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.
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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.
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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.]
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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.
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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.
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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.]
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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.
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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 Conckling,
Esq. Two of the Justices of the Peace, for the taking of the oath of Joshua
Hobart and Elizabeth Stanbrough, which was executed and returned into the
Secretaries office under the hands and seals of the Justices, bearing date
the 2d of March, 1696/7.
Page 163.--Whereas JOHN SELSBY lately died intestate, while on a voyage to
Providence in the Island of Providence, Letters of administration are granted
to his widow, Sarah, by Governor Benjamin Fletcher, June 2, 1697.
[NOTE.--The house lot of John Spratt, who was a prominent merchant and
citizen, was on the east side of Broad street, half way between Stone street
and the Mill street (now South William street). "Carmans street" was the
popular name of Beaver street, east of Broad street.]
Page 171.--Quietus granted to Magdalena Clopper, as administrator of JOHN
CLOPPER. Account stating that the whole estate was $848, 12, 9. He left one
child, Ilien, by a former wife, and two children, Cornelius and Anna, by his
last wife, Magdalena. "The said Ilien Clopper having chosen her grand father
Shuert Olpherts as her guardian, and she has been paid $130 as her portion,
July 9, 1697.
Page 176.--This page is occupied with a deed (not executed) from Daniel Buts
to Wm. Baker, August 3, 1690, conveying a lot "In, or near, the Smiths Vly or
Valey, about 3 feet to the east of the wall of the cellar, and joining to the
now dwelling house of Geesie Van der Clyff, the widow of Dirck Van der Clyff,
and on the north side of a certain street layed out by ye said Dirck Van der
Clyff, on his ground, of the breadth of 22 feet, being 42 feet front and 120
feet long, English measure."
Benjamin Fletcher, Governor, &c. Whereas PHILIP MULLINS, merchant, late of
Jamaica in the West Indies, lately died on a voyage to New York, Letters of
administration are granted to Thomas Wenham, late factor and attorney for the
said Philip Mullins, August 2, 1697.
Page 179.--Inventory of estate of JOHN NEWMAN of Oyster Bay. Taken June 7,
1697. Paid Justice White for funeral charges, $5. To Daniel Weeks for a
coffin, 6 shillings. To John Rogers, for digging ye grave, 6 shillings.
Page 180.--Inventory of estate of JACOB DELANGE. Taken by Johannes De Bruyn
and Cornelius Vandenburgh, executors. In the foreroom. 1 Great picture being a
(???) $2, 10. 1 great picture. A bunch of grapes with a pommegranite. A
Portraiture of my Lord Speelman, 5s. 1 gold boat wherein were 13 diamonds,
and one white coral chain, $16, 10s. 1 pair gold pendants, in each 10
diamonds, $25. 2 Diamond rings, $24. Sword, with a silver handle, $2, 2, 6.
Total, $740. Very long list of small articles, some of value.
Page 191.--In pursuance of an order of the Worshipfull Court of Mayor and
Aldermen, of this city, directed to us, the 26 day of May, 1685, to appraise
the estate of Jacob Delange, We have proceeded accordingly, being first sworn
thereto on the 11 day of this instant month of June by the Worshipfull Mayor
Gabriel Minville, and have appraised the same to amount to the sum of $740,
17s. Except book debts not included. In testimony as to the truth of the
account we have hereunto set our hands the 26 day of June, 1685, Nicholas
Meyer, Paul Richards, C. DeLanoy, A. De Peyster. Entered in the Records of
the city of New York per John West, Sec.
GERRITT GERRITSEN. "Know all men to whom these presents shall be read or see
the same. That in the year of the Nativity of our Lord and Savious Jesus
Christ, 1688, there appeared before me, Claas Arentsen Torrs, Clerk of the
Jurisdiction of Bergen County in East New Jersey, Geritt Gerittsen and
Elizabeth Cornelisen his wife, well known to me and to the underwritten
witnesses; the testator being sicke in body and the testatrix in health going
and standing." They declare that out of tender affection to each other, their
will is that the survivor should remain in possession of all the estate, but
if he or she should marry, then an inventory to be taken to prevent its being
wasted, upon which condition the heirs may take care of the same. The
testator bequeaths to Antie Jans, the daughter of Jan Dircksen Straetmaker,
and Geesie Gerittse, the sum of 50 shillings, or 100 guilders wampum value,
and a silver spoon. To Elizabeth Ottose, the daughter of Otto Gerittse and
Engeltie Peterse, a silver spoon as a token of remembrance. The testators
have declared as their universal heirs: First, the children of the testator's
sister, Janettie Gerittse, viz., Johanes, Gerittse, Antie, Christofells,
Urselina, Mary, and Benjamin Stymetts, being 7 in number, to have one half,
and the other half to the testator's sister, Geesie Gerrittse. "All that
above is written being distinctly read to the testators, they declared the
same to be their last will and testament."
Page 236.--Recorded for Wm. Lecounte. "Memorandum of what is due to me, Wm.
Lecounte, by the late James Latys." $1,300, money lent. 16,000 pounds of
sugar, in goods and merchandizes, at $5 the thousand, $80. For his half of
the Brigantine named "La Pointe de Sable," which hath been 6 months at his
service, at 200 pounds of sugar by day, makes my one half 18,000 pounds of
sugar. For three years of my service upon his Plantation, with use of my
negroes, by virtue of Letters of Attorney to me directed at St. Christophers
by the said deceased, bearing date March 19, 1688, by which it appears that I
transported myself, purposely from St. Christophers, for the direction of the
affairs and Plantations of said deceased, as I have declared by a petition to
the Governor bearing date as the Letters of administration granted to me by
his Honour.
Page 237.--Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Captain-General, &c. Whereas RICHARD
TRAVIN, mariner, lately died intestate, in a voyage to Guinea, Letters of
administration are granted to George Ressoricks, vintner, his next relation,
May 5, 1698.
Page 241.--Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Captain-General, &c. Whereas JEREMIAH
BURROUGHS, late of Newtown, upon Long Island, who while swimming after a
canoe, adrift, was drowned, and died intestate, Letters of administration are
granted to Joseph Burroughs, his brother, May 25, 1698.
Page 243.--JOHN YOUNGS. "In the name of God, Amen. This 20 day of February,
1696/7, I, John Youngs, of the Town of Southold, in the County of Suffolk,
Esq., being in perfect health, I give and commit my soul to Almighty God, and
my body to the earth to be decently interred by my executor, hereinafter
mentioned, according to my estate and Quality." I leave all my houses, lands,
and meadows, all and singular, unto my son, Thomas Youngs, his heirs and
assigns forever. I leave two thirds of all household goods to my two
daughters, Deborah Longworth and Martha Gardiner. I also give them two silver
spoons, and four books a piece, such as my executor shall appoint them. I
leave the other half of my household goods to my son Thomas. I give my grand
son, Daniel Youngs, 6 shillings. Makes son Thomas executor.
�
Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Captain-General, &c. Whereas ANKE JANSE lately
died leaving a will of which a copy is annexed, Letters of administration are
granted to his eldest son, John Anke, (???) 1698.
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Page 258.--CATHARINE BLANCK. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Catharine Blank,
widow of Jurian Blank, being under bodily indisposition." "I leave to my son,
Symon Barentsen, 30 shillings, in full for all pretence he may have to my
estate, real and personal; he having been sufficiently provided for, during
the life of my husband, Jurian Blanck; having received one half of a sloop, a
wedding dinner, 2 wedding suits, a cloak, a fine red broad cloth waist coat,
with silver thread buttons, one half dozen fine Holland shirts, one half
dozen striped Calico neck cloths, an oyen brigg feather bed, two new
blankets, and had his diett, for two years after he was married." "And
whereas my eldest son, Jurian Blanck, in consideration of $3, 12s. and a
Bible by me to him given, hath released all claim to my estate, except such
part as I have bequeathed to him," I leave all my estate to be divided into
seven equal parts and leave thus to my children, viz.: Jurian and Nicholas
Blanck, Elsie, widow of Albert Busch, Antie, widow of George Brewerton,
Catalyna, wife of Frans Boon, Cleasie, wife of Victor Bickers, and the
children of my deceased daughter Margaret, wife of Philip Smith, deceased,
viz.: Philip, Margaret, Caetjie and Mary. And whereas my son, Nicholas
Blanck, being moved with compassion for the children of his sister Margaret,
hath paid for their maintenance and necessaries the sum of $106, 9s. 11d.
besides other charges he has suffered as administrator of Philip Smith,
deceased. If the children do not repay him then their share is to be sold to
repay him. Makes her sons, Jurian and Nicholas Blanck, and Frans Boon, Victor
Birker, Elsie Blanck, Edward Busch, Caetje Blanck, and Abraham Brewerton,
executors.
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Page 261.--THOMAS MILTON. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Milton, late
of New York, but now of London, being of perfect memory." I leave to my
eldest brother, Peter Milton, one guinea to buy him a ring, and the same to
my brother, William Milton. Leaves rest of estate to his wife Christian and
makes her sole executrix.
Page 263.--GERRITT JANSEN ROOS. "In the name of God, Amen, this 3d day of
September, 1697, I, Gerritt Jansen Roos, of the city of New York, carpenter,
being in sound and perfect health." I leave to my eldest son, Peter Roos,
living at Utrecht, in Holland, $100. I leave to Peter Gerrittse Roos, the
eldest son of my son, Peter Roos, one silver tumbler, and the same to Gerritt
Jansen Roos, the eldest son of Johanes Roos. Also a silver tumbler to Gerritt
Provost, the eldest son of my eldest daughter, Cornelia, wife of Elias
Provost. I leave to Gerritt Johanes Roos, and Aeltie Roos, children of my
deceased son, Johanes Roos, their maintenance out of my estate until they are
able to maintain themselves, and they are to be put to school until such time
as they shall have learned to read and write, and they are to have $78 which
I have of their father's estate. The rest of estate is to be divided into
five parts, and given to his son Peter, the children of his son Johanes,
deceased, to his daughter Cornelia, wife of Jacob de Moree, to his daughter
Affie, wife of Johanes Van Gelder, and "to Annatie Elswaert, daughter of my
daughter Aeltie procured by John Elswaert." And whereas I have sold a house
and lot in Albany, which belonged to my son Johanes, and also a tract of land
in said county, for $78, the children of my son Johanes are to have the same.
Makes Jacob De Moree, Johanes Van Gelder, and Jacob Boelen executors. (Names
of witnesses not given.)
Page 265.--Inventory of estate of JOHN DEWSBURY, of Oyster Bay, taken by John
Feck and John Townsend, by virtue of a warrant issued by Edward White,
Justice of the Peace, of Oyster Bay. 1 negro man, 2 negro women and one
child, $57; 3 weavers' looms, with gear to the same, $10; 20 bushels of
wheat, $6; 70 bushels of wheat in the straw at 4s. 9d. per bushel; 40 bushels
of oats in the straw, at 1s. 3d. per bushel. Total amount, $26.
Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Governor, etc. To all, etc. Know ye that at New
York, on October 3, 1698, the last will of OBADIAH WILKINS was proved, and
his wife Martha confirmed as executor. OBADIAH WILKINS. "This witnesseth that
Obadiah Wilkins, of Gravesend, upon Long Island, being in perfect memory." I
make my wife Martha sole executrix of this will. I leave to my son William
the Plantation or lot No. 13, being in Gravesend, and which was formerly my
father's, William Wilkins; when my son William comes of age or doth marry.
And if another son should be born unto me I leave him one of the lots which I
now live upon, and which I bought of Thomas Delavall. The other Plantation
that I live upon I leave to my three daughters, Eleanor, Rebecca, and Ann
Wilkins, but if another daughter should be born then the plantations which I
bought of Thomas Delavall are to be divided between them. Leaves the rest of
estate to his wife. "This being my will and pleasure for to do, I have set my
hand this 25 day of the first month called March, 1682. Codicil dated 26 day
of first month called March, 1696. I appoint my friends, in whom I repose
confidence, Samuel Spicer, Wm. Williamson, Wm. Golding, and John Tilton, Jr.,
to assist my wife in the care of my children. One of the 2 lots which I
bought of Thomas Delavall I have exchanged with Samuel Spicer, and I am to
have an equal quantity from him next to my house. For one piece of land
adjoining to the Town house, he hath bought of me and paid for it. And a 15
acre lot of mine adjoining to John Cook I did exchange with him for one of
his lots which was formerly Cumpton's. And I likewise exchanged my 4 acre lot
near the meadow gate with John Tilton, Jr., for his land in the Seller neck.
I give my wife full power to sell or exchange land for the best advantage.
Page 274.--JONATHAN WRIGHT. In the name of God, Amen. I, Jonathan Wright, of
Flushing, in Queens County, being sick and weak declare this to be my last
will and testament. I leave to my wife Sarah all that my homestead where I
now live, with the dwelling house, barns and orchard, during her life, to
improve the same for her maintenance. After her death I bequeath the same to
my three sons, John, Charles, and Job equally. I leave to my son Jonathan a
10 acre lot of land which has been confirmed to him by a deed of gift. I
leave to my son David a certain 20 acre lot of ground where he doth now live.
I leave to my son Samuel my other 20 acre lot lying by David's, provided he
shall settle upon the same. I leave to my son Richard my other ten acre lot
of ground. I leave to my two sons Henry and George each 20 shillings. I leave
to my four daughters, Elizabeth, Sarah, Mary, and Hannah, each 20 shillings.
Leaves to wife Sarah all movables within doors and without doors during her
life, and makes her executor.
Page 280.--PATRICK MEADE. In the name of God, Amen. I, Patrick Meade, of
Barbadoes, merchant, upon the first day of October last, before my departure
from the Island of Barbadoes, did make my last will and testament, therein
making and appointing my worthy friend, Captain Charles Thomas, my executor,
and my wife Frances executrix, and upon full consideration have thought it
convenient to make some addition and alterations, being now sick and weak. As
for the legacy of $50 I left to my good friend Mr. Dominick Arthurd, my
desire is that my executors give order to Mr. Wm. Douglass, merchant of
Philadelphia, for the payment of $60 in lieu of said legacy. I leave to Mr.
John Smart, of Barbadoes, $10. To Mr. Wm. Moore and Mr. Edward Funnell, of
Barbadoes, each a ring of 40 shillings value. I leave to Mrs. Catharine
Hawarding, wife of Mr. Thomas Hawarding, merchant, of New York, $10, to buy
her a piece of plate. To my landlady, Mrs. Ann Lind, of New York, widow, $10.
What estate I have in Philadelphia I desire Mr. William Douglass to receive,
and send it to my executors in Barbadoes, and Mr. Thomas Hawarding is to
collect my estate in New York. I appoint my worthy friend, Captain Charles
Thoms, executor. I do order and appoint Mr. Thomas Hawarding, merchant, to
take care of my funeral in New York and to bury me in such decent manner as
he shall think fit.
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Page 289.--THOMAS LAWRENCE. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Lawrence, of
New York, being now bound on a voyage, and knowing that all flesh is mortal."
I leave to my wife Mary Lawrence, one third of all my estate, both real and
personal. The other two thirds I leave to my children when of age. (Names not
given.) I make and appoint my wife Mary, and my friend Henry Coleman of New
York, butcher, executors.
Page 290.--Richard, Earl of Bellomont, Governor, &c. Whereas JOHN STOUT, late
of Jamaica, died while on a voyage from Jamaica to New York, on board the
Sloop "Content," Captain Luke Gall, Commander, Letters of administration are
granted to Thomas Wenham of New York, his trustee, April 20, 1699.
�
Page 290.--Captain Wendham, Sir. This comes to advise you that I not having
my health in Jamaica was a coming to New York in hopes that the air might do
me good. But God who is the Ruler and Sovereign of all things, has been
pleased to lay his hand upon me to this degree that I am exceedingly weak.
Also a great mistake for in coming away in haste left all my papers and
accounts behind. Sir, I desire you at the arrival of the Ship "Content,"
Captain Luke Gall, Commander, with the cargo, that you will make all dispatch
you can to returne here to Jamaica. Also here is more goods that I have
ordered into your hands, as follows. Spices, Sole leather, 100 hides,
Muscovado Sugar, 7 Hogsheads, 100 dozen of Lamp black, 3 bags of money, 53
Spanish pistoles, 1 small cask of old pewter. In the three bags are contained
1,200 pieces of 8, weighty money. Sir, my will and order is that you will
first sell three quarters of the Ship upon my account; the Commanders
privilege excepted. Sir, Pray supply the Commander with what money he has
occasion for and you will oblige me.
�
[NOTE.--Richard Sackett owned a tract of land on the north side of Cherry
street, east of Pearl street, and from him the street derived its original
name of "Sackett's street."
�
Page 298.--JOHN LAURENCE. "In the name of God Almighty, Amen. This 7th day of
January, 1698, I, John Laurence, Sr., citizen of New York, in America, being
in perfect health but well stricken in years, being above 80 years of age,
and calling to remembrance the mortality of this transitory life." "I direct
my body to be buried in such place where it shall please my heirs and
executors to appoint, with the decency that they shall think meet according
to my Quality and the estate I leave." The houses wherein I dwell in New York
are to be at the disposal of me and my wife during our lives. Together with
the rents of the house and land in Smith's Vly. All goods and property to be
at his wife's disposal, except such goods as have been given to our daughter
Martha, widow of Thomas Snowfell, who hath lived with me since her husband
went from her, being now above seventeen years. And as concerns my estate in
land as a patentee in Hempstead and Flushing and the only survivor in both,
in Queens County, to be divided, with all the privileges whatsoever, granted
by Patent to me, as appears under the hand and seal of Colonel Richard
Nicholls, then Governor; bearing date June 15, 1665. Which lands I order to
be divided to each of my children, John, Thomas, Martha, widow of Thomas
Snowfell, and Susannah, wife of Gabriel Minveille. After the death of my wife
all the estate in New York is also to be divided among the children. Leaves
legacies to "my daughter Willingham's children," and to "the daughter of my
son Joseph," to be at the discretion of my executors. "And so, I pray God to
bless them as my children and make them his children by faith and love in
Christ." Makes his wife executor, and his son in law, Gabriel Minveille, and
his son Thomas, and daughter Martha to assist her. (Names of witnesses not
given.)
�
Page 304.--JOHN HOORE. "In the name of God, Amen. I, John Hoore, of the
Island of Jamaica, cooper, now resident in New York, being in sound and
perfect health, and being now bound on a voyage to sea in the good ship
called the `John and Rebecca,' and not knowing how Almighty God may deal with
me." In case of my death I make this my last will. I leave to my son, John,
when of age, all my estate in Jamaica or elsewhere. I leave to my daughter
Eleanor, $100. If she die without issue, then to be paid to my wife Rebecca.
I leave to my beloved friend Mr. Thomas Wenham, my negro woman called
Shoutone. Leaves household goods, &c., to his wife Rebecca, and makes her
executor.
�
Page 311.--Inventory of estate of JOHN SYMKAM, recorded for John Roome,
administrator, February 21, 1702/3. 1 boat and furniture sold to Abraham
Kermit, $40. Total amount, $110. "Inventory taken in the presence of John
Terbout and Garett Oncleberg by me, John Tudor." Paid to the Secretary for
Letters of Administration, $3, 1s. To John Dally for funeral charges, $4, 11,
7. This account was exhibited for a just and true account of the goods, etc.,
of John Symkam, by Administrator of said estate, February 20, 1702/3.
�
Page 313.--Inventory of estate of THOMAS LAMBERTSE, late of Bedford, in Kings
County. Taken by Jeremias Remsen and Charles Bretsebloon, two freeholders of
said County, the 15 of February, 1702/3. 1 negro boy called Harry, about 14
years old, $50; 2 cows, 7 years old each, $6; 1 old silver beaker, 1 silver
spoon, 1 silver dram cup of 1/2 gill, and a little silver spoon for a child,
$4, 8s. Total amount, $85. Cornelius Vanderhoorne, Elizabeth Vanderhoorne.
Exhibited as a true account of the administration of all and singular the
goods, &c., of Thomas Lambertse deceased.
This Inventory was exhibited by Nicholas Rosevelt, Garritt Van Imburgh, and
Jan Jansen as a true and just account of the goods and chattels of Jeremias
Westerhaut deceased, March 6, 1702/3.
�
Page 318.--Inventory of estate of JUDAH SAMUEL, Recorded at the request of
Moses Levy, administrator. Hebrew Bible. 5 Hebrew books. Total amount, $150.
Exhibited by John Bridges as a true and perfect inventory, September 2, 1702.
�
Registered at ye request of Captain George Rogers, as administrator of the
goods left in Captain Stapleton's cabin after his decease, in the hands of
Captain George Rogers. 6 rings. 1 Indian sash. (Many articles of personal
adornment but no value stated.) Exhibited as a true inventory of the goods,
etc., of Captain Robert Stapleton, March 9, 1702/3.
�
Page 320.--Inventory of estate of WM. HELLIKER, taken at the request of
Alderman Jacob Baelen and Dirck Ten Eyck, October 5, 1702. House and lot,
$250. 1/4 of a house on Broad st., $50. 3 pieces of 8, 18s.
This account was exhibited as a just and true account of the administration
of the estate of Wm. Helliker, deceased, by Jacob Boelen and Dirck Ten Eyck,
administrators, March 23, 1702/3.
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Page 321.--Inventory of the estate of GABRIEL THOMPSON, alias Stridells, of
New York. Taken by Jacobus D'Honeur and Jan Jansen, October 19, 1702. House
and ground, House not finished, $280. Silver Tankard, 24 ounces, at 7s, 6d,
$12, 15s. 2 full pipes of Madeira wine, $50. 100 gallons Madeira wine, $20.
40 gallons of Brandy at 12s, $24. 5 gallons of Rum, $1, 5s. Total amount,
$604. Exhibited as a true account of estate of Gabriel Thompson, deceased, by
Isaac Van Laer, April 3, 1703.
�
New York, April ye 6, 1703. There appeared before his Excellency, Edward,
Viscount Cornbury, Captain-General and Governor in Chief of the Province of
New York, Joseph Latham, and declared in the name of God, under the penalty
of perjury, that the above was a true and perfect inventory and account of
the goods of MARGARET DUNCAN deceased.
�
Page 325.--Recorded at the request of Abraham Howell and John Wicke,
executors of the will of WILLIAM BARKER. An Inventory of the goods, etc., of
Mr. Wm. Barker, merchant, of New York, and appraised by Samuel Cooper and
Thomas Topping in Southampton upon Long Island, October 21, 1702, and in New
York by Dirck Benson and Thomas Adams, November 4, 1702. In ready cash, $18,
19s. 2 mourning gold rings at 11s, $1, 2s. Total amount $981. Exhibited as a
true inventory of the estate of Wm. Barker deceased, April 24, 1703.
�
Page 329.--A true inventory of the goods, etc., of RICHARD CURTIS. Taken by
Nathaniel Curtis, administrator, February 27, 1702/3. 8 cows, 2 steers, $30.
Total amount, $69, 16.
New York, May 1, 1703. There appeared before me, Edward, Viscount Cornbury,
Captain-General and Governor, and Commander-in-Chief of the Province of New
York, Wm. Haige, and declared ye above to be a true and honest Inventory,
etc.
Page 331.--Inventory of estate of ABRAHAM DE LANOY, late of New York.
Recorded at the request of Evert Duyckinck, October, 1702. 6 Books of
Evangelists, $2, 3s; 9 Historical School Books, $3, 4s; 10 Books of Cortimus,
$3, 9s; 14 Catechism Books, $3, 6s; 32 Song Books, $4, 6s; 13 Books of Golden
Trumpets, $2, 6s; 1 Great Looking Glass, $5; 12 bags with money, $1,151; 10
bags with money to buy wampum, $25; 9 silver spoons, $5, 6s. This inventory
shows a very extensive stock of goods of all kinds, especially dry goods.
Total amount, $2,209. Taken by Leonard Lewis and Jacobus Goelet, and
exhibited to Lord Cornbury, May 11, 1703, by Evert Duyckinck.
[This inventory, giving the various articles found in each room, seems to
indicate that the house consisted of a shop or store, which occupied the
front room on the first floor. Back of this was a "living room." "The great
kitchen" is mentioned, and an "upper chamber above the great kitchen," and "a
little thatched chamber on the left." "A small room called the writing
closet." "A coach loft," "small store house in the yard;" "The great store
house." "The yard and cellar." The greater part of all the goods were sold by
"ye vendue master," Mr. Robert Lurting, for $446, 29s. "Cash found by the
administrator sealed up in several chests in possession of Jacob Marius
Groen, $148, 9s, 10d." Among the goods "which would not sell at auction,"
were "91 Dutch books, valued at $6 by the appraisers." A very long list
covering several pages, of small debts, owing, it would seem, by almost every
man in the city, amounting to $4,679. Total amount, $5,291.]
�
Exhibited as a true and perfect Inventory of the estate of PETER JACOBS
MARIUS, by Samuel Bayard and Peter Wessells.
�
Inventory of estate of WILLIAM HELEKER. Taken by Jacob Boelen and Dirck Ten
Eyck, administrators. Total amount, $122. Expenses, to Abraham Van Gelder for
a coffin, 8s. 3d.; to Abraham Van Gelder for 2 coffins, 12s.; to Angeltie
Moll for undress ye dead, 11s. 9d.; to William Portuguese wife for ditto, 5s.
10 1/2d.; to Candles and Rum, 3s.; to 1/2 gross pipes, 2s. 7d.; to a place in
the Church, 9s. October 19, 1703. Jacob Boelen, Dirck Ten Eyck.
�
Page 367.--Inventory of estate of SOLOMON SEAMAN, deceased. Taken May 31,
1703. 7 cows and heifers, $19; 7 oxen and steers, $31; 4 horses, 4 mares and
4 colts, $21.5. The inventory consists mostly of farming stock and utensils.
Total, $126. Exhibited as a true and just inventory of Solomon Seaman,
deceased, by his son Solomon Seaman, one of the executors. December 20, 1703.
�Page 370.--Inventory of estate of THOMAS BURROUGHS, of New York. Taken by
Richard Willetts and William Smith, executors, February 21, 1703/4. 20
barrells of Beef, $40; 20 bushels Indian corn, $3; a new hat, $1.9; a small
bag of money, $15.19s. Total amount, $2,209.
�Page 373.--Inventory of estate of FERDINAND WAMSLEY, of Richmond County.
Exhibited by Joseph Billop, February 9, 1703. Consists of articles on a small
farm. Total amount, $57.
Inventory of estate of NATHANIEL PEARSALL, Hempstead, Long Island, February
8, 1703/4. Taken by John Searing and John Moriding. 6 oxen, $25; 12 cows,
$33; 5 horses, $20; "2 young jades that can't yet be found," $2.5s.; 85
sheep, $25.1s.; 1 ox cart and tackling for 6 oxen, $6.4s.; 1 negro man and a
negro woman and a negro girl, $90; 3 negro boys, $60. Total amount, $546.
�The 3d of March, 1703, Martha Pearsall and Thomas Pearsall, executors of the
will of NATHANIEL PEARSALL, deceased, being Professors of the worship of the
People called Quakers, did, as in the presence of God, solemnly declare that
the within written is a true and honest Inventory of all and singular, the
goods and chattels, rights and credits of the said Nathaniel Pearsall, and is
to the best of their knowledge. Facit et Cognovit Coram.
Page 377.--Inventory of estate of THOMAS NOELL, "upon his farme in ye County
of Bergen, in ye Province of New Jersey, which is now on ye farme." 1 negro
man, $36; ditto, $44; negro boy, $40; 2 negro women, $65. Total, $605.
Appraised for Mrs. Hannah Noel, by David Vileat, Bartholomew Fieurt. The
appraisement of negroes and stock on the farm which could then be found,
$342. The remainder of the stock which Richard Hand received when he rented
the farm. 14 cattle, $30; 10 horse kind, $40; 12 swine, $9; credits due to
Thomas Noell, $298; "likewise a copper still, about 25 gallons, lent out and
forgotten," $10. The real estate, viz., his house in New York and his farm in
Bergen County, $1,000. Total amount, $5,037. Debts due from Thomas Noel,
$2,203. Sworn to by Samuel Moore and Daniel Honan, before Thomas Lawrence,
Justice, April 3, 1704. Exhibited as a true and honest Inventory by Hannah
Noel, widow and executrix, April 13, 1704, before me, Cornbury.
[NOTE.--Thomas Noell was mayor of New York in 1701. His city residence was on
the west side of Broad street, a little north of Beaver street.]
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Page 383.--A true Inventory taken at the late dwelling house of PETER BRETON,
deceased, in Oyster Bay in Queens Co., upon the Island of Nassau, on March
31, 1704. "In the first cellar, 25 gallons of rum at 3s., $3.15s. In the
second cellar, 2 barrels of pork and 3 barrels of beef, etc. In the shop, 12
bags felt hats at 3s, $1.16; 25 pounds of sugar, 10s.; 33 ounces of silver
plate at 7s., $11.11s.; 55 bushels o wheat, $7.10s.; 1/2 of Sloop Betty, 7
tons, $25. Sworn to by John Townsend, Robert Cooper, and Edward Folwell,
before Edward White and John Townsend, Justices. April 21, 1704. Exhibited
before Lord Cornbury by Elizabeth Breton, widow and executor.
�
Inventory of the estate of the Rev. Mr. PATRICK GORDON. Taken by David Lyell
and William Anderson at the request of Colonel Lewis Morris, of East Jersey,
in New York, December 10, 1702. Silver watch and seal, $10; Gown and Cassock,
old, $2.10s.; 2 pair new breeches and 1 old waistcoat. A large number of
Classical and Religious commentaries, etc. Total amount, $375.
"New York, May ye 30, 1704. I, Abigail Willetts, widow and executrix of the
will of RICHARD WILLETTS deceased, being of the Profession of the People
called Quakers, do solemnly and in the presence of God, as witness to the
truth of what I say, profess and declare that the within is a true and just
Inventory, etc. Declared before me,
�
A further account shows goods to the amount of $289, and he desires certain
allowance to be made for money and expenses paid.
New York, July 18, 1704. "Thomas Roberts, being of the Profession of the
People commonly called Quakers," does solemnly declare that the above is a
true inventory, etc., before me,
�
Memorandum, that on December 20, 1704, an account was received by Captain
Bond from Abraham Hardenbrook, merchant at Amsterdam, whereby he charges
himself debtor to the estate of Mary Teller for the net produce of a bundle
of Peltry, and 21 Elk skins. In Holland money, 218 Guilders 9 Stuyvers.
�
Page 412.--Inventory of the estate of JOHN WILKINS, deceased, appraised at
Madnan's Neck, upon Long Island, May 1, 1705, by Theodorus Van Wyck,
carpenter, and John Halstead, yeoman. Negro man, woman, and girl, $90; 6 cows
and a bull, $24. Total amount, $393.
�Exhibited by Thomasan Wilkins, administratrix, before Thomas Wenham, Esq.,
September 15, 1705. Funeral expenses, $1, 7s, 9d. Charges of administration,
$2, 8s. To ye Coroner's Inquest, $5. To a Lawyer, $1.
Page 414.--Inventory of estate of JOSEPH NUNES, of New York. Taken by Mr.
Paul Droillet and Mr. Lewis Lynes, executors, October 8, 1705. 1 otter skin,
5s. 6d.; 42 dozen Jews Harps, at 12d. a dozen, $2, 2s. Total amount, $695,
18.
[NOTE.--Colonel William Smith, the ancestor of the family known as the
"Tangier Smiths," was the owner of a very large tract of land in the town of
Brookhaven, and known as the Manor of St. George. A large part of this manor
is still in possession of his descend ants. It is needless to say that
Colonel Smith was one of the foremost men of his day.
�
Page 423.--List of debts due to estate of Peter Jacob Marius, very long list
covering five pages, showing small sums owing, it would seem, by almost every
man in the city. In all a very large amount.
�
To horse hire and expenses for 6 days on Nassau Island to settle accounts,
and postage of Letters, $1 19s 7 1/2d. A very lengthy account by Samuel
Bayard the administrator, March 25, 1706.
�
$s.d. To 29 gallons of wyne at 6s. 9d. per gallon9159 To 19 pairs of gloves
at 2s. 3d.243 For bottles and glass broke, paid037 Paid 2 women each 2 days
attendance0150 Paid a suit of mourning for ye negro woman freed by ye
testator, and making347 1/2 Paid for 800 Cokies and 1 1/2 gross of Pipes at
3s. 3d.677 1/2 Paid for speys (spice) for ye burnte wyne and sugar011 Paid to
the Sexton and Bell ringer, for making ye grave and ringing ye bell220 Paid
for ye Coffin400 Paid for gold and making 14 mourning rings2160 Paid for 3
yards beaver stuff at 7s. 6d., buttons and making it for a suit of
mourning1146 Paid for 1/2 vat of single Beer076 Whole amount of Funeral
Charges is3168 1/2
[NOTE.--The above account gives a very interesting description of one of the
most characteristic features of Dutch life. A funeral in those days was a day
of merriment rather than of mourning. Peter Jacobse Marius was one of the
most prominent of the New York merchants in his day, and he was buried "like a
gentleman." His dwelling-house was on the south side of Pearl street, about
half way between Whitehall and State street. He was doubtless buried in the
Dutch Church yard on Garden street, now Exchange place, east of Broad
street.]
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Page 436.--Inventory of estate of GERITT VAN DUYNE, of New Utrecht, Kings
County, "husbandman." Taken at his dwelling house, by Jacques Cortelyou,
Peter Cortelyou, Abraham Gouverneur. Evidently a small farm. Total, $211.
Page 444.--Inventory of estate of JAMES PETTY, late of Southold. Taken by
Benjamin Moore and Jasper Griffing, September 3, 1706. Total amount, $64.
Page 445.--Inventory of estate of JOHN SMITH, Sr., of Hempstead, on Long
Island, by Hannah Treadwell, widow, and John Treadwell as executors of John
Smith, Sr.; appraised by John Suris and Thomas Gildersleve, September 14,
1706. Exhibited as a true inventory by Hannah Treadwell, October 3, 1706.
�Page 447.--Inventory and appraisement of the goods of WILLIAM BOWYER of
Jamaica, merchant. Taken at New York, by David Jamieson, Esq., one of the
executors, April 2, 1706. Silver hilted sword and belt, $3; 1 broken watch
with a silver chain; 1 Seal, cut in stone and set in gold, 15s; 2 pistoles,
one melted, $3, 12s. A pistole and a half in melted gold, $1, 16s. Total,
$218.
�
New York, September 7, 1706. Rip Van Dam and William Smith, executors of the
estate of ROBERT ALLISON, exhibited the above written inventory as a true and
honest inventory of the estate of said Robert Allison, so far as has come to
their hands, or possession.
Page 454.--Inventory of the estate of Captain THOMAS PENISTONE, taken at the
request of the widow and executors, February 11, 1706/7; 1/2 of the Galley
"Revenge," $34; 1/4 of the Sloop William and Thomas, $62, 10. Exhibited as a
true inventory by William Anderson and Lancaster Symers, February 17, 1706/7.
Page 455.--Account of Abraham Delmena as the administrator of the estate of
ANDREW DOUGLASS, late of Surinam. Charges himself with $57 received of Helena
Rumbout, and $27, 11s to balance his own account. "530 guilders, in Stirling,
$53." Exhibited as a true account, February 27, 1706/7.
[NOTE.--According to the above account a guilder was equal to about 22 1/8
pence sterling.]
Page 456.--Account of estate of ABRAHAM TESSEMAKER of St. Thomas: Due to
Samuel Bayard by his bond, $56; "besides 1/3 of 313 pieces of 8, and 5 Royals
which by the information and declaration of the master and men of the sloop
`Adventure' was made debtor to me. Besides 30 gallons of molasses saved out
of a hogshead that broke in the slings in histing over in the sloop." For
David Jamieson, services in getting Letters of Administration, 18s. For the
petition to ye Lord for the administration, 6s. Exhibited, March 6, 1706/7.
Page 470.--Inventory of estate of THOMAS WYCKINGHAM, late of Newtown in
Queens County. 3 barrels of cider, $1.10s.; "1 old scythe to cut corn," 3s.;
34 pounds of Flax, 18s., 6d.; negro man, $55; negro woman, $40; A brown
pacing horse, $8; 9 cows, $26. Sworn to by William Hallett, Jr., June 11,
1707, before me,
[NOTE.--The house and lot of Cornelis Vanderbeck seems to have been on the
south side of Wall street, a little east of New street.
�
Page 476.--A true and perfect inventory of all the goods, etc., of ELIZABETH
BRIDGES, late of Staten Island, widow. Taken July 31, 1704: 12 pewter plates,
18s.; 2 feather beds, with all furniture to them, $18. Total, $145. Taken by
Lambert Johnson and Jacob Johnson.
�
Page 479.--Inventory of estate of JAMES GLASSON. Cash, $541.13s 4 1/2. Taken
by Thomas Davenport, administrator. A true and perfect inventory of all and
singular the goods, etc., of Thomas Stillwell, Jr., of Staten Island. Taken
by Nathan Whitman and Lambert Johnson, February 3, 1703/4: 6 cows, 2 heifers,
$15; 17 head of other cattle, $22. Seems to have been the owner of a small
farm. Exhibited by Mary Stillwell, administratrix, October 3, 1708.
�
Page 485.--Inventory of estate of PETER BASSETT, late of New York, Physician,
and of Hester Bassett, his daughter, likewise deceased. Taken at the request
of Giles Gaudineau and Peter Moriss, administrators, February 13, 1707. 7
silver spoons, a chain and hook, weight 12 ounces, at 7s. 6d., $4.10; 2 gold
rings with Bristol stones, $1.4s.
�
Page 486.--Inventory of estate of NICHOLAS CROXTARS, of New York. Taken
February 1, 1706/7. 7,200 Pipe staves, at $3 per thousand, $21.12. Total
amount, $86.11s. Presented to Lord Cornbury as a true inventory, June 20,
1707, by William Meritt and Daniel Dunscombe, June 20, 1707.
Page 491.--Inventory of estate of DR. JOHN BRIDGES, of New York. Taken
January 10, 1708/9. "A parcel of Books in a wooden case," $14; "Some books
sold to Mr. William Bradford, $3." Total amount, $75.14s. Appraised by
William Anderson and Lancaster Symes. Exhibited as a true inventory of the
estate of Dr. John Bridges by Mrs. Ann Bridges, widow, January 22, 1707/8.
�
Page 492.--An Inventory and appraisement of the personal estate of WILLIAM
HALLETT, JR., late of Newtown in Queens County, Gentleman, deceased, "who
together with his wife and 5 children was barbarously murdered on ye 24th day
of January, 1707, by two of his own slaves." 2 horses, $10; 2 mares, $5; 2
colts, $3; 7 cows, 19.5s.; 29 sheep, $8.15; 1 silver Tankard, $7; 7 spoons,
$16.6s.; 57 1/2 bushels of wheat at 4s., $11.10s. No total given, but list
shows very extensive farm and farming products and utensils. Exhibited as a
true Inventory by William Hallett, Sr., administrator, June 1, 1708.
�
Page 497.--Account of estate of ESTHER BASSETT. Taken by Giles Gardineau and
Peter Morin. "Paid for letters of Denization," $1, 5s.; "expenses during
sickness and burial charges," $6, 13s. Whole amount $293. Exhibited as a true
account of estate of Peter Bassett by Giles Gardineau and Peter Martin,
administrators, February 19, 1707/8, before Lord Cornbury.
Page 1.--By his Excellency, Edward, Viscount Cornbury, Captain-General and
Governor in Chief of the Province of New York. To Katharine Rogers, widow and
relict of ANTHONY ROGERS deceased, late of the city of New York, Physician,
Greeting. Whereas the said Anthony Rogers lately died intestate, having,
whilst he lived, goods and chattels in divers places in this Province; that
the said goods and credits may be well and faithfully administered, We do
grant unto you, in whose fidelity in this behalf I very much confide in, full
power by the tenor of these presents, to administer the said goods, requiring
you to make a true and perfect inventory, and exhibiting the same into the
Registry of the Prerogative Court in the Secretary's office at or before the
12th day of March next ensuing, And rendering a true and just account of said
administering. In testimony whereof I have caused the Prerogative seal to be
hereunto affixed this 12 day of September, anno Domini 1702.
The within named Sequestrators for the estate of Mr. Ouzel Van Swieton were
sworn to make a faithful account pursuant to the Commission before me.
�MARY TELLER.--"In the name of God, Amen. I, Mary Teller, of the city of New
York, widow and relict of William Teller, being in health of body. I direct
that my executors shall take, with all convenient speed, an exact account of
all such goods as shall be left in my possession, that remain of the estate
of my late husband, and deliver the same to the executors of my said husband.
The executors are to make an inventory of my personal property, and one half
shall be put at interest for the children of my eldest daughter, Susanah
Brockholst, viz. Mary, Henry, Judy, Susanah and Janechie, to be paid to them
when they are of age. The other half to the children of my younger daughter,
Janechie Schuyler, deceased, viz., Margareta, Philip, Mary and Casparus. I
leave to my eldest daughter, Susanah Brockholst, and to her heirs and
assigns, all that a certain Garden, lot, or toft of ground now in my
possession, lying and being within this city, on the east side of the
Broadway, to the south of the house of Peter King, and to the north of the
house of William Mosse, and to the west of the New street. And as for the
rest of my real estate, which consists of a house and lot of ground where I
now live, situate in the Smiths street, between the houses of Thomas Noel,
and the house of the widow of Hendrick Van Bursom. Together with another
house and lot of ground in the Broadway, now in the tenure of Robert White on
the east of the said Broadway, betwixt John Corbetts house and that of the
widow of Walter Hyer. I leave one half of the same to the children of my
eldest daughter, Susanah Brockholst, and the other half to the children of my
younger daughter, Janechie Schuyler, and they are to remain in the hands of
my executors till some of the children are of age, and then the executors
shall have power to sell the same. If any of my grand children shall wish to
purchase, they are to have the preference. I make my brother-in-law, Colonel
Nicholas Bayard, and in case of his decease, his son, Mr. Samuel Bayard, and
my son-in-law, Major Anthony Brockholst, and my son-in-law, Arent Schuyler,
and in case of his decease, his brother, Captain Brandt Schuyler, my
executors.
�
Page 12.--ROGER BAKER. "In the name of God, Amen. The 18 day of September,
1702. I, Roger Baker, of New York, Innholder, being sicke and weake." "I, the
said Roger Baker, being the son of Roger Baker, living in a house called
Paradise, in the Parish of Fordley, in the County of Worcestershire, in Old
England." I leave all my estate to my wife, Mary, and my son Joseph, and my
daughter Katharine. I leave to Trinity Church, here in New York, $12; and to
my God-son, Richard Sackett, Jr., "one piece of Christian gold." To my
brother, Thomas Baker, in Old England, one large gold seal ring. Makes his
wife and Johanes Kip and W. John Crook, executors.
�
WILLIAM HELLEKER. "In the name of God, Amen, this 15 day of May, 1691, I,
William Helleker, of the Smiths Valey, in the city of New York, ship
carpenter, being sick, and weak." I leave to my wife Katharine, all my
estate, both real and personal, during her life, in case she remains
unmarried. She bringing up my children in a decent Christian manner. If she
marry again then she is to have one half and the other half to the children.
My son, Jacob Helleker, is to have $3, in addition to his share. Makes his
wife executor, and Boelen Rudolph, his father-in-law, assistant. Witnesses,
Clement Ellsworth, Jacobus Colyer, William Huddlestone. Proved before John
Bridges, October 1, 1702.
[NOTE.--"The Smith Valey," or "Vly," so frequently mentioned in early deeds,
was the present Pearl street, between Wall street and Fulton street. Shortly
after the accession of Queen Anne, it was named Queen street, and held that
name till after the revolution. The house of William Helliker was on the
north side of the street, a little east of Maiden lane.
�
Whereas, WILLIAM HELLIKER, lately deceased, leaving behind him a will,
declaring his wife Katharine sole executrix, which said Katharine has lately
died, since the decease of her husband, and without proving the said will,
Therefore Jacob Boelen, silversmith, and Dirck Ten Eyck, cordwainer, uncles
and guardians of Katharine, Maritse, and Aphia, children of said William
Helliker, by Katharine, his wife, deceased, are made administrators, during
the minority of the children,
October 1, 1702.
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 35.--WILLIAM BARKER. "In the name of God, Amen. I, William Barker, of
Southampton, in the County of Suffolk, Gentleman, being of sound and perfect
health, etc." I leave to my trusty friend, Mr. Abraham Howell, of
Southampton, $50. I leave to my trusty friend, John Wick, serge maker, of
Southampton, all my housing and land I bought of John Jagoe, during his life.
I also leave him $20. I leave to Job Wick, son of John Wick, all my lands and
the house I dwell in in Southampton, and after the death of his father, John
Wick, the other house. I leave to Sybell, daughter of John Howell, $20. To
Mary Howell, widow of John Howell, a ring of $5 value. To Thomas Herrick, $5.
To John Burt, son of Mr. Samuel Burt, of New York, $10. To my cousin, Ann
Leggett, $50. To Arthur Davis, apprentice of John Wick, $5 to buy him a loom.
To the Poor of Southampton, $5. To Mr. Joseph Whiting, minister in
Southampton, $5. The rest of my estate, my farm on Staten Island, and my
house in New York I leave to my cousin, Mary Mentoss, daughter of my uncle,
Matthew Barker, Esq. Dated March 16, 1699/1700. Abraham Howell and John Wick,
executors. Witnesses, John Howell, Thomas Howell, James Clark. Proved before
Colonel William Smith, at the manor of St. George, Suffolk County, September
14, 1702.
[NOTE.--William Barker was for many years a merchant and Justice of the Peace
in Southampton, L. I. His homestead now belongs to the heirs of Albert
Foster. He seems to have owned a house in New York, on the east side of
Broadway, between Wall street and Exchange place.
View full context
�
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.
�
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 76.--TYMAN VAN BORSUM. "In the name of God, Amen, this 22 day of July,
1702. I, Tyman Van Borsum, of New York, cordwainer, make this my last will."
I leave to my wife Gritie all my estate during widowhood. If she should
marry, then a true inventory to be made, and she is to have one half, and my
daughter Margareta, wife of Cornelius Law, shall have the other half.
Mentions "my two brothers and sisters," Janatie, wife of Peter Adolph, and
Anette, wife of Andrew Brestede;" mentions "children of my brother Hendrick
Van Borsum," and "the children of my brother, Barent Van Borsum;" mentions
"the children of my two brothers and sisters, viz., Egbert Hermans, John
Hermans, and the children of Geesie, late wife of Claas Jansen Van Heyninge,
and the children of Willimentie, late wife of Geritt Snedicor. Leaves a
contingent remainder to "the widower of my daughter, whether it be Cornelius
Low or any other husband." Makes his wife executor, and after her decease "my
two brothers in law, Peter Adolph and Egbert Hermans."
�
Page 79.--PETER BIYON. "In the name of God, Amen. Be it known and manifest
unto all to whom these presents may come, that I, Peter Biyon, of the County
of Richmond." I leave to my wife Perize, $10, and also $15 per annum for
life, as agreed by an ante nuptial contract. I also leave her the use of all
household stuff. I leave to my eldest son, Isaac Biyon, $25 for his birth
right. I leave to the two children of my son Jacob, deceased, $50 each, I
having sufficiently done for their father in his life time. I leave to the
four sons of my daughter Catherine, by her husband, Richard Curtis, a certain
tract of land adjoining to Daniel Lake, in the County of Richmond, being 84
acres, to be equally divided. I having paid a certain mortgage of $125 to
Paul Richards, which he had upon a certain piece of land belonging to
Nicholas Largillier, deceased, the husband of my daughter Frances, who is
since inter-married with John Morgan, which piece of land lyeth in Richmond
County, whereby the title is devolved upon me. And whereas Nicholas, the son
and heir of said Nicholas Largillier, is heir to his estate, whom I had
specially provided for on the marriage of my daughter Frances, my said
daughter is to enjoy the benefit of the same till the said Nicholas shall
come of age, and he shall pay $125 to the children of his mother, whether by
his own father or of John Morgan. I leave the rest of my estate to my son,
Isaac Biyon, and to the children of my daughter Maria, wife of Arent Prall,
who is deceased, Martha, wife of Thomas Stillwell, Christence, wife of
Abraham Marlet, Catherine, wife of Richard Curtis, and Frances, wife of John
Morgan. Makes Abraham Gouverneur, Jacques Pouillon, and Jasper Nissepat,
executors.
Page 99.--SAMUEL BRADLEY. "In the name of the Lord, Amen. This 5 day of July
in ye year of our Lord 1693, I, Samuel Bradley, of the city of New York,
merchant, being at present in good health and being now bound on a voyage
beyond the sea." "Whereas my loving brother in law, Captain William Kidd,
hath been very careful of me, and hath likewise for my encouragement, now in
my minority, at my desire and request, advanced and paid unto me ye sum of
$140, current money of New York, which I now employ in trade and merchandize.
For and in consideration of his so great love unto me, as well as in
recompense and in full satisfaction of ye said sum of money, advanced as
aforesaid, I do give and bequeath unto my said loving brother in law Captain
William Kidd, his heirs and assigns for ever, All that my one half of one
certain toft or lot of Ground numbered with the number 6. Situate, lying, and
being within ye city of New York, in ye street commonly called and known by
ye name of ye Dock street. And likewise all that my one half of a certain
messuage or dwelling house and lot lying and being in ye street commonly
called by ye name of ye Wall street. And also that my lot or Toft of ground
in ye new street, without ye gate of ye said city, called King street. I will
that all my goods and chattels be equally divided into three parts, amongst
my loving father, Samuel Bradley, my brother in law, William Kidd, and my
loving brother, Henry Bradley. And lastly I constitute and appoint my said
brother in law, Captain William Kidd, to be executor.
�
Page 102.--HENRY JOURDAINE. "In the name of God, Amen. I, Henry Jourdaine,
mariner, being sick." I bequeath absolutely all my estate to my dear wife
Elizabeth and her children, but to be entirely at her disposal. And all the
wages and commissions that shall come to me from the Ship "Dolphin." Likewise
a bulk of gold containing 10 ounces 8 pennyweights. Likewise 61 elephants
teeth, marked H. J. All which is in ye Ship "Dolphin." I desire that Mr.
Stephens may receive my goods, etc., and send it to my dear wife who lives in
New York, by my son in law Alexander Woodruff. I leave to each of my children
1 ounce of gold, as their mother shall think fit.
�
FREDERICK PHILLIPSE. In the name of God, Amen. I, Frederick Flipse, of ye
city of New York, being in health of body and of sound and perfect memory, do
make and declare this to be my last will and testament. I order my body to be
interred at my burial place at ye upper mill, with such charges and in such
decent manner as to my executors shall seem most convenient. I give to
Frederick Flipse, my grand son, born in Barbadoes, ye only son of Philip, my
eldest son, late deceased, ye following houses and tenements in ye city of
New York, to wit: That dwelling house with ye appurtenances I now live in,
with ye house called ye Boulting house, as also the house next door to ye
said dwelling house, and the ground adjoining so far as ye leanto stands, and
so far as ye gable end of ye old kitchen and ye fence of the widow De Kay.
And also a ware house called ye middle ware house, and ye land behind it, ye
breadth of ye said ware house towards ye New street, and to extend in length
to ye Broad street, ye same ground being there in breadth between ye Cooper's
house and ye ground of Isaac Kip. And all those two dwelling houses and lots
of ground lying and being near ye Old Stadt House, at present in ye tenure of
Mr. Caree and Mr. Droillet. And also all those lands, houses, and
hereditaments in the County of Westchester, to wit, that land called
Papariniman, with the meadows and the bridge and the toll, and all the right
and title which I have to the same. And all those lands and meadows called
the Jonckers Plantations, with all the houses, mills, orchards, etc., within
the Patent. As also a piece of land in the Mile Square, by me lately bought
of Michael Howden. And all that tract or piece of land extending from the
Jonckers Plantation or Patent to a creek called by ye Indians Wysquaqua, and
by the Christians Williams Portuguese Creek, and from thence according to ye
course of ye creek into ye woods to the head of the same, and thence on an
east line to the creek called the Jonckers Creek, and thence to continue the
same course to Broncks River, and as far as my right extends. Also one half
of my meadow lying at Tappan with the appurtenances to the same, To him, the
said Frederick Flipse, my grand son, and ye heirs male of his body lawfully
to be begotten. I also leave to my grand son Frederick, besides the negroes
and the Jonckers Plantation, a negro called Harry with his wife and child,
and two negroes called Peter and Wan, and the boat called the "Joncker," with
all pertaining to it, and one half of all the cotton, etc., at the Plantation
at ye upper mills, and one quarter of all ships, plate goods, merchandizes,
etc. These lands are given to him with this restriction, that it is in lieu
of the tract of land called Cinquesingh, purchased by me and intended to be
given to his father, my eldest son.
�
I give to my son, Adolphus Flypse, ye following houses and tenements in ye
city of New York, to wit, that house and ground that Isaac Marquis at present
lives in, with all the rights to me belonging. And a house in Stone street
next Isaac De Forrests, and so far as my right extends. Also a house and lot
of ground over against the house I now live in, stretching in breadth to the
house of Antie Goessens, and in length to the house of Mr. Anthony
Brockholst. And also a house and lot of ground lying in ye Broad street by ye
ground of Jacobus Kip, with a ware house in ye New street and the land
between both from one street to the other. Also those lands, tenements, and
hereditaments in ye County of Westchester, to wit, all that tract of land
lying at ye upper mills, beginning at a creek, called by the Indians
Wysquaqua and by the Christians William Portuguese Creek, being the bounds of
the land given to my grand son, and so running up Hudson River to ye creek
called Wegehandigh, whereon are two grist mills, and from thence along the
river to a creek called Kichtawam or Croton River, and so along the river or
creek, according to ye Patent, and thence on an east line as far as the Bronx
River, thence to the head of Bronx River, and along Bronx River to the lands
devised to my grandson Frederick Flipse. Also one half of a saw mill at
Mamaroneck, late by me purchased of Dr. Selinus. And one half of the meadow
at Tappan, by me purchased of Dr. George Lockhart. And all that piece of
meadow on the north side of Tappan creek, as expressed in the Patent,
together with all houses, mills, etc., to him and his heirs male. Also
certain negroes (14 in all), and one half of the cattle, etc., at the upper
mills. And a large boat called ye "Unity," by me bought of Jan Desmorety. I
leave to my eld est daughter Eva, wife of Jacobus Van Cortlandt, all that
house and ground with the appurtenances in ye city of New York where they at
present live, with all rights. Also a lot of ground in ye New street, to the
south of the old ware house. And one quarter of all ships, plate goods, etc.,
to her during her life, and then to her second son. Also a certain mortgage
of Dr. Henricus Selinus, upon ye lands of John Richbell, deceased, twenty
miles into ye woods, but not to extend over Bronx River into any lands given
to my grand son. I give to my daughter Anatje, wife of Phillip French, the
house and ground in New York where they at present live. Also the old ware
house and ground thereto belonging lying in the New street. And all my estate
of land in the County of Berghen in East New Jersey, to wit, a house lot in
the village of Bergen, a large garden, a Plantation of 15 acres, with 8
morgen or 16 acres of meadow with the right in the undivided wood land of two
farms and the Plantation. And all my lands in the County of Ulster, to wit, a
piece of land at Mombachus, containing 290 acres. A piece of land at Roundout
creek, mortgaged to me by John Ward, counting 700 acres. I also leave to her,
after my wife's decease, that lot of ground and appurtenances in New York
extending from ye Broadway to ye New street, lying between the ground lot of
Robert White and the ground of William the Clockluyer. Also one quarter of
all ships, goods, etc., to her during her life and then to her second son,
and for lack of such to her son Philip French. I bequeath to my dear wife,
Catharine Flipse, $50 per annum, and she shall continue to remain in the
house I now live in, and shall receive the money I have engaged and promised
her according to our agreement upon our marriage. And also the use during her
life of that lot extending from ye Broadway to New street, lying between the
ground lots of Robert White and Willliam the Clockluyer, and she is to have
the guardianship of my grand son Frederick Flipse until he is of age.
[NOTE.--Frederick Flipse (or Phillipse, as his descendants spelled the name)
was the wealthiest man in New York in his time. The large tract of land in
Westchester County was known as the Manor of Phillipsburgh. The burial ground
at the upper mills, where his remains still rest, is at Tarrytown, and the
church he built still remains. The houses and lots in New York, "near the Old
Stadt House," are now Nos. 65-67 Pearl street. They descended to his great
grandson, Frederick Phillipse, and were confiscated after the Revolution. The
house where Frederick Flipse lived was on the north corner of Stone street
and Whitehall. The "land of the widow De Kay" was on Whitehall street, next
north of his lot. The house left to Adolphus Flips, "that Isaac Marquise
lives in," is No. 64 Pearl street. The house on Stone street, "next to Isaac
De Forest's," was next east of the house of Fredrick Flipse, on the north
side of Stone street. The Produce Exchange covers all these lots. The house
"over against the house I now live in," left to son Adolphus, is the south
corner of Stone street and Whitehall. It was in after years the city
residence of Colonel Roger Morris and his wife, Mary Phillipse. Adolphus
Flipse died without issue in 1749 and all his lands went to his nephew,
Frederick Phillipse. The house and lot left to Eva Van Cortlandt is the west
corner of Coenties slip and Pearl street. This lot and house remained in the
possession of her descendants to recent years. In the pictures of the Old
Stadt House the house of Jacobus Van Cortlandt is distinctly seen. The house
and lot left to Anetje, wife of Philip French, is on the south side of Pearl
street, and next east of the famous Fraunces Tavern. The lot on Broadway,
running through to New street, which was left to his wife for life, and then
to Anetje, wife of Phillip French, is a little north of Beaver street. The
lots and warehouses on New street and Broad street are about half way between
Beaver street and Exchange place.
�
Page 117.--JOHN PINE. The last will and testament of John Pine, of Hempstead,
February 21, 1702/3. "I commit my body to the Dust, and my soul into the
hands of my merciful Redeemer," and know all men, that I, John Pine, confirm
and make over all my estate with the house and mill with all lands upon this
neck, commonly known by the name of Hick's Neck, with all the appurtenances,
to my wife, Abigail Pine, during her life, "with this proviso and limitation
that she marries not again," which if she does I give her one third of my
movable estate. I give to my daughter, Mary Pine, "one good cow and one third
of my negro girls, and one Iron kettle which I purchased this winter." I will
that my eldest son, Daniel Pine, go and possess all my lands and meadows at
Rockaway, till such time as his younger brother comes of age, and then to be
at his own pleasure whether he will return hither or continue in possession
of the farm at Rockaway. I leave to my wife, Abigail, a certain tract of land
and meadow which I bought of Adam Mott, of Hempstead, on Raynor's Neck, to be
sold by her for the repairing of my mill. I leave to my son Daniel or John
(whichever shall inherit the land at Rockaway), a certain tract of land, 15
acres on Raynor's Neck, jointly with my farm at Rockaway. I leave to my wife,
one half of a 22 acre lot, lying on the north side of the Plains, to be sold
by her for the repairing of this house. I will that the 14 acres of land on
Cow neck shall be exchanged for some land adjoining to this my farm on Hick's
Neck, but if this cannot be done, then to remain as an appurtenance to my
farm at Rockaway. I give 16 acres of land at a place called the old field, to
the son who shall be heir of this my land on Hick's Neck. I leave my rights
and privileges upon the Commons to my sons, Daniel and John. I will that my
50 acres of land lying on the east side of my mill pond be joined to my farm
on Hick's Neck, and possessed by the heir thereof. I make my two brothers,
James and William, executors.
�
Queens County, We doe hereby humbly certifie to your excellency, that this
day, at a Court of Common Pleas, held at Jamaica, for Queens County, came
John Crum and Elizabeth Smith, two of the witnesses, who, being deposed upon
the Holy Evangelists, did say that they saw the within-mentioned John Pine,
sign, seal, and publish the same as his last will, etc.
�
Page 119.--DANIEL PEARSALL. "The last will and Testament of Daniel Pearsall,
of Hempstead. This being my last will, I, being very
Page 130.--LEWIS RIVARD. "In the name of God, Amen, this 31 day of August,
1703. I, Lewis Rivard, of New York, ship carpenter, being sick." I leave all
my goods and estate to my wife, Jane Rivard, "except that my dear mother,
Mary Rivard, shall take to herself all she brought into the house, viz., her
bed and bedstead, 2 pewter dishes, a pair bellows, a pot hook, and her
clothes and linnens. And she shall have one third of the price of two boats
by me built when sold." Makes his wife, Jane Rivard, executor.
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Page 134.--THOMAS BURROUGHS. "In the name of God, Amen, this 18 day of
August, 1703. I, Thomas Burroughs, of New York, merchant, although sick of
body, yet of sound memory, I will that all debts be paid, "and that the
Funeral of my body be such as shall beseem a Christian." I leave to my eldest
son, Thomas Burroughs, all my right, title, and interest in and to a certain
tract of land in Connecticut, at a place called Pequanack, which I obtained
by a debt from Stephen Wheeler, confirmed by Judgment of Court. Also a
certain lot of land at the side of Chesnut Hill, which I purchased of Joseph
Bursly. Also two lots in the same place, one on the north side and the other
on the south side of the above lot, purchased for me by Joseph Watkins. And
also all my land at Casco Bay. Also all my working tools belonging properly
to the Pewterers trade. I leave to my son, Joel Burroughs, all my land at
Quaspeck,(*) in the County of Orange, and to my daughter, Mary Burroughs, as
also my lot in the undivided lands. I leave to my daughter Mary, all that
certain lot of ground in New York fronting to Crown street, bounded north by
the street, west by Temple street, south by Mr. Nicholas Jamain, and east by
Jacob Booley. In length and breadth as by deed. I leave to Abigail Taylor, my
daughter in law, a large silver Tankard, and a silver cup marked A. T. and 12
silverspoons, and a silver stand. Leaves to his wife two thirds of personal
property, and one third to the children. Makes his wife Mary and his friends,
Alderman William Smith and Captain Richard Willett, executors, and each of
them is to have $10 for his trouble.
[NOTE.--Catharine Rombout was the only daughter of Francis Rombout, who was
Mayor of New York in 1679. She inherited a very large estate at Fishkill,
called the Rombout Patent.]
I make my well beloved friends, Captain Lawrence Reade and Thomas Adams,
executors, and I leave to each of them a gold ring of $3 value.
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Page 143.--JOHN HAINE. In the name of God, Amen, the 2nd of January, 1703. I,
John Haine, of New York, grocer, being sick and weak. I leave to my wife,
Jane Haine, a feather bed, curtains and valences, 6 sheets and all else which
properly belongs to the same, together with all such other household stuff as
she had when we were married, and which was left to her by her former husband
for life; and then to my daughter, Anna Haine, "now born, and to such other
child or children as are yet by God's assistance to be born." Makes his wife
executor.
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Page 145.--THOMAS HAWARDEN. In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Hawarden, of
the city of New York, merchant, being in perfect health. I leave all houses,
lands, and goods to my wife Katharine and her heirs forever. Except as
follows, viz., to my daughter Margaret, $150, 12 silver forks, 12 silver
spoons, and my wife is to supply her with sufficient apparell, diet and
lodging, until she is of age or married. She is also to provide for Jane
Vanquelon, alias Lefroy, widow of Robert Vanqualon, alias Lefroy, late of the
town of Woodbridge, in East New Jersey, Gentleman, deceased, a support and
maintainance during her life, and cause her to be decently buried.
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Page 149.--THOMAS LAWRENCE. "In the name of God, Amen. The last will and
Testament of Thomas Lawrence, of Newtown, in Queens County, upon Long Island,
being weak in body but in senses and memory. I bequeath my soul into the
hands of the Almighty God who gave it. I give my body to the earth from
whence it came, to be buried in decent and comely manner. I leave to my son,
Thomas Lawrence, that lot of ground which I bought of Hendrick Johnson, with
all the houses and buildings thereto belonging, with the great neck of land
and meadow, and the Island bounded with a creek; I leave to my wife, Mary
Lawrence, one third of all my movable estate, both within doors and without,
and I leave all the homespun cloth and yarns and lambswool at my wife's
disposing; I leave to my son, Jonathan Lawrence, that lot of land which was
Samuel Joas, and the house which he now lives in; he paying to Elizabeth
Saunders eight pounds when she is eighteen years of age. I leave to my sons
William and Jonathan, that piece of salt meadow, which I bought of Robert
Beacham, equally between them. I leave to my son, Daniel Lawrence, all my
fresh meadow lying in Trains meadow. I leave to my five sons all the rest of
my lands, meadows, and privileges equally, they paying all my debts. I leave
to my grand child, Elizabeth Saunders, two mares and two cows, three silver
spoons, and her mother's wearing clothes. I leave the rest of my estate to
the children of my four sons, Thomas, William, John, and Jonathan. My wife
Mary is to have the privilege of my dwelling house during widowhood. I make
my sons, Thomas and William, executors. [Not dated.]
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Page 151.--NATHANIEL PEARSALL. The last will and Testament of Nathaniel
Pearsall of Hempstead, made this twentieth day of the 8th month called
October, 1703. I, being sick and weak of body, but through God's mercy, my
understanding sound, I leave to my wife Martha, one third of all my movable
estate, except negroes. I leave to my sons, Thomas and Samuel, all my lands
and meadows, except one piece of land lying on the north west of Herricks, to
be equally divided between them, my son Thomas to have the better part, as
shall be adjudged by the overseers of this will. My will is that the piece of
land lying in the north west side of Herricks, shall be sold to pay for the
land at the Harbour, and if that land will not fetch money, then my son
Thomas shall, with the consent of my overseers, sell any land that I have to
pay for said land. My son Thomas, with the consent of his mother and
overseers, may exchange any land I have, to bring it into better settlement.
I leave to my son Thomas, my great loose Coat. I leave to my son Samuel, my
Camelot Cloak. I leave to my five daughters, Martha, Susannah, Elizabeth,
Hannah and Mary, to each of them a warming pan, to be provided by my
executors. My two eldest daughters are to have what they now call their own.
I give my smiths tools to my son Thomas, and all the rest of my household
goods to my five daughters, except two beds for my two sons. I leave all my
lands, houses, and meadows to my two sons, Thomas and Samuel, and my son
Thomas and my wife Martha, with the advice of friends and executors, may sell
my homestead in the Town of Hempstead. If my negro Francis shall grow unruly,
my son Thomas may sell him. My wife is to have the use of all my negroes, and
if my negro Francis is sold, "the produce of him" shall go to my five
daughters. My wife is to have the use of my housing and land at town, and
half the land at the Harbour, during her widowhood. My five daughters are to
have 10/12 of all my live stock, and the rest to my two sons. I make my wife
and my son Thomas executors, and Samuel Bowne, Richard Seaman, William
Willis, Thomas Pearsall, Jr., and Nathaniel Seaman to be overseers.
Page 154.--NICHOLAS BLANK. In the name of God, Amen. I, Nicholas Blank,
cordwainer, of the city of New York, being weak in body. I leave to my son
Jacob Blank, a piece of land lying and being at the Fresh Water, with all my
right and interest in the same, which is made use of for a Tan vat. I also
leave him $25. I leave to my daughters, Cornelia and Katherine, each $25. I
leave to "the child my wife now goes withal," if it shall live, $25. I make
my wife Gertruy sole executor, and leave to her all the rest of my estate,
houses and lands, always provided, that the children's portions be secured,
when the house is sold. I make my trusty and well beloved friends Mr. Robert
Blackwell, of Mannings island, and Justus Bosch, of New York, overseers of
this my will, their expenses to be allowed "and a piece of 8 to buy them
gloves."
Page 156.--PETER BERTON. In the name of God, Amen. I, Peter Berton, of Oyster
Bay, in Queens County, on Nassau Island, merchant, being sound and perfect
both in mind and body. I leave my body to be buried in a decent and Christian
like manner at the discretion of my executors. I leave to my eldest son,
Ezekiel Berton, all my lands and houses which I have in Oyster Bay, except 50
acres at the plain edge which I give to my son, Peter Berton. I leave to my
eldest daughter, Mary Berton, $50; and to my second daughter, Hannah Dugo,
$10; to my daughter, Marian Ayrand, $40; to my son Ezekiel all my wearing
clothes, and my gold ring and all my guns. I leave to my wife Elizabeth and
the children which I have begot of her all the rest of my estate whatsoever.
I make my wife executrix, and my trusty and well beloved friend, Paul
Droillet, of New York, merchant, overseer.
Page 177.--THOMAS LEWIS. In the name of God, Amen. "I, Thomas Lewis, of New
York, merchant, being in good health, but now bound out on a voyage, and
knowing that the time is uncertain when it will please God to take me out of
this vile and transitory world." And to the end that no variances might
hereafter arise do make this my last will and testament. I give to my son,
Thomas Lewis, $5, when he is 21, over and above all other legacies. The rest
of my estate I leave to my wife, Frances Lewis, during widowhood, with full
power to sell houses and lands with the advice and consent of my brothers,
Leonard Lewis and Barent Rynders. If my wife should marry, then she is to
have and enjoy the household stuff and wearing apparell, jewels, rings,
diamonds, etc., and one half of my estate in houses and lands. When she
remarries, the estate is to be divided, and the share of my children is to be
put into the hands of my brothers, Leonard Lewis and Barent Rynders, who I
name as executors.
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Page 182.--JACOB MAYLE. In the name of God, Amen. I, Jacob Mayle, of the
Island of Jamaica, being in perfect health, do make that my last will. "My
carkas I bequeath to the place most proper and convenient for the same, as it
may happen where I shall dye, if ashore, to be decently buried." I give unto
my friends Mr. William Morris, Robert Field, Jr., John Berry and John Crook,
in New York, and Benjamin Cotman in Jamaica, one gold ring of the weight of a
pistole to each. I leave to Mary Maile, daughter of Mary Laburne, $50, and a
negro girl, besides the $50 allotted to her by my brother, Henry Mayle. I
give my servant, Wm. Dougherty, $20. I give to Letitia Clark, a negro girl
which I have at Benjamin Cotman's house. I leave to James Price, now living
at Benjamin Cotman's, one piece of Plate, value $10, and to my friend,
Benjamin Cotman, one piece of Plate, value $25, and I request him to take
care of all effects in Jamaica, and if I decease in this island to inter my
body decently, at his discretion. I leave to Nicholas Dumaresq and Sarah his
sister, $10 each. To Rebecca Morris and each of her children, $10. To Joseph
Read, $10. To my kinsman, William Morris, and my friend, Robert Field, Jr.,
$10 each, and make them executors. I leave all the rest of my estate to my
dear child, John Maile, otherwise called or known by the name of John
Dumaresq, which child is now living at the house and under the care of said
Robert Field in New York. Hereby owning him to be really and truly my son. My
said estate is to be sold and put into ready money, excepting three lots of
land in Queen street, in New York, which I would not have disposed of. If the
child should not live to be 21, then one half is to go to Mary Maile, and the
other half to the children of my kinsman, Wm. Morris.
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Page 187.--EDWARD MARSHALL. In the name of God, Amen. I, Edward Marshall, of
New York, taylor, being very sick and weak. I give to my son John Marshall
$100, now in the hands of Captain John Bowen. Also a lot of ground in the
Fields, containing in front 25 feet adjoining to the lot of David Provoost on
Smith street, bounded on Smith street 82 1/2 feet, and behind from Smith
street 75 feet, by Garrett Van Horner, all wood measure. I leave to my
daughter Susannah $100, and bed and furniture to the value of $25. If both
children die, the whole is to go to my wife, Anna Maria, who is to have the
use of the estate to bring up the children. I make John Crook, Sr., Nathaniel
Marston, and Thomas Ives executors.
�
Dated April 18, 1704. I leave to my four sisters, Susannah, Mary, Elizabeth,
and Sarah, a ring of 20 shillings value to each, and the same to my
executors.
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Page 190.--Edward, Viscount Cornbury, Captain-General, etc. Whereas PETER
BASSETT lately died intestate, leaving a daughter, Hester Bassett, Letters of
administration are granted to Giles Gaudineau and Peter Morris as guardians,
September 1, 1704.
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Page 193.--Edward, Viscount Cornbury, Captain-General, etc. Whereas WILLIAM
COX, of New York, merchant, deceased, leaving a will, and appointing Jacob
Mayle and Richard Jones executors, both of whom are deceased, before fully
administering upon the estate, Letters of administration are granted to his
widow Sarah and her husband Christopher Rousby, September 30, 1704.
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Page 196.--ROBERT SINCLAIR. In the name of God, Amen. Be it known and
manifest unto all people, that I, Robert Sinclair, of New York, mariner,
being at this present moment very sick. I leave all my estate to my wife,
Maria Sinclair, during her widowhood with full power to sell the same, but if
she remarry she is to make over and convey the same to my daughter, Anna
Sinclair, but if she die under age or unmarried then my wife is to have the
whole, but she is to pay to the Dutch Reformed Church the sum of $150 for the
poor. After my wife's decease, the estate is to go to my daughter Anna, but
if she die under age then one half is left to my wife's cousin, Evert
Duyckinck, and to my wife's brother, Garret Duyckinck, and to the children of
my wife's sister Beeltie, wife of Jan Byvanck, deceased, To my wife's sister
Anna, wife of Johanes Hooglandt, To my wife's sister Sytie, wife of Peter
Dailie, To the children of my wife's sister Altie, deceased, wife of Tobias
Ten Eyck, and Gerrit Duyckinck and his children are to have a double portion
of the same. The other half to the Dutch Reformed Church of New York, with
the condition that if any of my brother's children should come here out of
Scotland they are to have one half of the same. I make my wife Maria, my
brother in law, Gerrit Duyckinck, and my friend, William Jackson, executors.
[NOTE.--The home lot of Robert Sinclair was on the north side of Queen street
(now Pearl street), and was the second lot west of Wall street. He also owned
a water lot directly opposite, on the south side of Pearl street.
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Page 205.--DANIEL WHITEHEAD. In the name of God, Amen. I, Daniel Whitehead,
of Jamaica, in Queens County. I leave to my son, Jonathan Whitehead, besides
what I have formerly given him by deed, all my lands, tenements, and
appurtenances in Jamaica, between the mill and Wellins path, lying westward
of the mill, to John Okeys land, and southwest so far as my land runs. And
also all my land on Cow neck in the Town of Hempstead. And all that my 1/4
part of the mill standing on Gildersleve Creek, in said neck. And also all my
meadow on the Old Town neck, in Jamaica, except that meadow I purchased of
Mr. Anthony Waters, deceased, with all the hereditaments, To him my son
Jonathan and his heirs, and in default of issue, then to my son Thomas
Whitehead and his heirs. I also give to my son Jonathan, my negro man Joe. I
leave to my loving wife, Abigail, my dwelling house I now live in, with the
land adjoining, bounded on the south by the road to the ferry, on the west by
Thomas Smith, north by Anthony Waters, And so much of my meadow as she shall
have occasion for, during her life, and after her decease to my son Thomas
and his heirs, and in default of such, then to my son Jonathan. I leave to my
wife, my negro woman Mary, for life, and then to my daughter Deborah, wife of
Thomas Hicks. I leave also to my son Thomas, all that my lot of land lying in
the town of Jamaica, by the land of Colonel Henry Filkin; Also all my land on
Stewards neck and Quarelsome neck, in Jamaica; Also the lot of land Thomas
Chambers now lives on, and my other three lots of land lying by the same,
within the bounds of the Township of Flushing; Also all that my lot of land
lying as well within as without the Long neck fence in Jamaica; As also all
my meadow in Long neck, And all my land and meadow in Hewtree neck, in the
bounds of Jamaica, with all the privileges, etc., And also my Indian boy
named Cupid. I leave to my grand son, Whitehead Hicks, the second son of my
son in law, Thomas Hicks, the husband of my daughter Deborah, all that my
land and meadow lying and being within the bounds and Township of Flushing,
except the four 20 acre lots given to my son Thomas, To him and his heirs,
and in default of such heirs, then to my daughter Deborah and her heirs. I
leave to my son in law, Anthony Waters, the present husband of my daughter
Elizabeth, all that land now in the possession of my brother, Daniel
Whitehead, lying on the east side of the Plain run, joining to Hempstead
bounds, That is to say, after the death of my said brother; And also all that
my meadow lying in Old Town neck in Jamaica, which I bought of his father,
Mr. Anthony Waters, deceased; And also all that my lot of land on the Hills
in Jamaica, which was formerly Joseph Thurstons, deceased, To him and his
heirs. I leave to my daughter Mary, widow of Thomas Burroughs, all my land at
a place called Quaspack, in Orange County, up Hudson river, with all the
privileges, during her life, and then to her daughter, Mary Burroughs, and to
her heirs. I leave to my son in law, Jacob Doughty, the husband of my
daughter Amy, $50. I leave to my wife Abigail, one third of all goods and
chattels and the rest to my children above mentioned and to Mercy, wife of
Thomas Betts. I leave to my friend, John Hubbard, all that my 1/3 of meadow
lying at Oldfields Island, which I bought with my brother, Thomas Oakley, and
John Bayley, with all the rights thereto belonging, during the time of his
continuance in the work of the ministry in this town of Jamaica, and if he
continue in the ministry here till his death, then to his heirs, but if not
then to my son Jonathan. I give to the town of Jamaica the sum of $20,
towards the maintenance of a Grammar School, for the education of youths
within the said town; to be paid in three years after my decease, if there be
such a school erected in said town. If not, then it is to be put at interest
for three years longer, but if the school is not then established, then to go
to my heirs. I leave to my brother, Daniel Whitehead, $20. To Jonathan, son
of Jonathan Stevenson, of Norwalk, Connecticut, deceased, $20. I give the $30
which is due to me from the estate of my son in law, Daniel Denton, unto his
children, and to Gabriel Lassee, "begotten upon the body of Deborah Lassee,
the present wife of Gabriel Lassee;" viz., to Daniel Denton, Abigail Denton
and Deborah Denton, and to Abigail and Mary Stebbins daughters of Benjamin
and Abigail Stebbins, my son and daughter in law. I leave to Catharine,
daughter of my brother, Daniel Whitehead, two cows. All the rest of my lands,
whether in Queens County or in Nissequogue [Smithtown] in Suffolk County, or
elsewhere, are to be sold by my executors. I appoint my wife and son Jonathan
executors, and I leave to my loving friends, Thomas Stevenson and Lieutenant
Thomas Smith, each $5, and make them overseers.
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Page 222.--JOHANES KIP. In the name of God, Amen. I, Johanes Kip, of New
York, brewer, being in sound and perfect health. My will is that all my
estate of houses and lands shall, after my decease, remain in the hands of my
wife Catharine Kierstede, alias Kip, during her widowhood, and she shall
bring up such children as I shall leave behind me until they are of age.
After her decease all the estate to be divided among the children, but my
eldest son shall have $25 over and above the rest, in lieu of any pretence of
being heir. And he shall have the refusal of my house and brewhouse I now
live in, at the price it shall be valued at by indifferent men. If my wife
should marry again, she is to give a true inventory of all the estate, and
she is to have one half of the movables, and the children the other half.
Makes his wife sole executrix, and appoints his brothers Jacob Kip, Abraham
Kip, and Lucas Kierstede to be tutors of his children.
Page 234.--ROBERT HUESTIS, Sr. In the name of God, Amen. I, Robert Huestis,
Sr., of the Burrough and Town of Westchester, being sick and weak. I leave to
my wife Elizabeth all personal estate, whatsoever. I leave to my son, Robert
Huestis, Jr., all my land at Stony Brook, with the pasture lands thereto
adjoining, with all my meadow at the rear of said lands, and he is to pay to
his sisters, Elizabeth Molyneux and Abigail Hunt, $10 each. I leave to my
son, Samuel Huestis, part of my meadow at the head of the neck, beginning at
the head of the cove to the little creek. I leave to my son John Huestis all
my meadow lying at the ditches between Edward Collier's and Daniel Turner's
meadow, and also my forty acres of land at Long Beach, and he is to pay to my
daughter, Sarah Betts, $5. I leave to my son, Jonathan Huestis, the remainder
of my meadow at the head of the neck, with all the upland thereto adjoining,
and my six acres of land, not disposed of in the last division. I also give
him a $25 right of Commonage, and he is to pay to my daughter, Sarah Betts,
$5. I leave to my son, David Huestis, 1 shilling, and to my daughter, Mary
Collier, 1 shilling. I leave to my son Robert a $25 right of Commonage. I
make my wife Elizabeth and Josiah Hunt, Sr., executors.
Page 236.--EDWARD BURRUS. In the name of God, Amen, this 1st day of March,
1704/5. I, Edward Burrus, of Jamaica, in Queens County, being very sick in
body, do make this my last will. I leave to my son John Burrus, all the tract
of land which lyeth near Pilgrim's Harbor, in the County of Hartford, in
Connecticutt. I leave to my sons, Edward and Eden, all that tract of land
lying at a place called Maidenhead, near Jacobus creek, to be equally
divided. I leave to my son Thomas all that tract of land that lyeth over
against his house in Jamaica, and he is to pay to his three sisters, Hannah
Newman, Rachel Hengins, and Unis Linus, $8 each. I leave to my wife Mary, for
her life, my now dwelling house and lot, and the meadow belonging to it, and
after her death, to my son Steven. All the land that I have made a purchase
of, that is not yet fully completed, I give to all my children. I make my
wife and my son Thomas executors.
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Page 240. -- THOMAS STILLWELL. In the name of God, Amen. I, Thomas Stillwell,
of Staten Island, Esq., being sick and weak. I leave to Nicholas Stillwell,
son of my son, Thomas Stillwell, deceased, all that Plantation or farm,
commonly called Wallbours' farm, lying on the east side of the Old Town, and
also one half of the meadow belonging to it; that is to say, that part of the
meadow that lies next to the ditch. And the said Nicholas is to pay to his
two sisters, Mary and Anne Stillwell, $50 each, when they come to the age of
eighteen. And he is to pay to Martha Brittan, daughter of Benjamin Brittan,
$--. If he die under age, then the land is to go to his sisters Mary and
Anne, and they are to pay to Martha Brittan $100. I leave to my daughter
Frances, wife of Nicholas Brittan, 60 acres of land joining to the land I now
live on, as it is now in his possession, during her life, and then to her son
Nicholas Brittan, and he is to pay to his sister, Mary Brittan, $25. I leave
to my daughters, Anne and Rachel Stillwell, the messuage and tenement with
all the housing and buildings and all the lot, and three quarters of a lot of
land, with a lot of salt meadow at the Great Kill, marked No. 2, which is the
land I now live upon, after my wife's decease, and they are to pay to my
daughter, Frances Brittan, $50. I leave to my wife Martha, the use of all the
estate I now live upon, for life, or during her widowhood, and make her sole
executor, and my loving friends, John Stillwell and Abraham Taylor, Esq., and
Richard Stillwell, Sr., overseers.
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Page 243.--JOSEPH THAXTER. In the name of God, Amen. The 18 day of November,
1702. I, Joseph Thaxter of New York, mariner, being bound on a voyage to sea,
I leave to my beloved wife, Mary Thaxter, my estate, real and personal, in
New York and elsewhere. I make my very good friends, Mr. Wm. Morris and Mr.
Thomas Child, both of New York, my executors, and I bequeath to each of them a
gold ring in consideration of their trouble.
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Page 249.--HENRY HARDING. In the name of God, Amen. I, Henry Harding, of the
Parish of St. George, in the Island of Barbadoes, Esq., at present residing
in the city of New York and being about to undertake a journey or voyage to
the said Island of Barbadoes. I leave all my estate to my wife Elizabeth, and
make her sole executor. And when she shall marry again, if ever it happen,
then my loving friends, Colonel William Batlin and Captain Thomas Speight,
are to be the executors, except that I make Elias Boudinot, of New York,
executor for my estate in this Province of New York.
Page 260.--ROELOFF SCHENCK. In the name of God, Amen. I, Roeloff Schenck, of
Flatlands, in Kings County, upon Nassau Island. I leave to my wife Katharine,
during her life, all my farm or tenements at Flatlands, where I now live,
with the houses, gardens, and orchards. And all in accordance with a certain
agreement made between me and my said wife before our marriage, and bearing
date November 9, 1688. If my wife should marry then the above bequest is to
be null and void. I leave to my loving son Martin Schenck, after the death of
my wife, all my houses, lands, meadows, and tenements, within the bounds of
Flatlands or elsewhere, and he is to pay the following legacies, viz., to
each of my children, Janike, Marytie, John, Garritt, Margaritie, Neltie and
Sarah, $64, 10s. each, and the same to the children of my daughter Anake,
deceased, Roeloff and Albert. And they are to have all the personal property
after my wife's decease. My eldest son Martin shall have for his birthright
my negro boy Anthony. I make my son Martin sole executor.
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Page 262.--Document in Latin. Order from Lord Cornbury to all Rectors,
Vicars, Chaplains, and ministers, and especially to the Church wardens of the
Parish of Rye, Mamaroneck, and Bedford, commanding that the REV. GEORGE
MUIRSON should be duly inducted as Rector of said Parish. Dated July 31,
1705. Also a certificate in Latin, stating that in obedience to said order
the Rev. George Muirson was duly inducted as Rector of said Parish by Rev.
William Vesey, Caleb Heathcote, and Joseph Theal, August 20, 1705.
Page 270.--WILLIAM SMITH. In the name of God, Amen. I, William Smith, of the
Manor of St. George in the County of Suffolk, on Nassau Island. Being,
blessed be the Almighty, in reasonable good health of body, I bequeath my
body to the earth to be decently buried without any manner of Pomp, in such
place and in such manner as my executor shall think fit. I will that my most
dear and intirely beloved wife Martha, shall have the use of all my estate,
both real and personal, during her life, for the comfortable maintenance of
herself and children. I leave to my eldest son, Henry Smith, all my land
lying and being situate on the north side of this Island, That is to say the
Home Lots called Cheston and Harlow's Home lots, where I now live, as also
the mill lot, and all my land and meadow in the neck, commonly known by the
name of the little neck, of the Town of Brookhaven, but now within the manor
of St. George, with my new and old house, and all other buildings thereon ;
And also the entire rights of Commonage, and all future divisions and
Commonage appertaining to Cheston and Harlows accommodations ; And also my
Thatch bed, lying between the Old field and the Little neck, which I bought
of Samuel Eburne, clerk ; And also the Thatch bed which the Town gave me,
fronting to the Indian land against Roscommon Elm ; Also all that part of my
South Beach, from the head of Long Cove to the westernmost gut, To him, my
said son Henry, to him and his heirs male forever, and in default of issue,
then to my next heirs. I also give to my son Henry all that certain tract of
land or Island containing seven acres, lying near Cranes neck, adjoining to
the Fresh pond, which I bought of Mr. Eburne. I leave to my son, William
Henry Smith, my house on the south side of this Island, within the manor of
St. George, which stands on Sebonack neck, With a full half of all my land
and meadow on the south side of this Island, within my manor of St. George,
and lying eastward of Connecticutt or Sebonack river, With one half of my
South Beach from Cupsogue gut eastward, and to the head of the Long Cove,
westward ; And also that Home Lot within the town of Brookhaven, which I
formerly bought of John Wood, deceased, and is called John Wood's lot,
containing 10 acres, Bounding westward on Daniel Brewster's home lot, With
one entire right of Commonage, and all future divisions of undivided lands,
due to the said accommodations, To him my said son William Henry, and his
heirs and assigns forever. I leave to my son, Charles Jeffrey Smith, All that
other one half part of all my lands and meadows on the south side of this
Island, within the Manor of St. George eastward of Connecticutt or Sebonack
river ; Also the Home lot within the Town of Brookhaven where John Wood
lived, and commonly called John Wood's Home Lot, containing 12 acres, with
the house and buildings ; Also one entire right of Commonage, and all future
divisions of land; Also the other half of my South Beach, from Cupsogue gut
eastward, to the head of Long Cove westward, To him my said son, Charles
Jeffrey Smith, and his heirs and assigns for ever. I leave to my eldest
daughter, Martha Heathcote, one half of what the leases of my houses in New
York can be sold for. I leave to my grand son, William Heathcote, one home
lot within the town of Brookhaven, commonly known by the name of Williams,
his Home Lot, containing 14 acres, Fronting to the creeke or Harbor, and
adjoining to that which was John Wood's Home Lot, with one right of Commonage
and all future divisions of land as far as the middle of this Island, To him
and his heirs and assigns, when he shall come of age. I leave to my youngest
daughters, Jeane and Gloriana, to be equally divided between them, all my
land and meadow at Westen Hook, in Company with Colonel Schuyler, Mr. Abeel
and others ; And also all my land and meadow on the west side of Connecticutt
or Sebonack river, lying at the head of Yaptianack and by a north line until
it comes again to the river as is by my Patent set forth. I also leave to
them two 50 acre lots which lye between the Oldmans and the Wading river,
which I bought of John Wood and Abraham Whittier ; Also two 50 acre lots
more, which were laid out to Cheston and Harlows Home Lots, and are near the
road that goes to the Oldmans farms ; Also 50 acres of land bought of Joseph
Lee, which is at Mount Misery ; And also the other half of what the leases of
my houses in New York may produce, to be paid to them when of age or
marriage, provided neither of them marry without their mother's consent. As
to my land on the south side of the Country road that goes about the middle
of the Island, and is contained in my last Patent, from Governor Fletcher,
and is adjoining to the bounds of Southold, Southampton and Brookhaven, I do
give the same to my three sons, Henry, William, and Charles. The will divides
slaves (twelve of which are enumerated, some of them being Indians) among his
children. the personal property is left to his wife, with all stock, personal
property, silver, gold plate, etc., to be disposed of as she shall see fit.
If his son Henry dies without issue then his share is to go to his next
brother. Makes his wife Martha sole executor.
Dated January 28, 1696/7. Witnesses, (???) Bassett, A. Morrisett, Isaac
Garnier, Giles Gaudineau. Proved before Lord Cornbury, December 4, 1705, and
his widow Susannah having refused the executorship, Letters of administration
are granted to his brother Francis Vincent.
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Page 288.--WILLIAM BOWYER. In the name of God, Amen. I, William Bowyer, late
of the Island of Jamaica, in the West Indies, but now of the city of New
York, merchant, being sick in body. I give and bequeath to Mr. David Jamison
and to his wife, the sum of $20 each for mourning, and also two rings. I
leave to Mrs. Mary Johnson, 20 shillings for a ring, and to Mr. William
Turner the same. I leave to Richard Mills, of Jamaica, 20 shillings for a
ring, and also my negro boy Richmond, to be sent to him by the first
opportunity by Mr. Dervall. I leave to Mr. Thomas Mitchell, Archibald
Cunningham, and Benjamin Doget, each 20 shillings for a ring. And I leave all
the rest of my estate to my brothers and sisters. I make Mr. David Jamison,
of New York, Mr. William Turner, of London, and Mr. Richard Mills, of
Jamaica, executors.
Page 292.--BALTHAZAR BAYARD. In the name of God, Amen, this 4th day of March,
1699. I, Balthazar Bayard, of the city of New York, brewer, being of perfect
health. I leave to my wife, Maria Bayard, during her widowhood, the use and
benefit of all my estate, and make her guardian of the children that shall be
under age. Provided always that in case my wife shall see cause to change her
condition by a second matrimony, she shall be obliged, before the
solemnization of the same, to make choice of fit persons, out of my nearest
relations in blood, to be guardians of the children, and to deliver up all
the estate, and reserve the full dowry which is due to her by law. In
consideration that my daughters, Ariantie Ver Planck and Anne Maria Jay, at
the time of their marriage have received a portion of $100, each of my
children shall have the same before any general division. After my wife's
decease, I leave to my eldest son my dwelling house and brew house, and a
piece of land thereto belonging, with other buildings "that shall be earth or
nayle fastened thereupon," with all the appurtenances, including horses and
beer casks, and he shall pay to my youngest son one half of the value of the
same, at the appraisement of indifferent persons. And the youngest son shall
allow to my eldest son as being the first born, $25. I leave to my two sons
all my apparell and clothing, and to my daughters, after the death of my
wife, "all her apparell and clothes, and the jewells of gold and silver that
have been belonging to her body." I leave all the rest of my estate to my
children, Ariantie, Anna Maria, Jacobus, Garrett and Judy. If my eldest son
shall endeavor to vacate or contradict this my will, he shall be excluded
from all benefit.
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Page 301.--CORNELIS JANSEN. On this day, being the 25 of February, 1689,
appeared before me Jan Tibout, Clerk, admitted by the Mayors Court and
residing in the town of New Harlem, and in the presence of the witnesses
hereafter named. The worthy Cornelis Jansen, sick in body, lying on his bed,
but in the full exercise and use of his understanding. He appoints after his
decease, his lawful wife Meetye Bastianse, the guardian over all his estate
until she shall marry, and then she shall be bound to give to her eldest son,
Jan Cornelisen, preferable to the others, the lot of land at Jochem
Pietersens, to wit, the lot by the great gate. Also the best horse, the best
saddle, and the best boots, and the best pistols and holsters, and carbine,
and then he shall share with the other brothers and sisters. And Daniel
Devoor is to have a cow for his daughter, Meetie Daniels, when she is of age.
And Jan Cornelis is to have a cutlass with his share of goods. This passed in
the presence of Adolph Meyer, Constable, Johanes Cornelis, overseer, and
Jacob Turneur, in my presence.
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Page 306.--JOHN SMITH, SR. In the name of God, Amen. I, John Smith, Sr., of
Hempstead in Queens County, yeoman, being, through God's mercy, in perfect
health and memory and understanding. I leave to my well beloved grand sons,
Richard and Timothy Smith, sons of my eldest son, John Smith, deceased, all
that my lot of meadow on Washburns neck, in Hempstead, bounded on the east by
Timothy Halstead's meadow, on the south by the creek, on the west by a creek,
and on the north by Nathaniel Pearsall. Also a lot of land in the new field
and adjoining to the land of my son John, and Samuel Emery, on the east. To
them as tenants in common. That is, in case the said Richard shall give to
his brother Timothy one half of his father's lands and meadows. Otherwise the
above lands shall go to my son Timothy and his heirs and assigns. I also give
to my grand son, Richard Smith, 40 shillings. I leave to my well beloved
grand daughters, Sarah Pine and Mary Smith, some cows and other cattle
delivered into the hands of John Tredwell, during my life, as by a covenant
bearing date April 24, 1694. I leave to my well beloved son, Joseph Smith,
all that my dwelling house and home lot in the town, with the appurtenances,
except one half the barn, And 12 acres of meadow as laid out at Rockaway, And
13 acres of meadow upon Hicks neck, and 10 acres of meadow on Cow neck with
all the upland belonging to the same ; Also 3 acres of land in the Holly, and
a piece of land in the Old Field, and a piece of land at the Wind mill,
adjoining to Armitages, To him and his heirs and his assigns for ever. I also
give to him $20, 15s. in cattle now in his possession. I leave to my well
beloved son, Jonathan Smith, all that my one half of the barn, built between
him and myself, and 12 acres of meadow at Rockaway, and 5 acres of meadow in
the Indian land upon Rockaway, and 14 acres of meadow upon Cow neck, with all
the upland belonging to the same ; Also all those cattle in his possession,
appraised at $20, 14s. I leave to my daughter Mary, wife of Samuel Denton,
the cattle in her possession, valued at $20, 15s. I leave to Anne and Mary
Rushmore, and to Wm. and Stephen Chappelle, the children of my daughter,
Martha Chappelle, deceased, the cattle late in her possession, valued at $20,
15s. I leave to my daughter Hannah, wife of John Tredwell, the cattle now in
her possession, valued at $20, 15s. All the rest of my estate, houses, and
lands I leave to my two sons Joseph and Jonathan. I leave the rest of my perso
nal estate to my daughters, Mary Denton, Hannah Tredwell, and the children of
my daughter Martha Chappelle, deceased, and I make my children executors. In
testimony I have hereunto subscribed my name, and affixed my seal at
Hempstead, the 10 day of May, 1695.
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Page 311.--ELIAS RAMBOUT. In the name of God, Amen. Be it known and manifest
to all People that I, Elias Rambout, of New York, mariner, being sick and
weak. I leave to my cousin, Peter Morin, $1, 16s., and desire him to pay it
to the Elders of the French Congregation for the use of the Poor. I leave to
my wife Martha all estate during life. But whereas it has pleased God to
visit her with a strange disease, I order my executors to manage the same for
her best advantage. I leave all my estate after my wife's decease to my
children, Elias, Samuel, Nathaniel, and Jane, and my son in law, John
Bulleau. I make my cousin, Peter Morin, and Benjamin D'Harriette and Elias
Boudinot, executors.
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Page 313. JACOB TEUNIS DE KAY. "In the name of the Lord, Amen. The last will
and testament of me, Jacob Teunis De Kay, made ye 13 day of April, 1688."
"Know all men by these presents who shall see this Instrument, and hear this
my last will, that I, Jacob Teunis De Kay, being at present by the Grace of
God in good health." I leave to my eldest son Teunis $25, in evidence of his
birth right and privilege as first born, by which all future pretences upon
that account shall be cut off. I leave to my daughter, Maria De Kay, because
she is defective in body, a certain piece of ground and housing, already
built thereon, adjoining to the house of my son, Teunis De Kay, according to
the Patent thereof. And a transport after my decease shall be given to her
and her children, but if she have no children, then it shall return to the
hereinafter named heirs. I have formerly given and now confirm to my son,
Jacob De Kay, a certain parcel of land in the Highlands, whereof a Patent is
made in his own name, and in quantity as by the Patent may appear. I also
give and confirm to Jacob De Kay, son of Teunis De Kay, a certain parcel of
land lying in the Highlands, whereof a Patent is granted in his own name, and
in quantity as by the Patent may appear. I make for my universal heirs my
wife, Hillegarde Teunis, and my children gotten by her, viz., Teunis, Janeke,
Angentie, Jacob and Maria, "and those which by God's Grace I may in the
future get." My wife is to have the use of houses and lands, but no power to
sell, and "she is to aliment and bring up to age the under aged children." I
make my wife executor.
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Page 324.--FLORUS WILLEMSE CROM. In the name of God, Amen. The 7 day of
November, 1699. I, Florus Willemse Crom, of Orange County, being of good and
perfect health, and desirous to settle things in order. I leave to my wife,
Leyntie Aryansen Crom, all my estate, during life, and after her decease to
my children, William, Aryan, Trientie, Guysbert, Mary and Dirck Crom,
equally. My eldest son William is to have 40 shillings before any division.
And I order and direct that my land, situate, lying, and being at Haverstroo,
shall be laid out and divided in four distinct farms and plantations, and
they shall be sold at a vendue, amongst my children, to the highest bidder,
and the purchaser is to make due payment to the rest for their shares. And
whereas I have allowed to my son William the use of a parcel of land at
Haverstroo, he shall, after my decease, pay a reasonable rent for the same. I
make my wife executor. Signed
[NOTE.--Haverstroo is the original name of what is now Haverstraw, in
Rockland County, N. Y. The Krom Patent granted to his father, William Krom,
is the tract of land at Haverstraw lying between the road from Haverstraw to
Stony Point and the Hudson river. A brook near the east part of that tract
still bears the name of "Floris Falls."
�Page 329.--JOHN MALTBIE. In the name of God, Amen, this 24 day of June, 1706.
I, John Maltbie, of Southampton, in the County of Suffolk, joyner, being sick
and weak. I leave to my two daughters Mary and Sarah, all my housing,
buildings, and lands, and accommodations in Southampton. If they die without
issue, then all my estate is to go to John Fordham, son of Joseph Fordham, of
Southampton. I leave to the said John Fordham, two tracts of land which my
mother gave me in a deed of gift, situate and lying in the town of Stratford,
Connecticut, be the same more or else. I leave to my wife all movable estate
and the use of all lands.
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Page 334.--MATTHEW HOWELL. In the name of God, Amen. This 31 day of October,
1704. I, Matthew Howell, of the Town of Southampton in the County of Suffolk,
Gentleman, being very sick and weak, do make and ordain this to be my last
will and Testament. I leave to my eldest son, Nathan Howell, my now dwelling
house and all the land adjoining, which I bought of Samuel Johnes, deceased;
Also one piece of land known by the name of Heatherfield, and all my land at
the head of the creek; Also my negro boy named Reuben, and my best sword and
worst gun, and my 1/4 of Quogue neck. I leave to my son, Israel Howell, my
home lot which I bought of my uncle, Edmund Howell, deceased; Also my close
at Coopers neck, which I bought of said Edmund Howell, and also the other
piece of land lying at the north end of the town, which I bought of Joseph
Sayre, And also my part of a neck of land that is in partnership with Mr.
Richard Smith, Esq., known by the name of Watshogue and the one third part of
one half of an Island, known by the name of Kitchininchoge; Also the next
worst gun and sword, and a negro boy called Felix. I leave to my son, Ezekiel
Howell, all that my neck of land and meadow known by the name of Moriches,
with the house thereon standing, and the other two third, of one half of the
Island, aforesaid; Also a negro boy Archibald and my best gun and a
serviceable sword. I leave to my two sons, Israel and Ezekiel, all that land
belonging to my farm at Moriches which is not divided to them equally. I
leave to my daughter Eunice Washburn, a cow and a calf, having formerly given
her a principal share and proportion. I give to my daughter, Jerusha Howell,
$75. I make my wife, Mary Howell, executor, and I leave her all goods and
chattels, and she is to have the use of 1/3 of my lands and the use of one
third of my dwelling house including the best room.
[NOTE.--Colonel Matthew Howell was one of the most distinguished men of his
day. His massive tombstone, bearing the ancestral coat of arms, states that
he was a "member of the House of Representation of Her Majesties Province of
New York." He died May 4, 1706, aged 55. His homestead, bought of Samuel
Johnes, is on the west side of the main street of Southampton, next south of
Jaggers Lane, and lately owned by Susan King. The home lot, bought of Edmund
Howell, is the original homestead of Edward Howell, the Founder of
Southampton, and is now owned by Hon. James H. Pierson. The neck Watshogue,
and the Island, are a part of the Moriches Patent, now East Moriches, Long
Island.
Page 339.--BENJAMIN FOSTER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Benjamin Foster, of
Southampton, in Suffolk County, being at the present sick and weak. I leave
to my son, Benjamin Foster, a certain parcel of land lying on the south side
of the way of my new dwelling house, to begin at the east end of the place
where my old dwelling house is, and to run upon a due south line to the bay.
Bounded north by the highway, east by the land of Nathaniel Halsey. I leave
to my son, Jonathan Foster, that other certain parcel of land lying on the
south side of the highway by my now dwelling house, bounded east by the line
afore mentioned. I set for Benjamin's line, north by the highway, west by the
swamp, as it is now fenced; Also one half of my meadow at Cooper's neck. I
leave to my son, Isaac Foster, 7 acres of land to be laid out to him
adjoining to the highway by the Beech tree. I leave to my son, David Foster,
at Cutchogue, 20 shillings. I leave to my daughter, Mary Chatfield, 10
shillings. To my daughter Deborah 10 shillings when eighteen, and to my
daughter Sarah $8 when eighteen. Leaves to wife Lydia all rest of estate for
life, and makes her executor.
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Page 348.--EDWARD WHITE. In the name of God, Amen, the 9 day of November,
1706. I, Edward White, of the town of Oyster Bay in Queens County, being very
sick and weak. I leave to my eldest son, Simon White, my house and home lot
of land whereon it stands, bounded on the south to Jacob Wright's land, and
on the east to the highway, and on the north to the meadows, Together with
that parcel of land whereon my barn stands, bounded all round with highways;
Also my share of salt meadow, and all the lands which I have laid out joining
to John Townsend's land, nigh to Henry Weeks; Also one right and a half in
the undivided lands in the Old Purchase of Oyster Bay. I leave to my second
son, Joseph White, one lot of land which I have lying in the town, and
joining to Nathaniel Coles home lot, together with one half of all my land at
the Plains and Plains edge, and a share of salt meadow lying in the home
meadow, on the west side of the meadow I leave to his brother Simon; Also one
right and a quarter of land in the undivided lands in the Old Purchase of
Oyster Bay. I leave to my youngest son, Robert White, my lot of land joining
to his uncle Simon Cooper's lot, in the Town, and the other half of my land
at the Plains and Plains edge; Also my other share of meadow lying in the
home meadows, and a right and a quarter of the undivided lands in the old
Purchase of Oyster Bay. I leave to my five daughters, Judith, Abigail,
Martha, Mary and Anne, $20 each when of age. I leave to my wife Mary the rest
of the movable estate and make her sole executor. I also give to my wife Mary
all the meadow ground at the south, which I bought of Thomas Ireland, to sell
and dispose of to pay debts and legacies. She is also to have the use of all
houses and lands to bring up the children.
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Page 351.--JOHN TOWNSEND. In the name of God, Amen, this 9 day of May, 1705.
I, John Townsend, of Oyster Bay, in Queens County, being very sick and weak.
I leave to my daughter Hannah, one Townsman's right of land lying upon Oak
neck and Fire Island, with what she hath already had, which is in full for
her portion out of my estate. I leave to my brother Henry's four daughters a
3 year old heifer, each. I authorise and impower my well beloved wife Esther,
and my cousin, John Townsend, Nathaniel Coles, Jr., Samuel Dickens and Isaac
Smith to manage and improve, lease, sell, or dispose of any part of my estate
for the best advantage, and the bringing up of my children, and to divide the
rest of my estate among my children.
Page 364.--CONRADUS VANDERBECK. In the name of God, Amen. I, Conradus
Vanderbeck, of New York, measurer, being sick. I leave all my lands and
houses to my executors, to be sold to pay debts and expenses. I leave to my
wife Catharine all the goods, household stuff, and other things whatsoever,
which she brought with her, or belonged to her at the time of our marriage, I
also give her six silver spoons, one feather bed, one cupboard and one negro
girl. I leave to Anna Margaret Vanderbeck, my youngest daughter by my first
wife, one cupboard and one feather bed. I leave to Conradus Vanderbeck, my
youngest son by my first wife, all my joiners tools, and clothing. I leave to
my eldest son Paulus, 40s in case he restores to me a silver cup to me
belonging and which is now in his possession. And if my personal property
should pay my debts, I nevertheless order my real estate to be sold, and the
proceeds to be divided among my wife, and my son Paulus, and the children of
my son John deceased, and the children of my daughter Mary Bush and Elsie
Vanderbeck, daughter of my son Abraham, deceased, and my son Isaac, and my
daughter Anne Margaret, and my son Conradus, and also to Burger and Jacob
Vanderbeck, my sons by my present wife. I make my wife and Dirk Amerman
executors.
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Page 371.--SIMON GROVER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Simon Grover, of the
town of Southold, in the County of Suffolk, being in perfect health. I leave
to my wife, Elizabeth Grover, all my estate of houses and lands during her
life. After her decease, I leave to my daughter, Elizabeth Horton, $40, and a
first lot of Commonage in Southold bounds. I leave to my daughter, Mary
Youngs, all my lands and meadows at and belonging to Peakings neck. I leave
to my daughter, Martha Moore, all my homestead, houses, and home lot. All the
rest of my estate to my wife and three children.
Page 380.--MYNDERT COERTEN. In the name of God, Amen, the 25 October, 1704.
I, Myndert Coerten, living in Broynan burrow in the limits of New Utrecht, in
Kings County, farmer, being sick and weak. I leave to my daughter Hannah the
whole farm whereon she now lives, within the bounds of Middletown. I leave to
my daughter Maria, after the decease of me and my wife, the whole farm
whereon I live, and she is to pay to my daughter Wyntie, $400. If my daughter
Wyntie marry, then she is to have one half of the $400, and her son, Myndert
Lafavour, the other half, and I make Jacob Caralew, Peter Caralew, and
Gerritt Cornelius, his guardians. If my daughter Wyntie is not willing to
live with her mother, Maria Coerten, then I leave to her the house that was
built for Hendrick, with 1/2 the lot whereon it stands. I leave to my
grandson, Coertens Andreas, son of my daughter Hannah, a negro boy, and if he
die before my grandson comes of age, then he is to have another of equal
value. I leave the rest of my personal estate to my three daughters.
�
ISAAC RODRIGUEZ MARQUISE. In the name of God, Amen, the 17 October, 1706. I,
Isaac Rodriguez Marquise, of New York, merchant, being of perfect
remembrance, and bound on a voyage to Jamaica, in the West Indies. It is my
will that my dear mother, Rachel Marquise, be maintained out of my estate and
live with my wife and children; but if she cannot agree with them or likes to
live by herself, she is to receive $50, and a good serviceable negro woman
shall be purchased for her. And I hereby give a strict charge to my wife and
children to be dutiful to my said dear mother. I leave to my daughter Esther,
$50, to buy her a jewell when she is of the age of 18, or marries with her
mother's consent. The rest of my estate I leave to my wife Rachel, my son
Jacob, and my daughter Esther. The part of my estate which is left to my
children, is to be put into the hands of Mr. Aaron La Megroa, merchant, in
Jamaica, who shall be supervisor over my children. I desire Mr. Lewis Gomez
and Mr. Abraham de Lucena to assist my wife in the management of all her
affairs, and I make her executor.
Page 392.--NICHOLAS JAMAIN. In the name of God, Amen. Be it known and
manifest unto all people, that I, Nicholas Jamain, of New York, merchant,
being now in good health. I leave to my cousin [nephew] Stephen Jamain, son
of my brother Stephen Jamain, deceased, a gold seal ring to the value of $4.
To my niece Esther Charron, the daughter of Jean Charron, and my sister
Margaret, deceased, all household stuff and furniture, except gold and
jewels. I leave to Maria, the eldest daughter of Peter Morin, $100, when of
age. I leave to my trusty friends, Benjamin Faneuil and Paul Droillet, $20,
for the use of the Poor of the French Church in New York. I leave the rest of
my estate to Stephen, Judith, and Maria, wife of Peter Morin, the children of
my brother, Stephen Jamain, deceased, and to Elie, son of my brother, Armant
Jamain, deceased, and to Jean and Esther Charron, children of Jean Charron
and my sister Margaret, deceased. Executors to have power to sell real
estate. I make Paul Droillet, Benjamin Faneuil, and Louis Corne executors.
�
Codicil. Since the above will was written it has pleased God to call to
himself my cousin, Stephen Jamain, and what I gave him I now give to Elie
Jamain and the others above named. I leave to Mr. Paul Droillet $20 to buy
him a piece of plate. January 10, 1706/7.
Page 403.--HENRY HARDING. In the name of God, Amen. I, Henry Harding, of the
Parish of St. Georges, in the Island of Barbadoes, Esq., at present residing
in the city of New York, being sick and weak. I leave to my wife, Elizabeth,
all my estate, real and personal, during her life. And after her decease to
my only daughter, Isabella Harding, to her and her heirs, but in default of
issue, then to my cousin and God daughter, Isabella Maverick, the daughter of
my aunt, Joan Maverick, of Barbadoes, and if she leave no issue, then to my
cousin, George Barry, son of John Barry, of Barbadoes. I leave to my
daughter, Isabella, $2,100, of such money as shall be current in the Island
of Barbadoes, after the 10th day of January next. And I make my wife sole
executor and guardian of my daughter. I appoint Colonel William Battin and
Captain Thomas Speght, overseers. I give to my cousin, Isabella Maverick,
$350. And to my cousins, William, Thomas, and Mary, children of my cousin,
Thomas Speght, of Barbadoes, $175 each, when of age. To Jacob Drayton, my
present overseer on the Island of Barbadoes, $25, to buy him mourning. To my
good friend Charles Egerton, Sr., of Barbadoes, $12, and $2 to buy him a
ring, to wear in remembrance of me. I leave to my cousin, Grace Cosens, wife
of Barne Cosens, of New York, all my estate in New Jersey, near to New York.
Page 407.--GARRETT WYCKOFF. In the name of God, Amen, this 9 October, 1704.
Be it known that I, Garett Wyckoff, of Flatlands in Kings County, on the
Island of Nassau, being at present very sick and weak. I leave to my loving
wife Katharine, all estate of houses and lands, during her life, and 12 acres
of land within the limitts of Gravesend. But if she remarry, then an
inventory is to be made, and my eldest son Peter shall have half of the
houses and lands when he is of age, and the other half after my wife's
decease, and he is to pay to the other children, namely, Greetie, Adriane,
Amke, Marytie and Janica, $450, I give to my son Peter, a silver tankard, and
my plows and harrows and all the tackling belonging to a farm. The testator
makes provision for an expected child. I make my loving friends and brothers,
Claas Wyckoff, Hendrick Wyckoff, Peter Wyckoff, Garett Stoothoff, and Peter
Nevins, my executors. And they are to sell a 12 acre lot of land, lying at
Ambrose Island, so called in the town of Gravesend.
�
Page 426.--WILLIAM BICKLEY. I, William Bickley, of New York, in America, shop
keeper. Being at this time through the mercy of God in indifferent health and
also sensible of my own frailty. I give and forgive unto all my children such
sums of money as shall be due unto me from each of them. I give to my two
daughters, Sarah Potter and Elizabeth Brown, 20 shillings each, in full of
all pretence or demand for my estate in the future. I give my grandson,
William Cook, $20, if he serve out the remainder of his time, as by his
indenture to me; otherwise I give him two pieces of 8. I give 12s to each of
my grand children, and to my son in law, Nicholas Brown, and to each of my
daughters in law, one Arabian piece of gold of 12s value. I leave to my
loving neighbors, Thomas Ives and his wife Susanah, $5, to make a small piece
of plate in consideration and remembrance of their kindness to me and mine. I
leave to Dr. John Rodman, Hugh Cowperthwaite and Samuel Bowne, of Flushing,
$10 each, and to George Curtis, John Lipincott, Sr., and William Worth, of
Shrewsbury, in New Jersey, $5 each. All the rest of my estate I leave to my
son Abraham Bickley, of Philadelphia, and I make him executor. And I desire
my much respected friends, Richard Willett and Walter Thong, whom I have
found to bear cordial and loving kindness toward me, that they continue the
same toward my son, with their best advice and counsell. And that they accept
from him one of the best Beaver hats that can be got for money, to each of
them, to wear in rememberance of this my last request. And I enjoine my son
Abraham, to be helpful and assistant to his helpless sister Sarah Potter,
during her widowhood.
[NOTE.--William Bickley was one of the members of the Society of Friends, or
Quakers, in New York. He was one of the purchasers of the lot on which the
first Quaker meeting house was built on the west side of Green street (now
Liberty place) a little south of Maiden lane, about 1696.
�Page 439.--PIERRE MONTELS. [Written in French Language.] Au Nom de Dieu, fait
soit, Amen. Know all persons that on the 4th day of the month July, in the
year of our Lord 1689, in the city of London, in the Liberties of
Westminster, in the Parish of St. Anne. In the presence of the Notary Public
and the undersigned witnesses. Appeared Mr. Pierre Montels, merchant, a
native of Lodine, in Languedoc in the kingdom of France, at present residing
in this city in the Parish of St. Martins. Being in good sense and memory,
and considering that there is nothing more certain than death, wishes to make
this will, to avoid all contentions among those who might make some pretence
for it. Declaring that he is lawfully married to Jeanne de Montels, by which
marriage he has two daughters, Marie, married to Noel Cozelet, of Montpelier;
and Margaret, married to Francis Besart, merchant of London. And the testator
has paid to both of them a considerable portion of his estate, so that they
have no further claim. He leaves to the Poor French refugees of London $3,
and leaves all the rest of his estate to his wife and makes her sole
executor.
[NOTE.--On this and following pages is a copy of the will of Jan Vigne in the
Original Dutch.
�
Page 469.--JOHN JENNINGS.--In the name of God, Amen, the 14 March, 1706/7. I,
John Jennings, of the Borrough and town of Westchester, yeoman, being sick
and weak. I leave to my eldest son, Thomas Jennings, all that my orchard
which I had of my father Jennings, and the orchard which I bought of Daniel
Clark, and six acres of land, more or less, which lies opposite to the said
orchard; And also the house and the lot it stands upon which is near the said
orchard and lot; Also a $25 right of Commonage, with all the privileges
thereto belonging as by deed from my said father, and bill of sale from
Daniel Clark will appear; Also 10 acres off the south end of my land that
adjoins to John Forgarson, Jr. And my son Thomas shall pay to my son Solomon,
$50. I leave to my son John Jennings, all my lot which I now live upon, and
the lot that my barn stands upon, and three acres of meadow I bought of
Thomas Forgarson; Also a $25 right of Commonage; Also 4 acres of land, which
is the remainder part of my 14 acres, that lyes adjoining unto John
Forgarson's land. And he is to pay to my youngest son, Isaiah Jennings, $50,
when he is of age. I leave to my wife Rachel all that my 3 acres of land that
lies near or adjoining to John Buckbee, by Bear Swamp; Also all my personal
estate. But if she happens to marry she is to pay to my beloved mother, Mary
Jennings, $5 per annum.
Page 473.--GERRITT STRYCKER. In the name of God, Amen. I, Gerritt Strycker,
of the town of Flatlands, in Kings County, being weak in body, my will is
that my wife, Weyntie Strycker, shall remain in full possession of all
estate, houses, and lands, but if she re-marry, then she shall deliver up one
half before the solemnization of her marriage. And after her decease, all the
estate is to go to my children, Eyda, Jacobus, Geesie, Maria, Catharine,
Jannettie and Cornelius. My eldest son, Jacobus Strycker, is to have $12 10s
as a free gift.
�
Page 475.--HELLEGONDA DE KAY. In the name of God, Amen. I, Hellegonda De Kay,
of the city of New York, widow, being sick and weak. I leave to my three
daughters, Jane Tothill, widow, Agnettie, wife of William Janeway, brewer,
and Mary, wife of Samson Broughton, Esq., all my apparell, linen and woolen.
I leave to my son, Jacobus De Kay, my Indian slave called Jeremy, provided he
give a full account of all money owing to me, without law suits. I leave all
the rest of my estate to my children, Jacobus, Helena, widow of my eldest son
Teunis De Kay, Agnettie, Maria, and Jane. I make my daughter, Jane Tothill,
and my friend, Rip Van Dam, executors.
[NOTE.--It sometimes happened that an executor or administrator died before
finishing his work. In such cases and some others, a new administrator was
appointed to administer upon the goods, etc., not already disposed of. Such
administrator was said to be appointed "De bonis non."
The following wills are some of them translated from the Dutch after the
foregoing copies were made; some are original wills not recorded, but on file
in "Bundle No. 1," Surrogate's office, and a few are early wills which were
recorded in later books.
Codicil. I, Luis Dubois, being sick, having made a will March 27, 1694. I
confirm the same, except that my son Jacob shall have one-half of my farm
situate at Hurley between the land of Hyman and Jan Roosa, and the land of
Lambert Huybertsen, and he shall pay for it 1,500 scheppels of wheat, and he
shall have the use of the other part until my youngest son Matthew is of age,
and he is to pay for the use 50 scheppels of wheat per annum. I further
declare that I have this day transported to my youngest son Matthew a house
and lot in Kingston and a parcel of meadow land and one-half of my land at
Hurley, and he is to pay 1,500 scheppels of wheat. The land bought by my son
David of Jan Wood shall be paid for out of my estate as I have promised. My
sons Solomon and Lewis shall receive the land at the Paltz, according to
Ground Brief of Colonel Thomas Dongan, June 2, 1686, and they shall pay for
it 800 scheppels of wheat. My daughter Sarah, wife of Joost Janse, shall have
a parcel of land at Hurley, next to the land of Cornelius Cool, and she is to
pay 700 scheppels of wheat. This includes the woodland adjoining.
�
GERITT BANCKER (Dutch). "In den naame Godes, Amen." On the 25 November, 1690,
at New Albany, the Honorable Mr. Geritt Bancker, merchant, being of sound
mind. I appoint as my universal heir my wife Elizabeth of all my estate both
here and in Schenectady and in New York during her life or widowhood. My
eldest son shall have $6 before any division, and each of my children shall
have an equal proportion of my estate. Each of my married children shall have
a dower of 300 Beavers or the value in current silver money, which is a piece
of 8 reckoned at 12 guilders sewant (wampum), and those who hereafter marry
are to have a similar dowry, and each child is to have his share when of age.
I make my son Evert Bancker and Mr. Johanes De Peyster, the husband of my
daughter living in New York, the guardians of my minor children.
NICHOLAS TANNER, of Rusdorp (Jamaica), September 2, 1658. My will is if it
please God to take me away (yf I doe not otherwise alter) that my son John
Tanner, living in Tolspidle in Dorsetshire, England, shall have $30. But if
my son cannot be procured to come over, or not heard of, the town where I
live shall have the use of the same for their general good, provided they put
in security to send it to my son, or if he shall come over to fetch it.
Legacies to Thomas Ireland, "Richard Everard's children," "Roger Tiner's
boy," and "John Rode's youngest boy," "Bethiah Mills shall have a cow and a
calf, and she and her mother shall have $10 to buy them clothes. Henry
Pearsall's children shall have 5 shillings. [The rest is torn and lost.]
Endorsed "Quietus, June 23, 1669." (Not recorded.)
"The last will and testament of ANNE GRAVES, the wife of William Graves, now
inhabitant of Newtown, on Long Island, December 31, 1670." Leaves to
daughter, Elizabeth Everitt, a feather bed, warming pan, iron spit, a fire
shovel, pair of tongs, and a trunk. I leave all the rest of my estate to my
daughters, Elizabeth Everitt and Abigail Denton, "and my clothes as they were
prized by Mr. John Coe and Mr. Jonatham Fish." I leave to my cousin, Thomas
Stevenson, my Bible.
In the name of God, Amen, February the 10, 1682. I, WILLIAM OSBURNE, of
Gravesend, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, being in good memory. I leave to
my wife Alice all the land and houses, which formerly did belong to her
husband, Samuel Holmes, with all the stock thereon except three horses, one
of which came from Setalcot. I also give her my gray horse and mares, now
running in Hugh Garetsons neck, and which did belong to her former husband
Samuel Holmes. Also household goods and farming utensils, during her
widowhood. Also 10 ewes and 6 lambs, with their increase, now in possession
of Wait Smith of Jamaica, and were delivered to him in 1680. I leave to my
eldest son, William Osburne, a tract of land lying within the Precincts of
Newtown, and now in the possession of John Smith, and Hannah his wife, of
said town, and will be due to me or my heirs at the decease of said John
Smith and his wife Hannah. I leave to my daughter Elizabeth, two houses and
home accommodations lying in the town of Flushing, and now in the possession
of Thomas Williams, and due to me or my heirs at his decease. But one of the
houses and lots being in controversy between the said Williams and myself,
and a Suit in Law depending thereon; if the said house and lot be not
recovered, then my daughter Elizabeth is to have the house and lot I bought
of Thomas Davis, and $20 more. I leave to my daughter Margaret, $60, and to
my son Samuel, $80. If any of my children marry without the consent of my
executors and overseers, they shall have power to detain their portions.
Appeared before me, William Bogardus, Notary, dwelling in New York, October
12, 1683, Mr. GERRIT SCHLECTENHURST, being sick in bed. He leaves to his wife
Aeltie all his real estate at Kingston in Esopus, and all his personal
property, and she is to keep and "bring up as they ought" his infant
children, and put them to learn a trade when capable. And concerning the land
in Claverack, at present in company with Jan Roothaer, he leaves it to his
children, Alida, wife of Peter Davids Schuyler, 60 morgen, and the same to
his daughter Elizabeth, wife of Nicholas William Stuyvesant, and Bata, wife
of Jan Oost, Helagont, and the rest to his other three children, Gerit,
Rachel and Yonde. He makes Stephen Van Cortlandt and Brandt Schuyler
overseers. Witness, Hans Kierstede, Thuys--. "Signed at the farm of the
Testator." Proved September 29, 1685.
�
PHILIP GALLPEN, March 27, 1684. Leaves to his "dear wife" his home lot,
orchard, and housing for life, and then to his children. Leaves to his son
John a cow and calf; and to John's son, John, 30 shillings. Mentions sons
Samuel, Benjamin and Joseph. (The will is torn and dilapidated, and there may
be other children.)
�
In the name of God, Amen. "I, NATHANIEL BISHOP, of East Hampton, on Long
Island, now being in my right mind, I give my body to the dust, and my soul
to God who gave it, and my estate as followeth. I leave to my son Daniel all
my lands and meadows in East Hampton, except 6 1/2 acres of land on the
Indian Well Plain, which I give to my son Nathaniel. But it is to be
understood that Daniel is not to possess the land wholly during the lifetime
of my wife, and she is to be maintained by Daniel, or else to have the house
and so much of the land as is needful. I leave to my son Daniel two oxen and
all my horses, and a double portion of all cattle and sheep, and my son
Nathaniel is to have 1/4 of the cattle and sheep. My wife is to have 1/4 of
the same, but after her decease they are to go to James Hands children, "who
are my grandchildren." I appoint Captain Josiah Hobart and Samuel Mulford,
overseers.
�
Appeared before me, William Bogardus, Notary Public, on August 26, 1684, Mr.
Peter Vandewater, and his wife Anna Duyking, living within this city. They
leave all their estate to their children Evert and Henrica, "and to those
that may come in the future." If the testatrix dies first, "her son Evert is
to have her gold ring with a stone, and ye Great Bible," and "her daughter is
to have her gold Stricke or pendant, and her small church Bible," and her
father and mother are to have each a silver spoon. If the testator dies first
his mother Elizabeth Vanderveen is to have "a black stuff cosjack, and a silk
hood." They make John Harberdingh and Hendick Wessels Ten Broeck, executors.
�John Rodes, Sr., of Jamaica, on Long Island, being on bed of sickness. I
leave to my son John my meadow and land not divided, "and ye little house
Goody Davis keeps schoole in," which he shall remove for a shop. I also leave
him the remainder of the 10 acre lot I gave him part of, lying next to
Nathaniel Denton's lot. I leave to my son Richard my homestead, house, barn,
and orchard, and 1/2 of my meadow and land undivided, in Jamaica, and 10
acres which I bought of John Everett, lying next to my son John. Mentions his
daughter Elizabeth, and son-in-law John Carpenter, and son-in-law John Wood.
I make my wife executor, and "she is to be comfortably maintained, she being
weakly and unable to help herself." "And I leave to my son Richard as my last
charge to be careful and tender of his mother." I leave to my wife's son
Jeremiah Hubbard, 20 shillings, and "I desire my children to keep peace, love
and amity between them." I make my neighbors Nehemiah Smith and Daniel
Denton, overseers. July 4, 1685.
ADRIAN VAN SCHAACK (or Schayck). Dutch. "In Den naeme des Heren, Amen." I,
Adrian Van Schayck, dwelling on the Island of Manhattan, in the Province of
New York. I direct that my body be buried in a christian-like manner. It is
my will that my dear wife Rebecca Van Schayck shall have full disposition of
all my estate during her life, or while she remains my widow. After her
decease the property to go to my children, by name, Belitie, married to Peter
De Groot; Idye, married to Ibel Gootblod; Cornelia, married to Johanes
Pluvier; Elizabeth, married to Garrett Oncleboo, and Dina, who is unmarried.
END
Geraldine Ryerson K.
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