
wife Elizabeth $100. Leaves all rest of his estate to his wife.
Page 412.--THOMAS JOHNSON. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Johnson, at
present sick in body." "I leave my body to a decent burial at such a place as
shall be thought most convenient by his Excellency the Governor and
Councill." He appoints Abraham De Peyster executor. I desire my gold and
Diamond ring to be sent to my dear and loving wife Agnes Johnson, living in
Durham, Lancashire, England. I leave to his Excellency Governor Benjamin
Fletcher a golden funeral ring, for a remembrance. The overplus of any
effects in this country is left to Mrs. Barbara Morton. And as for my affairs
in England, I have already settled them before my coming from thence.
NOTE.--Minnie Johanes was the owner of a large tract where the present
village of Haverstraw now stands. What is now Rockland County, was originally
part of Orange County, and known as "Orange South of the Mountains."-
age 422.--ADAM BREWER. "In the name of God Amen. Whereas I, Adam Brewer,
Berkhoon, inhabitant of ye Towne of Brooklandt, being at present sick, but
fully having my knowledge and understanding." "I desire that none of my
children shall trouble or move their mother during her life." "I leave to my
eldest son Peter, 3 shillings by reason that he has been disobedient to his
father. And also Jacob Brewer and Altie Brewer for reason of their
disobedience shall not receive a penney from their father Adam Brewer," but
their portions are left to their children. The other 7 children, Mathys,
William, Adam, Abraham, Anna, Sarah, and Rachel shall have an equal share in
the estate. Leaves to Adolphus the son of William, 3 pieces of 8. To
Magdalena, daughter of Peter, 1 piece of 8, and to his daughter Vrentie 1
piece of 8. "This is that which ye Testator Adam Brewer as his last will and
testament, he hath signed and sealed the same with his own hand," January 22,
1691/2. Makes Barent Van Flentburg and Wm. Nazareth tutors and overseers.
Page 424.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor in Chiefe, &c. To
all, etc. Know ye that on the -- day of -- at a Court of Record held in ye
city Hall in New York, the last will and testament of GERRITT CORNELIUS VAN
EXWEEN was proved, and Letters of administration are granted his widow
Wyntie.
Page 428.--WM. RICHARDSON, Westchester. "This is to satisfie all whom it may
concerne, that I, Wm. Richardson, of Westchester being sicke and weak, in
order to avoid all disturbances, do make and declare this to be my last will
and Testament." Leaves to Mary Cock $20, "it being her just due from me,"
"also my first wife's wearing apparall." "Also a pair of silver hilted knives
and a pair of scissors with a silver chain to them. I leave to my three sons
Wm, Thomas, and John, all my plate. To Hannah and Sarah Cock, 20 shillings
each. All the rest of my estate is to be sold by my executors, and the
proceeds to be paid to my 3 sons when they are 20 years of age. If the estate
is not sold before the sons come to the age of 20 years, then if any son has a
mind to settle where I now live, he shall have the place upon the
appraisement of indifferent persons." Makes his friends John Bowne, John
Rodman, and Samuel Hoit, of Flushing, and John Ferris and John Palmer of
Westchester, executors. "In witness whereof, I to this, my last will and
Testament, set my hand and seal, at my house in Westchester, this 20 day of
the 10th month called December, 1692."
Page 432.--At a Court of Record held in the City Hall in New York on the 18
of December, 1688, the last will of TEUNIS DEY was proved, and letters of
administration are granted to his widow, Hannah Ryerse, who has since married
George Ryerse, and the will confirmed, June 15, 1693
Page 433.--TEUNIS DEY. "In the name of the Lord, Amen. To all Christian
People to whom these presents shall come. I, Teunis Dey, of the city of New
York, yeoman, being sick, do make this my last will and testament." "My wife
is to remain in full possession of the estate and maintain all the children
during her life, and while she remains unmarried, but if she come to a new
wedlock, she is to have one-half and the other half to go to the children,
and she is to bring up the children to learn an art or trade to live by, and
as a pious mother, for God's sake, is bound to do." Makes his wife and his
father-in-law, John Le Counte, executors.
Page 445.--HENRY MAYLE, New York. "In the name of God, Amen, the 13 July,
1692. I, Henry Mayle, of New York, merchant, being in sound health." I leave
to Wm. Phillips, son of Theophilus Phillips, $10 when of age. To Mary
Phillips, Wm. Morris, Rebecca Morris, and Joseph Phillips each a gold ring,
value 20 shillings. Leaves all the rest of property to his brother Jacob
Mayle, and makes him executor.
Page 447.--Inventory of estate of PHILLIP SMITH, taken December 23, 1692.
"Registered for Albert Bosch and Nicholas Blank, administrators of Phillip
Smith, vintner, deceased, 17 English and Latin books, $1.10. Dutch printed
books, 10s. 1 Jacobus, gold, $1.10. House and ground, $200. A Ledger book
beginning with Albert Bosch, and ending with Cornelius Viellers. The book of
accounts of the store day book, beginning December 8, 1691, with Thomas Cook,
and ending with Albert Bosch, November 18, 1692. Peter Jacobs Marius,
Hendrick Jellis, mayor, Evert Hartinburgh, Thomas Burroughs.
DIRCK JANSEN DEY.--"In the name of God, Amen, know all men by these presents,
that on the 5 of December, 1683, before me, Wm. Bogardus, Public Notary, in
the presence of the under written witnesses. Dirck Jansen Dey, living just
without this city, known to me, being sick a bed." Leaves to his wife Geetie
Jansen, "all that land which at present lyeth to the south side of the house
where the testator is dwelling, stretching to the land of Mr. Olof Stevens
Van Cortlandt, and from the highway to the strand, or water side as far as
his right is, reserving only an alley of four feet to the south side of the
house." The rest of the premises are left one half to his wife, the other
halPage 472.--RICHARD JONES, New York. "For as much as the Lord who formed my
body and gave breath thereto, and hath to this moment preserved its being, is
now pleased to visit the same with sickness, I not knowing how soon he may
put a period to my days, I make this my last will and testament." "I leave to
my sister Jane one shilling, To my cousin John Jones, $5. To Abraham Buckley,
20s, to Silvester Salisbury, my servant, 20s, to my friend, Rachel Willis,
20s. To my two daughters, Dorcas and Hester Jones, all my land and meadows
within the Province of New York and East New Jersey, except as hereafter
disposed of, and two thirds of my personal estate." "I leave to my wife
Dorcas the other third of the personal estate. Also one half of four lots of
land and a wharfe, bounded on the east by lots of Brandt Schuyler, west by a
slip or cart way leading from the Tan Pitts unto the river, in the place
called the Smith's Vly, in New York. And I authorize her to give deeds for
one half of a certain parcel of land lying in King street, opposite to the
house of Captain Laurence Reade, to John Rodman of Long Island, Doctor in
Physick, from whom I have already received pay in account. And I leave to my
wife Dorcas the other half. And whereas Wm. Morris of New York, merchant, and
myself have purchased of Thomas Lloyd of Philadelphia, a piece of land,
bounded east by the Green Lane, south by land of Jan Vinge, west by land of
Miles Forster, and north by the new street, which may appear by articles
under his hand, And of Daniel Veenvas and his wife Christiana, one piece of
land in the above said Green Lane, and to the Tan Pitts, and to the new
street, as by deed will appear, And one great tract of land bought of Gerritt
Jans Roos and Dr. Luycas Van Thienhoven, beginning at the corner of the fence
of the land in Green Lane, bought of Thomas Lloyd, and so from thence along
the Green Lane to the corner of the new street called Smith street, and so
running directly up the hill until it comes to a designed street called
Queens street, and from thence to the land of Miles Forster in the said
street, and so along his fence to the place where it first begun. Which said
several tracts of land are laid out or intended to be laid out in particular
lots by James Evetts, surveyor. Now ye said Wm. Morris and myself, by verbal
agreements, concluded an arrangement in case of mortality, but it has not yet
been done. If any part of this tract is sold or divided it is to be paid to
the credit of my two daughters." Makes his wife executor, and Wm. Nicolls, of
New York, and Wm. Berkely, of Shrewsbury, New Jersey, overseers. I leave to
Wm. Nicolls $5, and to Wm. Berkely, the same.f to his children, Teunis and
Jannettie. The testator further declares that he has fully satisfied his son
Teunis for his mother's share.
[NOTE.--The will of Richard Jones embraces several tracts of land of great
value. The "Smith's Vly" is now Pearl street. The lot mentioned as "bounded
east by the land of Brandt Schuyler" is a wide lot sold to Richard Jones by
the Mayor and Aldermen of the city, September 7, 1692, and bounded north by
Queen street (now Pearl street), west by the slip at the foot of Maiden lane.
Richard Jones sold half of this to Abraham DePeyster. The lot was 190 feet
wide and Fletcher street runs through the middle of it. The "Tan Pitts" were
at the south east corner of the Shoemaker's Pasture, or about where No. 77-79
Maiden lane now are. The lot "on King street opposite to the house of Captain
Laurence Read" is now No. 56-58 Pine street. The tract of land bought of
Thomas Lloyd is bounded east by Maiden lane (which is the Green lane
mentioned in the will), and north by Nassau street. The "great tract bought
of Gerritt Jans Roos and Dr. Luycas Van Thienhoven (who were the executors of
Jan Vinge) is bounded east by Maiden lane, south by William street, and west
by Cedar street (formerly called Little Queen street). The lot bought of
Daniel Veenvos and wife, is probably a part of the "Shoemaker's Pasture," and
lies at the east corner of Maiden lane and William street. The widow of
Dorcas Jones afterwards married Captain Robert Lurting.-
Recorded for Captain John Mellowes. These are to certify all whom it may
concerne that Captain John Mellows, Master and Commander of the Pink "Ann,"
Burthen, 35 Tons, Mounted with 4 guns, Manned with 7 men, English built and
bound for New York, Hath taken on board 40 Hogsheads of Rum, 7 hogsheads and
26 barrels of Molasses, 6 Kilderkins of Sugar, and 2 bags of cotton, for
which the duties are paid, under the Act of the 25th year of his late
Majesty, for better securing the Plantacon Trades. And has given a bond in
the sum of $1,000, conditioned that the goods shall be carried to some port
in England, Wales or Berwick on Tweed, or to some other port of His Majesty's
Plantacans. Dangers of the Seas excepted. Dated at the Custom House in
Barbadoes August 5, 1686.
Page 1.--SARA ROELOFFSE (Translated from the Dutch). "In the name of God,
Amen. Be it known to all whom it may concern, that I, Sarah Roeloffse, late
widow of Elbert Elbertse Stouthoff, considering the frailty and shortness of
Human life, Do make my last will in manner following. 1st. I commit my
immortal Soul into the merciful hands of God Almighty, and my body to a
decent burial. 2nd. I revoke all other wills. Now I will before anything else
to my daughter Blandina, of this city, a negro boy, Hans. To my son Luycas
Kierstede, my Indian, named Ande. To my daughter Catharine Kierstede, a
negress, named Susannah. To my son in-law, Jacobus Kip, husband of my said
daughter Catharine, my negro, Sarah, in consideration of great trouble in
settling the accounts of my late husband, Cornelius Van Borsum, in Esopus and
elsewhere. To my son Jochem Kierstede, a little negro, called Maria, during
his life, and then to Sarah, the eldest daughter of my daughter Rachel
Kierstede by her husband, Ytie Kierstede. To my son Johanes Kierstede, a
negro boy, Peter. I leave to my daughter Anna Van Borsum, by my former
husband, Cornelius Van Borsum, on account of her simplicity, my small house
and kitchen, and lot situate in this city, between the land of Jacob Marits
and my bake house, with this express condition, that she shall not be
permitted to dispose of the same by will or otherwise, but to be hers for
life and then to the heirs mentioned in this will.
Page 471.--Letters of administration upon estate of Captain C'SAR CARTER, who
died on board the Barquentine "Greyhound" in a voyage from Jamaica to this
Province, granted "to Major Thomas Richards his fellow-passenger," October 9,
1693.
Codicil, August 7, 1693, confirms the above will and leaves all her clothing
to her daughters Blandina, Catharine and Rachel, "and to each of the wives of
my 5 sons a silver spoon." Witness Peter Schuyler, Justice of the Peace.
Proved, October 21, 1693.
NOTE.--Sara Roeloffse was the daughter of the famous Aneke Jans, by her
first husband, Roeloff Jansen. Sara Roeloffse married first Hans Kiersted,
"chirurgeon," after his death she married Cornelius Van Borsum, and her third
and last husband was Elbert Elbertse Stouthoff. Her house was on the north
corner of Pearl street and Whitehall. The small house left to her daughter
Anna Van Borsum was next north of this. She was well acquainted with the
Indian language and acted as interpreter for Peter Stuyvesant. It was at her
first wedding that Governor Kieft, taking advantage of the condition of the
guests "after the fourth or fifth drink," induced them to subscribe very
liberally toward building a new church in the fort.
CHRISTINA CAPPOENS. "In the name of God, Amen. Be it known to all whom it may
concerne, that I, underwritten Christina Cappoens, late widow of David
Jochemson, deceased, dwelling in the city of New York, considering the
weakness of this life, and wishing to settle my things in order by
distributing my temporal estate as I do by these presents." I give and
bequeath in particular to my daughter Maria Hays, married to Peter Praa,
first my small house with the land from the front to the rear, as far as my
right extends, with the lane, except eight inches in said lane, which is to
remain to my great house from the front to the rear, which shall be the
parting line between my great house and lot and my small house and lot from
one street to the other. Which said line (except the aforesaid eight inches),
my said daughter shall and may build upon, as to her may seem meet. Provided
that my said daughter Maria shall not dispose of the said small house by will
or otherwise, but only to receive the rents during her life, and after her
death to go to her children or their lawful heirs, and in default of such
heirs, then to the next of my kindred in blood, but not to the children of
Joost Adriansen, deceased. I also leave to my daughter Maria the use and
income of my land and meadow and Bowery, lying at Maspeth Kills, and which is
now in possession of herself and her husband, and after her death it is to go
to her two children, Sara Molenaer, procured by Joost Adriansen Molenaer and
Catrina Praa, procured by her present husband Peter Praa and such other
children as she may leave. The said Peter Praa to have the use of the same
during his life, but if he remains there after the death of his wife then he
shall pay to the children for said Bowery, 10,000 guilders in wampum value. I
also give to my daughter Maria my silver beaker, one gold vase, diamond ring,
a silver cup and pepper box, and a silver cup with a silver cover, and three
silver spoons. I leave to Sara Molenaer, daughter of my daughter Maria, my
great house and lot where I now live with the kitchen behind, and also eight
inches of the lane between my said great house and my small house from front
to rear. My daughter Maria is to receive the rents till her daughter Sara
comes of age, or shall be married. If she dies under age, then the house is
to go to her sister Catrina Praa. I also leave to said Sara, a saltcellar
marked with the full name of Christina Roselaers and marked with her
coat-of-arms, also a silver beaker marked the same, and a silver mustard pot
marked with the name of Jacob Hay. Also my Church book with silver clasps and
chain, and a silver cup and six silver spoons and a silver chain, one great
ear spangle with ear jewels, and my largest hoop ring, and a gold finger ring
with a diamond in it, and a silver tumbler marked J. H. I leave to Catrina
Praa the child of my daughter Maria, and Peter Praa, a silver beaker and six
silver spoons marked J. H. All the rest of estate is left to her daughter
Maria Praa, and her grand child Sara Molenaer. She makes Hon. Nicholas
Bayard, mayor, and her cousin Jacob Ver Hulst and Mr. John Harperdingh
executors. If my son-in-law Peter Praa opposes this will, or if he misbehave
himself as to the children, he shall be debarred from all benefits.
[NOTE.--The real estate mentioned in the above will, was left to Christina
Cappoens by her husband David Jochemsen. The "great house and lot" is now No.
61 Stone Street. Peter Praa, the son-in-law, is probably the same man known
in early deeds as Peter Praa Provoost. The house and lot No. 61 Stone Street
was owned by David Provost, of Morris Co., New Jersey, and his heirs sold it
to Freeman Clarkson, in 1792. In 1754 the "small house and lot" was sold to
Cornelius Clopper, David Provost, Mathias Ernst and Elias Des Brosses by John
Van Zandt, who owned one-quarter, and Abraham Schenck, of Bushwick, who owned
three-quarters, the price being $282. They bought this for a public street,
and part of the purchase money was paid by the Corporation of New York, and
part by public subscription. The above purchasers conveyed it to the city
February 15, 1755. It is now the narrow alley leading from Stone street to
South William street, and between Nos. 61 and 63 Stone street. It is the only
street in the city without an official name, but was in former days popularly
known as "Jews' Alley."-
nventory of estate of JOHN SMITH, exhibited by Jannettie Smith, the widow,
November 21, 1693. 1 negro woman and child, in the kitchen, $24; A large
Dutch Bible, $2, 5s.; A small English Bible, 3s.; 2 gold rings, $1, 10s.; 12
silver spoons, $5, 10s.; 1 pair of silver buckles, 7s. 6d.; Silver Porringer,
$2; Small lot of household goods. Total not given.
Page 15.--Inventory of estate of CHRISTINA CAPPOENS, widow of David
Jochemsen. Taken by Nicholas Bayard, Jan Harperdingh and Rip Van Dam, and
approved by a Court of ye Worshipful Mayor of ye said city, by the oath of
Isaac De Forrest and Jacobus Van der Spiegel.
"The Testator's great house and lot of ground, to the north of Duke street,
next to ye house and lot of Jan Harperdingh, bequeathed to her daughter's
child, Sarah Molenaer, provided ye rents be received by her mother, Maria
Praa, for her use till she be of age. The Testator's little house and lot,
next to ye great house, bequeathed to her daughter, Maria Praa." "The
Testator's farm on Nassau Island, in Maspeth Kills, now in possession of
Peter Praa" (not valued). Silver Beaker, 12 ounces, at 7s., $4, 4s.; one gold
rose diamond ring, $5; one silver pepper box, 2 1/2 oz., at 7s., 17s. 6d.;
one silver beaker, marked with the full name of Christina Rasselaers, 16 oz,
at 7s., $5, 12; one silver salt cellar, marked with the name of Christina
Rasselaers, 14 oz., $4, 10s.; one Church book with silver clasps and chain,
$1, 16; one gold ear pendant, with ye ear jewels, weight 2 oz. good, at $5
per ounce, $10. This inventory shows a very long list of household goods.
Total not given. The above inventory is sworn to as being correct, by the
executors, January 5, 1693/4, before Abraham De Peyster, Mayor.
Page 18.--Inventory of estate of JACQUES CORTILIOW, Registered for Jacques
Cortiliow, of New Town, Kings County, on the Island of Nassau, January 20,
1693/4, by Jan Van Cleef and John Van Dyck, inhabitants of New Utrecht. Sworn
by Roeloffs Martinse Schenck, one of their Majestie's Justices of the Peace.
This inventory shows a small stock of farming utensils, etc. Real estate not
given.
Page 24.--JAN JOOSTEN VAN ROLLEGON. "In the name of God, Amen. Be it known to
every one to whom it belongs or may concerne, that we, underwritten Jan
Joosten Van Rollegon and Tryntie Jans Van Hartenburgh, married people,
dwelling within this city of New York, knowing the weakness and mortality of
all human kind, and willing to anticipate the same with a fitting disposition
of our temporal affairs." The "longest liver" of the two is to retain the
full use of the estate, but if he or she remarry, then the estate to be
divided among the children, namely, Maria, married to Nicholas Geritse Van
Rovenstein, Anna, wife of Tobias Stoutenburgh, Gertrude, wife of Bartholomew
Le Roux, Johanes and Jacobus, in such portions "as the survivor shall think
meet in conscience and equity." Johanes as the eldest son is to have "100
pieces of 8, being $30, this country money," and Jacobus shall have 30 pieces
of 8, being $9. I leave to my son Johanes a gold ring wherein the name of
Tryntie Jans Van Hardenburgh is graved, and to Jacobus another ring with the
same inscription. If my son Johanes shall wish to buy the house and lot he
shall have the preference "for a civil price by moderate persons to be
valued."
Page 28.--I, John Ringfield, John Thompson and Henry Cattle, all at present
of the city of New York, mariners, being sworn say. That upon the 13th of
December last, being then arrived at New London, in the Colony of
Connecticutt, in the Pink "Blossom," John Whitford, Commander, from the
Island of Barbadoes, and being bound to New York, the which Pink now rideth
in this Harbour. One COURT COULSON, one of the mariners, on her late voyage,
being before this time taken sick on board the said vessel, the day and year
above said at New London, did then make his verbal and nuncupative will, in
the presence of us. That he willed and declared that the said John Whitford
should in case of his death take care to bury the said Court Coulson in a
decent manner, and that he should have his wages and estate. And that some
time afterwards on the same day he died; and that the commander, the said
John Whitford, did afterwards at his own cost bury the said Court Coulson as
decently as the place and circumstances of their affairs would permit.
29.--Inventory of estate of ELIZABETH BANCKER, widow of Gerritt Bancker.
Taken by her son Evert Bancker, and her son in law Johanes De Peyster, in
presence of Guysbert Van Imburgh and Peter De Lanoy. A house in New York,
between the house of Anthony Farmer and Hendrick Jacobs and Thomas Roberts,
as by transport. A House lot by the water side (not valued). This Inventory
is written in the Dutch language. Gives a long list of household goods not
valued. Also goods, etc., at Albany, July 19, 1693.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor, &c. To all, etc. Know ye
that at New York the 19th of April, 1694, the will of DIRCK VAN DER CLIFFE,
in Dutch, remaining in the Secretary's office, a translation whereof is
annexed, was proved, and Geesie Van der Cliffe, the widow, is confirmed as
executor.
DIRCK VAN DER CLIFFE. "In the name of God, Amen. Know all men who shall see
this present public Instrument, that on July 24, 1686, appeared in their own
persons, before me, Wm. Bogardus, Notary Public, in New York, admitted by the
Rt. Hon. Thomas Dongan, Lieutenant-Governor, &c., and in the presence of the
underwritten witnesses, Dirck Van der Clyff and Mrs. Geesie Hendricks,
married people, living within this city, well known to me and to the
witnesses, and both in good health." The survivor is to have full possession
and disposal of all the estate, and is to maintain the children, and they are
to be taught "to read and write, and an art or trade by which they may live."
He leaves to his son John Dircksen Van der Clyff his sword with a silver
handle. Mentions daughter Maria and the "under aged children" (not named).
"All this being distinctly read to the testators, they declare it to be their
last will and testament." Witnesses, Hans Kierstede, Jacobus Kip.
[NOTE.--Dirck Van der Clyff was the owner of a tract of land, bounded south
by Maiden lane, north by the Beekman farm, west by the Shoemaker's Pasture
and east by the rear of lots fronting on Pearl street. This he bought of
Henry Rychen, of Flatbush, August 9, 1681. On this tract he had an house and
orchard, and kept a place of entertainment. After his death it was laid out
in lots, and streets were opened, namely, Gold street, Orange (now Cliff
street), Van Cliff street (now John), and Nassau (now Fulton). Geesie Van der
Cliff was one of the three daughters of Hendrick Williams, whose house was on
the north corner of Broad and Bridge streets.
[NOTE.--Sarah Willett was a daughter of Thomas Willett, of Flushing.]
Page 39.--RICHARD ELLIOTT. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Richard Elliott, of
the city of New York, Cooper, being very sick." Leaves all estate to his wife
Susannah during her life or widowhood, and then to children Robert, Joseph,
Henry, and John. To son Joseph my cane and gold ring. To son Henry a set of
silver waistcoat buttons. To my sister-in-law, Sarah Hart, a morning gown. To
my God son, John Tudor, a mourning ring. To my God son, Joseph Huddlestone, a
silver spoon. To my God child, Mary Fromantte, a silver spoon. Makes his wife
executor.
[NOTE.--The house and lot of Richard Elliot (or Ellet) has a curious history.
In 1721 there was no known owner for the land, and by order of Governor
Burnett an "Inquisition" was made before Gillet Livingston and a jury of
prominent men. This elicited the fact that Richard Ellet, the former owner,
was long since dead, and by what title he held the property was unknown. He
left four sons, three of whom died without issue. The fourth son, Henry, "had
gone to sea more than twenty years agoe," and had never been heard from
since, and that the only owner was the said Henry who was doubtless dead. Mr.
Thomas Clark had taken possession and had paid the taxes. Under these
circumstances the Governor and Council adjudged that the premises had
escheated to the Crown, and the Council "not knowing in any of our Colonyes
in America, a more Deserving and Learned Person in Divinity, History,
Chronology and many other Parts of Learning, than our Loving Subject Lewis
Row, minister of the French Church in our City of New York," they grant him
the said houses and lots, August 23, 1723. Rev. Lewis Row died in 1750 and
his heirs sold it to his son, Mr. Lewis Row, "gentleman," in 1751. He died
within a year, leaving it to his wife, Affie, who married John Duyckinck.
They sold the whole to James Perry of London and Thomas Hayes of New York,
June 27, 1763. The western part of Delmonico's building on South William
street stands on these lots, which originally were bounded south by Mill
street. The lot was 38 feet wide and there were two houses on it.
Page 40.--JOHN MARTINSE SCHENCK. "In the name of Jesus Christ, in the year
which we write 1688 or 9, the 28 day of January. I, John Martinse at present
being sick abed." His wife Jannettie Stevens is to remain in full possession
of all the estate, till the youngest child is of age or married. "Then shall
Martin Johnson take in his possession the old house with the small island and
mill, on condition that he render to his mother yearly 600 guilders." The
youngest son, Stephen Johnson, shall have the lot of land in the neck with
the meadow at Hog Neck. The other children shall have as follows: Stephen
Johnson, 100 pieces of 8. Jannettie Johnson, 100 pieces of 8 and 2 cows, and
daughter Neltie to have the same. As regards an expected child, "if it be a
son he shall have the money standing out in New York, 1600 guilders. If it be
a daughter, it is to have the same as the other daughters."
Page 45.--RICHARD CORNELL. "In the Name of God, Amen, this 7th day of
November in the year 1693, I, Richard Cornell, of Rockaway in Queens County,
being sicke, do make this my last will and testament." I do bind and make
over all my lands and meadows at Rockaway upon the south side of the Island
of Nassau, for the paying and satisfying of a certain debt, owing by me to
the children of John Washburn, deceased. And if my executors do not pay the
said debt when due, then I direct the overseers of this will to sell the same
for that purpose, and give the overplus to my four sons, William., Jacob,
Thomas and John. I leave to my son William a certain part of my lands and
meadows situate at Rockaway, bounded north with the old fence upon the south
side of the last years wheat field, and so running east to Hempstead line,
and south by the sea. Including all lands and meadows, excepting my now
dwelling house and orchard and the pasture thereto adjoining with the barn
and the land in tillage about it. Which reservation I give to my dear and
loving wife Elizabeth Cornell, during her widowhood, and then to my son
William. I leave to my son Thomas, all that portion of land and meadow bought
by me of John Smith of Hempstead, commonly called Little Smith. Also another
part of my land and meadow, bounded south by my son William's line; north by
the middle of the Fresh Cove that Robert Beadell's meadow was laid out in,
and so running east to the three rail fence, and further if it shall happen.
I leave to my sons Jacob and John, all my lands and meadows to the north of
Thomas Cornell's line, situate at Rockaway. Bounded north by the Great river
or Cove, east by the three rail fence, to be divided equally between them. I
leave to my son Richard ten acres of meadow joining to Wells his line, to run
north and south upon an equal line. I leave to my son William ten acres of
meadow joining the above, and to run in the same manner. I leave to my
daughter Elizabeth Lawrence, ten acres of meadow joining to my son William's
meadow, and to run in the same manner. I leave to my daughter, Mary Cornell,
$100, one third to be paid to her when of age, the rest in yearly payments.
Also one half of the indoor movables. Leaves to his wife the use of the house
and lands during her widowhood. Leaves 12 heifers to his 12 grand children,
namely the children of his son Richard, "the children of my son Washburn,"
and the children of my son John Lawrence. Leaves to his daughter Sarah
Arnold, 2 cows. If my wife remarry then she is to have $100 and one half of
the movables. Directs his lands at Cow neck to be sold, and the money to go
to all his children. Leaves all his rights in the undivided lands in
Hempstead to his five sons. His four sons, Richard, Thomas, Jacob and John,
are to have the right to put horses on the beach, and they are to assist in
making the fence. And if his sons Jacob and John see cause to build by the
path side to the eastward of my dwelling house, and on the land purchased of
Little Smith, I give to each of them two acres of said land. All the money in
my house, and all the debts due to me, shall be employed for the payment of
the children of the deceased John Washburn and Captain Charles Lodowick.
Makes his wife Elizabeth, and sons Richard and William executors, and his
friends Colonel Thomas Willett, Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Hicks and Captain
Daniel White, overseers. (Not witnessed.) Proved before Governor Fletcher,
October 3, 1694.
Thomas Dongan, Lieutenant-Governor, &c. To all to whom these Presents may
come. Know ye that at a Court of Record held by the Mayor and Aldermen in New
York on June 15, 1683, the will of ROBERT STORY, late of this city, merchant,
was proved, and his wife Patience Story is confirmed as executor.
Province of Pennsilvania, November 19, 1694, the above examined and found to
be a true copy.
Inventory of the estate of ROBERT STORY, who deceased in New York, the 29th
day of the 10th month called December, 1683, taken by Matthew Pryor, Samuel
Spicer, Francis Richardson and Wm. Frampton. The dwelling house and lot of
land it stands on $350; the boulting house, back house, cooper's shop with
the lot it stands on, $180; 2 negro men, 2 negro women, and a young negro
boy, $135; cash, $372; Wampum, Pipes and skins, $44; Mill house and land at
Esopus, $489; the sloop "Returne," $120; 1/4 of ship "Robert," $75; debts due
to him in New York, Long Island and East Jersey, $1,296; total, $7,572. This
Inventory is very extensive and shows a very large amount of dry goods and
extensive business. An additional list shows household goods to the amount of
$468.
NOTE.--Patience Story, the widow, afterward married Thomas Lloyd, a wealthy
merchant of Philadelphia. The daughter, Mercy Story, married John Godfrey.
Patience Story married Thomas Lloyd at Flushing, Long Island, the 27th day of
the 10th month, 1684.]
Page 60.--Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, &c. To all to whom these may come.
Whereas JAMES LARKINS, late of New York, died on a voyage from New York to
England, by way of Maryland, and Katharine his wife having married Captain
Lancaster Symes, Letters of administration are granted to them November 19,
1694.
SUSANNAH BRASIER. "In the Name of God, Amen, this 10 day of July, 1694, I,
Susannah Brasier, of New York, being sound in body, and knowing that I am
ordained to die." Having full power by the will of my late husband Henry
Brasier, dated April 23, 1689, to dispose of all the estate, I give to my son
Henry Brasier, one half of the land in the Smith's Vly, where he hath built
upon during his life, and then to his daughter Susannah. I leave to my son
Isaac Brasier, the other half during his life, and then to his daughter
Susannah. I leave to my son Abraham my house and ground in this city on
condition that it be appraised, and what it is worth more than the land in
the Smith's Vly, the surplus is to be paid to my four daughters, and after
his death the house and lot is to go to his son Henry. Leaves household goods
to her daughters Sarah and Susannah. Leaves to each of her grandchildren a
silver spoon, value 10 shillings. Leaves to Mary Barnes, daughter of Mary
Brasier, a bedstead. To Susanah Brown a morning gown. To grandchild Henry
Brasier, son of Abraham, a silver cup. A piece of meadow at Maspeth Kills on
Long Island "next to Butchers" is to be sold to pay burial expenses. Makes
her son Abraham and her friend Abraham Messier, executors.
Page 65.--HENRY VANDENBURGH. "Know all men by these presents that I, Henry
Vandenburgh, in ye name of God, have made my last will and testament, in
consideration of my great sickness. I leave to my beloved wife Mariana
Barton, all my estate, real and personal, and make her sole executor, and she
is to pay to the Poor of the Dutch Church, 25 pieces of 8, and order me a
decent burial.
Inventory of estate of HENRY VANDENBURGH, deceased. In coined gold and
silver, $250. 1/2 of a small sloop, $70. Total, $350.
Page 68.--EVERT WESSELLS. "In the name of God, Amen. Know all men to whom
this Publick Instrument shall come, that in the year 1683, on the first day
of November, appeared before me, Wm. Bogardus, Public Notary, appointed by
the Rt. Hon. Thomas Dongan, Evert Wessels, cooper, and Jannettie Claas his
wife, known to me and to the witnesses." This will is that the survivor shall
have full possession and management of the estate, with full power to sell.
If the survivor remarry, then a full account is to be made and an inventory,
and one-half is to go to the five children, who are "to be maintained and
sent to Scoole to learn to write and reade."
RICHARD TINKER. "In the name of God, Amen. This 8 day of May, 1693, I,
Richard Tinker, citizen and inhabitant of New York, being sick." Leaves to
his wife Mary for life, "my house and land in New York situate in the New
street, where I at present live. Also one-half of a certain messuage in the
Parish of Ledlow in Hertfordshire, England, and late in tenure of my mother
Elizabeth Tinker. After the death of my wife, all the estate to go to my
daughter Mary Tinker. Makes his wife executor.
JOHN SEAMAN. In the name of God, Amen. I, John Seaman the elder, of
Hempstead, in Queens County, upon Long Island, alias Nassau, being weake and
infirm in body, and knowing that it appertaineth to every man to set in order
all worldly concerns, so yet after decease no suite, trouble, or calamity may
ensue. And being well advised with the great and weighty work I am now about,
do make and declare this my last will and testament. I leave to my oldest son
John a certain lot of 22 acres, of which he is now in possession, and where
he now lives; also another lot of 20 acres of meadow upon the neck called the
Great Neck, being eastward and within the bounds of said town of Hempstead. I
leave to my 5 sons Jonathan, Benjamin, Solomon, Thomas and Samuel, 400 acres
of land according to a Patent, granted by Governor Richard Nicolls, lying at a
place commonly known and called by the name of Jerusalem, within the bounds
of Hempstead, to be equally divided between them. Also a certain neck of
meadow lying eastward from said town of Hempstead called in ye Indian tongue
Ruskatux Neck. Bounded east by the Oyster Bay line, and upon Hempstead west,
and to be equally divided. I leave to my 3 sons, John, Nathaniel, and
Richard, the remainder of my meadow, whereof one half is already confirmed to
my son in law, Nathaniel Pearsall, with four or five acres of upland for his
convenience of yardidge, for wintering his cattle. Which said meadow is
situate upon a neck called by the name of the Half Neck, or in the Indian
tongue Muskachim. I leave to my eight sons, John, Jonathan, Benjamin,
Solomon, Thomas, Samuel, Nathaniel and Richard, all the upland lying and
situate upon Ruskatux Neck, as also upon the neck called Half Neck, except
the four or five acres confirmed to my son in law, Nathaniel Pearsall. I
leave to my sons Nathaniel, and Richard, my lot of meadow at a neck called
Sticklands Neck, as also a parcel of meadow lying upon New Bridge Neck. I
also give them 150 acres of upland situated and lying at a place commonly
called Success, by virtue of an order from the Town. Also a certain parcel of
land, being 316 acres, lying at or near the Harbor head, so called, being
already confirmed to my said two sons by deed of gift. I give all my rights
in the undivided lands in Hempstead to my 8 sons. I leave to my wife Martha a
certain house lot adjoining to the land of James Pine, being three acres,
during her life, and then to my two sons, Nathaniel and Richard. I also leave
them the remainder of my house lots, and the pasture and the field at the
eastward of the town called the Holly. I leave to my wife Martha one half of
the dwelling house for life and then to my son Richard, and the other half to
my son Nathaniel. I leave to my wife one third of the movables, and to my two
sons Nathaniel and Richard the other two thirds. I leave to my daughter Mary
Pearsall two cows. I leave to my wife six acres of meadow at the Hay Bridge
during her life and then to my sons Richard and Nathaniel. I leave two thirds
of my remaining live stocks to my five daughters, Mary Pearsall, Hannah
Carman, Martha Pearsall, Sarah Mott, and Deborah Kirk, and to my daughter
Elizabeth Jackson 20 shillings. I leave to my sons Richard and Nathaniel all
my armes except my large gun, which shall be for the use of all my sons.
Makes wife Martha and sons Benjamin and Thomas executors, and "my friends
Thomas Powell and John Townsend, Sr., overseers."
Page 81.--JOOST COCKHUYT. "In the name of the Almighty God, in the year 1688,
the 15 of June. We, Joost Cockhuyt and Elizabeth Cockhuyt, do make and will
in manner following." We leave to Harmtie, the wife of Thomas Cook, one third
of estate, besides a gold medal. The rest of the gold is left to the sons of
Dirck Jansen Woertman, and all the clothes to the daughters of the said Dirck
Jans Woertman. The survivor is to have all the rest, but if the widow remarry
she is not to sell or mortgage the real estate. After the death of both the
estate is to go to Dirck Jans Woertman or to his children and to the children
of Annetie Lodowick, by Simon Claesen.
Page 83.--ISAAC VAN VLECQ. In the name of God, Amen. Know all men by these
presents that I, James Van Vlecq, of New York, brewer, make this my last
will. "All of my wife's clothes of linnen, woolen, and the gold and silver
belonging to her body shall not be inventoried, much less appraised, and
shall be counted for her own goods without any contradictions." I leave to my
daughter Hester "a gold chain five double," and a new Testament tipped with
silver, and $25 in consideration of her mother Petronella's portion. I leave
to my daughter Magdalena two pairs of gold pendants with crystals, and a gold
bodkin, and a gold ring, and a New Testament tipped with silver, and all of
the clothes of her mother Cornelia, now in being, and $17 10 shillings in
money. Leaves to his son Abraham a large still kettle, and other things
connected with brewery. My wife Cattaline is to remain in possession, and the
children are forbidden to "say or do anything against their mother, all being
left to her discretion, and she is to bring them up as a pious mother ought
to do, and when they are married they shall be set out according to the
condition of the estate." After the death of his wife the whole to go to his
children, Hester, Magdalena, Cornelia, Maria, and Abraham. Makes Johanes Van
Cowenhowen, Cornelius Pluvier, and Wm. Beekman, or his son Henry Beekman, and
my brothers-in-law Abraham and Peter DeLanoy tutors and overseers.
Page 86.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General, and Governor, &c. To all to
whom these may come. Know ye that on April 18, 1695, the last will of JOHN
MICHELL, a translation whereof out of the French into the English tongue is
annexed, was proved, and Anthony Brockholls is confirmed as executor.
Page 87.--Inventory of estate of JOHN BODEIN: 14 cows and steers, $35; 3
horses and a colt, $13; 100 sheep, $50; 80 Scheppels of wheat at 3s., $12; 2
negro men and a negro woman, $100. Total, $242.
NOTE.--A Scheppels was about 3 pecks.]
Page 88.--Inventory of the estate of JOHANES CLOPPER. Taken May 2, 1695: One
house and ground where the widow lives, as by Transport, $175. One Pasture
No. 2 bought of Harman Jansen, $12. One negro woman, $35. A boulting mill,
$7. Total amount, $703
By His Excellency. Whereas I have granted Letters of administration upon the
goods, etc., of Joseph Alford, on board ye sloop "John and Mary," deceased in
a voyage from Barbadoes, to John Jackson his partner, lately arrived in said
sloop, I have appointed Matthew Ling, late of Barbadoes, and Mr. Michael
Touse to appraise the same.
Page 93.--List of goods sold at vendue, February 13, 1694/5, late belonging
to ROBERT LEACOCK. A Patent for 160 acres of land and meadow at Shrewsbury.
(Value not stated.)
House in the Smith street, between the houses of Timon Van Bursum and Wm.
Teller. A house in the Carmans street, between the houses of John Longstreet
and Johanes Hibou.
[NOTE.--The husband, Jacob Grigg, never returned, and on January 20, 1699,
John Bulkeley sold to William Bickley "one half of a certain house and lot,
then in tenure of Sarah Lane and known by the sign of the Three Cornish Daws.
Being in the street called the Cingell or Wall street. Being the house and
lot bequeathed to them by Mary Grigg, widow, deceased." This house and lot
was on the south side of Wall street, east of William street.
Page 104.--Account of Andrew Bowne, administrator of estate of JOHN HAINES,
presented and appraised, and a Quietus granted November 27, 1695.
MARGARET VAN VARICK. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Margaret Van Varick, widow
and executrix of my late husband Dr. Rudolphus Van Varick, being crazy of
body but of sound mind and memory." "My body I bequeath to the earth decently
to be buried, next to my deceased husband if possible in the church at
Midwout alias Flatbush." She directs all of her silver plate, rings and
jewells to be put up in 4 bundles and distributed to her children Joanna,
Marinus, Rudolphus and Cornelia, each to have one of the bundles. Leaves to
her daughter Joanna my best Turkey worked carpet, and another to her son
Marinus. To her daughter Cornelia "the biggest Looking glass with an ebony
frame." To son Rudolphus a piece of gold in the shape of a diamond, and a
small ebony trunk with silver handles, and the picture of my late husband and
a cane with a silver head. To her son Marinus, "my gold bell and chain and
the large picture that hangs over the chimney in the best room, and the
picture of Jan Abrahamsen, and two East India Cabinets with brass handles,
and a silver headed cane, and a Moorish tobacco pipe topped with silver." To
daughter Cornelia, "two gold pieces to wear above their ears." To her sister
Engeltie, a spinning wheel and her clothes, "and a piece of linnen which is
at Lucas Renhovens, weavers, to make." To my niece Maritie, wife of Nicholas
Renhoven, 6 small china butter dishes. Rest of estate to her children.
Mentions her sister Sarah, wife of John Van Varick. Makes Colonel Nicholas
Bayard, Colonel Charles Lodowyck, and John Harperdingh executors.
I heard Mr. Edward Moore say, and tell Mrs. Allison, that if he should dye,
Mrs. Allison should have all he had, only a cane and a hat, and withal gave
her a key of his chest. As witness my hand, George Reserichs, Frans Chappell,
Eliza Reserichs.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas Joost Francis of
Bedford, late by fire deceased, leaving behind him a widow non compos mentis,
and two children. And whereas the said Joost Francis died intestate, Letters
of administration are granted to Reynier Aertse and John Auchine, the next
relations.
Inventory of estate of LYNTIE LIFEENS, taken by Lawrence Reade and John
Theobald, by virtue of a warrant from the Worshipfull Charles Lodowick,
mayor, November 14, 1694. One old Bible with silver clasps, 15s.; one old
Testament and a Psalm book, 5s.; 4 gold rings containing 19 pennyweights, 22
grains, at $5 per ounce, $5, one pair of silver spectacles, 2s.; cash, $8 3s.
A bond of Anne Cuyler, widow, $66. Total, $134 5s. 3d.
Inventory of estate of WM. BAKER, taken April 1, 1696, mortgage of Ashuerus
Fromantell, $50; mortgage of Leonard Lewis, $100; mortgage of Daniel Butts,
$464; Bond of Wm. Boyle, $10; Book of gold leaf in the hands of Helena
Montes; small box of gold leaf books in the house of Thomas Roberts; A lot by
Vasley; a water lot opposite King street in Smith's Vly. Values not given.
Page 118.--Inventory of the goods of RICHARD PRETTY, deceased, found in a
chest at the house of Mr. Peter de Reimer. Taken by warrant of Captain Brandt
Schuyler, Esq., September 18, 1695. One English Bible, one small book of
contentment, one gold ring, $1. Total, $3, 4, 10. Taken by Albert Clark and
Leandet Huygens De Kleyn, November 11, 1695. Also an inventory of some goods
at the house of Mr. Richard Blacklish at Stratford. Belt and cutlass, 3 small
old guns, $8, 8. Appraised, January 6, 1695/6, by Jacob Walker, Zebulon
Fairchild. Entered by Gabriel Thompson, and sworn to as a perfect inventory.
Page 130.--PETER DE LANOY. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Peter De Lanoy,
considering the mortality of man, have with good knowledge made my last will
and testament as followeth." I leave to my brother, Abraham De Lanoy, my
clothes and my School books, and my Dutch books of Divinity, Provided I have
no child by my present wife, Mary. I leave to my beloved wife, Mary, the
parcel of ground given to her by her father, Samuel Edsall, by deed of gift.
Leaves all the rest to his wife. If he leaves a child, the estate is to be
appraised, and the child to have one half. Makes his wife executor, and his
brother, Abraham De Lanoy, and his brother in law, Engelbert Lott, overseers.
Page 104.--Account of Andrew Bowne, administrator of estate of JOHN HAINES,
presented and appraised, and a Quietus granted November 27, 1695.
MARGARET VAN VARICK. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Margaret Van Varick, widow
and executrix of my late husband Dr. Rudolphus Van Varick, being crazy of
body but of sound mind and memory." "My body I bequeath to the earth decently
to be buried, next to my deceased husband if possible in the church at
Midwout alias Flatbush." She directs all of her silver plate, rings and
jewells to be put up in 4 bundles and distributed to her children Joanna,
Marinus, Rudolphus and Cornelia, each to have one of the bundles. Leaves to
her daughter Joanna my best Turkey worked carpet, and another to her son
Marinus. To her daughter Cornelia "the biggest Looking glass with an ebony
frame." To son Rudolphus a piece of gold in the shape of a diamond, and a
small ebony trunk with silver handles, and the picture of my late husband and
a cane with a silver head. To her son Marinus, "my gold bell and chain and
the large picture that hangs over the chimney in the best room, and the
picture of Jan Abrahamsen, and two East India Cabinets with brass handles,
and a silver headed cane, and a Moorish tobacco pipe topped with silver." To
daughter Cornelia, "two gold pieces to wear above their ears." To her sister
Engeltie, a spinning wheel and her clothes, "and a piece of linnen which is
at Lucas Renhovens, weavers, to make." To my niece Maritie, wife of Nicholas
Renhoven, 6 small china butter dishes. Rest of estate to her children.
Mentions her sister Sarah, wife of John Van Varick. Makes Colonel Nicholas
Bayard, Colonel Charles Lodowyck, and John Harperdingh executors.
I heard Mr. Edward Moore say, and tell Mrs. Allison, that if he should dye,
Mrs. Allison should have all he had, only a cane and a hat, and withal gave
her a key of his chest. As witness my hand, George Reserichs, Frans Chappell,
Eliza Reserichs.
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor, &c. Whereas Joost Francis of
Bedford, late by fire deceased, leaving behind him a widow non compos mentis,
and two children. And whereas the said Joost Francis died intestate, Letters
of administration are granted to Reynier Aertse and John Auchine, the next
relations.
Inventory of estate of LYNTIE LIFEENS, taken by Lawrence Reade and John
Theobald, by virtue of a warrant from the Worshipfull Charles Lodowick,
mayor, November 14, 1694. One old Bible with silver clasps, 15s.; one old
Testament and a Psalm book, 5s.; 4 gold rings containing 19 pennyweights, 22
grains, at $5 per ounce, $5, one pair of silver spectacles, 2s.; cash, $8 3s.
A bond of Anne Cuyler, widow, $66. Total, $134 5s. 3d.
Inventory of estate of WM. BAKER, taken April 1, 1696, mortgage of Ashuerus
Fromantell, $50; mortgage of Leonard Lewis, $100; mortgage of Daniel Butts,
$464; Bond of Wm. Boyle, $10; Book of gold leaf in the hands of Helena
Montes; small box of gold leaf books in the house of Thomas Roberts; A lot by
Vasley; a water lot opposite King street in Smith's Vly. Values not given.
Page 118.--Inventory of the goods of RICHARD PRETTY, deceased, found in a
chest at the house of Mr. Peter de Reimer. Taken by warrant of Captain Brandt
Schuyler, Esq., September 18, 1695. One English Bible, one small book of
contentment, one gold ring, $1. Total, $3, 4, 10. Taken by Albert Clark and
Leandet Huygens De Kleyn, November 11, 1695. Also an inventory of some goods
at the house of Mr. Richard Blacklish at Stratford. Belt and cutlass, 3 small
old guns, $8, 8. Appraised, January 6, 1695/6, by Jacob Walker, Zebulon
Fairchild. Entered by Gabriel Thompson, and sworn to as a perfect inventory.
Page 130.--PETER DE LANOY. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Peter De Lanoy,
considering the mortality of man, have with good knowledge made my last will
and testament as followeth." I leave to my brother, Abraham De Lanoy, my
clothes and my School books, and my Dutch books of Divinity, Provided I have
no child by my present wife, Mary. I leave to my beloved wife, Mary, the
parcel of ground given to her by her father, Samuel Edsall, by deed of gift.
Leaves all the rest to his wife. If he leaves a child, the estate is to be
appraised, and the child to have one half. Makes his wife executor, and his
brother, Abraham De Lanoy, and his brother in law, Engelbert Lott, overseers.
Page 132.--TRYNTIE ARENTS. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Tryntie Arents,
widow of Bernardus Arents, late Preacher to the Lutheran Congregation in the
city of New York, being in health of body, but considering the mortality of
all persons." After payment of all debts and funeral expenses I leave all
goods, jewels, and merchandizes, of all kinds, to the Elders, Deacons,
Overseers and Rector of the Lutheran church in this city, by whatever name
called, to be disposed of in the following manner: They shall be exposed for
sale, and with the money they shall buy a dwelling house and lot of ground in
this city, to the value of said money, and the same to remain to the only use
of the said Lutheran church forever. I leave to my loving friend and Godson,
Wm. Lanrur, of New York, shipwright, a gold ring of the value of 24
shillings, as a token of the good will I bear to him. I leave to my loving
friend and Godson, Johan Myndorpe, of Albany, blacksmith, a gold ring of same
value, as a token of good will and affection. Makes Dirck Vandenbergh,
bricklayer, and John Machener, joiner, executors.
Inventory of estate of TRYNTIE ARENTS, taken by the executors December 7,
1696. 1 Great chest, $3; two Psalm Books, with silver clasps, $1.10s.; old
silver, $10.7s. A parcel of better silver, $11.2. Four gold rings and some
loose gold, $5.5s. A Dutch Bible, $2.8. 24 old English shillings, $1.10s. 136
Boston shillings, $6.16s. Total amount, $147.9.6.
[NOTE.--In accordance with the above will, Henry Coleman and Helena his wife,
sold to Dirck Vandenbergh, "for the use of the Trustees, Church Wardens, and
Overseers of the Congregation of the Lutheran Church, of which he is one, A
certain lot lying and being without the Fortifications of the city, bounded
south by a street commonly called little Queen street, east by the now
dwelling house of said Henry Coleman, west by the house and ground of John
Geddes, and north by the widow Hibon." Being 50 feet in front and 70 feet in
length. February 4, 1700. This lot is on the north side of Cedar street, 60
feet west of Nassau street.
Page 134.--Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, etc. Whereas JOHN SPRATT, of the city
of New York, did before marriage to his wife, Maria Spratt, together with
her, make, sign, seal and declare an instrument of contract of marriage, and
in case of the death of either, containing the force of a will. And whereas
the said John Spratt lately died, his said widow Maria is appointed as
executrix, January 5, 1696.
Page 137.--Inventory of estate of JOHN CROCHERAN, of Staten Island, taken by
Nathaniel Brittain, Sr., and Nathaniel Brittain, Jr., January 9, 1696/7,
before Elias Duxbury and Thomas Stillwell. Live stock, $131; 200 sheffles of
wheat, $20; 110 sheffles of rye, $13.15s. A negro man, negro woman, and negro
boy, $120; money in the house, Arabian gold and other gold, $72.8s.; English
money, $45; 468 heavy pieces of 8, $140 14s. 11d.; 15 books, one a large
Bible, $4. Total amount, $625.
Page 139.--Inventory of estate of MARGARET VAN VARICK, widow of Dr. Rudolphus
Van Varicks. Taken by Nicholas Bayard, Charles Lodowyck and John Harperdingh,
executors. [Among the articles which, by the terms of her will, are to be
done up in bundles, and one bundle given to each of her children are the
following articles.] Silver spice box, Silver thimble, "11 pieces of Arabian
and Christian silver," Gold ring with 7 diamonds, one gold Arabian Ducat,
Dutch Psalm book with gold clasps, one small silver knife and fork, "two gold
pennes headed with pearles," Looking glass with gilded frame, Three silver
wrought East India cups, Gold ring with a table diamond, "A small gold box as
big as a pea," Three silver wrought East India boxes, Silver tumbler marked
R. V., "17 pieces silver playthings and toys," Gold ring with 3 small
diamonds (and many other small articles of silver and gold), "A large picture
of images Sheep and Goats that hung over the Chimney," Large Picture of Dr.
Rudolphus Van Varicks, Cash $120.18, "one Great Dutch Casse, which could not
be removed from Flatbush and so not appraised. Sold for $25." 1/6 of the
Sloop "Flying Fish," sold to Nicholas Renhaven for $60. "A parcel of Printed
books, most of them in High German and forrain Languages, and so of little
value here, wherefore they are packed up to be kept for the use of the
children when of age." Long list of debts due from people in all parts of
Kings County. The Inventory includes a very long list of articles of luxury
as well as of use, and indicate very extensive means for those days.
Page 150.--Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, &c. To all, etc. Know ye that in New
York, before Colonel Stephen Van Cortlandt, on March 3d, 1696/7, the will of
Captain THOMAS TYNDAL, a copy of which is annexed, was proved and his widow,
Deborah Tyndall, is confirmed as executor.
Page 151.--THOMAS TYNDALL. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Tyndall, of
New York, being weak in body." Leaves all his estate to his wife and daughter
Frances. "My will is that my loving wife by the first opportunity doe send
unto my loving brother and four sisters which live in England, each of them a
large mourning ring, to wear in memory of me their dear brother." Makes his
wife sole executor. Dated August 27, 1694. Witnesses, Jacobus Ver Planck,
James Evetts, Philip Schuyler.
Inventory of estate of JOHN CROCHERON, of Staten Island. Taken by Thomas
Morgan and William Fillyer, December 17, 1696. Money in his chest, $286, 8; A
negro man, an Indian woman and her child, $80; 8 cows left as a legacy to
Nicholas and Anthony Crocheran, $22; 6 heifers, 2 steers, and a bull, $9.
Total, $531. Sworn to, March 8, 1696/7.
Page 155.--CONSTANT SILVESTER. "The last will and Testament of Constant
Silvester, of Shelter Island." I doe give and bequeth to my well beloved
brother, Peter Silvester, and to my nephew, Brinley Silvester, the son of my
brother, Nathaniel Silvester, all my lands, houses, and meadows upon Shelter
Island, with all the appurtenances. To be thus divided, viz. Peter Silvester
is to have the farm which I now dwell upon, with all the buildings, and so
with that to make up one half my land. And my cousin (nephew) Brinley
Silvester to have that farm upon which Jacques the Frenchman is now settling,
with all the houses, etc., and so with that to make up one half of my land,
upon Shelter Island. And the line between the said farms shall be equally
distant from each house, as they now stand, and to run straight from the west
side fronting towards Southold, eastward half a mile, and then to vary so as
to make an equal division of all the land. Only respect to be had as to
quality as well as quantity. And as for my other land which I have, viz., 6
acres on Block Island, and my interest in reversion upon Robins Island, and
one lot of Commonage in Southold, with my movable estate, I give the whole to
my 5 sisters, Patience, Elizabeth, Mary, Ann, and Mercy, viz., one quarter to
my two married sisters, Patience and Mary, and the other three quarters to my
three unmarried sisters. My brother Peter Silvester, in consideration of my
gift, shall pay yearly to my sister Elizabeth, so long as she lives unmarried
the sum of $3. If he refuse to do so, then the land is left to my cousin
(nephew) Nathaniel, son of my brother Nathaniel Silvester. Makes his brothers
Nathaniel and Peter executors.
Page 23.--ABRAHAM DE LANOY. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Abraham De Lanoy,
of the city of New York, Schoolmaster, do make this my last will and
testament." I leave one half of all my estate to my wife Cornelia, and the
other half to my children. Maria, wife of Evert Duyckinck, Jacobus, Abraham,
Johanes, and Catharine. My wife is to bring up the children till they are of
age, and to act in all things as a pious mother, for God's sake, is bound to
do ; they are to be instructed in reading and writing, and an art or trade,
each according to their capacity. I appoint Colonel Gerard Beekman, and Mr.
Evert Duyckinck, tutor of my children, and make my wife executor.
Page 30.--PETER DE REIMER. "In the name of God, Amen, this 29th day of
January, 1697. I, Peter De Reimer, of the city of New York, glazier, being in
health of body." I leave to my son, Isaac De Reimer, all that my house and
lot in New York, situate and lying in a certain street called the Bridge
street, bounded on the east by the house and lot of Andrew Grevenraet, on the
west by the house and lot of Rev. Henricus Selynus, south by said street and
north by said Peter De Reimer. Also one half of my glaziers tools. All the
remainder of estate, real and personal, is left to his wife Susanah for life,
and then to his son, Isaac De Reimer. Makes his wife executrix.
Page 37.--ELIE BOUDINOT. [This will is written in the French language.] "Au
nom de Dieu, Amen. Je sousigne, Elie Boudinot, merchant," formerly dwelling
in the government of La Rochelle in France ; being constrained to abandon my
country, to escape continual persecution, which I received for the profession
of the Gospel, and retire to this place with Suzanne Papin, my wife, and our
children. And being by the grace of God sound in body and mind, I recommit my
soul to the Holy and glorious Trinity. To the Father who created it. To the
Son who has redeemed it, and to the Holy Spirit who has enlightened and
sanctified it. Declaring that I wish to live and die, in the faith and
profession of the Reformed Religion, in which I have been by the Grace of God
brought up. And as by a contract of marriage between the said Suzanne Papin,
my wife, and myself, made before Andre Mucot, Notary in London, November 11,
1686, there was apportioned to her children, Benjamin and Suzanne
D'Harriette, $168 sterling each, payable by me or my heirs when they come of
age. I have satisfied them by paying to the late Pierre Bellin, husband of
the said Suzanne, $168, and to Benjamin D'Harriette the same sum. And as it
has pleased God to give me by my last marriage four children, Jean, Benjamin,
Madeline, and Suzanne, I appoint my wife their guardian and leave her full
possession of all goods, etc., and she is to give to each of them $250 in
silver when they are of age or married. And as my son, Elie Boudinot, by my
first marriage, has some time since been married, and in consideration of his
marriage I have given him $300, as heir of the deceased Janice Berand my
wife, his mother. To avoid all trouble I direct my wife to pay to him the sum
of $150, in full of all claims upon my estate. And whereas I have left
property in France, with all contracts, notes, and books of accounts, etc.,
in the hands of my late nephew, Jean Boudinot, with my general Power of
Attorney, thus in case anything should be obtained, it is to be divided among
my children. And if it should please God, as I pray with all my heart, that
the liberty of our holy Religion should be re-established in France, and my
children should return thither, then the said goods, etc., are to be divided
among them. Makes his friend Paul Droillot executor.
Page 50.--WARNER WESSELS. In the name of God, Amen. I, Warner Wessels, of the
city of New York, hat maker, being in good health, make this my last will. I
leave to my son, Peter Wessels, "begotten by me on ye body of my late wife,
Deborah Wessels, the sum of 10 shillings." And to my daughter, Antie Wessels,
likewise begotten of said Deborah Wessels, 5 shillings, I being satisfied
that I have already given them a sufficient amount out of my estate. All the
rest of my estate I leave to my wife Elizabeth Wessels, during her life, and
then to my daughter, Janicke Wessels. Makes his wife sole executor.
Page 52.--OUZEL VAN SWIETON. "In the name of God, Amen. This 23 day of
January, 1693/4. I, Ouzel Van Swieton, inhabitant of the city of New York,
being at present in the city of London." "I direct my body to be buried in a
moderate Christian burial, as it shall be usual in the country where it shall
please God to dispose of me." I give to my much esteemed friend Mr. Valentine
Cruger, of London, merchant, all estate of houses, Lands, goods, etc., and
make him my sole executor.
Page 62.--ANDRIES TELLER, Sr. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Andrew Teller, of
the city of New York, merchant." I leave to my eldest son, Andries Teller,
$25, and also all that lot of ground with the appurtenances, lying over
against the house I now live in, and next to the house of Robert Livingston,
to him and his heirs forever. And it is to be accounted a part of his share
of my estate, but his mother, my wife, is to enjoy the use of one half of it
during her life. My wife Sophia is to remain in possession of all my estate
so long as she remains my widow. After her decease the estate is to go to the
children. My daughter Margaret shall enjoy, after her mother's decease, the
rent and profit of my house that stands behind that I now live in, during her
life. If any estate comes to me from the death of my father, it shall be
divided in the same manner. If all of my children should die (which God
prevent) then all my estate is to be divided into two parts, one part to my
brothers and sisters, and the other part to the brothers and sisters of my
wife. Makes his wife, Sophia, and his brother in law, Jacobus Van Cortlandt,
and his brother, William Teller, executors and guardians of his children till
they are of age.
[NOTE.--The house of Andries Teller is now No. 87 Pearl street. The lot
opposite, "next to the house of Robert Livingston," is now No. 88 Pearl
street, and was originally a water lot. The house in the rear of the house of
Andries Teller, the rent of which was left to his daughter Margaret, fronts
on Stone street. --W. S. P.]
Page 69.--PETER JACOBS MARIUS. "In the name of God, Amen, this 7 day of July,
1701. I, Peter Jacobs Marius, of the city of New York, merchant, being of
sound and perfect memory." "My body, in hope of a joyfull Resurrection, I
commit to the earth to be buried in such place and in such decent manner as
my executors shall think fit." Whereas I have before the decease of my
beloved wife Maria Peterse, as well as since her decease, sent over into
Holland a considerable part of my estate which doth there still remain, I
will that the same be put into the banks in the city of Hoorne, for the use
of my two sisters, Birgie Marius and Margarita Marius, and shall remain there
during their lives. Upon the death of my sister Birgie Marius, then one half
is to be divided between the two children of my sister Margarita Marius,
viz., Aechie Jans Bruyn and Jacob Marius Groen. After the death of my sister
Margarita, the remainder is also to be divided between them. My will is that
out of the property I have here in New York, there shall be paid to the
relations of my wife, Maria Peterse Beeke, so much money as I have sent over
to Holland. Accounting 5 guilders of this country for 1 guilder Holland
money, the same to be divided as follows: 1/5 to Francis Salisbury, Mary
Salisbury, Aliace Van Dyke, and Elizabeth Van Dyke, the children of Elizabeth
Bradshaw, deceased, equally; 1/5 to the use of Cornelis Peterse Beeke for
life and then to his children; 1/5 to the children of Cornelia, late wife of
Jacobus De Hart, viz., Elizabeth, Baltus, and Catharine De Hart; 1/5 to the
three children of Wm. Beeke, Altie, Tilleman and Deborah; 1/5 to Anna and
Peter, children of Deborah, late wife of Warner Wessels. Of all the rest of
estate, one half is to go to my loving cousin Jacob Marius, and one half to
my wife's relations. Makes Teunis De Kay, baker, Johanes Kip, brewer, and
Jacob Marius Groen, silversmith, executors.
Page 203. -- Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, &c. Whereas, JOHN BUSCH, of
Kingston, in Ulster County, was drowned in a voyage from thence to New York,
and died intestate, Letters of administration are granted to John Lawrence as
principal creditor. October 13, 1694.
Page 208.--Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General and Governor. To all officers
and ministers throughout the Province. Whereas I am credibly informed that
the son of Werner Wessells, and husband of Antie Christians and others,
Inhabitants and sailors of the city of New York, following their lawful
occupation were taken into Salee, where they are now in miserable slavery,
under the power of the Infidel. And that their relations are not able to
advance a sufficient ransom for their redemption. I have therefore, upon
their application unto me, by and with the advice of the Councill, out of
Christian Charity, and in consideration of the grievous bondage and Slavery
of the said persons, Granted, and by these presents, grant license and
liberty to the said Werner Wessells and Antie Christians, to ask and receive
the same as a charitable benevolence, of all Christian People under my
government, as well at Public meetings as private dwelling houses. And to
avoid irregularities in collecting the same, All ministers or Preachers where
there are Parish churches, or Pastors at private meeting houses, are required
to publish a true copy of this grant, by reading thereof openly, and affixing
thereof afterwards upon the door, or other public places; and admonish the
People to Christian Charity, and at the next meeting shall receive the free
offering and benevolence of the people, to the use above said. Of all which
benevolence and Charity the said Ministers or Preachers and Constables are to
keep a distinct account which they are to transmit with such money they shall
collect, by virtue of this grant, without delay to Stephen Van Cortlandt,
Esq., Peter Jacobus Marius, John Kerbyll, and Johanes Kip, who are hereby
impowered to receive the same, and transmit the said money or so much as
shall be required for the Redemption of the said Captives from slavery, by
the best and most convenient means and way. Provided always that in case
there should be a surplusage above the value of that redemption, or in case
any of the said persons shall be dead or otherwise redeemed, they, the said
Stephen Van Cortlandt, Peter Jacobus Marius and Johanes Kip, shall be
accountable to me, or to the Governor for the time being, for the sum
collected, or so much thereof as may be left, upon their redemption; that it
may be set apart for the like, or other pious uses, and for no other use or
interest whatsoever. Given under my hand and seal, at Fort William Henry,
this 8th day of June, 1693.
Page 210.--A Proclamation, in Latin, from Governor Benjamin Fletcher, to all
Rectors, vicars, &c., and especially to Thomas Wenham and Robert Lurting,
Church Wardens of Trinity Church, in the city of New York, Announcing that
the Rev. William Vesey had been appointed Rector of Trinity Church, then
vacant, and that he is to be inducted to the office in the usual form.
Page 214.--Recorded for Colonel Caleb Heathcote, city of New York, May 55,
1696. Pursuant to a warrant unto us directed from his Excellency Colonel
Benjamin Fletcher, Captain-General, &c., bearing date the 23d of April last,
requiring us to assist Colonel Caleb Heathcote as administrator of the estate
of HUMPHREY HULL, vintner, late of New York, deceased; and as attorney for
Jane Spencer, widow and administratrix of Samuel Spencer, deceased, the
Principal creditor of said Humphrey Hull, In the making of an inventory, &c.
Page 222.--Westchester, February 18, 1697/8. There appeared before me,
William Barnes, Esq., thereunto Commissioned and appointed by writ of Dedimus
Potestatim, under the seal of the Province, Colonel Caleb Heathcote,
administrator to Humphrey Hull, deceased, and made oath upon the Holy
Evangelists that the within is a just and true account of his administration
of the goods and chattels of said deceased, so far set forth as to this day.
Page 223.--Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, &c. Whereas John Lawrence, Esq., one
of his Majesty's Council for the Province, by his humble petition, presented
to us, hath set forth that having a son named John, non compos mentis, who is
married and has an estate in Queens County; And that the said John and his
estate are now under the care and oversight of the Justices of the Peace, and
that his wife is lately deceased, and his son come home to him, and his goods
and chattels which are now in the possession of the Justice of the Peace,
Upon his petition he is appointed Guardian of the person and property of his
said son John Lawrence, March 4, 1697/8.
[NOTE.--Minie Johanes was one of the first settlers at Haverstraw, where he
owned an extensive tract of land. Flerus Willinse Krom was the owner of a
large tract called the Krom Patent, lying between the Hudson River and the
Highlands. The descendants of Flerus Krom are still numerous in Rockland
County.]
View full context
A true and just inventory taken of the goods and money of the deceased Mr.
John Lecounte, taken before Ephraim Taylor, John Bellvealsea, Charles
Marshall, and Peter Maydbone, Constable. 9 cows, $27; 6 calves, $4; 6 shoats,
$3; 2 young oxen, $6.15; 100 Schepples rye, $12.10s.; one old negro man, $20;
5 young steers, $12.10. Total, $385. "To one silver cup, 5 silver spoons, 2
silver forks, and one silver dram cup to be left for the child Yonese, the
daughter of Mr. John Lecounte, till she comes of age." This is a true
inventory taken before me, Ephraim Taylor, and appraised by us, Isaac
Corbett, John Bellveallsea, Charles Marshall, John Lecounte, Abraham
Lokerman.
Page 232.--Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Captain-General, &c. Whereas JAMES
WETHERBY, mariner, lately died intestate, on a voyage to Guinea, Letters of
administration are granted to Francis Lecounte, of New York, vintner, April
18, 1698.
JOHN HOLMES. "In the Name of God, Amen. Know all men by these presents that
I, John Holmes, farmer in New York County, considering the mortality of all
men." I leave to my son, George Holmes, a horse for his own use. Leaves to
his wife Magdalena the use of all his estate to enable her to bring up the
children, George, Ann, Janeke, Priscilla, and Magdalena, causing them to be
instructed in an art or trade according to their capability. After the
decease of his wife, the whole estate is to go to the children.
November 9, 1696. Samuel Dufois was sworne before his Excellency to the
lawful execution of the within will by the Testator deceased, and a dedimus
protestatim was directed to William Barker, Esq., and Benjamin Co