GENEALOGY COLLECTION
DOC-UMENTS
RELATING TO THE
Colonial History
State of New York.
Vol. XIII — Old Series.
Vol. II — New Series.
ALBANY, N. Y.
WEED, PARSONS AND COMPANY.
i88i.
DOCUMENTS
RELATING TO THE
HISTORY AND SETTLEMENTS OF THE TOWNS
ALONG THE
Hudson and Mohawk Rivers
(WITH THE EXCEPTION OK ALBANY),
FROM 1630 TO 1684.
AND ALSO ILLUSTRATING THE
RELATIONS OF THE SETTLERS WITH THE INDIANS.
Translated, Compiled and Edited from the Original Records in the Office of the
Secretary of State, at Albany, and other sources, under direction
of the Honbie JOSEPH B. CARR, Secretary of State,
B. FERNOW,
KKEPKR OF THE HISTORICA-L RECORDS.
Ho.N. Member Penn^ Historical Society.
1136149
ALBANY, N. Y.
WEED, PARSONS AND COMPANY.
i88i.
EiRLHmiElimS i TEE ElllISi RlfER M W lililS,
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE, )
Albany, October 1, 1881. )
Oeiginallt organized for purely commercial purposes, then drawn into warlike pursuits by
the political events of the Thirty Years' War, the Dutch "West India Company thought little of
its property m America as a colony, and took no pains to develop its internal resources by settling
this large territory and encouraging the cultivation of its virgin soU. The close of the war with
Spain compelled the Company to bestow more attention upon New Netherlaud and to make up,
if possible, fur lost time. Internal and economical considerations did not alone urge the Company
in this direction ; the interest which the States- General suddenly took in the aifairs of New
Netherland and the earnestness with which they insisted upon the adoption of some practical
plan to direct and encourage a sound and moral emigration, insuring a permanent settlement of
the territory, caused the managers of the Company to pei-ceive tliat their influence would be dan-
gerously compromised, if something was not done to develop more actively the resources of the fine
and fertile province committed to their charge.
As a result of their deliberations on this point, the directors of the "West India Company
presented, in August, 1638, to the States-General, " Articles and Conditions drawn up and con-
cluded by the Amsterdam Chamber, on whicli the respective places and countries
in New Netherland shall henceforth be traded to, frequented and settled " *
This plan was evidently too diffuse in some of its clauses to satisfy the States-General, nor did the
"New Project," \ submitted by the Patroons in opposition to and curtailing the privileges of the
Company, m^et with any more favor. The object of the Patroons had l>een at first, when they
obtained their privileges in 1629, rather a participation in the Indian trade than the colonization
of the country ; their new plan was to divide the province into manors for a privileged class, to
the exclusion of the hardy and industrious pioneer and sturdy and independent yeoman.
The objections raised by the States-General to either plan led to a joint meeting of delegates
from the States and the Company, who agreed upon a more satisfactory solution of the whole
* See N. Y. Col. Hist. Vol. I, p. 110. t Ibidem, p.
iv Early Settlements on the Hudson River and the Indians.
question. The inonoi^olj of tlie trade to New ISfetlierlaiid, hitherto enjoyed exchisivelj hy the
"West India Company, was aboHshed and the commerce in and to the province as well as the
cnltivation of its soil tin-own open to everybody, whether denizen or foreigner, who chose to con-
form to certain rules and restrictions.*
New Netherland soon began to reap the benefits of this salutary resolution. The policy of
the Company having become more liberal, they extended their liberality also to financial matters
and encouraged emigrant farmers by many pecuniary advantages ; in consequence we see the labor-
ers leave their native country, where, under the most favorable circmnstances, they could only be
tenants, to seek new freehold homes in the province on the Hudson ; we see wealthy individuals
induced to settle in New Netherland with their famihes and a large following of tenants ; and we
find the population increase by families from Virginia and New England, who left the latter
colony " to escape the insupportable government of New England," or the former to pursue at
the Manhattans the cultivation of the tobacco plant, with which they had become familiar during
their respective terms of service in Virginia.
Every settler \',as allowed to make his home where he pleased or where he thought he could
plant his crops to the best advantage, subject to one rule, invariably insisted upon, the great
importance of which in its relations to the future existence of our present State, and perhaps of
the United States, has never been sufficiently considered. I mean the rule by which no man
could settle upon Indian lands, unless the Indian title was first extinguished in a manner satis-
factory to the Indian proprietors. Following natm-al advantages of soil, location, market and per-
sonal safety, the settlers chose at first the neighborhood of the two larger places on the Hudson,
New Amsterdam and Fort Orange, and spread across the Fresh "Water into -what is now West-
chester county, or over into New Jersey, Long and Staten Islands, or sat down south of Albany.
Keeping as near the banks of the Hudson as possible, they finally struck the fertile valley of tlie
Esopus. The absence of the Indian deeds given to the first comers prevents fixing the exact date
of the first settlement of Kingston, which more than a century later was to be the native place of
our present State Govermnent. The earliest patent for land in Ulster county on record is dated
September 25, 1656 ; it mentions, however, the lands of other people, who were then already
settled there. It is true that the Dutch had built a fort on the Esopus as early as IGIS,-!" and that
therefore we have no record of the Indian deed (our records beginning only in 1630) ; but if the
country around this fort had been settled, the people had been driven off by the destructive Indian
wars of 1644-45. Other evidences, brought to light in this volume, show that some farmers,
attracted by the richness of the soil, had commenced a small settlement there in 1653, after pur-
chasing the land from the Indians. Their fate and the troubles of their successors ai"e described
in the documents contained in this volume; we must admire the tenacity and sturdy courage with
* See N. T. Col. Hist. Vol. I, p. 119.
t " II y a plus de cinquante aus qu'elle est en possession des Forts Orange et Esope ; les uns et les autres avec
les terres et pais, qui en dependent." States-General to Sir George Downing, February, 1665. — Col. Hist.
Vol. n, p. 325.
Early Settlements on the Hudson Rive)- and the Indians. v
which this haiicit'ul of Dutchmen hold on to thu laiul, wliich they knew to be tlieirs by every right
and law, and we can only congratulate ourselves, as citizens of the State of New York and of the
United States, that the first white men with whom the Indians of this section of the American
continent had tu deal were the upright, sturdy, even if slow and phlegmatic, Dutch.
Property in the soil being in all civilized countries the first evidence of settlement, the Editor
has endeavored to collect all such evidences in the shape of Indian deeds, to be found in the State
and other official records and thereby hopes to assist the authors of local histories, who must una-
voidably begin by showing how the title to the soil passed from the Indians through the Govern-
ment to individuals. Records of public offices are our most reliable authority for History, which
cannot be written, if it is to be of any instructive value, without being based upon authentic evi-
dence ; with it it is easy to trace the organization of counties, towns and villages, the sources of their
fii-st population and the nomenclature of their localities.
A glance at the map of the United States shows that the Hudson river and its tributaries
form the most important waterway in the country. Portages of short distance brought the
traveler in olden times to the waters of the great lakes, if he was bound west, or to Lake Cham-
plain and the St. Lawrence if on a northern tour. The Hudson was the key of the continent
for all coming from the east ; its possession meant supremacy over all the surrounding lands. The
Dutch, the first white people who came to this region, found it inhabited by five Indian tribes,
which from their language, general customs and traditions, seemed to be more closely connected
with each other than tlie neighboring tribes. They had entered into a confederation and in a
rude way anticipated our federal republic ; having possession of the very key to this continent
they had become the masters of a large portion of it and ruled the tribes from Maine to the Mis
sissippi and as far south as Georgia. The Jesuit fathers, who went among them as missionaries,
called them the most enlightened Indians with whom they had come in contact, but also the most
intractable. They were cannibals, often eating their captured enemies after having first subjected
them to the most fiendish torture. The most athletic, the keenest witted and most bloody of all
the tribes, that the first settlers of New York should have made a lodgment among them and at
all times remained undisturbed is one of the curious facts of history, the bearings of which upon
the subsequent history of this country has never sufficiently attracted the attention of historians, yet
it is worthy of being esteemed most important. When contemplating the nature and results of the
relations established between the two races, we see a condition of affairs no less startling than
different from that in the neighboring New England colonies. The Puritans were involved in
ceaseless Indian wars and stood more than once upon the brink of utter aimihilation ; the Dutch,
living at the door of the powerful Five Nations, could always count upon the friendship of their
Indian neighbors. The secret by which they insured this friendship was that they simply treated
the Indian as a human being, as a man. Tolerant in religion themselves they did not interfere
with his crude worship ; honest in all their dealings with him they kept good faith and took noth-
ing from him except by purchase. Rule 26 of the " Freedoms and Exemptions granted by the
West India Company to all Patroons, Masters or private Persons who will plant colonies in New
vi Early Settlements on the Hudson River and the Indians.
Netberland, adopted June 7, 1629, says: 'Whosoever shall settle any colony out of the limits of
Manhattan Island shall be obliged to satisfy the Indians for the land they shall settle upon.' "
The numerous Indian deeds in this volume go to show how this rule was, as I stated above, always
strictly enforced, and the tradition of the purchase of Manhattan Island proves that even at their
first coming the Dutch had no intention of acquiring the land they coveted by any other means
than by purchase.
It is needless to refer to the Massachusetts statute of 1633, which confirmed to the Indians
the little patches of land around their wigwams, where they raised their corn and beans, and
declared the rest the property of the whites on the authority of chapter 1, Genesis, " and the
invitation of the Indians." It is further needless to speculate on the consetpiences if a like policy
had been adopted by the Dutch, for the result of the policy pursued by them , based upon Chris-
tian virtue, commercial morality and the true ethics of ci\'ilization, is enjoyed by ns every day as
citizens of the State of New York and of the Ujiited States. The English, after the conquest
of 166i, followed in the footsteps of the Dutch in their treatment <A the Indians, either because
they acknowledged it to be the best policy or influenced by the preponderating Dutch element,
who were still the majority of the population of the province. During the century of contention
with France the friendship of the Five Nations, in possession of the great moimtain barrier
between Canada and the upper Hudson, turned the scale and counterbalanced the great advan-
tages which lay on the side of France. But for this, the whole course of our histoiy might have
been changed. New York might now belong to France and the other States might still be
colonies of England.
Not all the Indians of the province, however, shared the Mohawks' feelings toward the
Dutch, as the documents relating to the settlement of our present Ulster county, now first pub-
lished, will show. The tribes along the Hudson below Albany, although treated by the Dutch
like the Mohawks, remained hostile and had to be completely dispersed to insure for the settlement
on the Esopus the safety and security necessary for its development. Many instances will be
found in this volume showing how the j^owerful five nations appreciated the treatment Ijy the
Dutch.
For reasons made obvious by the size of this volume the Editor has not been able to show
the results of the Dutch and early English policy in the subsequent troubles with the French of
Canada, and the volume closes therefore with the law dividing the province into counties, enacted
by the first General Assembly of the Province of New York, the meeting of which on the 17th
of October, 16S3, was the result of the principle, often asserted by the Dutch in their controver-
sies with their Governors, of " No Taxation without Representation." It was the first victory
of Liberty over Absolutism, which New York has to record.
JOSEPH E. CAER,
Seci'etary of State.
Table of Contents.
Fi'om the first recorded Dutch Patent to the Occupation of the Province by the English.
1630-1664.
Paqe.
1630. July 12. Patent for Hoboken, N. J 1
" Aug. 10. Patent for Staten Island 2
" Nov. 22. Patent for Ahasimus (Jersey City) and Aressick Island 2
1 638. May 1 . Deed to Abr. Is. Verplanck for Land at Paulus Hook, N.J 3
" Jwly 20. Lease of the Company's Farm at Pavonia, N. J 3
1639. Mar. 12. Lease of the Company's Bouwery at Hoboken, N. J 4
" July 21. Lease of Bronkx Land in Westchester county 5
" Aug. 3. Indian Deed for the Land called Keskeskick (Westchester county) 5
" Sep. 15. Eesolution to exact from the Indians a Tribute in Maize, etc 6
No date. Patent for part of Staten Island 6
161:0. Jan. 7. Lease of Land on Staten Island 7
" July 16. Council Minute. Hostile Acts of the Raritan Indians since the Peace of
1634 7
1641. June 6. Council Minute. Conditions under which a Party of English People may
come and settle in N. Netherland 8
Ordinance offering a Reward for the Heads of Raritan Indians 8
Release by Com. Melyn of his Tenant from his Contract to live on Staten
Island 8
Resolutions to build a Redoubt on Staten Island 9
1642. April 7. Declaration concerning what occurred at Arraeperal in the Indian War. . 9
Court Proceedings 9
Council Minute. Settlement in Westchester Co 10
1643. Feb. 25. Council Minute. Indian War 10
Coimcil Minute setting forth the necessity of the resolution to enlist a
number of planters " in order to put a bit into the mouth of the
heathens " 11
Declaration concerning the attemjrt upon Dir. Kieft's life 12
Report of the attempts made on the life of Director Kieft hy the leaders
of the expedition against the Indians 12
Peace made between the Dutch and the Indians on the Lower Hudson ... 14
Declaration respecting the circumstances under which Dirck Straatemaker
and his wife were killed by the Indians 14
July
4.
Aug.
15.
Sept.
12.
April
' 7.
June
26.
Oct.
2.
Feb.
25.
Feb.
27.
Mar.
22.
Mar.
28.
Apr.
22.
May
18.
Table of Contents.
Page.
Extract from a letter of Arent van Curler at Eensselaerswyck to the
Patroon in Holland. Report of a journey to the Mohawks 15
Patent to John Throckmorton for land at Yrelandt (Tlirogmorton's Neck,
Westchester county) 15
Council Minute. Request of the Eight Men, that Jan Damen be expelled
from their board. Resolution to i"enew the war against the hostile
Indians 16
Declaration of some soldiers respecting the attack by Indians on the Colony
" behind the Col." 16
Report that the Colony "behind the Col.'' has been destroyed by the
Indians 17
Council Minute. Arrival of River Indians at Stamford to sue for peace
with the Dutch 17
Articles of Peace, concluded in presence of the Mohawks between the
Dutch and the River Indians 18
Council Minut^ A Proclamation to be issued for a day of general
thanksgiving on account of the peace with the Indians 19
Resolution to explore a mine in the Raritan country and to raise some
cannons sunk by the Indians in the river " behind the Col." 19
Patent to Jacob Jacobsen Roy for Constable's Hook (N. J.) 19
Patent to Thomas Coornel for land on the Bronkx river (Westchester Co.). 20
Patent to Cornelis Antonissen van der Slyck and associates for the land of
Katskil 20
" Dec. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Petrus Stuyvesant.
Peace with the Indians made by Kieft ; iron mine on Staten Island.
English trading house near Fort Orange 21
1647. Mar. 25. Patent to Claes Carstensen the Norman for land in New Jersey 21
" May 10. Patent to Egbert Woutersen for land at Communipaw (N. J.) 22
" May 11. Patent to Maryn Adriaensen for lard at Weehawken (N. J.) 22
" June 17. Declaration of Commissary Boghardt and others respecting an attack by
the Raritans 22
1648. Apr. 3. Extract from a letter of Director Stuyvesant to Gov. Winthrop at Boston ;
vindicates himself against the accusations of having tried to incite the
Moliawks against the English . . 23
" Apr. 8. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant ; a
lenient policy towai*d the Indians recommended 23
1649. July 14. Indian Deed for part of Westchester county 24
Propositions made by the Indians living on the North river above Man-
hattan Island and Stuyvesant's answer 25
1650. Jan. 14. Lease of land on the Katskil 26
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to, Dir. Stuyvesant; the
grant of the Catskil Lands 26
Indian Deed for Schodack 26
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant ; fears
entertained that a war between the English and the Wappinger Indians
might be fatal to the Colonies on the North river 27
1643.
June 16.
<(
July 6.
i,i
Sep. 15.
a
Oct. 30.
If
Nov. 3.
1644.
Apr. 16.
1645.
Aug. 30.
li
Aug. 31.
11
1fi4-fi
Aug. 31.
u
June 26.
"
Aug. 22.
July
July
14.
19.
Jan.
Feb.
14.
16.
Mar.
Apr.
13.
15.
Table of Contents. ix
Paoe.
1651. Mar. 21. Extract from n letter of the same to tlie same ; luiul i^raiits on tlic Raritan,
Kil van Col and Catskil ; free navigation of the North river ; Baron van
der Capelle's Colony ; Mohawks invade Canada 27
" Nov. 7. Entry by Cornelis van Werckhoven for two Colonies, one at Tappaen, the
other at the Nevesing and grant of the same 29
1652. Feb. 13. Extract from a representation made by the Directors of the "W". I. Com-
pany on the situation of New Netherland concerning Indian aiiairs, etc. 29
" Feb. 15. Answer to the foregoing 30
" Mar. 5. Letter from Baron van der Capellen to Cornelis van Werckhoven, inform-
ing him that he had purchased the Raritan country 31
" Mar. 18. Letter from Cornelis van Werckhoven to (?) entering a caveat against the
grant of the Earitan country to Baron van der Capellen 31
No date. Answer of Cornelis van Werckhoven to Baron van der Capellen's letter . . 32
" Apr. 4. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir Stuyvesant ; a
New Netheriand bureau is to be established to check the abuses in land
granting ; conflicts arising out of the purchases of Baron van der Capel-
len and van Werckhoven ; war between the Mohawks and Canada Indians 33
" Sept. 20. Ordinance against runners in the Mohawk and Seneca countries 34
" Dec. 13. Extract from a letter of the Directors to Stuyvesant ; Van Werckhoven
declines the Colony on the Karitan and at Tappan and settles at Nyack,
L.I 34
1653. June 6. Extract from a letter of the same to the same ; the war between the Mo-
hawks and the Canada Indians ; the establishment of a trading house 20
Dutch miles north of Albany reconnnended to attract the Canadian fur
trade 35
1654. Feb. 25. Resolution to provide the Mohawks with powder and lead, lest they apply
therefor to the English 35
" June 16. Patent to Dirck Ziecken for land at Communipaw 36
" -A-Ug. 28. Ordinance against furnishing liquor to Indians 35
" Nov. 5. Resolution ordering the Fiscal to forbid certain Englishmen to settle at
Vreedland (Westchester county) 36
" Nov. 27. Patents for land at Pavonia (N. J.) and at Communipaw 37
1655. Apr. 19. Protest against Thomas Pell for settling on lands belonging to the Dutch
at Vreeland (Westchester) with notice to quit 38
" June 21. Order to publish at Fort Orange an ordinance against ranners among the
Indians 39
" Oct. 8. (28 ?) Letter from Inhabitants of Gravesend to the Director and Council,
stating that they are threatened by Indians from the main 39
" Oct. 8. Declaration as to the hostility of the Indians 41
" Oct. 9. Minute and votes of the Council on the action to be taken regarding the
foregoing 41
" Oct. 11. Resohition forbidding the sailing of the vessels in port and departure of
able-bodied passengers during the present crisis 43
" Oct. 12. Miniite of the attendance of Jacob van Curler and Jacob Sillisakes with
the Magistrates of Gravesend 43
X Table of Contents.
Paqb.
1655. Oct. 12. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Oapt. Bryan Newton, waming him to be
on the lookout for Indians -13
" Oct. 13. Council Minute of the appearance in Council of Stephen Necker, who with
5 others had been taken prisoner by the Indians and is sent for a ran-
som , 44
" Oct. 13. Message brought from the Indians at Paulus Hook, that the prisoners will
be released in two days 44
" Oct. 13. Resolution not to pay the ransom, demanded by the Indians 45
" Oct. 16. Ordinance against persons going into the country in small parties 45
" Oct. 16. Order for the safety of Amesfoort and the Bay 45
" Oct. 16. Letter to Capt. Post, ordering him to inquire, what the Indians propose to
do with their prisoners 45
" Oct. 18. Ordinance forbidding all persons going across the river or communicating
with the Indians 46
Minute of the return of 14 prisoners by Pennekeek, chief of Hackensack. 46
Instructions given to Capt. Adrian Post to obtain the release of the prison-
ers still in the hands of the Indians 46
Letter of inhabitants of Gravesend, L. I., praying for j)rotection against
the Indians 47
Message of the Indians sent with some prisoners and answer thereto with
the return message of the Indians 48
Remonstrance of the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland to
the States-General, exposing the bad conduct of the barbarous Indians
towards the Dutch 49
Propositions submitted by Dir. Stuyvesant to the Council on a war with
the Indians and the oj^inions of the Council 51
Propositions made by the Indians of Long Island requesting a continuance
of the peace with their tribe 58
1656. Jan. 18. Questions submitted by the Director to the Council on excluding Indians
from the settlements and answers of the Council 58
Paj)er read by Dir. Stuyvesant to the Council containing information on
the causes of the late difficulties with the Indians and advice given thereon
by the Council , 59
Petition of Michiel Jansen for a lot in the City, all his property (at Pavo-
nia) having lately been destroyed by the Indians ; granted 61
Order directing Capt. de Coninck to capture the leading Englishmen of
"Westchester and his instructions 62
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant; they
regret the damages inflicted by the Indian raid and give du-ections for
the relief of the sufferers 63
Order respecting the prisoners taken at Westchester 63
Application of the Fiscal, recapitulating Pell's intnision at Westchester &c
and requesting that he be ordered to quit 64
Petition of Thomas Wheeler and others of Westchester, submitting to the
Dutch Government and asking for certain privileges, which are granted. 65
Commission for Thomas Wheeler to be Chief Magistrate at Westchester. . QQ
Oct.
IS.
Oct.
18.
Oct.
20.
Oct.
21.
Oct.
31.
Nov. 10.
Nov.
27.
Jan.
18.
Jan.
26,
Feb.
2.
Mar.
6.
Mar.
13.
Mar.
14.
Mar.
15.
Mar.
16.
Mar.
16.
Mar.
28.
Apr.
2.
Apr.
12.
May
July
29.
1.
July
1.
Sept.
25.
Dec.
19.
Table of Contents. xi
Paqb.
1656. Mar. 16. Order for the clischargo of Capt. E. Pauton and others of Westchester on
condition that they lea\'c the country or find security for their good
behavior 67
Order on an application of J^icolas Yerleth for leave to remove the frame
of a house from Hoboken ; denied on account of the Indian difficulties 67
Indictment and sentence of Sander Toursen and wife for selling liquor to
the Indians 67
Order for a contribution of cloth from the merchants to ransom the pris-
oners, still held by the Indians 68
Ordinance against lodging Indians in New Amsterdam 68
Resolution to give private notice to certain parties to leave the country,
because suspected of selling liquor to the Indians ; rescinded 69
Ordinance renewing the order for the formation of villages and against
admitting armed Indians into cities, villages and hoiises 69
Patent to Christoffel Davids for a tract of land in the Esopus (N. W. of
Kingston, Ulster county) 69
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant; they
accuse the former Fiscals van Tienlioven and van Dyck of being the
cause of the last Indian massacre 70
1657. Mar. 27. Petition of Johanna de Laet, widow of Johan de Hulter, for letters-patent
to land purchased from the Indians at the Esopus by her late husband
and the patent for it * 1
Resolution of the Magistrates of Fort Orange and Beverwyck permitting
the inhabitants to employ Indian brokers for one year 72
Propositions of the three Mohawk Castles to renew the old Covenant
chain, etc., and answers thereto <2
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant; the
prisoners in the hands of the Indians to be demanded from them in the
name of the States- General; a block-house to be built at the Esopus. . . 73
Affidavit of Jan Gillisen Kock in regard to cattle at Catskil 74
List of the farmers, men, women and children sent to Staten Island since
May, 1650, by Baron van der CapeUen '^'^
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant ; Indian
affairs ; the Colony on Staten Island T'S
1658. Jan. 29. Court Proceedings. Cornells Teunissen against Jacob Jansen StoU for
excise on slaughtered cattle, involving a question of the jurisdiction of
Esopus ' "
Letter from Jacob Jansen StoU of Esopus to Du-. Stuyvesant with a cargo
of wheat ' "
Letter of Thomas Chamljers at the Esopus to the same ; demands assist-
ance, as the Indians have murdered some settlers at Esopus 77
Letter from Andries van der Sluys and other inliabitants of the Esopus
to the same, confirming the foregoing letter '8
Letter from Thomas Chambers and others at the Esopus to the Coimcil
complaining again of the Indians and asking for assistance ; population
and produce of Esopus * °
June
6.
June
16.
Sept.
15.
Nov.
7.
Nov.
1-4.
Dec.
22.
Jan.
29.
Apr.
12.
May
2.
May
2.
May
IS.
xii Tahle of Contents.
Page.
1658. May 2(). Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant ; Indian
affairs ; emigrants and soldiers 80
" May 28. Eesolution that tlie Director-General proceed to the Esopus 80
" May 31. Agreement made by the settlers in the Esopus to remove their dwellings
and form a village 81
" June 30. Journal of Director Stuy vesant's visit to the Esopus 81
" July 11. Certificate that Harmen Jacobsen, alias Bamboes was shot by an Indian at
the Esopus 87
" Aug. 8. Letter from Sergeant Loureus at the Esopus to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the
Indians renew their insolence ; a supply of ammunition is needed 88
" Aug. 13. Minute of tlie Council of Fort Orange. Appearance in Court of fifteen
Mohawk sachems with a French prisoner, whom they desire to return to
the Governor of Trois Rivieres, and action of the Court 88
" Aug. 26. Letter from Sergeant Lourens to Dir. Stuyvesant ; faihu-e of the crops in
the Esopus ; movements of the Indians '. 89
" Sept. 3. Complaint against Christopher Davids, an Englishman, for spreading a
false report among the Highland Indians 90
" Sept. 28. Letter from Andries van der Sluys, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant,
asking to be appointed schoolmaster at Esopus 91
" Sept. 28. Letter from Sergt. Lourens, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the bridge
swept away ; failure of the oats crop ; the Director's farm 91
" Oct. 8. Minutes of the Court at Fort Orange. Mohawks come to inquire for the
Frenchman, whom they hrought in two months before ; desire to go to
Canada and make a peace with the French 92
" Oct. 9. Minute of the Directoi-'s departure for the Esopus 93
" Oct. 15. Proposals made to the Esopus Indians and their answers 93
" Oct. 18. Instructions for Ensign Dirck Smith, commander at the Esopus 95
" Oct. 28. Letter of Jacob Jansen Stoll, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant; the
Indians do not surrender the land according to agreement 96
" Oct. 29. Letter from the same to tlie same ; the Indians have made a conveyance
of the land as agreed and ask for a present 96
1659. Feb. 13. Extract from a letter of the Directoi-s in Holland to Stuyvesant; they
approve of the proceedings at the Esopus and will send clergymen 98
" Apr. 5. Coiirt Proceedings at Fort Orange. Action about a bi'idge at Esopus ... . 98
" Apr. 25. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant in regard
to copper mines in the Nevesingh and a crystal mountain in the Katskils, 99
" May 24. Letter from Sergt. Lourens to Dir. Stuyvesant on affairs at the Esopus. . . 99
" July 23. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland;
nothing is known of a copper mine in the Nevesinghs 100
" Aug. 4. Letter from Sergt. Lourens to Dir. Stnyvesant; the Indians are dissatisfied,
and the crops had to be cut under an ai'med guard 100
" Aug. 4. Minute of the Court of Fort Orange. Arrival of Major-General Haw-
thorn and Captain John Pinchon, proposing to take up land east of
Wappingers creek 101
" Aug. 11. Letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to Sergt. Lorn-ens at the Esopus; Eev. Dr.
Bloem proceeds thither to take charge of the congregation 101
Ihhle of Contents. xiii
Page.
1659. Aug. 11. Letter from the same to Sergt. Lourcns at the Esopus ; rev. Mr. Megapo-
leiisis proceeds tliither ; increased vigilance recommended 102
" Aug. 17. Proposals of the Esopus Indians and the answers of the Dutch thereto.. . 102
" Aug. 17. Petition of inhabitants of the Esopus requesting, that the Rev. Mr. Bloem
be appointed their minister 103
No date. Statement regarding the fears of the people at the Esopus and their
reasons for it 104
" Aug. 21. Letter from Sergt. Lourens to Dir. Stuyvesant ; Indian news and request
for supplies 105
" Sept. 1. Letter from the same to the same ; the Esopus Indians are preparing for
war 105
" Sept. 4. Proposals made by the Esopus Indians • 106
" Sept. 4. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; a
settlement on Wappingers kil recommended ; Indian murders and causes
thereof ; reinforcements sent to the Esopus 107
" Sept. 6. ) Minutes of the Court at Fort Orange. Propositions made by the Mohawks,
" Sept. 16. ) and action thereon 108
'' Sept. 17. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; no
news from the Esopus, but reinforcements have been sent there ; equip-
ments for cavalry required ; Rev. Harmanus Bloem to go to the Esopus ;
settlement on "Wappingers kil again urged 110
" Sept. 17. Letter from Jacob Jansen Stoll, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant: all
quiet on the Esopus Ill
" Sept. 24. Final answer given to the Mohawks at tlieir first Castle Kaghnuwaga. ... 112
" Sept. 27. Order, given by the Court at Fort Orange, that no oflFense shall be given
to the Indians under severe penalties 114
" Sept. 22. ) Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant, enclosing a report of the ris-
" Sept. 29. ) ing of the Esopus Indians and of a colhsion with them; war is declared 114
" Sept. 26. Letter from Yice-Director Lamontagne at Fort Orange to Stuyvesant with
particular's of the troubles at the Esopus 115
" Sept. 29. Letter from Jacob Jansen Stoll and others at the Esopus to Stuyvesant re-
porting the late conflict with the Indians 116
" No date. Declaration made by inhabitants and soldiers at the Esopus, that Ensign
Smith did not order an attack on the Indians 117
" Sept. 29. Letter from Ensign Smith at Esopus to Vice-Director La Montagne at Fort
Orange ; progress of the war with the Indians 117
" No date. Letter from inhabitants of the Esopus to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the settlers are
besieged in the Fort; no blame can be attached to Ensign Smith 118
" Oct. 3. Letter from Sergt. Lowrens to the same, written while a prisoner among
the Indians 119
" No date. Declaration of certain Katskil Indians as to the origin of the collision with
the Indians at the Esopus 119
" Oct. 9. Extract from a Letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant ; Melyn
surrenders the patroonship of Staten Island ; no new colonies to be
established in New-Netherland 121
" Oct. 19. Propositions made by the Mohawks to the Court of Fort Orange 122
xiv Table of Contents.
Paob.
1659. Oot. 20. Letter from Ensign Smith at the Esopus to Dii\ Stuyvesant ; progress of
affairs 122
" Oct. 21. Letter from Vice-Director La Moutagne at Eort Orange to Ensign Smith ;
Mohawlc and Mohigan delegates are sent to the Esopus to arrange an
armistice 123
" Oct. 29. Extract from a Letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; bad
condition of the country ; siege of Esopus ; failure to raise volunteers ;
Stuyvesant at the Esopus with reinforcements 123
" Nov. 1. Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant ; an armistice concluded with
the Indians at the Esopus 126
" Nov. 13. Letter from the same to Vice-Director La Montagne at Fort Orange ; pro-
gress of affairs at the Esopus 127
" Nov. 18. Court minutes of Fort Orange. On the situation with the Esopus Li-
dians 127
" Dec. 11. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant (in his own hand) to Ensign Smith at the Eso-
pus ; instructions for the treatment of the Indians 128
" Dec. 17. Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant ; reports on the state of affairs
at the Esopus 129
" Dec. 22. Extract from a Letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant;
English settlements on the North river must be prevented ; Rev. Har-
manus Bloem retiirns to New-Netherland 129
" Dec. 26. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; atti-
tude of the savages at the Esopus 130
" Dec. 28. Letter from Ensign Smith to Mr. La Montagne at Fort Orange on affaii's at
the Esopus 131
" Dec. 28. Letter from the same to Dir. Stuyvesant on the same subject 132
1660. Jan. 16. Letter from Abraham Staas of Beverwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant ; disposition
of the Esopus Indians ; the Mohawks promise to make peace with the
Canada Indians 132
" Jan. 16. Letter from Vice-Director La Montagne at Fort Orange to the same report-
ing progress of the affairs at the Esopus 133
" Jan. 19. Letter from Ensign Smith to the same; ague prevalent at the Esopus;
heavy snow storms 134
" Jan. 29. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to (Ensign Smith) at the Esopus recommend-
ing caution and civility towards the Indians 134
" Feb. 5. Letter from Ensign Smith to Vice-Director La Montagne ; condition of
affairs at his post ; strength of his garrison 135
] Proposals of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Council regarding the measures to be
adoj^ted against the hostile Indians at the Esopus and answers of the
Council 135
Resolution to declare war against the Esopus Indians 142
Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Vice-Du-ector at Curasao ;
regarding negroes, who are to be sent from there to the Manhattans and
might be employed against the Indians 142
Feb. 24. Letter from Ensign Smith to Vice-Dir. La Montagne ; affairs at the Eso-
pus 143
Feb.
9.
Feb.
12.
Feb.
12.
Feb.
17.
Table of Contents. xv
Faoe.
1660. Feb. 25. Petition of Nicolas Varleth for the use of the Company's yacht for a voy-
age to Virginia and Resolution to grant the petition and send an offi-
cer in it to Virginia to enlist soldiei's 144
" Feb. 25. Proclamation appointing a day of general fasting and prayer on account of
the Indian troubles 144
" Feb. 27. Commission of Nicolas Varleth and Bryan Newton as envoys to Virginia
and their instructions 145
" Mar. 6. Treaty of Peace renewed with Long Island, Staten-Ieland and New Jer-
sey Indians 147
" Mar. 9. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the
Esopus Indians must be punished ; no English settlement near Fort
Orange can be permitted 149
" Mar. 15. Minute of the appearance in Council of the Chief of the Wappings, sent
by the Esopns to make peace with the Dutch 150
" Mar. 15. Commission providing for the administration of public affairs during the
Director's absence at the Esopus 151
" Mar. IS. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant in the Esopus to Secretary van Euyven ; the
Esopus Indians have been attacked and defeated 151
" Mar. 22. Letter from Secretary van Ruyven to the villages near New- Amsterdam,
warning them against suii^rises by Indians 152
" Mar. 25. Proclamation of war against the Esopus Indians 152
" Mar. 29. Muster roll of the Company at the Esopus 153
" Mar. 29. Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant; affairs at the Esopus 154
" Mar. 29. Letter from the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant ; Rev. Harmanus
Bloem goes to take charge of the church at Esopus 155
" Apr. 1. Resolutions adopted by the Court of Rensselaerwyck during the Esopus
troubles 155
" Apr. 5. Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the Esopus Indians are
growing very insolent 156
" Apr. 9. Letter from the same to Secr'y van Ruyven ; sku-mish with the Indians. 157
" Apr. 16. Extract from a letter of the Directors to Stuyvesant ; Roeloff Swartwout
appointed Sheriff at the Esopus ; Rev. Bloem 158
" Apr. 15. Commission and lustriictions for the new Sheriff at the Esopus 158
" Apr. 12. Order directing the people li\'ing scattered throughout the country, to form
hamlets and villages 160
" Apr. 15. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith at the Esopus; the attack on
the Indians approved and reinforcements sent 160
'• Apr. 15. Letter from the same to Vice-Dir. La Montague at Fort Orange ; informa-
tion requested whether other Indians are in league with the Esopus. . . . 161
" Apr. 21. Letter from the Magistrates at Fort Orange to Ensign Smith at the Esopus,
with proposals made by Katskil and Moliigan Indians in regard to the
Esopus 161
" Apr. 21. Extract from a Letter of Du-. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; the
English project of a settlement on the North river ; report on the Eso-
pus war , 162
Table of Contents.
Page.
1660. Apr. 24. Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant; all quiet on the Esopus;
negotiations with the Indians 164
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith with directions for the nego-
tiations with and treatment of the Indians 165
Instructions for Claes de Ruyter, sent to the Esopus to negotiate with the
Indians 165
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith ; state of affairs ; the agri-
cultural importance of Esopus 166
Conference between the Director-General and his Council and the Chiefs
of the "New Jersey, Westchester, etc. tribes. Peace concluded with the
"Wrappings 166
Conference between Dir. Stuyvesant and three chiefs of the Mohicans con-
cerning a peace with the Esopus Indians 168
Eesolution in Council to transj)ort to Cura9ao all but two or three of the
lately captured Esopus Indians 169
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith at the Esopus ; desires to
treat directly with the Esopus Indians ; hostilities against them to be
renewed, if they do not seem willing to sue for peace 169
Letter from Ensign Smith to Du-. Stuyvesant ; a raid made on an Indian
village and its result 170
Conference between the Director-General and the Chiefs of Hackensack
and Haverstraw. An armistice is granted to the Esopus Indians 171
Commission for Claes de Kuyter to accompany the Chiefs to Esopus to
receive the proposals of the Indians there and his instructions 172
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith, directing him to cease hos-
tilities, if the Esopus Indians are willing to make peace 174
Letter from Ensign Smith to Dir. Stuyvesant, with the particulars of a
conference held with the Esopus Indians 174
Resolution in Council, that the Director proceed to the Esopus and eon-
elude a peace wath the Indians 174
Letter from Vice-Dir. La Montague, at Fort Orange, to StTiyvesant ; In-
dian brokers ; Mohawks and Senecas cut off a French fort 175
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith respecting affairs at the Esopus 175
Extract from a letter of tlie Director and Council to the Directors in Hol-
land ; they defend their course against the Indians and object to the
appointment of a sheriff at the Esoj)us 176
" June 29. Petition of Dirck Jansen and another for payment of hii'e for their sloop,
used for the public service at Esopus and order thereon 177
" June 29. Order for the transportation to CuraQao of the captured Indians 178
" July 5. Appointment of Martin Cregier and Oloff Stevenson van Cortland to
accompany the Director to the Esopus 178
" July 5. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Yice-Director at Cura9ao,
regarding the Indians sent there 179
" July 15. Treaty of peace concluded with the Esopus Indians 179
" July 26. Extract from a letter of the Council to the Directors in Holland communi-
cating the conclusion of the peace at the Esopus 181
Apr.
24.
May
5.
May
5.
May
12.
May
IS.
May
24.
May
25.
May
25.
May
30.
Jime
3.
June
3.
June
3.
June
22.
Jime 21.
June 15.
June 18.
June 25.
Table of Contents. xvii
Paob.
1660. Aug. 5. Minute of the retiu-n of tlie Director and party from the Esopus and
Journal of the Director, inchiding report of a 181
" July 25. Conference held at Fort Orange between the Director-General and the
Senecas 181
" Aug. 17. Lease of a farm at Claverack (Columbia county) 186
" Sept. 2. Petition of Rev. Hermanns Bloem and Kev. Henricus Selynus for an
allowance for board wjiile delayed on the way to their destination, resp.
the Esopus and Brooklyn 186
" Sept. 20. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Dir. Stuyvesant ;
news of the peace with the Esopus received with pleasure ; are aston-
ished at the objections to Swartwout's appointment as sheriff at the
Esopus 187
« Sept. 23. ) . .
" SpDt 30 ) "stations for payment for losses and expenses during the Indian troubles. 188
" Oct. 6. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; Rev.
Bloem in charge at Esopus; Sergt. Lourens returns to Holland well
recommended 189
" Nov. 27. Report of Dir. Stuyvesant's visit to Esopus and Fort Orange 189
" Dec. 9. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland;
fears are entertained that the peace with the Esopus Indians will not be
of long duration 190
" Dec. 13. Letter from Sergt. Christian Nyssen, at the Esopus, to Dh-. Stuyvesant on
the state of affairs at the Esopus 190
1661 Jan. 22. Proposals made by the chiefs of the Mohawks at Fort Orange 191
" Jan. 29. Letter from the Magistrates at Fort Oi-ange to Dir. Stuyvesant ; peace
negotiations among the Indians 191
" Jan. 25. Indian deed for an island in the Esopus 192
" Feb. 2. Deposition in regard to the division of land at the Esopns in 1651 192
" Feb. 8. Indian deed for an island in Hudson's river opposite Bethlehem (Albany
county) 193
" Feb. 15. (0. s.) Letter from John Stickland, at Huntington, L. I., to ,
requesting him to ascertain, whether the place called Achter CviU be
open to settlement 193
" Mar. 4. Contract between inhabitants of Esopns and Rev. H. Bloem 191
" Mar. 25. Ordinance of the Court of Rensselaerswyck forbidding the trading with
Indians in the woods 194
" Apr. 16. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Vice-Director at Cura9ao,
recalling the Lidian prisoners sent there 194
" Apr. 29. Letter from John Stickland, of Huntington, L. I., to Capt. Brian Newton,
inquiring whether the country on the Achter Cull is open for settlement 195
" May 2. Allotment and distribution of lots in the Esopus 195
" May 5. Appointment of Magistrates for the Esopus settlement 196
" May 16. Instructions for the Court of Justice at Wiltwyck 196
" May 16. Petition of Roeloff Swartwout to be appointed sheriJQE for the Esopns
settlement 199
0
xviii Table of Contents.
Page.
1661. May 23. His commission as sheriff 199
" May 23. CouBcil Minute. Cornelis Melyn refuses to surrender the soil of Staten
Island to the W. I. Company 200
" Jime 14. Letter from Sheriff Swartwout to Dir. Stuyvesant acknowledging the
receipt of the instructions and asking for copies of ordinances 201
" June 15. Muster-roll of the Company at the Esopus ^ . 201
" June 16. Report of Claes de Euyter on the result of his visit to the Esopus Indians, 202
" June 18. Letter from Arent van Curler, at Eensselaerswyck, to Dir. Stuyvesant,
requesting authority to purchase and settle a great flat hack of Fort
Orange (Schenectady), and order granting the request 202
" Jime 24. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant and Council to the Commissaries at Fort
Orange in answer to a remonstrance against the settlement of the great
Mohawk flat (Schenectady) 203
" July 21. Extract from a letter of the same to the Directors in Holland ; the Esopus
and other Indians suspected of evil designs ; the militia question dis-
cussed; Swartwout, Sheriff of Esopus; condition of Staten Island 204
" Aug. 22. Petition of Peter Billon and other recently arrived emigrants for land on
Staten Island 206
" Aug. 27. Report on the state of feeling among the Katskil and Esopus Indians. . . . 207
" Sept. 5. Commission of Tieleman van Vleek as Sheriff of Bergen (N. J.) ....... . 207
" Sept. 5. Ordinance erecting a Court of Justice at Bergen (N. J.) 208
" Nov, 8. Letter from Matthew Gilbert of Milford, Conn., to Dir. Stuyvesant, in the
name of a company in ISTew England, who desire to settle at Achter Cull,
and Propositions agreed upon in hehalf of the company to be submitted
to Dir. Stuyvesant 208
" Nov. 28. Answer of Dir. Stuyvesant and Council to the foi'egoing 210
" Nov. 12. Ordinance imposing a land tax at Esopus to defray the expenses of build-
ing a house for the minister 211
" Nov. 18. Ordinance for the observance of the Sabbath, prevention of fires, etc., at
Esopus 211
" Nov. 22. Ordinance for the construction of a new road in the Esopus 211
" Nov. 24. Ordinance for the speedy collection of arrears due on the house and salary
of the minister at Esopus 211
" Nov. 15. Account of the excise in Wiltwyck 212
" Nov. 19. Extract from a letter of Yice-Dir. La Montague, at Fort Oi-ange, to Stuy-
vesant, regarding bricks purchased for and sent to Domiue Bloem at
Esopus 212
" Nov. 25. Ordinance directing the fencing and improving of the lands and lots at
the Esopus 213
No date. Names of persons who supphed wheat at the Esopus, and list of those
who subscribed for the support of the preacher 213
" Dec. 22. Order on a petition of the ferryman between Bergen (N. J.) and the
Manhattans, for the establishment of rates of ferriage 214
" Dee. 22. Petition of the inhabitants of Bergen (N. J.) for additional land and order
thereon 214
Table of Contents. xix
Faoe.
1662. Jan. 5. Com"t Proceedings. Judgment in a suit for expenses incurred in canying
dispatches daring the late Esopns war 215
" Jan. 12. Letter from the magistrates at Fort Orange to Dir. Stuyvesant ; the grant
made to Arent van Curler of the Great Flat on the Mohawk 215
" Feb. 12. Ordinance of the Court of Bergen (N. J.) for the construction of a public
well in the village 216
" Mar. 11. Further answer of Dir. Stuyvesant to the proposals of Gilbert and others
of ]^ew Haven, stating the conditions on which they may settle at
Achter Cull, with a private letter to Mr. Eobert Treat 216
" Mar. 30. Warrant empowering the Hackensack chiefs to seize any brandy found in
their country and bring it with the persons selling it to New Amster-
dam 218
" Apr. 6. Petition of Arent van Curler for a sm-vey of the Great Flat on the Mohawk, 219
" Apr. 6. Petition of Philipp Pieterse Schuyler and others for leave to plant a new
village at the Great Esopus 219
" May 4. Lease of lot No. 4 in the new village at the Esopus 220
" May 30. Further answer to the proposals of the New Haven Company concerning
the settlement on the Achter Cull 221
" June 15. Minute of Council, rejecting the petition of Jurian Teunissen to keep a
tavern at Esopus 222
" June 29. Petition of Sergt. Nyssen, at the Esopus, for an increase of pay 222
" July 15. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland on
the militia cjuestion ; threats of the Esopus Indians 223
" July 24. Coimcil Minute. Letters received from the Governors of Massachusetts
and Nova Scotia complaining of an attack made by the Mohawks on one
of the English trading posts 224
" Aug. 1. A copy of propositions made unto the Macpias by Thomas Gardner and
Nathl. Walker, of Penobscott Fort, and a true relation of the Maques
coming to Penobscott Fort, and what they did 224
" Aug. 5. Ordinances regulating the trade with the Indians 227
" Aug. 16. Letter from Sheriff Swartwout at the Esopus to Dir. Stuyvesant concern-
ing a recent alarm at the Esopus and its cause 227
" Sept. 5. Letter from the same to the same; afEairs at the Esopus; evils arising from
the unlimited sale of liquor to Indians .' 228
No date, Kevenue and Expenditures of the Village of Wiltwyck, including the build-
ing of the Minister's house ; list of the lots newly laid out and of the
old lots 229
" Sept. 26. Contract to do farm work at Schenectady 231
" Oct. 16. Appointment of Magistrates for the village of Bergen 231
" Oct. 16. Ordinance against the burning of straw and other refuse combustibles in
Wiltwyck 231
" Oct. 11. Petition of the Magistrates of Wiltwyck for a supply of powder and lead 231
" Nov. 27. Ordinance against selling grain at the Esopus by the unstamped measure . 232
" Nov. 27. Ordinance against receiving in pawn arms, clothing, etc., belonging to
soldiers stationed at Wiltwyck 232
" Nov. 27. Ordinance against making openings in the paUisades around Wiltwyck. . . 232
XX Table of Contents.
Paqf..
1662. No date. Petition of the Magistrates of Bergen (N. J.) asking to be provided with
a clergyman with lists of those, who will contribute to his support. . . . 232
" Dec. 28. Petition of inhabitants of Bergen (N. J.) and Communijjaw against fencing
in certain lauds and order thereon 234
" Dec. 28. Summons to the Sheriff and Magistrates of Bergen (N. J.) to answer a
complaint made by the ferryman 234
1663. Jan. 4. Order for the survey of a certain tract of land in dispute at Bergen 235
" Jan. 4. Order in the case of the Ferryman of Bergen against the Magistrates .... 235
" Jan. 15. Letter from Thomas Chambers and other militia officers of Wiltwj'ck to
Dir. Stuyvesant, complaining that the Magistrates had pulled down an
Ordinance for the regulation of the militia enclosing the Ordinance. . . . 235
" Jan. 24. Letter from the Magistrates of Wiltwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant ; danger of
selling liquor to tlie Indians ; the new village ; reasons for disapproving
the foregoing ordinance 237
" Mar. — . Nomination of Magistrates for Wiltwyck 238
" Mar. 30. Ordinance passed by the Director-General, while at the Esopus, for the per-
fecting of titles to land at Wiltwyck and for the more speedy settlement
of the place \ 239
" Mar. 26. Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant ; they ap-
prove of the proposed English Colony at Achter Cull ; war between the
Mohawks and the English ; necessity of acquiring the Mohawk country ;
immense beaver trade of the Senecas 239
" Apr. 5. Appointment of officers for Wiltwyck 240
" Apr. 5. Deed to Hendrick Cornelissen for land on the Esopus 240
" Mar. 31. Petition of Cornelis Barentsen Slecht for a grant of certain lands at the
Esopus and order thereon 241
'• Mar. 7. Petition of the Overseers of the New Village on the Esopus, praying that
measures be adopted to pacify the Indians • and a military force be sent
for their protection 242
" Mar. 23. Like petition of the Owners of the New Village, praying also for the
right of way through Wiltwyck 243
" May 10. Order in Council on the foregoing petitions 243
" May 9. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to (Vice-Dir. La Montagne) at Fort Orange ;
a sm-veyor goes to survey and lay out lots on the Great Mohawk Flat
(Schenectady) ; a pledge to be signed by the settlers before tliey can
obtain land 244
" May 19. Extract from a letter of Vice-Dir. La Montagne to Dir. Stuyvesant; the
settlers on the Great Mohawk Flat refuse to sign the pledge 244
" June 10. Letter from the Magistrates at Wiltwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant ; massacre at
the Esopus ; the village destroyed 245
List of the soldiers and settlers killed, wounded and missing on the 7th
June, 1663 245
" June 11. Petition of Christ. Davids for permission to re-enter on land on the Esopus,
from which he had been driven by tlie Indians 247
" June 12. Circular-letter to the towns around New- Amsterdam notifying them of the
Esopus massacre 248
Table of Contents. xxi
Paqk.
1663. June 14. Instructions for the military and civil ofRcei's at Wiltwj'ck 249
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Fort Orange ; affairs at
the Esopus 249
Letter from the Magistrates of Wiltwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant ; report on
the progress of affairs 251
Resolution in Council to make war against the Esopus and employ the
Mohawks to recover the prisoners . . 251
Ordinance against carrying on any Indian trade at Schenectady 253
Petitions of the settlers at Schenectady for permission to cultivate their
lands and order thereon 253
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Yice-Dir. La Montague at Fort Orange ;
means adopted for the release of the captured people 254
Instructions for Councillor Johan de Decker sent to Fort Orange on pub-
lic business 255
Report of the Magistrates at Wiltwyck on the massacre by the Indians . . 256
Letter from the Magistrates at Fort Orange to Dir. Stuyvesant ; little pros-
pect for the release of the prisoners 258
Letter from Yice-Dir. La Montague to the same; the defenceless condition
of Fort Orange 258
Letter from the Magistrates of Wiltwyck to the Owners of the New Vil-
lage ; state of affairs there 258
Minute of the Director-General's visit to Hempstead endeavoring to enlist
Englishmen against the Indians 259
Proclamation calling out volunteers for the war against the Esopus Indians 259
Letter from Councillor de Decker at Beverwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant ; efforts
for the release of the prisoners at the Esopus 260
Proposals made to the Chiefs of Hackensack and Staten-Island and their
answers 261
Notice that the Esopus Indians are on the war path and warning all people
to be on their guard . 263
Letter from the Owners of the New Village on the Esopus to Dir. Stuy-
vesant, respecting the loss of their cattle 263
Letter from Vice-Dir. La Montague at Fort Orange to Dir. Stuyvesant ;
repairs of the fort delayed ; efforts to recover the Christian prisoners ; new
fort at Greenbush 264
Letter from Councillor de Decker at Fort Orange to the same ; the Christian
prisoners; complaints against the Esopus Magistrates 265
Letter from Robert Treat of Milford, Conn., to the same in regard to the
proposed settlement on the Kil van Kol 266
Letter from Sec'y Capito at Wiltwyck to the same ; his wife killed and
burned with all his property ; requests a supply of clothing 267
Letter from Councillor de Decker to the same ; information respecting the
prisoners ; no volunteers obtainable at Fort Orange 268
Appointment of military officers for Bergen and Communipaw 268
Commission of Martin Cregier to be Captain-Lieutenant and Commander
of the Forces, with his instructions for the war against the Esopus Indians 268
June 14.
June 15.
June 16.
June 16.
June 18.
June 18.
June 19.
June 19.
June 20.
June 23.
Jiine 23.
June 23.
June 23.
June 25.
June 26.
June 27.
June 27.
June 28.
June 29.
June 29.
June 29.
June 29.
June 29.
June 30.
June 30.
xxii Table of Contents.
Page.
1663. Jiily 3. Report of Lieut. Couwenhoven and others of tLeii- ill success in raising
volunteers on Long Island 270
" July 4. Letter from tbe military officers at Bergen to Dir. Stuyvesaut ; erpress
their willingness to furnish their quota 271
" July 4. Information given by Eachel La Montagne van Imborgh, late a prisoner
among the Esopus Indians 271
•' July 5- Letter from Capt. Cregier to Dir. Sti;yvesant ; reports his ari'ival at the
Esopus ; escape of Mrs. van Imborgh 272
No date. Report of the Indians sent to negotiate with the Esopus tribe (beginning
lost) 273
" July 5. Minute of the Court of Wiltwyck in regard to the preceding report 275
" July 9. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the authorities at Fort Orange ; the Kats-
kil Indians must not harbor any Esopus 275
" July 10. Conference between Stuyvesant and the Sachems of the River and Staten
Island tribes 276
" July 12. Oi'dinance for the arrest of hostile Indians 277
" July 12. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Fort Orange; he offers
to pay a reward for the release of the Christian prisoners 277
" July 12. Letter from the same to Councillor de Decker ; Serg't Nyssen promoted
for his successful attack on the Indians ; peace with the Indians around
Manhattans 278
" July 20. Extract from a letter of the same to the Vice-Director at Cura9ao ; the war
against the Esopus Indians and the resources of the country ; assistance
in merchandise required from CuraQao 279
Minute of Council. The offer of Eastern Indians to march against the
Esopus accepted 280
Proposals of the Hackensack Indians to sell their lands on the Kil van
KuU ; efforts of the Esopus Indians to engage the Minisinghs on their
side 280
Concessions to be granted to the Englishmen who desire to settle on the
Kil van Kul, and letter to that effect to Robert Treat, of Milford, Conn., 281
Council Minute. The chief of the Wiechquaeskeks reports a rumor that
the Esopus Indians are coming 282
Letter from Joh. La Montagne and Jer. van Rensselaer, at Fort Orange, to
Dir. Stuyvesant ; they defend themselves against the charge of refusing
volunteers ; efforts for the release of the prisoners 283
Part of a letter fronr Dir. Stuyvesant to Caj)t. Cregiei", at the Esopus ; the
Indians to be unrelentingly pursued 284
Instructions for Secr'y van Ruyven, sent to the Esopus on public business, 284
Letter from Capt. Cregier, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant; reports an
attack on an Indian village ; Indian allies and Long Island volunteers
return home 286
Minute of a Council of War held at Wiltwyck on the proposed operations
against the Indians 287
Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Capt. Cregier; directions to save the
harvest at the Esopus 287
July
20.
July
20.
July
20.
Jidy
26.
July
28.
July
30.
July
Aug.
30.
3.
Aug.
3.
Aug.
9.
Table of Contents. xxiii
Paob.
1663. Ang. 9.. Instructions for Lieut, van Couwenhoven, sent to renew the peace with
the Wappings and to procure the release of the prisoners 288
" Aug. 13. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Lieut, van Couwenhoven, at Wappings
kil ; further instructions 289
" Aug. 1-1. Letter from the same to Capt. Cregior, at Wiltwyck ; further instructions, 289
" Aug. 15. Conference with the Minissingli Indians on the renewal of the peace. . . . 289
" Aug. 27. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Lieut, van Couwenhoven, at the Wappings
kil ; no individual Indian to be released or exchanged 290
" Aug. 27. Letter fi-om the authorities at Fort Orange to Dir. Stuyvesant on Indian
affairs 291
" Aug. 29. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant and Council to Capt. Cregier, comments on
and instructions for the Esopus campaign 292
" Aug. 30. Council Minute. Information given concerning an intended massacre of
the whites on the North river, and in regard to the prisoners among the
Esopus 291
" Aug. 30. Information given by Oratam, chief of Hackensack, about the Esopus
Indians 291
" Aug. 30. Order directing the surveyor to lay out land at Bergen {N. J.) 291
" Sept. 10. Council Minute. Information brought by an Indian of the defeat of the
Esopus and the recapture of the prisoners 291
" Sept. 13. Letter from the Council to Capt. Cregier; the victory over the Esopus
Indians won by him ; reinforcements sent 295
" Sept. 20. Proposals of the Marsepinghs (L. I.) Indians and answers thereto 295
" Sept. 21. Letter from the Council to Capt. Cregier, at the Esopus, with reinforce-
ments 296
" Sept. 21. Letter from the same to the Magistrates at Fort Orange; Indian affairs. . 296
" Sept. 21. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant, at Boston, to the Vice-Director at Cura9ao,
with details of the defeat of the Esopus 297
" Sept. 26. Minute of proceedings at Fort Orange, with the Mohawks, regarding Col.
Temple's remonstrance against their making war on the Indians in his
government (Nova Scotia) 297
" Oct. 2. Letter from the Magistrates at Fort Orange transmitting the minutes to
Dir. Stiiyvesant 298
" Oct. 15. Council Minute. Intelligence received that the Indians were about to
attack the Dutch at Hoboken, etc 299
" Oct. 16. Instructions for Lieut, van Couwenhoven to ascertain and prevent the
movements of the River Indians 300
" Oct, 16. Instructions for Mr. Yerbraack and Sergt. van der Bosch, sent with Lieut.
van Couwenhoven 301
" Oct. 21. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Lieut, van Couwenhoven ; instructions for
exchange of prisoners with the Indians 302
" Nov. 7. Letter from the same to Capt. Cregier ; the peace with the Wappinghs
just made violated by them .' 302
" Nov. 15. Ordinance for the better security and settlement of Bergen, N. J *303
" Nov. 15. Minute of Council. Permission given to North river Indians to fish near
Harlem 303
xxiv Table of Contents.
Page.
1663. Nov. 15. Letter from Vice-Dir. La Montagne to Dir. Stuyvesant ; repairs of the
Fort Orange ; flight of the Mohegans 303
Nov. 19. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesaut to Capt. Cregier ; the Wappings have not
broken the peace ; Capt. C. ordered to the Manhattans 304
Nov. 21. Instructions for Lieut, van Couwenhoven to ascertain the disposition of
the Esopus and Wapping Indians toward a peace 304
Nov. 21. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Wiltwyck ; collections
for the church and for the poor ; siiperintendence of intestates' estates, 306
Nov. 21. Letter from the same to the Consistory of Wiltwyck ; they are not to inter-
fere in matters concerning intestates' estates. ... 307
Nov. 24. Letter from Vice-Dir. La Montagne to Dir. Stuyvesant ; letters received
from Col. Temple and Genl. Pinchon ; the Mohawks on the warpath . . 307
July 28. Message of the Indians of Agawam to the Dutch and answer to it by the
Mohawk chief Adogodquo 308
Oct. 10
-NT c^r, 1 Conference with the Katskil Indians and Mohawks at Fort Orange 309
Nov. 23. ) °
Dec. 3. Answer of Kev. Harm. Blom to Du-. Stuy vesant's letter concerning clerical
affairs at Wiltwyck 311
Dec. 6. Instructions given to Martin Cregier and Govert Loockermans for the
purchase of the Nevesingh country 311
Dec. 8. Complaint against people of Wiltwyck for driving from tlie village to the
Redoubt without a convoy 312
Dec. 8. Petition for a lot near the Mill-gate at Wiltwyck, and order thereon 313
Dec. 10. Council Minute. The Esopus and Wappings are coming to conclude a
treaty of peace 314
Dec. 6 - 11. Journal of a voyage to the Nevesinghs by Capt. Cregier 314
Dec. 12. Agreement made by the Nevesingh Indians to sell their lands to the Dutch, 316
Dec. 12. Letters from the Magistrates at Wiltwyck to Dir. Stuyvesant on general
matters and the quarrel with the church 317
Dec. 17. Petition of the Schout and Magistrate of Bergen that Engelbert Steen-
huysen shall perform his contract as school master; ordered accordingly, 318
Dec. 19. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Wiltwj-ck ; he censures
them for their insolent letter of the 12th ; the Sheriff suspended and
removal of the Magistrates threatened 319
Dec. 19. Letter from the same to Sergt. Nyssen, censuring him for disobedience of
orders 320
Dec. 28. ) Conference with the chiefs of Hackensack and Staten Island respecting a
Dec. 29. ) continuance of the armistice with the Esopus 321
Dec. 29. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Capt. Cregier ; armistice with the Esopus, 323
Journal of the Esopus war, by Captain Martin Cregier 323
1664. Jan. 4. Letter from Ensign Niessen, at the Esopus, to Dir. Stuyvesant ; departnre
of Capt. Cregier ; great sickness prevailing 354
" Jan. 8. Letter from Yice-Dir. La Montagne and Jer. van Eensselaer to the same ;
the Mohawks' expedition into Maine 355
" Jan. 11. Letter from Ensign Niessen to the same; the sickness at the Esopus
increases 355
Table of Contents. xxv
Page.
1664. Jan. 21. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Conrts at Fort Orange and
Kensselaerswyek ; the Mohawks' losses in Maine ; the dispersing of the
Esopus Indians 356
" Jan. 28. Ordinance establishing a Court of Justice for Staten Island 356
" Jan. 28. Council Minute. A redoubt to be constructed at the Newesinghs 356
" Feb. 14. Petition of Eoeloff Swartwout to be reinstated as Sheriff of the Esopus,
and order granting it 357
" Feb. 16. Council Minute. A Tappaan Indian's complaint against Jacob van
Couwenhoven; the ISTevesinghs lands and the English 358
" Feb. 18. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to the Magistrates of Wiltwyck ; Swartwout
reinstated as Sheriff ; recall of the military ; Indian affairs 358
" Feb. 18. Letter from the same to Ensign Niessen ; orders to send down soldiers ;
Indian affairs 359
" Feb. 21. Council Minute. Samuel Edsal's men at Bergen; JS'oortwyck on the
North river 359
" Feb. 21. Petition for the confirmation of certain rules, made by the Overseers for
the erection of a block-hoiise at Bergen, N. J., and answer of the Coun-
cil 360
" Feb. 23. ) Conference with the Hackensack and Staten Island chiefs and Miuissink
" Mar. 6. ) Indians 361
" Mar. 17. Order granting a piece of land outside of the village of Bergen 362
" Mar. 17. Commission for Balthazar Bayard to be Clerk of the Court at Bergen 363
" Mar. 23. Report made by P. W. van Couwenhoven of information respecting
intrigues of the English with the Esopus and Wapping Indians 363
" Mar. 25. Conference with North river Indians and the chief of Hackensack 364
" Mar. 26. Letter from Dir. Stuyvesant to Ensign Niessen and the Magistrates of
Wiltwyck ; Indian affairs 365
" Mar. 27. Letter from Ensign Niessen to Dir. Stuyvesant ; all quiet on the Esopus, 366
" Apr. 3. Appointment of Magistrates for Wiltwyck 366
" Apr. 5. Patent for a piece of land at Ahasimus, N. J 366
" Apr. 17. Order on a petition of Sander Lendertsen Glen and others for a survey of
land at Schenectady 367
" Apr. 21. Instructions for the Clerk of the Court of Wiltwyck 367
" Apr. 21. Letter from Ensign Niessen to Dir. Stuyvesant reporting the visit of an
Englishman at Wiltwyck, who said the English would possess New
Netherland in six or eight weeks 368
" Apr. 25. Petition of Thomas Chambers and Gysbert van Imborgh, delegates, asking
for amendments to the charter of Wiltwyck, and answer to it 369
" Apr. 25. Petition of Paulus and Jan van der Hyden concerning an estate at the
Esopus and order thereon , 370
" Apr. 26. Conference with Hackensack Indians about the murder of a Dutchman,
committed by a Wapping Indian 371
" Apr. 26. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ; the
result of the Esopus war ; importance of the fur trade 372
xxvi Table of Contents.
Page.
1664. May 6. Letter from Rev. Hermanus Bloem to Dir. Stuy vesant, asking in the name
of the Consistory that the 7th of June be annually observed as a day of
thanksgiving at the Esopus 373
' May 13. Lease of land at Schenectady 374
" May 15. Articles of the peace made with the Esopus Indians 375
' May — . Letter from Dir. Stuy vesant to the authorities at Fort Orange ; transmits
the articles of peace concluded with the Esopus Indians ; the new -cal-
lage at Esopus ; Schenectady 382
'■ May 17. Conferences with the Mohawks at Fort Orange 378
Journal of John Dareth and Jacob Loockermans, sent to negotiate a treaty
of peace between the Mohawks and Northern Indians 380
'■ May 20. Order directing the sm-veyor to lay out lands at Schenectady 383
" May 29. Grant of a piece of land at Bergen, N. J , 383
" May 31. Proclamation for a day of thanksgiving on account of the peace with the ■
Esopus Indians , 383
" June 9. Extract from a letter of Rev. Henricus Selyns to the Classis of Amsterdam ;
lack of ministers ; sad state of affairs in New Netherland 384
" June 23. Extract from the minutes of the Classis of Amsterdam 381
" July 4. Commission of William Beekman as Commissary at the Esopus, and his
instructions 385
" July 8. Proposal of one of the Esopus sachems to have provisions sent to their
country beyond Haverstraw 386
" July 10. Petition of Philipp Pieterse Schuyler and Goose Gerretsen van Schayck
for leave to purchase from the Mohegaiis the Halfmoon ; granted 387
" July 10. Petition of Thomas Powel and others for leave to purchase from the
Indians a piece of land between Kinderhook and Neutenhook ; granted, 388
" July 1 2. Conference with the Mohawks at Fort Orange 389
" July 17. Ordinance for the more careful navigation of the North river by sloop
captains 389
" July 24. Council Minute. The Mohawks complain against the Northern Indians, 390
" Aug. 4. Extract from a letter of Dir. Stuyvesant to the Du-eccors in Holland ; the
intrigues of the English among the Indians 390
" Aug. 17. Extract from a letter of the Council to the same ; the Indian wars 390
" Aug. 14. Letter from Rev. Samuel Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam ; state of
the Reformed Church 391
" Aug. 22. Petition of the inhabitants of Westchester to the English commissioners, 391
" Aug. 27. Information of English intrigues with the Esopus Indians 392
" Aug. 29. Order directing the commander at the Esopus to bring down his soldiers,
as the English fleet is at Nyack, L. 1 392
Letter from Rev. Samuel Drisius to the Classis of Amsterdam ; the sur-
render of the province to the English 392
Table of Contents. xxvii
SSCOND PERIOD.
The Province under English Rule, from the Surrender by the Duteh to the Establishment
of Counties. I664- 1684.
Page.
1664. Oct. 17. ■ License to purchase Indian lands at the Nevesinks; a warrant to William
Goulding, etc 395
No date. Order directing the Magistrates of Bei-gen, N. J., to receive and quarter a
garrison of soldiers 395
1665. Mar. 30. Permission to purchase Indian lands given to Phil. Pieterse Schuyler (the
Halfmoon) 395
" Apr. 1. Like permission given to Joh. Chite and Jan Hendr. Bruyn (Claverack). . 396
" Apr. 8. Patent for the land at the Nevesinks, iST. J 396
" Apr. 20. Indian deed for Caniskek (Athens, Greene county) 397
" Apr. 30. Order concerning the settlement at the Nevesinks 398
" May 6. Indian deed for land near Kinderhook 399
" Oct. 7. An agreement made between Governor Nicholls and the Esopus Indians. . 399
" Dec. 28. Letter from Gov. Nicholls to the inhabitants of Westchester concerning the
limits of their town 402
1666. Apr. 29. Indian deed for land in Westchester county (Town of Harrison) 402
" July 3. Letter from Secretary Nicolls to Thomas Pell concerning his land in
Westchester 403
" July 7. Letter from the same to the constable and overseers of Westchester about
the division of land 404
" July 14. Order forbidding the same to molest the inhabitants of the Ten Farms
about the meadow ground 404
" Sept. 17. Letter from Secr'y JSTicolls to Capt. Broadhead on behalf of Mathew Blan-
chard of Esopus 404
" Oct. 18. Extract from the minutes of the Chassis of Amsterdam 405
" Dec. 11. Deed from Capt. Phil. Carteret and others to Daniel Pierce and others for
the land between the Raritan and Pawake rivers, N. J 405
1667. Apr. — . Papers relating to the Esopus mutiny 406
" Sept. 7. Wan-ant authorizing the inhabitants of Staten Island to elect civil oiEcers, 415
1668. Apr. 8. Grant of land at the Esopus 416
" Aug. 27. Extract from the minutes of the Amsterdam Classis 416
" Aug. 27. Certificate in favor of Domine Megapolensis 416
" Sept. 3. Letter from Secr'y Nicolls to Ph. P. Schuyler regarding land at Hurley.. 417
" Sept. 5. Order concerning land claims at the Esopus 417
" Sept. 25. Order about the watch at the Esopus 417
" Sept. 26. The Governor's answer to certain desires expressed by the -inliabitants of
the Esopus 418
" Sept. 26. List of persons who are to have land at the Esopus 418
" Sept. 26. Order for cutting Palisades at the Esopus 419
" Sept. 26. Order concerning the settlement of Marbletown 419
" Sept. 26. List of persons willing to settle at Marbletown 419
" Sept. 26. Instructions for the civil authorities at the Esopus 420
TaMe of Contents.
Page.
Order concerning travel on Sundays 420
Order concerning tlie settlement of Marbletown 420
Council Minute. Dispute between Harlem and John Archer about land, 421
Order concerning the settlement of Marbletown 421
Order concerning tlie taxes in West and Eastehester ; 422
Letter from the Governor to the military at the Esopus 422
Order concerning the taxes of Eastehester 422
Letter from the Governor to the magistrates at Esopus 423
Letter from Domine Megapolensis to the Classis of Amsterdam 423
License to establish a colony at Spuyten Duyvel 424
Order concerning the militia on Staten Island 424
Letter from Gov. Lovelace to the Governor of Bermuda concerning immi-
gration, with conditions for new settlers 424
Order proliibiting the trade with Lidians at Schenectady 426
Letter from the Governor to Sergeant Berisf ord at the Esopus 426
Letter from the same to Henry Pawling at Esopus 427
Letter from the same to the magistrates at Albany 427
Letter from Secr'y Nicolls to the same 428
Council Minute. Esopus affairs. ... ,. 428
Commission to several persons appointed to regulate matters at the Esopus,
and their instructions 428
Proceedings of the commissioners 430
Peport of the commissioners 436
Letters from the Governor to the Magistrates at Albany 439
Letters from the same to the Governor of Massachusetts 439
Letters from the same to the Magistrates at Albany 440
Building license given to T. C. de Witt of Esopus 440
Order concerning the building of a bridge across Harlem river 441
Letter from the Governor relating to the purchase of Lidian lands on
Staten Island 441
Mar. 11. Letter from the same to W. Beeckman and others at Kingston concerning
the new village 442
Mar. 17. Commission to Capt. Dudley Lovelace and others for surveying and laying
out lots at the Esopus, with their instructions and proceedings 443
Council Minute. Staten Island matters 452
Indian deed for Staten Island 455
Order prohibiting the sale of lands granted to soldiers at the Esopus 457
Council Minute. Trade of New England people with Indians at Albany, 458
Order for a survey of Staten Island 458
1671. July 12. Order concerning the traffic on the North river to Kingston 458
Proceedings in the (N. Y.) Mayor's court; differences between Harlem
and Fordham 459
Orders for the regulation of civil and military affairs at the Esopus 459
Council Minute. Purchase of Indian lands in Westchester county 460
XX vm
1668. Oct.
28.
Nov.
9.
Nov.
6.
" Nov.
9.
" Nov.
17.
« Nov.
17.
" Dec.
11.
1669. Feb.
24.
Apr.
15.
Apr.
27.
May
3.
May
14.
" June
3.
June
7.
" July
25.
" July
25.
" July
26.
Aug.
13.
" Sept.
9.
" Sept.
9.
" Sept.
9.
Sept.
9.
Oct.
13.
Dec.
29.
1670. Jan.
24.
" Jan.
24.
Feb.
10.
" ■ Feb.
16.
Apr.
7.
Apr.
13.
Aug.
23.
Oct.
22.
Oct.
24.
July
12.
Sept.
8.
Oct.
25.
Oct.
30.
Table of Contents. xxix
Page.
Letter from the Governor and Counoil to Capt. James Carteret 4-61
Capt. James Carteret's answer 462
Council Minute. Commission for Indian affairs 463
Instructions for Capt. De Lavall, etc., on going to Albany 464
Agreement between the inhabitants of Schenectady and the four Mohawk
castles 464
Order for a survey of Staten Island 466
Council Minutes. Trade at Schenectady 466
Letter from Gov. Lovelace to Capt. James Carterett, of New Jersey 466
Another letter from the same to the same 467
Order erecting Fox Hall, near Kingston, into a Manor 468
Letter from the Governor to Capt. James Carterett 468
Letter from King Charles II to John Berr}', Deputy-Governor of New
Jersey 469
Council Minutes. Trade at Schenectady ; taxes at the Esopus 469
License to build a warehouse on the strand at Kingston 470
Order establishing a Court of Justice at Fordhani 471
Council Minutes. N ew Jersey matters 471
Council Minutes. English laws introduced at the Esopus 471
Letter from King Charles II to Geo. Philipp Carterett, of New Jersey . . 472
Order allowing Elizabethtown, etc., in New Jersey, to send delegates to
surrender their places to the Dutch 473
Privileges gi-anted to the several towns in New Jersey 474
Council Minute. Submission of East and Westchester with extent of the
jurisdiction of their courts 474
Order on a petition from the Esopus for the government of that District, 475
Appointment of Magistrates for the Village behind the Coll 475
Renewal of the peace with the Hackensack Indians 476
Census of the several towns in New Jersey 476
Council Minute. Mohawk chiefs on a visit to New York ; Schenectady
affairs 477
Sept. 29. Order to the Magistrates in the Nevesinks in regard to approaching
ships, etc 477
Oct. 14. Letter from Gov. Colve to John Ogden, at Elizabeth, N. J., on Indian
affairs and Gov. Carterett's property 477
1674. Mar. S. Orders in Council. Indian lands in New Jersey and trade to the Esopus, 478
Council Minutes. Middletown, N. J. ; Secaucus Island, N. J 478
Propositions made by the Mohawks to Gov. Colve, and his answers 479
Letter from Gov. Colve to Isaac Grevenraedt, Sheriff of Esopus, directing
the surrender of that place to the English 481
Order to attach the estate of Gov. Lovelace on Staten Island 481
Petition to purchase Indian lands at Catskil, and order granting it 481
1675. Jan. 11. Letter from Gov. Andros to the inhabitants of Hurley and Marbleton . . . 482
Letter from the same to the inhabitants of Kingston 482
Indian deed for land in Greene county 482
1672.
June 11.
a
June 14.
«
June 24.
a
June 16.
a
July 3.
a
July 22.
u
Sept. 6.
"
Sept. 18.
a
Oct. 13.
a
Oct. 16.
"
Oct. 22.
«
Dee. 9.
1673.
Jan. 27.
a
Mar. 19.
('
Apr. 20.
"
May 15.
u
June 12.
1674.
June 13.
1673.
Aug. 12.
u
Aug. 18.
"
Aug. 21.
«
Sept. 1.
((
Sept. 1.
a
Sept. 13.
"
Sept. 14.
"
Sept. 18.
Mar.
S.
Mar.
8.
May
22.
Nov.
10.
Nov.
12.
Dec.
17.
Jan.
11.
Jan.
12.
Jan.
25.
XXX Table of Contents.
Paob.
1675. Feb. IS. Order for keeping the court at Fordliam 483
" Apr. 16. Council Minute. Indian affairs 483
" Apr. 19. Letter from Gov. Andros to the authorities at Albany 483
" Apr. 24. Letter from Gov. Andros to Capt. Chambers and Geo. Hall at Kingston, 484
" Sept. 26. Proclamation about the Indians and making of block houses 484
" Aug. 5. Council Minutes. Encouragement of immigration to Staten Island 485
" -ATig- 30- Instructions for tho Commissaries of Schenectady 485
No date. Opinion of council concerning Col. Xicolls' patents for land in New Jersey
and Indian purchases 486
" Sept. 12. Assessment-roll of "Wegt and Eastchester 488
" Oct. 13. Order concerning the public debt at the Esopus 489
" Oct. 15. Council Minutes. Purchase of Indian lands at Schenectady ; Schenectady, 489
" Oct. 19. Letter from Gov. Andros to the authorities at the Esopus 490
" Oct. 21. Letter from Gov. Andros to the Governor of Maryland 491
" Oct, 24. Council Minutes. Indian affairs ; Esopus 491
" Nov. 8. Petition of inhabitants of Yonkers, desiring to be excused from joining
Fordham in case of an Indian invasion, and order thereon 492
1676. Jan. 6. Letter from Gov. Andros to the Magistrates at Esopus 493
" Feb. 26. Council Minutes. Westchester Indians ; Indian wars 493
" Mar. 4. Order directing the pursuit of King Phihpp and other North Indians . . . 494
" Mar. 29. Council Minutes. Examination of "Westchester lodians as to their inten-
tion to join King Philipp 494
" Apr. 10. Order concerning the scattered farms at Hurley and Marbleton. 495
" Apr. 14. Council Minute. Westchester Indians before the Council 495
" Apr. 27. Comicil Minute. Connecticut Indians before the Council 496
" May 29. Council Minute. Indian affairs (Mohawks and Senecas) ... 496
" June 2. Council Minute. Susquehanna Indians before the council 497
" July 25. Council Minute. Westchesterlndiansclaimpaymentfor the Yonkers land, 498
" Aug. 4. Council Minute. The authority of the Sheriff at Esopus defined , 498
" Aug. 8. Council Minute. Indians report a meditated invasion by the French 498
" Aug. 10. Council Minute. Mohawks report on Canada and Northern Indians .... 499
" Aug. 11. Commission to establish a Court of Justice at Schenectady 500
" Sept. 8. Council Minutes. Indian affairs 501
" Sept. 19. Letter from Secr'y Nicolls to the authorities of Westchester 501
" Oct. 11. Council Minutes. Indian affairs , 501
" Oct. and )
„ \ List of presents given to Indian scouts in the employ of the government, 502
1677. Mar. 12. Council Minutes. Enlargement of Kingston; Indians; Indian lands at
Esopus ; French pi-etensions 502
" Mar. 14. Proclamation regulating the Indian trade and navigation on the Hudson, 503
" Mar. 28. Order in Council. Mohawks to desist from making war on Eastern
Indians , „ 504
" Apr. 27. Council Minutes. Conference with Esopus Indians 504
" May 26. Indian deed for New Paltz, Ulster county 506
" June 6. Council Minutes. The war of the Mohawks and Senecas against Mary-
land 507
June 11.
July
11.
July
12.
July
16.
July
20.
Oct.
5.
Oct.
6.
Oct.
12.
Table of Contents. xxxi
Page.
1677. June 11. Council Minutes. Mohawks on the warpath 508
Proceedings on the claim of New Jersey to have a port of entry 50S
Letter fi-oni Gov. Andros to the Magistrates of Albany 509
Council Minutes. Indian affairs 510
Conference between the Oueidas and Col. Coursey, agent of Maryland ... 510
Letter from John Pynchon, of Springfield, Mass., to Capt. Salisbury on
Indian troubles 511
Regulation for the Esopus militia, and order concerning quitrents 512
Letter from Gov. Leverett, of Boston, to the Mohawk sachems, warning
them not to injin-e the friendly Indians of his colony 513
" Oct. 22. Extract from the minutes of the Court of Schenectady in reference to the
purchase of land on the Mohawk river 514-
Licence granted to Lewis Dubois and others for a new settlement at Esopus, 515
Order for the purchase of Indian lands in Westchester county 515
1678. Jan. 1. Indian deed for land at Claverack , 515
Letter from Secr'y Nicolls to the Magistrates at Albany 516
Letter from John Talcott of Hartford to Capt. Salisbury on Indian affairs 516
Letter from Commander Brockholls to Gov. Leete of Connecticutt on In-
dian business 518
Note directing the Surveyor to lay out land on Staten Island 518
Letter from Richard Woodhull of Seatalcott to Secr'y Nicolls on a rumored
combination between the French and Indians , . 519
Indian Deed for land in Columbia county 519
Letter from Capt. Salisbury at Albany to Commander Brockholls. Mo-
hawks going to war 519
June 27. Letter from the same to the same. Mohawks retm-n with Natick Indian
prisoners 520
Letter from the same to the same. The Mohawks have burned most of
then- prisoners 520
Orders and Instructions to the Agents of Massachusetts sent on a mission
to the Mohawks 521
Commission of the Massachusetts Agents 523
Letter from Father Biiiyas, S. J., at Tionnontoguin to Capt. Salisbury on
Indian affairs and from the latter to Capt. Brockholls 523
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt. Salisbury at Albany. Indians. . . . 524
Letter from John Pynchon at Springfield to Capt. Salisbury 525
Letter from Capt. Salisbury to Comm'r Brockholls on Indian affairs 526
Letter from the same to the same . . . .' 527
Letter from Comm'r Brockholls to Capt. Salisbury 527
Answer of the Mohawks to the Propositions of the Massachusetts Agents 528
Letter from Comm'r Brockholls to Capt. Salisbury 529
Letters from Capt. Salisbury to Sec'y Nicolls and Connuander Brockholls 531
Council Minutes. French influences among the Mohawks 531
Council Minutes. Schenectady affairs 532
Letters from Gov. Andros to the Magistrates of Albany and Schenectady 533
Indian Deed for Land in Ulster county 533
Nov.
2.
Nov.
16.
Jan.
1.
Jan.
15.
Apr.
8.
Apr.
16.
May
14.
May
17.
June
11.
Jime 24.
July
11.
July
11.
July
12.
July
13.
July
20.
July
20.
July
23.
July
25.
JiUy
28.
Aug.
1.
Aug.
2.
Aug.
8.
Aug.
20.
Sept.
6.
Oct.
31.
Dec.
28.
1678.
1679.
Apr. 11.
a
May 23.
a
June 4.
CI
June 18.
"
July 31.
a
Aug. 8.
ii
Dec. 9.
1680.
Jan. 7.
((
Mar. 8.
((
Mar. 14.
1665.
1680.
Mar. 21.
Mar. 23.
Mar. 23.
Apr. 5-7.
No date.
Apr. 30.
Table of Contents.
Page
Petition for leave to purchase Indian Lands in Ulster county 634
Regulations for the trade on Hudson's river 534
Letter from Thomas Chambers to Gov. Andros 534
Letter from Gov. Andros to Gov. Carterett of N. J 535
Letter from Secr'y Nicolls to Mrs. Billop on Staten Island 535
Council Minutes. Reception of Agents from Yirginia 536
Letter from Gov. Andros to Capt. Salisbury 536
Council Minutes. Indians declared free and not slaves 537
Council Minutes. Bridge over Spuyten Duyvel 538
Letter from Gov. Andros to Phil. Carterett 638
Declaration of Gov. Andros setting forth the illegality of Capt. Carte-
rett's acts in N. J 639
Mar. 15. Letter from Sec'y Nicolls to Capt. Sanford ■with the foregoing Proclama-
tion and inviting him to N. T 540
Extract from the Concessions to New Jersey 540
> Council Minutes. New Jersey affairs 541
Order for an election of delegates for Middleton, N. J 541
Particulars of Gov. Andros' Visit to Capt. Carterett in Elizabeth Town, N. J 542
Petition of the inhabitants of Esopus for a Minister of the Gospel 543
A Special Warrant to summon Deputy Governor Berry of N. J. before
the Council 544
" June 25. Connnission to the Justices of the Peace of Shrewsbury, etc. N. J. to hold
Courts of Sessions , . . 545
. . Abstracts of Indian Deeds 545
1680. Nov. 12. Petition of Robert Livingston to purchase Indian lands (Livingston Ma-
nor, Columbia county) , 646
" Dec. 1. Petition of Fred. Philipps to purchase Indian lands in Westchester Co. . 546
" Dec. 1. List of Persons applying for land on Staten-Islaud 546
" ' A 1 «' I I'^tt®^^ from Capt. Brockliolls to Capt. Carterett 548
" May 14. Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Sir John Werden concerning the New
Jersey title 549
" May 14. Letter from the same to Governor Andros (in England) on the same subject. 549
" July 26. ) Letters from the same to Capt. Carterett refusing to acknowledge the lat-
" July 30. i ter's authority in New Jersey 650
" Julj' 30. Letter from the same to Sir John Werden on the claim to New Jersey . . . 551
" Sept. 12. Propositions made by the Minissink Indians and the answer tliereto 551
" Nov. 10. Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt. Delavall on affairs at the Esopus. . . 552
1682. Jan. 12. Letter from the same to the same on the same subject 552
" Jan. 12. License given to Jacob Rutgers to purchase Indian lands at the Esopus. . 553
" Jan. 28. A Proclamation renewing a former Proclamation regulating the Trade with
Indians 553
" Feb. 3. License to purchase Indian lands on the East side of Hudson's river given
to Cornells van Bursum 554
" Mar. 9. Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt. Delavall on Esopus affairs 554
Table of Contents. xxxiii
Paoe.
16S2. Mar. 29. Letter from tlie same to the Commissaries at Albany on tlie relations be-
tween the New York Indians and Maryland 555
Letter from the same to Lord Baltimore and Council on the same subject. 555
Letter from the same to the Commissaries at Albany 556
Resolution of a Town Meeting on Staten Island 556
Letter from the Maryland Commissioners to Commander Brockholls 557
Letter from the same to the same 557
Letter from Cornelius van Dyck to the same 558
Letter from Commander Brockholls to Lord Baltimore 559
Letter from the same to the Commissaries of Albany 560
Letter from the same to the Maryland Agents at Albany 560
Letter from the same to the Maryland Agents at Albany 560
Letter from the same to the Commissaries of Albany 561
Letter from the same to the Maryland Agents at Albany 562
Letter from Commander Brockholls to Gov. Carterett 563
Letter from Commander Brockholls to Lord Baltimore 563
Letter from Commander Brockholls to Lord Baltimore 563
Letter from Commander Brockholls to the Magistrates of Albany 564
Letter from Commander Brockholls to the Magistrates of Esopus 564
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Lord Baltimore 565
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Lord Baltimore 565
1683. Jan. 3. Contract to sell land on Hudson's river (Columbia coimty) " 566
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt. Chambers at Kingston 566
Petition of inhabitants of Staten-Island against being forced to contribute
to the siipport of a Minister . . 567
Letters from Justice Stillwell of Staten-Island to Secr'y West in relation
to the foregoing 567
License given to purchase Indian lands (Dutchess county) 569
Letter from Capt. Broeldiolls to Capt. Chambers at Kingston 569
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt! G. Baxter at Albany 570
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Mr. Samuel Groome of New Jersey 570
Quitclaim for the land called Pooghkepesingh 571
Letter from Capt. Brockholls to Capt. Chambers 571
Abstracts of Indian Deeds for Land at Niskayuna, Catskil, Livingston Ma-
nor, Saratoga 572
Indian Deed of Gift of land near Schenectady 573
List of the estates in "Westchester subject to the public rates 573
Nov. 1. An Act to divide the Province into Shires and Counties 574
Appendix. Extracts from a Letter of Father Jogues, S. J., to the Pro-
vincial of the Jesuits in Paris 575
Mar.
29.
June 10.
June 19.
June 24.
June 25.
June 26.
June 30.
June 30.
June 30.
July
4.
July
4.
July
15.
Aug.
— .
Aug.
14.
Sept.
21.
Oct.
25.
Oct.
25.
Oct.
26.
Nov. 27.
Jan.
3.
Jan.
15.
Jan.
16.
Jan.
19. 1
Jato.
24. )
Feb. 28.
Apr.
6.
Apr.
6.
Apr.
7.
May
5.
June
29.
Sept.
26.
First Period
From the first recorded Dutch Patent to the Occupation of the
Province by the English.
(1630 to 1664. )
Patent for IIoboken, N. J., granted to Miciiiel Paattw.
"We, Director and Council of New-Netherland, residing on the Island of Manahaias and at
the Fort Amsterdam under the authority of their High : Might : the Lords States-General of the
United Netherlands and the Incorporated West India Conipan}-, Department of Amsterdam, do
liereby testify and declare, that on this day, date underwritten, appeared before us personally
Arromeauw, TehwapjM and SacTcwomech, inhabitants and joint owners of the land, called Hobo-
can HacMngh, lying opposite the aforesaid Island of Manahatas, who both for themsel\-es and
pro rata for the other joint owners declared, that for and in consideration of a certain quantity ot
merchandise, which they herewith acknowledge to have received to their full satisfaction before
the passing of this act, they have sold, transported, ceded and delivered as true and lawful free-
hold, as they herewith according to a bill of sale and contract, transfer, cede, convey and deliver
to and for the benefit of the Hon''''^ Mr. Michiel Paauw* in whose absence we receive it ex officio
under the usual conditions, the aforesaid land by lis called Hohocan Hackingh extending on the
south side to Ahasinius, eastwards along the River Mauritius and on the west side surrounded
by lowlands, which sufficiently designates the boundary of this land with rights and jurisdiction,
belonging to them individually or collectively, or which they might derive hereafter, constituting
and subrogating the aforesaid Hon'''" Mr. Paauio, in their stead and place, giving him actual and
real possession thereof, as well as complete and irrevocable authority and special power, that he,
the aforesaid Hon''''' Mr. Paauw tamquam, actor et procurator in rem suatn ac propriam or his
heirs and successors may take possession of the aforesaid land, live on it in peace, inhabit, own
and use it, also do with it, trade it o£E or dispose of it, as his Honor would do with his own law-
fully obtained lands and dominions, without that they, the conveying party, shall have or retain
the least pretension, right, power or authority either concerning ownership or sovereignty, but
herewith they desist, abandon, withdraw and renounce, in behalf as aforesaid now and forever
totally and finallv, promising further not only to fulfil in ijerpetuum^ firmly and safely, inviolably
and irrevocably, this their conveyance and transfer and what may be done by its authority, but also
to deliver the said land and to keep it free from all claims, pretensions, suits, challenges and troubles,
* Lord of Achtienhoven in Holland, Co-Patroon of New-Netherland and one of the Diiectors of the W . I.
Co.— Ed.
2 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
all under the obligations of the laws referring hereto, a liona fide sine fraude. In testimony
whereof we have affirmed this with our signatm-e and affixed our seal thereunto. Done on the
Island of Manahatas in Fort Amsterdam the 12"" of July in the j-ear 1630.
Patent for Staten Island, granted to Michael Paauw.
We, Director and Council in N"ew-]N"etherland, residing on the Island of Manhattan under
authority of Their High Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Netherlands and the
Privileged West India Company, Department of Amsterdam, testify and declare herewith, that
to-day, date as below, personally appeared Krahorat, Tanieliap, Totemackwemama, Wieromies,
Siearewach, Sackweweio, Wissijyoach, Saheinsios or the young one, inhabitants, owners and in-
lieritors of the island called by us Staten- Island, on the west side of HameVs Neck* who declare
that for a certain lot of merchandise, delivered to and received by them before the 2)assing of this
act, they have sold, transferred, ceded and delivered as true and lawful freehold, as they herewith
according to a bill of sale and contract, transfer, cede, convey and deliver to and for the benefit of
the IIoii'''^ Mr. Ifichiel Paauio, in whose absence wc receive it ex officio under the usual conditions,
the aforesaid land with its forest, appendencies and dependencies, rights and jurisdiction, belong-
ing to them individually or collectivel}', or which they might derive hereafter, constituting and
subrogating the aforesaid Hon'"''^ Mr. Paauw, in their stead and place, giving him actual and real
possession thereof, as well as complete and irrevocable authority and special power, that he, the
aforesaid Ilon''^'^ Mr. Paauw may take possession of the aforesaid land, live on it in peace, inhabit,
own and use it, also do with it, trade it o£E or dispose of it, as his Honor, like anybody else, would
do with his own lawfully obtained lands and dominions, without that they, the conveying party,
shall have or retain the least pretension, right, power or authority either concerning ownership or
sovereignty, but herewith they desist, abandon, withdraw and renounce, in behalf as aforesaid now
and forever totally and finally, promising further not only to fulfil in perpetiitim, firmly and safely,
inviolably and irrevocably, this their conveyance and transfer and what may be done by its authority,
but also to deliver the said land and to keep it free from all claims, pretensions, suits, challenges
and troubles either against the aforesaid Wissipoack, when he has reached his majority, or against
other claimants, all under the obligations of the laws referring hereto, a bona fide sine fraude.
In testimony whereof we have affirmed this with our signature and affixed our seal thereunto.
Done on the Island of Manahatas in Fort Amsterdam the 10"' of August in the year 1630.
Patent to the same for the Tract of Land called Ahasimus and the Island
OF Aressick (New Jersey).
We, Director and Council of New-Netherland etc. etc. testify and declare herewith, that on
this day personally appeared before us Ackitoauw and Aiarouio, Virginians, inhabitants and
co-owners of the land called Ahasimus and the little island A7'essick, who for themselves and in
proportion for the other proprietors, Winym, Matskath, and Camoins declare in their said capacity
of owners, that for a certain lot of merchandise, which they acknowledge to have received and
* The Narrows, called "Ilamels Hoofden " after Henrick Hamol, one of the Patroous of N. N.
JS'ew Yorlc Historical Hecoi-ds. 3
acce]3ted to their satisfaction before the passing of this act, they have sokl, transferred, ceded and
conveyed by a certain deed and contract of sale, as they herewith transfer, cede and convey to and
for the benefit of the Ilon""^ Mr. MlcMel Paauw, in whoso absence we ex officio receive it nnder
the usual stipulations the aforesaid tract Ahasimus and Aressich, called by us the Whore Hook,
stretching along the river Mauritius and the Island of Manahatas on the East side, Uobokan Ilack-
incjh on the North, surrounded by swamps, which serve as distinct boundary lines and that with
all rights, titles etc. Dated jSTovbr. 22'' 1630.
Deed feoii Director Kieft to Abr. Isaacsen Planck (Veeplajstck) for Paultts
Hook (N. J.)
This day, date underwritten, before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary of I^ew-Nether-
land, appeared the Honorable, Wise and Prudent Mr. Kieft Director-General of New-Netherland
of the one part and Abraham Isaacsen Planck of the other part and mutually agreed and con-
tracted for the purchase of a certain parcel of land, called Pouwels Hook, situate westward of the
Island ManJiates and eastward of AJiasimus, extending from the North river into the valley, which
runs around it there, which land Mr. Kieft has sold to Abraham Planch, who also acknowledges
to have bought the aforesaid land for the sum of five hundred and fifty guilders, the guilder at
20 stivers, which sum the aforesaid Abraham Isaacsen Planck promises to pay to the Hon''''' Mr.
Kieft or his order, in three instalments, the first at the Fair A° 1638, the second A" 1639 and the
third and last instalment at the Fair A" 1640 ; and in case he remains in default of payment,
Jacob Albertsen Planck, Sheriff in the Colony of Rensselearswyck, substitutes himself as bail and
principal for the purchaser, promising to pay the aforesaid 450 fl. free of costs and charges ; For
all of which aforesaid the purchaser and bondsman pledge their persons and property, real and per-
sonal, present and future, without exception, submitting to the Provincial Court of Holland and
to all other Courts, Judges and Justices and in acknowledgment and token of the truth, these
presents are signed by the parties respectively.
Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in N. N. the first day of May 1638.
Jacob Planck, Abeam Planck.
Lease of the Company's Farm at Pavonia (N". J.) to Jan Eveetsen Bout.
This day the 20"' July 1638, before me, Cornelis van Tienltoven, Secretary of ISTew-Nether-
land, appeared the Hon"'* "Wise and Prudent Mr. William Kieft, Director-General of New
Netherland, of the one •pa.vi and Jan Evertsen Pout, of the other part, who amicably agreed and
contracted for the lease of the Bouwery hitherto occupied by the abovenamed Jan Evertsen,
situated at Pavonia and belonging to the Noble Lords-Directors of the Priv. W. I. Company
(Dep' of Amsterdam), in whose name and behalf Mr. Kieft has leased the abovenamed Bouwery
to Ja7i Evertsen, who also acknowledges to have hired it, on the following conditions and terms :
First : Jan Evertsen shall have the use of the house, land and everything belonging thereto
on the Bouwery for six consecutive years from the date hereof and during this time he shall be
bound to keep in order the buildings and appurtenances of the Bouwery at his own expense, with-
out laj'ing claim therefor to anything at the expiration of the said six years.
4 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The said Jan Evertsen shall deliver yearly during the term of his lease to the said Mr. Kieft
or his successor the fourth part of the crop, whether of corn or of other produce, with which God
shall favor the soil, also every year two tuns of strong beer and twelve capons, free of expense.
For all of which the parties pledge their respective persons and property etc.
Done in Fort Amsterdam on the day and year above written.
Jan "Eveetsen Bout.
Maueits Jansen, witness.
Lease of the Company's Bouweey at IIobooken to IIendeick Coenelissen van
VOEST.
This day, date underwritten, before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary in New-Nether-
land on behalf of the Priv. W. I. Company appeared the Honorable and Prudent Mr. William
Rieft, Director-General in New-JS^etherland, of the one part, and Hendrick Cornelissen van Vorst*
of the other part, who acknowledged in presence of the nmdersigned witnesses to have mutually
agreed and amicably contracted for the lease of the Bouwery, situate at IIobooken, "until now occu-
pied by the said Hendrick Cornelissen and belonging to the Noble Lords-Directors of the Priv.
W. I. Companj^ Dep' of Amsterdam, in whose name and behalf the Hon*"" Director Kieft leases
the said Bouwery to Hendrick Cornelissen aforesaid, who also acknowledges having hired the
same on the following terms and conditions :
Hendrick Cornelissen van Yorst shall for the period of twenty consecutive years from the
date hereof use, cultivate and plant the said Bouwery and make further during the years of his
lease such disposition of the land and the buildings thereon and everything ajupertaming to it, as
a good and faithful tenant ought to make.
The tenant shall cause to be erected on the Bouwery a barn and all other necessary buildings
at his own expense, the Company delivering to him 4000 bricks to build the chimney. All these
buildings shall belong to the Company at the expiration of the lease, without the tenant having
any claim or title to them.
It is further exjiressly agreed, that the lessee or any of his descendants shall be preferred at
the end of this lease to others, if the said Bouwery be sold or again let.
The said Hendrick van Vorst shall pay during the years of his lease to the said Hon''''' Mr.
Kieft or the representative of the Company every year the fourth part of the crop, with which
God may bless the land, either in sheaves upon the field or as it may be deemed most advantageous,
and twelve capons.
The lessee shall surrender the land unsown, as he now receives it.
For all of which the parties ])ledge their respective persons and property etc.
Done at Fort Amsterdam, this 12"' of March 1639.
WiLLEM Kieft
It is further IIeyndeick Cornelissen van Yorst
agreed, that TJlrich Leepolt
the lease shall Maurtts Jansen as witness,
begin on the 1'^'
of January 1640.
* Cornells van Vovst bad been the manager of Michiol Pauw's (see above) plantations, initil they were bought in
liy the Company. See De Vries Voyages. — Ed.
New YorTc Historical Records. 5
Lease of land in Westchester County.
Before me, Cornells van Ticnliomn, Secretary in New-Netlierland and the undersigned wit-
nesses appeared Sr Jonas Bronch, of the one part and Pleter Andriessen and Laurens Duyts of
the other part, who amicably agreed and contracted as follows :
First : SV Bronck shall show to the said parties a certain piece of land, belonging to him,
situate on the mainland opposite to the flats of the Manhates / on which said piece of land they
shall have permission to plant tobacco and maize, on the condition, that they shall be obliged to
break new land every two years for the planting of tobacco and maize and changing the place, the
land, upon which they have planted to remain at the disposal of said ST Bronck. They shall
also be bound to surrender the land, eveiy time they change, made ready for planting corn and
ploughing. They shall have the use of the said land for three consecutive years, during which
time the said St Bronck shall make no other claim upon them, than for the land, which Pieter
Andriessen and Laurens Duyts by their labor shall have cleared, who on their side shall be obliged
to fultill the above conditions. If Pieter Andriessen and Laurens Duyts demand within a year
from said ST Bronck 2 horses and 2 cows on the conditions, on which at present the Company
gives them to freemen, the said Bronck shall deliver the animals to them, if he can spare them.
Pieter Andriessen and Laurens Duyts further pledge their persons and property, movable and
immovable, present and future, nothing excepted, for the payment of what ST Bronck has advanced
to them for board on the ship " "de Brant van Troge?i" amounting to 121 fl 16 st, of which I-'ieter
Andriessen is to pay fl 81.4 and ZffiW7'e?wZ>w2/tefl 40.12. They promise to pay the aforesaid sums
by the first ready means, either in tobacco or otherwise and in acknowledgment and token of truth
they have signed this respectively.
Done at Fort Amsterdam the 21^' July 1639.
This is the mark * 1 of Laueens Duyts
PiETEK Andriessen.
MAUErrs Janse, witness.
Indian Deed for a Tract of Land, called Keskeskick, BEnmD the Kjl which
RUNS AROUND MANHATTAN IsLAND (YoNKEES.)
This day, date as below, appeared before me Cornells van TlenJwven, Secretary in New-
Wetherland, Tequemet, Pechgawac, Pachamlens^ owners of Kekesklck, who in presence of the
undersigned witnesses voluntarily and deliberately declare, that in consideration of a certain lot
of merchandise, which they acknowledge to have received and accepted before the passing of this
act, they have transferred, ceded, conveyed and made over as a true and lawful freehold, as they
herewith transfer, cede, convey and make over to and for the benefit of the General Incorporated
West India Company a piece of land, situate opposite to the flat on the Island of Manhattan,
called Keskeskick, stretching lengthwise along the Kil, which runs behind the Island of Manhat-
tan mostly East and West and beginning at the head of the said Kil and running to opposite of
6 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson Hiver.
the high hill by the flat, namely by the Great Kil, with all rights titles etc. etc. Done at Fort
Amsterdam^ the S** of August 1639.
(Signed) Coenelis van dee IIoylen
David Pieteesen de \i^EiES
as witnesses.
In my presence
CoKNELis VAN TiENHovEN, Secrctaiy.
EeSOLUTION to exact a TEIBUIE EEGJI TUE InDIANS IN MAIZE, FUES OE WAMPUM.
September 15"" (1639)
"Whereas the Company has to bear heavy expenses both for the erection of fortification and
the maintenance of soldiers and sailors, Therefore we have resolved to levy some contributions
either in peltries, maize or wampum from the Indians residing hereabout, whom we have hitherto
protected against their enemies and if there be any tribe, Avho will not willingly consent to con-
tribute, we shall endeavor to induce them to do so by the most suitable means.
Patent geanted to Coenelis Melyn foe Staten-Island, excepting as much
OF IT AS had been GEAIfTED TO DaVID PiETEESEN DE VeIES FOE A BOUWEEY.
"We, William Kieft, Director-General and the Council of JSTew-Xetherland etc. etc.
Make known, that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted, as we herewith
concede and grant (under authority of an edict, issued by the Ilon*''^ Lords Directors on the — day
of July 1640) to Cornelis Melyn the whole of Staten-Islajid, situate in the Bay of tlie North river
of New-Netlierland, except as much land as is necessary for a bouwery, which had been granted
by us, the Director-General and Council before the publication of the abovesaid edict, to David
Pietersen de Yries* from Hoorn, and of which land David Pietersen de Yries has already taken
possession ; with the express condition, that he, Cor7ielis Melyn, or his successors shall acknowl-
edge the Hon''"' Lords-Directors as his supreme authority under the sovereignty of Their Iligh :
Might : the States-General and obey here their Director-General and Council, as good inhabitants
are bound to do ; provided that he, Melyn, or his successors submit to and acknowledge in
every respect all such burdens and taxes, as have been already or may hereafter be imposed by the
Lords-Directors according to the Exemptions of Neio-Neiherland. We constitute therefore the
aforesaid Cornelis Melyn in the place and power, that we had before over the land, giving him
actual and real possession of it and full power, authority and special permission to enter upon,
cultivate, inhabit and use the aforesaid Staten- Island, as he would do with his other inherited
lands and effects, without reser\nng or retaining for us any claim or pretension thereon. (No date.)
* David de Vries had undertaken to make this settlement in company with and at the request of Frederick de
Vrics, Secretary of tlie City of Amsterdam, and one of the Directors of tlie W. I. Company. He began work ou
the 5th of January, 1639. See De Vries Voyages. — Ed.
New Yorh Historical Hecords. 7
Lease of Land on Staten-Island.
Before me, Cornelis van Ticnhoven, Secretary of Weui-N'etherland, appeared Thomas Smith,
who ill presence of the undersigned witnesses acknowledged to liave hired from David Pietersen
de Vnes a plantation and buildings on Staten-Island for the time of six consecutive years, to wit
from the 1*' of January 1640 to the first of January 1646, for which Thomas Smith is to pay to
David Pietersen or his successors as rent 150 pounds of good, cured tobacco yearly. If Mr. Smith
or any one in his behalf should improve the buildings now on the plantation or erect new ones,
David Pietersen shall be held to receive them at the expiration of the said six years at the valu-
ation of good and impartial men and pay the said Smith for them accordingly.
Done this T"" of January 1640 at Fort Amsterdam.
The said Smith shall cleai- as much laud as is necessary for 2000 pallisades.
Thomas Smtthe
Abeam Planck
"Witnesses -, . t,
I Abraham Jtage.
In my presence
Coenelis van Tienhoven, Secretary.
Council Minute setting foeth sundry hostile acts of the Earitan Indians
since the peace of 1634.
The le"" of July 1640.
Whereas the Indians, li\nng in the Raretangh have before now shown themselves very hostile,
even to the shedding of our blood, notwithstanding a treaty of peace was made with them A"
1634, under which we continued to trade with them by sending a sloop there every spring and
whereas in the spring of this year 1640 they have tried to capture our sloop, manned by only three
men, kiU the crew and plunder the cargo, which by the gracious help of God has happily been
prevented, as the crew was able to drive the savages from the sloop with the loss of a canoe only,
and whereas they came then to Staten-Island killing some of the Company's pigs and plundering
the negro's house,
Therefore, desiring satisfaction herefor, we have informed them, to come here and indemnify
ns, but they only laughed at our demand.
And whereas this is a matter of great importance as well for the reputation of the States-
General as for the respect and interest of the Hon"^ Company and the safety of our own lives and
our cattle,
Therefore it is resolved, to send thither 50 soldiers and 20 sailors under the Secretary and the
Sergeant with orders to attack them, cut down their corn and bring as many prisoners, as they
can, unless they will come willingly to an agreement and make reparation.
Done in Council at Fort Amsterdam, July 16'" 1640.
Ordinance offering a reward for the heads of Earitan Indians passed
July 4, 1641.
(See Laws & Ordinances of New Netherland, p. 28.)
8 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Eelease by Coenelis Meltk of Joris Dircksen from nis contract to live
ON Staten-Island.
Before me, Carnelis van Tienlwven, Secretary of New-Netherland appeared in presence of
the undersigned witnesses, the worthy Cornells 2felyn, who declares to have set free from the
obhgations of a contract made in the City of Amsterdam Jorls Dircksen, annulHng said contract
at the same time for the following reasons :
First, because a short time before the arrival here of the said CornelisMelyn and Joris Dirck-
sen some farmers upon Staten-Island had been killed by the savages, which had frightened the
wife of Jorls Dircksen so much, that she will not live upon the Island now, Secondly, because
his wages are so small, that he cannot afford to keep house on Staten-Island and on Manhattan
Island,
Under the express condition and obligation, that neither Joris Dircksen nor any member of
his fomily shall remove to the jurisdiction of a foreign nation, but he shall endeavor to earn his
living under the jurisdiction of the Ilon'''^ Company and if he leaves here, he must go directly to
the Fatherland in a ship of the Company, for all which Jorls Dircksen pledges his person and
property, movable and immovable, present and future, submitting to all Courts and Judges.
Done this IS"" of August 1640.
Coenelis Meltn.
(A like release was given to another of Melyn's hired farmers Francis Jansen for the same reason.)
Council Minute. Conditions undek wnicn A party of English people mat
COME AND settle IN NeW-NeTHEELAND.
Thursday, the 6'" of June 1641.
"Whereas a good number of respectable English people with their preacher have petitioned for
permission to settle here and live among us, asking that the conditions might be communicated to
them, therefore we have resolved to send them the following terms :
First they will be obliged to take the oath of allegiance to their Iligh Might : the States and
to the W. I. Company, under whose protection they are to live here.
2. They shall have free exercise of their religion.
3. As to their political government, if they desire a Magistrate, they may nominate three or
more of their ablest men, from whose number the Governor of Neio-Netherland will select him,
who is to be their Magistrate, having final jurisdiction in all civil cases up to forty guilders, cases
for higher amounts may be appealed to the Governor and Council of New-Netherland and criminal
jurisdiction up to (i. e. not including) capital punishment.
4. Tliey shall not build fortifications without permission.
5. The land shall be allotted to tliem as their property without expense, they shall use it for
ten years without paying taxes and at the end of these ten years they shall pay the tenth.
6. They shall have free fishing and hunting and be allowed to trade subject to the privileges
of New-Netlierland.
7. They will be obliged to use the mcasui-es and weights of the coimtry.
Neto Yorh Historical Records.
9
Resolution to consteuct a Redoubt on Staten-Island.
Thursday, the IS"" September 16^1.
Wtereas a sliort time ago some of our people on Stateri-IsJ and have heen murdered by the
savages.
Therefore, to prevent further mishaps and to protect the people still living there, we have
judged it very advisable and proper to erect upon the said Island a smaU redoubt at as small an
expense as possible.
Declaration of Willia^i Feedeeicksen and others of what occureed at
Aemeperal during the Indian wae.
Before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary in JSl ew-J^etherland for the "W". I. Company,
appeared at the request of ToJAas Teunissen, the undernamed, who declared and attested in place
and under promise of an oath if needs be, that what follows is true :
William Fredericksen, 22 years old, Jan Backer . . years old, Gerritt Jansen, 23 years old
and Hendrick Jansen Caiffanger, . . years old, declared that when they came with the company
of soldiers to the Kil called Armepperahin, they marched across with the advance guard, but that
the Ensign halted with his men fully an hour and a half, notwithstanding that they called out
often enough, March on ! 'Tis time ! They marched on after the Ensign and his men had crossed
the Kil and coming to a certain thicket, Tobias Teimissen said to the Ensign and all the other
soldiers : " Men, remain here, I shall go up to the huts and return to you ; if not, go towards the
strand, I shall give you a signal ; then you can come up."
All of which the deponents declare to be thus in fact &c.
Done the T^ April 1642.
The mark
t
of WiLLEii Frederick. The mark
4-
of IIendeic Caeffangee
Jan Backer
The mark .A^ of GEERrr Jansen
To my knowledge
C . VAN Tienhoven, Seers'.
CouET Proceedings. Coenelis Meltn against Johannes Winkelman, agent
of Baron Nedeehoest, about certain eights on Staten-Island, June 26, 1642.
Cornells Melyn-^\S.. ag' Johannes 'Winkelman deft. The pLff. demands by virtue of a contract
made with the Lord of Nederhorst* at Amsterdam, that del', show his authority for coming last
winter to him on Staten-Island with his people and cattle, stating that he came to fulfill the con-
tract, a copy of which he had received ; and why he left again and established an other colony
behind the Col, without asking advice as bound to do by the contract.
The deft, answers, that he had come to this countiy by order and on behalf of Meyndert
Meyndertsen, whose servant he is and for whom he has established a colony behind the Col as
directed and by virtue of the patent granted to his master by the Lords-Directors and exhibited to
the Hon''"' Director here.
The parties are deferred, until further information has been received as to by whose orders
the defendant has come.
* Gerard van Reede, Lord of Nederhorst, etc. See Col. Hist. Vol. IT, p. 516.— Ed.
2
10 ■ Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Council Mlnute. Permission given to Me. Theockmoeten and his associates
to settle within 3 leagues feom the manhattans.
The 2'' October 1642.
AVhereas Mr. Throehnorten* with liis associates desires to settle under the jurisdiction of their
High : Might : the States with 35 families and to live in peace, provided they bo allowed to enjoy
the same privileges as other subjects and to freely exercise their religion,
Therefore after having read the said Mr. Throekmorten'' s petition and considered the desires
of the Hon"' Coinpany wc have seen, that the granting of the said request does not tend to the
disadvantage of this country, especially as the English are to establish themselves about 3 leagues
from us.
Resolution to assist aeeivikg settlees.
The 30'" of October 1642.
In Council among other matters the proposition of the Fiscal and its consequences were con-
sidered and it has been resolved, that it is necessary, to assist people coming over, for otherwise
the country would come to nought and the people would remain in a pitiable state. "We trust
that the Lords-Directors will be well pleased with this resolve, considering that the welfare of the
country depends on it and the Hon"'' Company shall sufEer no loss, except that the advanced
moneys will beai- no interest for a short time.
Resolution and oeder to attack the Indians behind Coelaer's Hook and
Pavonia (N. J.)
Whereas the good inhabitants here have been obliged to reside hitherto on their property
■with great fear and cultivate their land with anxiety through dread of the savages, who now and
then have murdered some of our people in a cowardly manner, without cause and whereas we can-
not with kindness, obtain any satisfaction for the bloodshed, therefore it is resolved, to take up the
arms and defend our just cause, that we may live here in peace, trusting that God will bless our
resolution, especially as the community itself on the 22'^ of February 1643 demanded to have the
same done.
Therefore we hereby authorize and empower Maryn Adriaensen at his request to make with
his men an expedition against the ])arty of savages encamped behind Curler's Hook** or plantation
and to act towards them, as they shall deem proper according to the circumstances. Done the
25"" of February 1643.
Sergeant Rodolff is hereby commanded and authorized to conduct and order this troop of
soldiers over to Pavonia, there to destroy all the Indians encamped behind Jan Euertwns, but to
spare the women and children as much as possible, endeavoring to capture the same. He will
* John Tbrockmorton, who hiid left JIassachusetts with Eoger "Williams and 35 others on account of religious
persecutions. Throgg's Neck derives its name from him. — Ed.
♦* On Manhattan Island. — Ed.
New YorTc Historical Records. 11
there be alile to judge of the situation, how he can attack them. Hans Steen goes with hira for
this purpose, as he knows wliere the camp of the savages is and lie shall consult with the said Hans
Steen and all the cadets. The expedition must be made during this night and caution is neces-
sary. May God grant you further success. The 25"" February 1G43.
Council Minxtte SEirmo forth the necessftt of the Resolution, to enlist a
NUMBER of Planters "in order to put a bit into the mouth of the
Heathens."
The 27"" of February.
Whereas the mischieviousness of the Heathens living here around us has reached such a
degree since 2 or 3 years, notwithstanding all the friendship and kindness shown them continually,
even more than could be done to Christians, taking them under our protection, when pursued by
their enemies and whereas their malice has steadily increased, so that after wantonly killing many
goats, hogs, cows and horses they have shed Christian blood and murdered at different tunes seven
innocent men, always pretending friendship towards us, in consequence of which none of our good
inhabitants here in the country can live in his house with any safety, much less work in his field,
and whereas we have made endeavors, to have the murderers delivered to us, which was only
knocking at a deaf man's door, while their insolence increased.
Therefore it had been unanimously resolved, to send last year a detachment of soldiers and
free men against these savages, to see whether by such means satisfaction for the blood could be ob-
tained. They missed the savages on account of the darkness of the night, nevertheless they were
frightened by it and asked for peace on condition of delivering the murderer of Class Rademaker
to us. This was agreed to, but nothing followed, on the contrary they continued in their wicked-
ness, shooting down in the Colony behind the Col one Gerrit van Vorst, who was sitting upon his
house roofing it and killing an Englishman, who was in their village, but they did not surrender
or punish the murderer in any way. They even imagined, we had come here to be their slaves.
Finally they have come in troops of 50 to 100 within half a league from the Fort here and oppo-
site to Pavonla, there being every reason to suspect them of intending a general massacre, as they
had indeed boasted and as it formerly did occur in Virginia and elsewhere. God would not suffer
such wickedness to go on for any length of time, he has awakened the community to justice and
the revenge of Christian blood. With this resolve some deputies in the name of all have submit-
ted a request, to be allowed to carry out the revenge, as God had evidently given them into our
hands. And although fearing to bring trouble over the land, we set before them the difficult
situation, especially of the houses far out in the country and inhabited by only few people, which
it would be necessary to abandon, as we have no forces to garrison them all with soldiers, and other
weighty reasons, they nevertheless made their request so urgently, saying " If we would not con-
sent, the blood would be on our heads," that we were compelled to give our consent and to assist
them with our soldiers, who on the one side have killed a good number, as the freemen on the
other. A party of savages, who escaped, have now made attacks upon our houses on all sides,
burned four of them with the ^cattle and killed about ten Christians, having further designs upon
the remainder, which we have promptly provided with our soldiers and sailors. This has partly
checked them and prevented many difficulties. But not having enough soldiers to garrison all
houses and considering the great danger, which threatens the country, it has been resolved to en-
12 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
ga^e for one or two months as many planters, as there are on hand here to save their land or put
a bit into the mouth of tlie Heathens, so that we may live in peace, especially as the planters all
desire to remove to the North not seeing any chance to plant here. "We have no doubt, that in
the meantime God's mercy shall help us to a peace, according to our wishes. Our population being
scattered here 10 leagues East and West and 7 leagues North and South, it was impossible to pro-
tect all these places, mostly in the forest, without having more soldiers than we have hitherto had.
Declaeation of Eobeet Pennoyek conceentng ait attempt on the life of
Die. Kieft made by Maeyn Adeiaensen.
Before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary of Wew-Netlierland, appeared Robert Pertr
noyer, 25 years old, who, at the request of Cornells van der Uoghins, Fiscal, certified, testified and
declared, as he hereby does, in place and with promise of a solemn oath if necessary and thereto
requested, that it is true, that on the 21'' of March, being Saturday, he heard Lishet Tysen say in
the tavern, (after having asked her twice, what ailed her) : " Robert, my husband will kill the
Commander, go and catch him." Thereupon he, the deponent, immediately set out; finding
Maryn Adriaensen in the Director's chamber, a loaded and cocked pistol in his hand, he, the de-
ponent, tore Maryn Adriaensen'' s sword from his side and threw it on the Director's bed. All of
which he, the deponent, declares to be true and truthful, stating that this is deposed by him to
bear testimony of the truth, to no person's injury or prejudice, as everyone is bound to do, when
requested.
• Done at Fort Amsterdam, the 22'' March A° 1613 in New-Netherl.and.
The deponent has this
day confirmed it under The mark +i of Robeet Pennoyee.
oath.
To my knowledge
CoENELis VAN TiENHOvEN, Secretary.
PaETICULAES of TWO ATTEMPTS MADE ON THE LIFE OF DiRECTOE KlEFT BY THE
LEADERS OF THE EXPEDITION AOAINST THE INDIANS.
Mai^jn Adriansen^* a resident of this place and formerly one of the freebooters and sailors
of Compaan having at different times behaved very insolently, as in endeavoring to force his
way on board of the Company's ship, when ships arrive, accosting the Director three times with
an imbearable arrogance and abusing his good will and affection for the community, it has at last
reached such a degree, that the said 3{aryn in the afternoon of the 21'' March 1613 came under
the pretext, that some of the people had called him " murderer " and had reproached him for Ijeing
the cause of the damages, now committed l)y the Indians in the country, because he M'ith some others
had signed the request for.pcrmission to have the Cliristian blood revenged, shed by the Indians
so cowardly and of which his Honor now disavowed the responsibility and shifted all on the
BignerH of the request, which was not true however. Leaving his house in a rage with a sword and
* Van tie Veere, first settled at Rensselacrswyck iri 1C31. — Ed.
Neto Yorh Historical Itecords. 1 3
a loaded and cocked pistol lie came to the house of the Director, and went to his bedroom. Point-
ing his pistol at the Director, to shoot him he said " What devilish lies have you been telling of
me? " Mons' LaMontmjne being at the time with the Director, caught the pan with such quick-
ness, that the cock snapped on his finger preventing thus through God's mercy, this atrocious design.
Meanwhile the Fiscal and several others had come into the chamber, who disarmed Maryn and
took him to prison. About an hour later Jacob Stangh, a servant of Maryn, and Jan Tlarmansen
from Lemmet, each armed with a musket and a pistol, came, to the Fort, where the Director was
walking up and down. He was informed of their coming and retreated to his house, which he
barely had entered, when Jacob Stangh fired at him, so that two bullets passed through the door
into the wall. The sentry before the door immediately fired at Jacob Stangh and killed him, God
having in his mercy saved a second time within an hour and a half the Director and tlie community
fi-om a dreadful murder. Shortly after this fearful event about 25 persons, residents of the Maiv-
Jiattans, among them some of Ifaryri's accomplices, appeared at the door of the Director ; advised
to delegate a few of their number, to present their petition, they sent four men to the Director
to ask pardon for the criminal, to which the answer was given, that the Director would be
satisfied, to leave the matter in the hands of the community, who should decide according
to their conscience ; they might choose some men for this purjjose (as may be seen by their
petition, marked No. — ). But instead of communicating with the community, numbering more
than 500 men, they showed it only to the 25 or 30 men, who immediately demanded the freedom
of the prisoner. This having been refused for good reasons, they elected eight men, of whom one
had been convicted of a crime, who without having been presented to the Council for confirma-
tion, promptly pronounced sentence, that the criminal should pay 500 fl and be set free on con-
dition of remaining away from the Manhattans for three months. "When they submitted this
sentence to lis, we represented to them, that it was impossible that they had judged with a clear
conscience, according to our answer, as they had acted without having heard the complaint of the
assaidted party, the motion of the Fiscal, the confession of the criminal, the depositions of witnesses
and other matters necessary in such proceedings ; that this case was of too great importance to be
figured out on the fingers (as the saying is). We admonished them to consider the matter more
deliberately and we would furnish them all the evidence. Instead however of correcting their
hasty action, they were satisfied with arguing some points in the Director's complaint, which were
explicit enough to be understood, and traversing the motion of the Fiscal, written by himself with
other disputes, as may be seen under No. — . We were at last compelled for tlie sake of maintain-
ing the respect due to Justice, as being the foundation of a republic, to take the case in our own
hands and to reinforce the Council, numbering only two members in criminal cases, by some promi-
nent men from the community, as we have always done in important cases. But we could find
nobody willing to assist us and in order to avoid the charge of being moved by passion, having
through God's mercy sufficient power to cany out a just sentence, we were compelled to send the
criminal with all the papers to Holland, to await there his trial, I mean sentence, as the Courts may
decide. Done in Council at Fort Amsterdam, the 28"' of March A" 1643.
(See N. Y. Col. Hist. Vol. I, pp. 194, et scq.>
14 Colonial Settlements on the HndHon Hiver.
Peace made between the Ddtch and the Indians on the lower Hudson.
The 22" of April 1G43.
Between William Kieft, Director-General and the Council of Neio-Netherland of the one side,
and Oratamin, Sachem of the savages living at Achkinkes hacky* who declared himself commis-
sioned by the savages of Tappaen, Bechgawawanc, Kichtawanc\ and Sintsinck, of the other side
a firm peace was concluded to-day in the following terms :
All injuries done by the aforesaid tribes to the Dutch or by the Dutch to them shall hence-
forth be forever forgotten and forgiven.
They promise mutually not to molest each other any more in the future, but if the Indians
learn, that any tribe not mentioned now, had evil intentions upon the Christians, they will faith-
full}' forewarn them and not admit such within their limits.
For the confirmation and ratification of this treaty presents were mutually given.
We pray God, that this peace may be kept unbroken by the savages.
Declaration respeotino the circumstances, ufrDER which Dirck Straatemaker
AND HIS WIFE WERE KILLED BT THE InDIAI^S AT PaVONIA.
"We, the undersigned Sergeant, Cadet and soldiers, declare and testify at the request of the
Fiscal Coriielis van Hoykens, that on the of February ] 643 (in the morning after having
attacked according to orders a party of savages behind Egbert Woutersen''s) DircJc Straatemaker,
his wife and some Englishmen came to the place, where the dead were lying, to steal corn or some-
thing else. We declare with promise to confirm our statement by a solemn oath, that we have
warned the said Straatemaker and his wife and said to tliem " Go to j'our house," whereupon the
said Dirck answered " We are not in danger ; even if there were one hundred savages, they would
do me no harm." The witnesses then moved awa}', going according to their instructions to EgherHs
house. Arrived there they heard cries and the Sergeant ordered some soldiers to go there, who
found the said Dirck wounded (he finally died of his wounds) and his wife dead. They rescued
the Englishmen, who had only one gun among them.
Thomas WillettX declares, that the said Dirck was asked " Why did you not come with us
when we warned you " and that he answered " I miglit have escaped, but I would not leave my
poor wife."
All of which the witnesses declare to be true. Done the IS"" of May 1643 in Kew-Nethcr-
land.
This is the mark ^P of
^
Tuo. WiLLETT JuRiAEN EoDOLFF, Sergeant.
Pierre Pia
Cadet.
* Haokensack, N. J. t Sleepy Hollow. \ See Vol. XII, p. 94 n. —
jSfew Yorh Historical Jiecords. 15
Extract from a Letter of Arent van Corlaer (Curler), Director of the
Colony of Rensselaeeswyck, to the Patroon in Holland, June 16"' 1643.
(From the Van Rensselaer Papers.)
******
I have been in the Maquas country last year with Lcibatie* and Jacob Jansen of Am-sterdain,
■where three Frenchmen are kept as prisoners ; among them a Jesuit,! ^ "^ery learned man, whom
they had treated very badly by cutting off his fingers and thumbs. I brought presents there and
asked, that we should live as good neighbors and that they should do no harm to either the colon-
ists or their cattle, to all of which the savages of all the three castles gratefully agreed. We were
entertained there very well and very kindly. We had to wait before each castle for about a
quarter of an hour, that the savages could make ready and receive us with many salute-shots from
their muskets. They were extremely glad, that I had come there. Some men were immediately
ordered to go out hunting and they brought home very fine turkeys. After thoroughly examin-
ing their castle, I called together all the chiefs of the three castles and advised them to release the
French prisoners, but without success, for they refused it in a fine speech, saying " We shall show
you every kindness in our power, but on this subject you must be silent. Besides you know well,
how they treat our people, when they fall into their hands." Had we reached there tliree or four
days later, they would have been burnt. I offered them as ransom for the Frenchmen about
600 fl in goods, to which all the Colony was to contribute, but they would not accept them. We
induced them however to promise not to kill them, but to carry them back to their country. The
Frenchmen ran screaming after us and besought us to do all in our power for their delivery from
the barbarians. But there was no chance for it. On my return, they gave me an escort of 10 or
12 armed men, who conducted us home. Within half a day's journey from the Colony lies the
most beautiful land on the Mohawk river, that eye ever saw ; full a day's journey long and mostly
contiguous the one to the other. But it is impossible to reach there in a boat on account of the
strong current and at the same time because of its shallowness ; but I think it could be reached by
wagons. Two of these Frenchmen, of whom the Jesuit was one, were at my house last May.
They expressed their hope that means could be found to procure their release. As soon as the
Indians return from hunting, I shall endeavor to obtain their freedom.
Patent to John Throckmorton for Land at Vreland (Throgmoeton's Neck,
Westchester Co.)
We, William Kieft, Director General and the Council of New-Neiherland etc etc,
Testify and declare herewith, that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Jan Trockmorton a parcel of land, (which is a part of Yreland) stretching along the East river of
New-N etherland for one half of a league beginning at the Point and bounded on one side by a
small river and on the other by a great Kil, which river and kil run together at high-water sur-
* Jean Labadie (Labbadie, Lebatie), carpenter, a native of France, whence he emigrated to N. N. previous to
1634, was subsequently Commissary under the Patroon and still later under the Company at Fort Orange. He
acted on many occasions as Indian interpreter. — Ed.
t See Appendix A.
16 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
rounding the aforesaid parcel of land, as is shown by the map thereof, made and deposited by the
surveyor, under tlie express condition and stipulation, that he, Jan Troclcmorton or his successors,
shall acknowledge as his Masters and Patroons the Noble Lords-Directors of the Privileged West-
India Company under the sovereignty of Their High : Might : the States-General and obey tlieir
Dh-ector and Council, as is the duty of a good inhabitant, provided also, that the said Jan Trock-
morton and his company submit to all burdens and taxes, which have been or may hereafter be
imposed by the Lords-Directors. It is further expressly stipulated, that the said Jan Trochinorton
shall according to his promise settle as many families upon the said land as may conveniently be
done, And we constitute the said Jan Ti-ocJcmorton and his company etc etc.
Done at Fort Amsterdam, July 6, 1643.
COTTNCIL MiNTTTE. REQUEST OF THE ElGHT MeN, THAT JA2J DAirEN BE EXPELLED
from theik boaed. resolution to eenew the war against the hostile
Indians, those of Long-Island excepted.
The 15'" of September 1643.
Before the Council came Jochim Piter sen* Barent Dirchsen, Abraham Pitersen, Isaac Aller-
ton,\ Thcmias Hale,\ Gerrit Woljyhertsen^ and Cornelis Melyn, chosen by the community, who
requested that Jan Dam,en, who had been elected with them by the inhabitants, should remain
away from their meetings, because Jan Damen had signed a certain request in the name of the
community.!
Jan Damen protests against the aforesaid persons.
In Council, the aforesaid seven persons each casting his vote, it is resolved, to commence war
against the savages, who are hostile to us, either by force or by stratagem, leaving the Long-Island
savages in peace, as long as thej^ commit no acts of hostility.
It was also resolved, if any of the Long-Island savages could be persuaded, to secure the heads
of the murderers, to employ them for that work.
The Select Men consent, that as many men should be engaged from among the free people
as possible.
These men are to report every Saturday afternoon, to consult on necessary measures ; if five
are present, their resolutions or enactments shall be valid.
DeCLAEATION of some soldiers RESPECTING THE ATTACK ON THE CoLONT " BEHIND
THE Col " (Newark Bat) by the Indians.
Before me, Cornells van Tienhoven, Secretary in New-Netherland for the Priv. W. I. Com-
pany, appeared Jan Warrensen, 20 years old, and Hans Nelisen, 30 years old, both soldiers in the
service of the said Company, who at the request of Mr. Johannes Winhelman and Cornelis Jansen
Coeleni attest, testify and declare in place and with promise of a solemn oath if needs be and thereto
requested, that it is true and truthful, that they, the affiants, were commanded by the Hon"'" Di-
*Kuyter. t See Col. Eist. Vol. XII, p. 160. J Hall, see Vol. I, p. 431. § Van Couwenhoven.
II Sec N. Y. Col. Hist. Vol. I, p. 103. IT The present family name is Cool.— Ed.
New Yorh Historical Records. 1 7
rector William Kieft to defend the Colony " behind the Ciy?," their strength being five soldiers ;
that a very fierce attack was made on the house by the savages in the night between the l?"" and
IS"' of September. We, the aiSants, numbering five soldiers, five boys and a man belonging in
the Colony defended ourselves, until the savages had fired the house, in which we were obliged to
defend ourselves, over our heads, then we had to leave the house on account of the heat and we
barely succeeded in saving om-selves in a canoe, bringing with us of all the property there only
our arms. All of which they declare to be true, offering to confirm it by their oath.
Done the 30"" October 1643 at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland.
9
This is the mark ^J of Jan "Waeeensen.
Hajss Nielissen.
In my presence
COENELIS VAN TiENHOVEN, Sccr''.
Eepoet OF Peter Cock and Roeloff Jansen Haes, that the Colony on the
Col has been destkoted bt the Indians, who still are swarming around
there and burn everything and slay everybody.
Before me, Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secretary of Wew-Netherland, appeared Pieter Cock,
30 years old and Itoeloff Jansen, 20 years old, well known to me, the Secretary, who at the request
of Cornells Jansen Coelen declare and testify, promising to confirm their attestation by a solemn
oath, if so required, that after the Colony behind the Col had been burnt by the savages, it was
impossible to go there by land or by water to examine the place and its condition, because of
the great number of savages, who burn and slay whatever they can lay hold of in the woods, on
the Kil or elsewhere. This the deponents declare to be correct and true etc.
Done the Z^ of November 1643 at Fort Amsterdam.
This r"^ Y is the mark of Pieter Kock.
Roeloff Jansen Haes.
In my presence
Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secr^.
Council Mintjte. Aeeival of Eiyer-Indians at Stamford, to sue for peace
WITH the Dutch.
"Whereas Mamarramack, Wapgaurin, chiefs of KichtawancTc, Mongochkonnome, Pajypena-
haroio of Wiquaeskeck"^ and Nochjpeem, together with the Wajypinck\ have come to Stamford ask-
ing Capt. Onderhil to apply to the Governor of New-Netherland for peace and have promised
now and forever not to do any harm to either people, cattle, houses or anything else within the
territory of Nexo-N eiherland, also that they will not come upon Manhatans Island, as long as
we Dutch are at war with others heathens, unless in one canoe as far as Fort Amsterdam, and
whereas they likewise promise to do their best in looking up Pacham,
* In Westchester County. f In Dutchess County.
3
18 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson B,voer.
Therefore we promise not to molest them, if the aforesaid chiefs and the people with them
observe the foregoing and they may cultivate then- lands in peace, as far as we are concerned. In
confirmation hereof, some of their prisoners are returned to them.
Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland this sixth of April (1644).
Aeticles of Peace concluded m peesence of the Mohawks between the Dutch
AND THE KiVEE-InDIANS.
To-day, the SO"" of August 1645, came to the Fort Amsterdam before the Director and
Council in presence of the whole community these Sachems or chiefs of the savages in their own
behalf and as attorneys for the neighboring chiefs, to wit Oratamy, chief of Achkinhehachy,
Sesekemu and Willem, chiefs of Tappaens and liechgawawanck, Pacham, Penneheck, having
been here yesterday and having given them power to act for him, who also answer for the men of
Onamy and their neighbors, Magauwetinnemin for the tribe of Marechhawieck, JVayeck* and
their neighbors, also personally Aej)jen,\ speaking for the Wapj/inck, Wiquaeskecks, Sintsings
and Kiclitawanghs.
1. They agree to and conclude a firm, inviolable peace with us, which they promise, as we
ourselves, to keep and never to break.
2. If it should happen, which God prevent, that any difficulty should arise between them and
us, no war shall be begun on that account, but the}' shall come to our Governor and we to their
Sachems with the complaint and if any one should have been killed or murdered, the slayer shall
be promptly brought to justice. A friendly intercourse shall be kept up between them and us.
3. They shall not come armed upon the Island of Manhatans to the houses of the Christians.
We will neither come with guns to them except in company of a savage, who may warn them.
4. "WTiereas there is still an English girl among them, whom they promised to bring to the
English at Stamford, they again promise to do so and if she is not brought there, they will bring
her here and we are to pay them the ransom, promised by the English.
"We promise to have the foregoing strictly observed throughout New-Netherland.
Thus done in the Fort under the blue canopy of heaven in presence of the Council of New-
Netherland and the whole community called together, also in presence of the Maquas ambassa-
dors, who have been asked to come to these negotiations of peace as mediators and Cornelis
Antonissen their interpreter and co-mediator in this matter. Date as above. The original was
signed by the marks of Sisiadego, Claes Norman, Oratamin, Aurange Sesekcnnis, Willem of
Tappaen and by William Kieft, La Montague, the mark of Jacob Stoffelscn, Jan Onderhil,
Francis Bouthey, Geo. Baxter, Richard Smith, Gyshert Opdyc, the mark of Aepjen, Sachem of
the Mahikandcrs, Jan Ever sen Bout, Oloff Stevenson, Cornelis van Hoyckens, the mark of
Cornelia Tonissen.
To my knowledge Cornelis van Tienhoven,
Secretary.
* On Long Island. t A chief of the Mohegans.
New York Historical Records. 19
Council MmuTE. Peoclamation to be issued okdeeing a Day of Thanksgiving
TO BE OBSEEVED ON ACCOUNT OF THE PeACE WITH THE InDIANS.
The 31" August (1645).
It has been resolved in Council, to issue a proclamation for a day of general thanksgiving,
which shall take place on the 6"" of September next in all the Dutch and English churches within
the limits of New-Netherlayid. The proclamation reads as follows :
As it has pleased the Almighty God in his infinite mercy and clemency in addition to many
previous blessings, to allow us to obtain the long desired peace with the savages, we have found it
necessary to announce it to all the people of New-Netherland, in order that in all places, where
Dutch and English churches are established, the Almighty God may be specially thanked, lauded
and blessed next "Wednesday, the G"' of September, the text taken to be appropriate and the
sermon applicable thereto. You will please to announce this matter to the congregation next
Sunday, that they may know it.
KeSOLUTION TO EXPLOEE A MINE IN THE RaEFTAN COUNTRY, ALSO TO EAI8E SOME CAN-
NONS SUNK IN THE EIVEB AT THE CoLONY " BEHIND THE CoL " BY THE InDIANS.
The 31»t of August (1645).
Having received from savages some specimens of mineral, which we think valuable, and being
informed by the savages, that the mountaiu, from which they had brought the specimens, is situ-
ate inland near the Haretang, we have considered it best, most advantageous and profitable for
the W. I. Company to use all diligence to discover the said mine and when found and it is valuable,
it is resolved to take possession thereof for the said Hon''"' Company and build a Fort there.
Whereas further in the Colony of Meijndert Meyndertsen van Keeren " behind the Col "
some ii'on work and ordnance has been sunk in the river by the savages, it is resolved to fish for
it, if possible and bring it to the Manhattans.
Patent geanted to Jacob Jacobsen Koy foe the Teact of Land called Con-
stable's Hook on the Kil van Col (New-Jeesey).
We, William Kieft, Director-General and the Council of Neio-Netherland etc etc.
Testify and declare herewith, that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Jacob Jacohsen Roy a parcel of land, called ConstapeVs Hooh, situate on the mainland and sepa-
rated from Statei\r Island by the Kil van Col., covering an area of one himdred and fifty morgens
according to the surveyor's map, with the express condition and stipulation etc, etc
Done at Fort Amsterdam, 164
20 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Patent to Thomas Cooenel of a Piece of Land on the Beonkx eiver ("Westchesteb Co.)
"We, William Kieft, Director-General and the Council of New-Netherland etc etc
Testify and declare herewith, that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Thomas Com-nel, a piece of land on the East river beginning at the Kil of Bronkx Land, running
E. S. E. along the river and stretching about half a Dutch mile from the river to a small kil
beyond the valley, running back of this land, with the express condition and stipulation etc etc
Done at Fort Amsterdam, the 26"" of June 16-i6.
Patent to Coenelis Antonissen van dee Slyck and Company foe the land of
TCatstctt,, on the eivee ]\lAUErrnjs.
"We, William Kieft, Director-General in New-Netherland for Their High: Might: the
Lords States-General of the United Netherlands, His Highness the Prinfee of Orange and the
Noble Lords-Directors of the Incorporated "West-India Company, to All, who shall see or hear
this. Greeting : "Whereas Cornells Antonissen of Breucklen appeared before ns and requested
permission for himself and companions to have and possess in free ownership the land of Katshil,
situate on the Mauritius river for the purpose of establishing a colony there with his companions,
which he promises to do subject to the Freedoms and Exemptions of New-Netherland ; Therefore,
considering the great service, done to this country by the aforesaid Cornelis Antonissen in helping
to establish peace and to ransom the captives, also that such notable services should not remain
without reward, we, the Director and Council, have conceded and granted to the said Cornelis
Antonissen the aforesaid land of the Katskil, to establish there a colony within the prescribed
time subject to the orders already made or to be made in I'egard to it by our Noble Masters.
Therefore we cede and convey, in our aforesaid quality, the said land to the said Cornelis
Antonissen as real, free and perpetuous possession, giving him full power, authority and direct
charge, to enter upon, cultivate, inhabit and use the said land in the same manner, as he would
do with his own inherited land and goods, without that we, the conveyors in our aforesaid quality,
shall have, keep or reserve the least part, interest or authority in or over it, but desisting for the
behalf as aforesaid from evei-y thing now and forever, promising also to hold this conveyance as
firmly binding, inviolable and irrevocable, to fulfill and execute it, as bound by existing laws,
without deceit or falsehood. We have signed it and confirmed it by appending our seal impressed
in red wax. Actum Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 22'' of August in the Year of our
Lord and Saviour 164G. (Signed) Willera Kieft. (Below stood) By order of the Honorable
Director-General and Comieil of New-Netherland, Cornelis van Tienhoven, Secretary.
Neto Yorh Historical Recwds. 21
Extract from a letter of the Directors to Stutvesant: Peace wtth the
Indians established by Kieft ; iron mine on Staten-Island ; English trading
house near Fort Orange. (December 16-1:6 or early in 1647.)
* * * * * *
Glad to hear "We Were especially glad to learn, that not only peace lias been made ■with the
been made savagcs there, but also that it will probably be lasting and firm ; but as the bad dispo-
age3. sition of the said savages has before this shown them to be deceitful, we on our side
will have to keep always a watchful eye on them and their doings and therefore [every occasion to
re-open the war must be avoided and all damages prevented]. "We would have liked it, if the
conditions or articles of the said peace, (which we believe to have been made in writing) had been
sent over to us and expect them now at the return home of the former Director Kieft.
******
The specimens of New-Netherlamd minerals, sent over, have been examined, but, we are told,
no metal has been found in them ; we can nevertheless only deem it advisable, to order the con-
tinuation of the search for minerals by your Honor and wish to know, what kind of metal and
this from the innennost, that is the greatest depth, can be obtained ; we desire also a description
of the place, where it is found. "We expect also more information concerning the iron mine on
Staten- Island, while in the meantime we shall endeavor, as we are already doing, to find and
send over people, who understand how to try ores and to judge of their value.
* * * * * *
Tour Honor ought to gather further information about the English trading-house 10 leagues
from Fort Orange* also regarding the right, which the savages claim to have possessed in selling
the ground to the English, for it is within our jurisdiction and we must prevent their locating
there by all possible means, which your Honor does not consider too dangerous, so as not to become
involved into a war with the English. Their doings and an-angements must be carefully watched
in the meantime and invasions or trespasses by them as well as by others must be prevented
and hindered, if possible.
Patent to Claes Carstensen the Norman of a Piece of Land in New-Jersey,
FORMERLY GRANTED TO BarENT JaNSEN, DECEASED.
"We, WilUain Kieft, the Director-General and Council of N ew- N etherland etc, etc.
Testify and declare herewith, that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Claes Carstensen the Norman a piece of land, that formerly had been gi-anted to Barent Jansen,
deceased, situate on the West side of the North river next to Dirck the Streetpaver's land, stretch-
ing from a wood on the N. N. "W. along a small kil to the river on the S. S. E. along the valley
to the Paver's land, N. E. by E. of the Paver's kil, the wood N. N. W. all covering fifty morgens.
with the express condition etc etc.
Fort Amsterdam, the 25"' of March 1647.
* Van der Donck, in his " Vcrtoogh (Description)" alludes to this place as follows: " The English of New
Haven have a trading post on the east or south-cast side of Magdalen Island (a little below Redhook, Dutchess
county), not more than 6 Dutch miles from the North river. * * It is erected with no other view, than to
encroach on the whole trade on the river or destroy it altogether." The Governor of New Haven Colony denied
in a letter to Kieft, that his people had come nearer to the Hudson, than Paugassett river (now Derby, Conn.).
The above refers probably to Springfield settled by Massachusetts people about 1635. — Ed.
22 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Patent to Egbert "Wouteesen of a Piece of Land, called by the Indl^ns
ApOPCALYCK (CoMMtJNIPAW, N. J.)
"We, William Eleft, Director-General and the Council of New-N'etherland etc etc.
Testify and declare herewith that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Egbert Woutersen a piece of land, called by the Indians Apopcalyck situate on the other side of
the North river, West from the Manhatans and stretching along the river from Dirck the Paver's
kil to the Gemoenepaw or Jan Evertsen's kit, N. E. by E. and S. W. by W. to the kil, running
between the woods and the valley and reaching "W. N. W. to the woods, with the express con-
dition etc etc.
At Fort Amsterdam, the lO'" of May 16-i7.
Patent to Maryn Adeiaensen of a Piece of Land, called Awiehaken (Wee-
hawken, n. j.)
We, William Kieft, Director-General and the Council of Ifew-Netherland etc etc.
Testify and declare herewith^ that this day, date as below, we have conceded and granted to
Maryn Adriaensen a piece of land, called Awiehak^eii, situate on the West side of the North
river, bounded on the South by the Hohoken kil and running thence northward to the next kil
and towards the woods with the same breadth altogether fifty morgens of land, with the express
condition etc etc.
At Fort Amsterdain, the ll"* of May 1647.
Declaration of Commissary Boghaed and others eespectino an attack by
the Earitan Indians.
We, the undersigned, attest, testify and declare in place and with promise of a solemn oath if
necessary, that we, being in the Company's service in the year 16-40, were at the request of the
savages, called the Earitans, sent by the Hon"'" Director Eieft to trade. Arrived at the usual
trading place in the yacht " de Vreede " these Earitans in stead of sliowing the customary friend-
ship and trading with our people, began to scoff, brought on squirrels, offering to sell them to
Cars Eitersen and at the same time slapped his face with them. They came on board with a
quantity of martens, all were armed with axes, swords and other weapons ; we were therefore com-
pelled by the narrowness of the Kil to push lower down, where we run aground. The EaHtans^
all of them stout fellows, seeing this, followed in canoes, came over, lifted the kedge and running
alongside on each side of the yacht tried to tow us back to the aforesaid place, annoying us very
much, which put us on our guard and made us look to our arms. The Earitans wanted to com-
pel us to bring them to the shore, but we refused and said " You have canoes, row yourselves
ashore in them." Finally seeing us on our guard, they dared not make any further attempt.
They carried off our canoe against our will and we could not recover it, there being too many
present. Then and at the right moment God sent a violent storm of wind, thunder and hailstones,
whereby we got away, which, although the Kil is very narrow, they could not prevent with their
New York Historical Records. 23
arrows coming from both sides. We, the affiants, at the request of the Ilon'''^ William Kief I,
attest tliis to be true, offering to contu-m it under oath. Fort Amsterdam in New-Neiherlamd, this
IT"" July 1647.
In my presence • Haeman M. Boghakde, Commissary
CoK. VAN TiENHOVEN HaKMAN DoWNER
The mark *J "^ of Goes Piteesen, made by himself.
Extract from a letter of Director Stdtvesant to Governor Winthrop at
Boston : vindicates himself against the accusations of having tried to
iNcrrE the Mohawks against the English. (S"" of April 1648.)
******
I am on myne owne pte trulie griued that my reall intentions of mutuall amitie and good will
are for present (by tlieire misconstruing my actions and some unkinde passages) in parte obstructed
and being likewise wounded in my reputation in a high degree by theyre scandalous reportes raised
and Credit given to them of my indeauours to raise the Mohocke Indians against the English
there, it being soe farre from the rules and principles of Christianitie and Charitie, soe much as to
haue a thought thereof, much more to put in practise such a diuihsh and wicked deuice ; but
according to my bownden duty to God and my neighbour, att my being att our fort of Aurania*
I reallie indeauoured to establish a firme peace, not only betwixt the Mohocks and all the Indians
there & us here (but likewise as I then declared myselfe to them) betwixt them and my brethi'en
the English and Ffrench, w"" was for present well accepted of them.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Director Stutvesant :
A LENIENT POLICr TOWARDS THE InDIANS IS RECOMMENDED. 7"" April 1648.
******
We shall first reply to your Honor's report on the condition of our territory there, in which
you complain that the soldiers are very disorderly and without discipline. It looks as if the slack-
ness of the late Director and the neglect of duty by the preacher have been the cause of it and
we expect your Honor will redress it, even as a tree, which has been growing some time and has
run wild, must be pruned with great care and bent with a tender hand, to be brought into a good
shape ; it is especially said of the native inhabitants of these territories, that they must be governed
with kindness and the former wars incline us to believe it ; we would have preferred to avoid
these wars, for we notice, that the savages have thereby come to a knowledge of their strength and
they are consequently very anxious to provide themselves with guns, powder and lead ; they ask
for them to be used for hunting purposes, but we presume that is only a pretext. We remark how-
ever, that they are so bent upon it, that we must apprehend, they would rather begin a new war
* Fort Orange (Albany).
24 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
against ns, than to be entirely deprived of it and considering, that under our present circiunstanees
a war would be utterly unadvisable, we would think it best to provide these people, but sparingly,
we mean by the Company's officers, without giving such a permission to any private parties.
Indian Deed fok Westchester County, Easteen Half.
This day, date as below, appeared before the Hon*'^ Director-General and Council Megtegich-
hama, Oteijochjue and Wegtakaohkey, lawful owners of the lands lying on the East side of the
North river of New-Netherland, called Wiequaeskech stretching in breadth through a wood to a
kil called Seweyruc,^ dividing it at the East river by a North and South line from Greenwich on a
kil called KecKkawes.\ This land between the two kils runs to the middle of the woods between
the North and East rivers, so that the westerly half remains to the abovesaid proprietoi's and the
other easterly half is divided from it by a line drawn North and South through the centre of the
wood. The aforesaid owners acknowledge in the presence of the chief Seijseychhhnus and all
their other friends and blood relations to have sold the said parcel of land to the Noble Petrus
Stuyvesant, Directoi'-General of Ifew-Ifetheriand, in consideration of a certain lot of merchandise,
which they acknowledge to have received and accepted before the passing of this act, namely 6
fathoms of duffels, 6 strings of wampum, 6 kettles, 6 axes, 6 addices, 10 knives, some iron, corals,
one gun, 2 staves of lead, 2 lbs of powder, 1 coat of duffels.
Therefore the aforesaid owners of the said land transfer, cede and convey it to the said
Director-General and his successors as a true and lawful property, renouncing for themselves and
their descendants now and forever all claims thereupon and resigning herewith all rights and juris-
diction, delivering it to the said Ilon'''^ General and his successors, who may do with it as they
please, without being molested by them, the sellers or any one of them. It is further agreed, that
the "Western half may be bought for the same amount as above, when the Director-General desires
to pay for it, and they, the sellers, promise to sell the part still in their possession on the North
river for that price and not to sell to anybody without informing the Director-General. They
further promise to maintain and uphold this contract firmly and inviolably and sign it in presence
of their chief the 14"' of July 1649 at New-Amsterdam in Nnc-Netherland.
This is the mai-k '>L|>. |l of Megtegickhama
This is the mark ^^^^
of Pomi>AiiAN. This is the mark (X\6/i. of Wegtakachkey
This is the mark /*-''-^l,/*i»<_ made by the chief
Seoseychkimus as witness.
* Byrams river. f Maharnes river, Conn.
New Yorh Historical Records. 25
Propositions made by the Chiefs of the savages living in the neighborhood of
THE Manhattans, namely Seysegechkemus, Oratamin, Willem of Tappaen and
Pennekes from "behind the Col" hst the Council chamber at Fort Amster-
dam in presence of D? Johannes Megapolensis, minister of Hensselaerswyck,
Arent van Curler and Johannes van Twiller.
1.
Ptmneliccl:, the Cliief " behind the Col " made a speech in the Indian tongue, "which was
translated and said, the Southern Minquas had asked them to live in friendship with the
Dutch, whicli they were willing to do and for that purpose they had brought a present to the
Hou"'^ Director.
2. An Indian of Mechgachlcamic had involuntarily or unknowingly lately done mischief at
Paulus Hook, which they requested us to excuse.
3. Pennekeck said the tribe called JRaritanoos, formerly living at Wiquaeskeck had no chief,
therefore he spoke for them, who would also like to be our friends and sent through him their
greetings to the Hon'"'^ General. Throws 3 beavers to the ground as a present.
i Meijterma, the Chief of Neyick, was included with his people into this agreement and
would be, like them, our friends. They throw 3 beavers down.
5. He speaks for the tribe of Remahenonc as for the above with a like present.
6. Pennekeck threw down 2 beavers declaring in the name of all, that their heart was sincere
and that they desire to live in friendship with us, forgetting on either side, what was past.
T. Pennekeck said : " I wish you could see my heart, then you would be sure, that my words
are sincere and true." He threw down two beavers, saying That is my confirmation.
8. The Hon*'* Director had in former times desired to speak with them ; it was done now and
they had shown their good intentions ; they are now waiting to see, what he would do, laying
down two beavers.
9. Pennekeck said, although the Hon*'" General could not understand them, they did not
doubt his good intentions.
10. In conclusion Pennekeck said : It is the wish of the Minquas, that we and 3'ou should be
and remain friends, we are ready for it.
The Hon"'* Director-General first expressed his thanks to the chiefs, that they had come to
visit him with offers of neighborly friendship, and he then told them that he was pleased to hear
such a request. He promised, that nothing whatever should be wanting on our part and that he
was willing to live with them in mutual friendship and intercourse. No cause for complamts
should be given and if somebody injured them, they should themselves report it to the Director,
in order that they should receive justice in accordance with the case. In token of his good will
he accepted their presents on the foregoing propositions with thanks and in due time he would
return the compliment.
A small present worth about 20 guilders was then given to the common savages and some
tobacco and a gun to the chief Oratamin, and so the savages departed well pleased.
(July 19'" 1649.)
26 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Lease of Land on the Katskil by Brant van Slechtenhoest to Jan Diecksen.
This day, the 14"" day of January, Anno 1650, Jan Dircksen from Bremen has leased and
rented from Director Brant van Shohtenhorst* and the Commissaries, the old maizeland on the
north side of KatsMl, to wit the tract of land, where the squaw, who is chief of Katskil resides,
for the term of six yeai's on the following conditions :
******
The lessee further engages to read on every Lord's or other Holiday for his Christian neigh-
bors the holy Gospel or a sermon out of a homily, if it can he procm-ed and to sing one or more
psalms before and after the Christian prayers according to the custom of the Reformed Chm-ch.
Indian deed foe Schodack.
(From the Van Rensselaer Papers.)
1650 March IS"". I the undersigned Vanemenheeten acknowledge to liave sold to Jacob
Jansen a piece of land on the large Island, also called by the Dutch Aepjes (little Ape's) Island,
with a small piece on the east side of a little kil, for which I have asked 4^ pieces of cloth, two
handfuls of powder, one axe and 2f more.
Signed f O, ~T/\\^ this is the mark of
Wanemenheeten.
Agrees with the Original in the Colony of Eensselaerswyek, May 14, 1664.
D. van Schellutne.
■, Extract feom a lettee of the Dikectors to Petrus Stuyvesant: the geajstt
OF THE CaTSKIL LANDS, 16 FeBR 1650.
******
Formerly* the name of New-NetJierland was seldom mentioned and now heaven and earth
are, as it seems, moved by it and every one wishes to be the first to select the best part of it.
Wouier van Ttoiller appears to have tried to prevent this and has therefore provided himself with
more allotments, than he ever intended to cultivate or populate ; he has had even the impudence,
to enter upon land, which had been granted by letters patent to others, for instance the Catskil,
which was covered by the patent issued to Cornelis Antony van der Slijck : we are wondering
therefore, that this man, who has a good claim to it, has not objected before now and he must be
maintained in it. We deem it however best, that possession should be given to neither.
******
* Director of Van Rensselaer's Colony since Nov. 10, 1646.
t Before Cornelis Mclyn, Wouter van TwUler and others had begun then- intrigues against Stuyvesant and the
W. I. Company. — Ed.
Neio Yorh Historical Records. 27
Extract from a letter of the same to the same: fears are entertained,
THAT A WAR BETWEEN THE EnGUSH AND THE WapPING InDIANS MIGHT BE FATAL
TO THE North river Colonies, lo'* April 1650.
******
We look with anxiety uj)on the resolution of the English to begin a war with the savages,
ualled Wap2)in<js, for if these are driven out of their country, the former would, by occupying
the conquered land, have a good opportunity to separate Hensselaerswyck from us and would then
also become masters of the whole North river and with it of the fur trade.* There are already a
number of competitors here for that trade ; Wouter van Twiller and his companions especially
pretend, that they alone ought to have the monopoly of it. As the Company has so far reserved
to themselves the right to exclude all others for all times from this trade, we would do it now, if
we only could think of the proper means.
Extract from a letter of the Directors to Petrus Stutvesant : land grants
ON the E.ARITAN, KlL VAN CoL, CaTSKIL ; FREE NAVIGATION OF THE NoRTH RIVER I
Baron van der Capelle's colony ; Mohawks invade Canada. Sl'^' March 1651.
******
We observe that many people do not scruple, to take possession of all the best land there,
without formality and without determination by survey, as if the Company and its officers had
nothing to say about it and had been robbed or dejirived of their prerogatives ; we have there-
fore thought it necessary to direct your Honor herewith, not to grant land to any one without his
acknowledging properly the authority of the W. I. Company and your Honor will especially take
care that henceforth not more land is granted to people, than what in your opinion after a thorough
examination of their means they will be able and intend shortly to populate, cultivate and bring
into a good state of tillage. Several instances prove, that by non-observance of these rules many
pieces are now claimed as property of many years' standing, although very few improvements
in regard to settling, cultivating, tilling or planting have been made. Thus we see it in Cornells
Melyn's, Wouter vaji Twiller'' s and others' cases ; Melyn owning an island of 7 or 8 leagues'
length,f of which only eight raorgens of land are under plough. And Wouter van Twiller is
not only not satisfied with adding Ilellgate\ to Nooten Idand,% but he endeavors also to get pos-
session and make himself master of the C'atskil, in addition to which he has stretched out his
hand for tlie two flats on Long-Island, one called Twyler''s and the other Corler''s flat, containing
together 1600 to 2000 raorgens.
Wolfert Gerritsen\ and Andries Hudde have done the same ; they took possession of about
1800 morgens on the same island, while they cannot settle the fiftieth part of it : this is quite
against our intentions, for many valuable pieces of land might be claimed as property (with great
prerogatives) in such manner and the land itself would remain unpeopled. We direct your Honor
* The importance of the North river fur trade is shown by an entry in Vol. A. Mortgages in County Clerk's
Office, AHjany, which tells us, tliat 40940 beaver and otter skins were shipped from Albany in the time from
the 20th June to 27th September 1657.— Ed.
t Staten-Island, granted to Melyn in 1642. — Ed.
\ Two Islands in Hellgate were patented to W. v. Tw. in July 1637. § N. 1 Governors I. patented June, 1637.
II Van Couwenhoven.
28 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
therefore expressly not to allow or grant any more land to anybody, except under the conditions
stated above, and to keep Long-Islmul, (which we believe to be the most important and best piece)
for the Company, to divide it upon occasion for the accommodation of farmers and planters, mitil
a rule shall be made, as to how much land shall be surveyed for each colonist.
AVe are astonished beyond measure to hear, that your Deputy, DincMage, has made common
cause with these invaders, especially with Oovert Lockermans or others, who have bought much
land from the Raritans on the Kil opposite Staten- Island, without considering in whose name
they are to get a conveyance from their High: Might :, without knowledge of the Company;
we cannot believe it and intend to resist it with all proper means, as far as we are concerned.
******
Brant van Slechtenhorsf s remonstrances receive no more consideration from us, than to notify
us in regard to the taking possession of the Katshil., which had been conveyed to others long
before he took possession of it and we liave so far not been able to discover, by what right he or
his principals lay claim to this property, for they have never asked the Company for it in proper
form.
******
'T is true, that the Notary Jan van de Yenne has made several applications to have a large
tract of land, which your Honor thinks might be granted to him without any great prejudice to
our interests : we would hke to consent to his request, if he only would desist from his extravagant
demand of highest and lowest jurisdiction, which we deem inconvenient and are still resolved to
keep for the Company by all proper means ; but we ai'e willing to grant to everybody as much
land, as he sliall need. Many people are again going over in the ships now ready to sail, who
intend to settle there and you nuist accommodate each according to his position and the number
of souls with him, consulting your own discretion and the requirements of their families, for it
is our aim to promote the increase of population there by all means. You will also accommo-
date the Honorable Ilendrick van der Capelle* with favorably located lands, as far as he is in-
clined to take possession of and cidtivate and people any land there, which he seems to intend
judging from his letters : for we desire very much, that so wealthy people might take a fancy
to these lands.
******
We were very sorry to hear, that the 3Laqi(aes savages had invaded the territory of the
French in Canada and captured 8 or 9 Christians, for whom they are said to have demanded a large
ransom or they would cruelly torture them, which excited your Honor's compassion. That is the
duty of all Christians, but every one is bound to care for himself and his own people ; yonr Honor
cannot be ignorant, that some time ago men of this nation ha\e been ransomed at the expense of
the Company and by the contributions of the community, for which we have never been repaid ;
so that we think, that when the complaints reach France, they will take care of their own
comitrynien.
* Sec N. Y. Col. Hist. Vol. II, p. 517 note.
Js'etv Yoi'h Historical Meconh. 29
Entry by Coenelis vak Werckiioven at the Chamber of Amsterdam for
TWO colonies, one at the Nevesing and the other at Tappan and grant
OF THE ABOVE CoLONIES.
To-day, the 7"" of November of the Year One Thousand Six Hundred & Fifty-One appeared
at the oftice of the West-India Company at Amsterdajn the Honorable Cornells van Wercl'hi)ven,
Councillor of the Municipality and Ex-Schepen of the City of Utrecht, who declared himself
Patroon of two colonies, which he intends to establish in JVe^o-JVetherland, one beginning at the
Nevesinck and stretching northward to near the colony of the Lord of Ned^rhorst, the other
beginning at Taj>pan and stretching northward through the Il'tgJdands, both subject to the con-
ditions and conform to the rules, lately made by the Company and delivered to their High : Might :
for approval, or such other privileges and exemtions, as may be granted hereafter by the aforesaid
Company with the knowledge of their High : Might : . The aforesaid Honorable van WercA'hoven
promised to act in everything properly and for the service of the Company, while his Honor re-
ceives on the part of the Company a promise of every help, favor and assistance possible, in wit-
ness whereof this record has been made on the day and in the year as above.
The Directors of the Incorporated West-India Company, Department of Amsterdam, to All,
who shall see this or hear it read, Greeting !
Know ye, that they have consented and authorised, as they herewith consent and authorise
his Honor Cornelia van Werckiioven, Councillor of the Municipality and Ex-Schepen of the City
of Utrecht, that he may, as Patroon, establish a Colony in Neyo-Netherla,nd, beginning at the
^evesinch and stretching northward to near the Colony of the Lord of Nederlwrst, all subject
to the conditions and conform to the rules, lately made by the Company and submitted to their
High : Might : the Lords-States-General for approval, or all such other privileges and exemtions,
as may hereafter be granted by the said Company with the knowledge and approval of their
High : Might : . They order, charge and request therefore every one, whom this may in any way
concern, not to hinder his said Honor, Cornells van Werckhoven, herein, but to help, favor and
assist him, when necessary, whereas thus it has been decided to be for the benefit of the Company.
Thus done at the meeting in Amsterdam, the T"" November 1651.
The same for a Colony beginning at Tappan, near the Colony of van Nederhorst and stretch-
ing northward through the Highlands.
Extract from a representation made by the Directors of the Amsterdam
Department of the W. I. Company to the Bdrgomasters and Regents of
Amsterdam: on the situation of New-Netiierland regabdino Indian affairs,
VAN DmCKLAOE AND MeLYN.
Tb the Noble, Very Worshipful, Their Honors the Burgomasters and Regents of the
City oi Amsterdam.
Show with due reverence the Directors of the Incorporated West-India Company, Department
of Am^stcrdam, that the country, called uVew-jVetharldnd, has by God's blessing greatly increased
in population, cultivation and trade during the last short period and that it will apparently con-
30 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River,
tinue so on account of its suitableness, to wliich the Directors contribute all their efforts in making
proper arrangements for the progress of agriculture and trade, as well as for the government and
peace of its inhabitants. Several matters have been met with herein, which we are at a loss to
decide or issue orders about without the wise counsel of your "Worships : namely the following
points :
The communities of both the Neiherlanders and the English in the jurisdiction of the Com
pany complain in all their letters of the insolence of the savages, who since a year or a year and a
half have murdered several people, carried away some children and stolen many animals, all under
the pretext, that we are forbidden to oppose them, as they claim to have been informed by the
bearers of the complaints from New-Netherland, who were here last year ; that the gentlemen of
the Supreme Government here had expressly commanded not to begin a strife with them under
any consideration, as it had been done formerly, when these barbarians were brought to reason
and quieted and compelled by the troops of the Comjiany to make peace, which they now -saolate
as stated above.
The English of the Province of New-England have felt the same inconveniences as our in-
habitants and have proposed, to form an alliance with our Director, in form of a guarranteed
league {ligue garantie\ to assist each other in times of need or trouble. As they are much stronger
in numbers of soldiers, than our subjects, they offer to bring into the field two men for one of
ours, provided that they shall also have a double voice in judging the legality or illegality of and re-
solving upon aggressive war.
The Deputies of their High : Might : have provided last year all the indecent complainants,
who came here from New-Netherland, with safe-conducts upon their return : these men mean now,
under this pretext, to do all kind of mischief by inciting some evil-minded persons against the Di-
rectors and officers of the Company.
The Vice-Director, Luhhert van DtncMagen, patronises these quarrelsome fellows as much as
possible and the Directors have therefore found it advisable, to summon him home by the last ships,
to answer for his conduct ; but before our letters had reached there, he had retreated to Staten-
Island and joined one Cornells 3Ielyn, who is the most principal author of the factiousness and
mutinies They have established a government to their own liking on this island,
also a court, but we prefer to keep silent, instead of saying, under whose direction and authority.
* * * * * * ,
Submitted 13'" February 1652.
Extract from the answer to the foregoing.
The 15"" February 1652.
The Committee of the Council, appointed to examine the remonstrance of the Directors of
the West-India Company, by which they ask for the decision and advice of this Worshipful, Hon-
orable Council, as to how they shall act in certain difficult matters, M'hich they complain to have
cnconntered in the management of JVcw-Wetherlafid, have resolved, after tlie said Directors have
given an explanation of their remarks, to advise as follows, first
That the ofiicers of the Company in New-NetKcrland shall be allowed, to resist witli all
proper force and means the violence and invasion of the savages, who, as they complain, have for.
JSfew Yo}'lc Historical Records. 31
some time past killed several of their subjects, carried away children and stolen many animals and
they have further permission, to establish and conclude for this purpose a ligue garantie in such a
manner, as they niay judge to be best for their safety and reputation.
Le'ITEE from CoENELIS van "WeECKHOVEN to ? ENTEKING A CAVEAT AGAINST THE
GEANT OF THE KaEITAN COUNTRY TO BaKON VAN DEE CaPELLEN.
Copy.
Sir.
Arriving at Utrecht from G^ielderland I received a letter from Z. van Seventer, chief-clerk
of the West-India Company, dated the ll"" of March, and with it an extract from a letter written
by Baron Ilendrich van der Capelle to your Worship and the Honorable Edward May, which
said that his Noble Ilonor asserted to have bought the Raritan from the natives of the country,
(while this place has been granted and surrendered by your Hon*'" Worships to me as a colony).
I request therefore to be informed whether I am to look out for another colony.
But I cannot omit to address myself to your Worship in regard to it and to request with great
respect, that I may be sustained in the privileges of a colony, which has been granted to me,
since no previous purchase has taken place and only the priority of grant is claimed and even if it
were the case, which it is not, that a previous purchase had been made, his Noble Honor would
not be able to maintain his claim, for his Noble Honor himself declares, that he has given di-
rections to buy the Raritan and believes or thinks, that it is already purchased. This is not cer-
tain, while on the other side I have given directions two years ago, to buy that district for me and
have also received letters and information from there, which I will show to your Noble Worship,
that the same has been purchased for me from and paid for to the lawful owners and natives of
the country, as I stated to your Worships in my reqiiest for the grant, and I cannot believe, that,
even though they are savages, they will sell a piece of property twice, but rather think, that some
persons have made his Noble Honor believe, that tliis was a good piece of land, most convenient
for his purposes, and have therefore acted in this manner to oust me. But I trust, that the Very
Worshipful Lords-Directors will uphold me iu the grant given by them, in which your Worship
will please to support my interest, to have my privileges contirmed, for I shall not cede nor sur-
render my claim to Baron van der Capelle. His Noble Honor has himself written to me, to
which I answered as your Worship may see by the enclosure. Commending your Worship with
my very dutifid respects to the protection of the Almighty I remain, as ever.
Sir,
Utrecht, J/- March. Your Worship's obedient servant
[COENELIS VAN WeECKHOVEN.]
Letter from Baron van der Capelle to Cornelis van Weeckhoven, infoem-
ING THE latter, THAT HE HAD PrECHASED THE BaEITAN COUNTRY.
Copy of a letter from Baron van der
Capelle to the Hon*"'" WercTch(yoen.
I learned from the Directors of the West-India Company, when I passed through Amsterdam
on the fl^ of this month, that your Honor had selected two colonies in the country of the Nevesinck
33 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
and Ear Hans savages, the native proprietors of tliat district, near Staten-Island ; as I have bought
from the same natives and proprietors some land near Staten-Island on the mainland a long time
ago, to add to the safety of that island, I informed the Lords-Directors thereof, as soon as I heard
tiie above and wish to communicate it also to your Honor, that no trespass may be committed on
my territory, bought from and paid for to tlie lawful proprietors.
I know, that your Honor will not do anything to my prejudice, for the sake of our long and
intimate friendship, and therefore trust, that your Honor will, upon receipt of this information,
select two other colonies not on the land, bought by me, but at another place, for the extent of
New-NetKerland is very great and just as good soil may be found at other places, as in the afore-
said Nevesinck or Maritans coimtry near Staten-Island.
Therefore our correspondence about this matter ought to contribute to a better and more
useful promotion of the colonies, which we both intend to establish, and to the advancement of the
cultivation of the soil and population of the country for the benefit of the Company and the service
of our common country : I expect for these reasons a definitive answer and advice, whether your
Honor will undertake the journey in the spring notwithstanding the present warlike preparations
and reprisals of the English Republic.
(Signed)
Henk. van der Capelle toe Rtssel.
COKNELIS VAN WeeCKHOVEn's ANSWER TO THE FOREGOmG.
Copy of the answer of the Honorable Wcrch-
hoven to Baron van der Caj)elle.
I have to state in answer to yoiir Noble Honor's letter, dated at Zutphen the -^-^ " "^ary > that
no colonies have been granted to me by the Directors of the West-India Company, the soil of
which had been previously to their knowledge been purchased by others from the natives of the
country, altliough, even it were so, such a claim could not be admitted or have preference, but only
the age and priority of the grant, issued for such a colony : if this is to prevail and liave force,
then I too have given orders two years ago to purchase the liaritan Ivil and the land contiguous
to it for my benefit from the native and lawful proprietors of the country : I have received letters
and communications, that the same has been bought for me and paid for some time ago, also taken
possession of, as I can show to your Noble Honor. I had been informed, that your Noble Honor
had purchased a bay and land on Long-Island, as well as the land of the Nevesinck from the Sand-
point to the Nevesinck bay, but not farther, else I would have extended my limits farther into the
Nevesinck, but I did not do it, because I did not wish to give your Noble Honor the least cause
of offense or inflict damage and therefore I request most respectfully to leave me too in undis-
turbed possession of the land, purchased by and granted to me, and not to interfere, for I -would
not like to give up the privileges of my colony. With further offers of my services etc"
CoR. VAN WeRCKHOVEN.
New Yorh Historical Records. 33
Extract from a letter of the Dieectoes to Stuyvesant : a New-Netiieeland
bureau is to be established, to check the abuses in land granting ; con-
FLICTS ARISE BETWEEN THE PURCHASES OF BarON VAN DER CaPELLE AND VAN
Werckhoven ; war between the Mohawks and Canada Indians. 4"^ of
April 1652.
***** *
From our secret resolution, which we entrust lierewith to the Honorable General, regarding
the vexations by the savages, of which the inhabitants complain and to which they are e.xjjosed
through the instigations of evil-minded persons, who make the savages believe, that we are not
allowed to punish them for their illdoings, your Honor will perceive, that if necessary, in an
emergency a league may be made with our English neighbors, that thereby the insolence and mis-
chief doing of the barbarians can be held in check ; we cannot however consent, to give them
a preponderance in the council, for we consider tliat dangerous.
******
We have established here a special bureau for New-JVetherland matters and it is therefore
necessary, that we should receive by first opportunity accurate registers of all lands, bouwei-ies and
houses, let out on lease by the Company, with the rents and conditions, under which they are
rented and as the Exemtions show, that the island of Manhattans is always to be reserved for the
Company, while we have reason to believe, that some lands and lots have been given to private
parties mthout our knowledge, we require a detailed information concerning it, for it has the
appearance, that with God's help we shall have there a large population in a short time ; we must
therefore keep good order, that every one may find a suitable place and that the land may be
divided with more equality, than formerly, when everybody took, what pleased him best without
knowledge or consent of the directors or their officers, as we find it now in the cases of Wouter
van Twiller, OJfert Gerritseji* Lubhert vaii Dincklage, Jacob Wolj)hertse7i* and others, who have
taken and purchased many tracts of land from the savages without our consent or knowledge.
We consider this very intolerable and therefore deem it necessary, that your Honor should warn
everybody by public advertisement, not to buy or take possession of any land without knowledge
and approval of the Company and its officers, also dissolve all such contracts of purchase, made
heretofore, under the condition, that the buyers shall be reimbursed for their out-lays and the title
vested in the Company. All this with the understanding, that we are and will be willing, to grant
as much land to everybody, as he will undertake to cultivate and populate, but we do not intend
to give away the land with unlimited boundaries, as formerly, especially not whole islands, of
which one was given to Cornells JMelyn, who upon 8 leagues of country has only settled 5 or 6
living beings. His title has consequently lapsed since a good while and it would have been proper,
that it should have been taken from him some time ago and given to people, who would have better
fulfilled their engagements. It seems now, that Baron Hendrick and Alexander van der Capelle
have negotiated with this fellow and bought from him one half of the island without previously in-
forming us ; Baron Hendrick van der Capelle declares besides, that he had given orders to buy
for his account the land of the Nieuxoesinck and Raritans back of Staten-Island, which as we did
not know it we had granted to the Hon'''^ Cornelis van Werckhoven, who goes there with a goodly
number of souls, to take possession, as yom- Honors may learn from the commission, which we
gave him. If this gentleman i-s interested in the affairs of Nexo-Netherland and especially in the
* Yau Couwenhoven.
34 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
welfare of the Company, as we hope he is, then he may become an instrument, by which many
people could be drawn thither, although we wish, that we could have refused the gi*ant of such a
colony, for we agree with your Honors and consider such grants very inconvenient for the Com-
pany, but we could not refuse it to this man, who is a member of the Government, because we did
not like to appear as being opposed to the influx of population ; here again in this grant we meet
the inconveniences mentioned above, for Baron van der Capelle claims to have been proprietor of
these lands for a year or eighteen months ; we must say to it, that we have had no knowledge of
it and that they miist come to an agreement among themselves : these are the consequences of the
attempt to establish a government within a government.
"We are quite concerned in regard to the request of the Canada savages, who have become
involved into a war with the Maquaes and resolved to go into the country of the latter, to
do so they would require permission to cross over the North river and have already asked it from
your Honor. We consider a consent to their request very dangerous, for we must fear to get into
trouble with the savages, the more so for the reasons mentioned above ; it is therefore our opinion,
that it is best, to refuse such a passage politely.
* * * * ■ * *
We alluded above to the contest about to arise between Baron Hendrich van der Capelle and
Cornelis van Werchhoven concerning the territory of the Nieuesinck and Raritans ; this matter
has gone so far already, that they have entered written protests against each others ; the Honorable
Mr. Werclclwven has addressed himself to us and requested, that he should be supported in the
privileges granted by us, which we shall find ourselves obliged to sustain as far as possible, that so
improper purchases of land from the savages may henceforth be prevented ; the said y^ercMiOven
has also petitioned their High : Might : for the above reasons and we expect to see now shortly,
what rules shall be established in these matters.
OEDmANCB AGAINST EUNNEES IN THE MoHAWK AND SeNEOA CODNTEY. FaSSED
Septbr 20, 1652.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 137.)
Extract feom a letter of the Dieectoes to Stuyvesant: Vah Weeckhoven
DECLINES THE COLONIES ON THE EaeITAN AND AT TapPAN AND SEITLES AT
Nyack, L. I.. 13'" Decbe. 1653.
******
Your Honor has misunderstood our intentions in regard to the Colonies of the Honorable waw
Werckhoven, wliose two grants for colonies your Honor supposes to extend 20 miles in a straight
line, or your Honor has not read the Exemptions carefully, for all colonists are not to receive
more, than four miles on one side of a navigable river or two miles on each side. His Honor van
Werclhoven had his choice and could have taken the lands, but as he has not done it, has given it
New Yorh Historical Records. 35
up and gone to NyacTc, one half of the same phace is granted to him, that he may settle there and
act for his best. We sliall henceforth not grant any more colonies, as we see that the people de-
maud such extensive tracts.
******
113G149
ExTEACT FROM A LETTEK OF THE SAME TO THE SAME : Wae BETWEEN THE Mo-
HAWKS AND CjVNADA InDIANS : THE ESTAJSLISHMENT OF A TKADING HOUSE, 20
Dutch miles north of Albany, recommended to ATTEAcr the Canadlan fue-
TEADE. 6"^ June 1653.
******
We are informed here by good authority, that great quantities of peltries might be secured
there from the Canadian savages, in case these tribes could come to Fort Oraruje without danger
and without having to make a circuitous route to Fort Orange and the Colony of Rensselearswych.
But they are constantly molested by their neighbors, the Maquaes, with whom they are at M-ar
almost continually and this is said to be the reason, why these Canadian savages, fearing the
dangers and troubles of a southern trip, sell their peltries to the French and other nations, which
trade there, so that the Company and her people are deprived of all this trade. We wish there-
fore to suggest to your Honor, whether it would not be of advantage and service for the Company,
to establish a trading-house, IS or 20 leagues above Fort Orange and make it the staple of this
fur-trade. It would be, as we believe, no small matter for the Company and we expect your
Honor's opinion on this point by first opportunity.
We have decided upon your Honor's request in favor of the Honorable van Werclchaven,
that in case he needs more land, which he is able to cultivate, the Company shall accommodate
him.
Resolution to peovide the Mohawks with a modeeate amount or powder and
lead, lest tiiey apply theeefoe to the English.
The Hon*"'^ Director-General and Council have been informed and advised of the scarcity
of powder and lead among the Maquaas nation and of the incessant demands, which they con-
sequently make on the inhabitants of the Fort Orange, the village of Beaverwych and the people
of the Colony, and have further considered, that, if the aforesaid ammunition were entirely and
suddenly denied to the said nation, the good inhabitants of the aforesaid village and places might
have to suffer some mishap or at least that thereby the whole trade might be divej-ted and that
the aforesaid nation might ask for the ammunition from the English, our neighbors, and obtain it
there, a circumstance which in this dangerous situation would bring more and greater misfortune
on this province. As the aforesaid Maquaas are now our good friends, who, obliged by want
of the said ammunition to look for it among our neighbors, from whom they also can get a
larger quantity of wampum for their beavers, have already received large gifts and presents from
the English, in order to attract their trade, and as the consequence of this would likely be, that with
the loss of their trade, we would also lose the friendship of the Maquaas and hence heap more
misfortunes upon us and our nation.
36 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Therefore We the undersigned Director- Gener.al andCoiincil of New-Netherland have thought
and deemed it proper and highly necessary, pursuant to the order and direction of the Hon'"''^
Company, to accommodate the aforesaid nation with a moderate trade in ammunition, to wit,
powder and lead and to have the same sold to them for the present time through the agency of
Rtdgert Jacohsen* co delegate of Fort Orange and the village of Beaverwyok, but as sparingly
and secretly as possible, for reasons and motives, which in time, if it is necessary and required,
shall be communicated to the Hon''''' Lords Directors of the Incorporated West-India Company.
Thus done and decreed by the Hon'''^ Director-General and High Council of New-Netherland
the 25"" February 1654- in Fort Amsterdam. It was signed : P. Stuyvesant, Nicasius de Stille
and La Montague.
Patent to Derck Ziecken fok a piece of land at Communipaw (N. J.).
Petrus Stuyvesant, on behalf of their Noble High : Might : the Lord States-General of the
United Netherlands and of the Noble Lords-Directors of the Priv. West-India Company Director-
General of New-Netherland, Curacao and the Islands thereof, with the Hon""' Council declare,
that we have to-day, date underwritten, granted and conveyed to Dirok Zieclien a parcel of land
situate across the North river near Gemoenepaen, beginning at the boundaries of Claes the
Norman's land, at a kil coming from the woods and stretching to the Company's land, divided
therefrom also by a kil coming from the woods. The land runs along the valley N. E. by N. and
S. W. by S. and is wide along this valley or strand 300 rods, back in the woods also wide 300 rods
reaching into the woods N. W. and S. E. 100 rods. With the express conditions etc etc. Done
at Amsterdam, in New-Netherland, the 16"" of June 165i.
An Okdinance against FciENisHiNCr LiQuoE TO Indians. Passed 28"' August 1654.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 182.)
Resolution oedeeing the Fiscal to forbid certain Englishmen settling at
Yreedtland (Westchester Co.).
It is resolved in Council :
Whereas some Englishmen begin to settle and establish a village far within our boundaries
upon the lands bought and paid for by us a long time ago at Vreedland, the law-officer of the
Hon"''' Company, Fiscal Cornells van Tienhoven shall issue an interdict, ordering them to desist
from further proceedings and to remove.
Done at New-Amsterdam, November 5"' 1054.
* Van Schocndcrwort.
JSfeiv Yorh Historical Records. 37
Patent to Michiel Jansen fob land at Pavonia (N. J.).
Petrus Stuyvesant etc. witli the Hon"'' Council declare, that we have to-day, date underwrit-
ten, granted and conveyed to Michiel Jansen a parcel of land, situate at Pavonia^ back of his own
land, SO rods wide running N. E. ; into the woods on the N. "W. 200 rods in length along the
land of Claes Jansen Backer, thence N. E. 80 rods, altogether 26-^ morgens. "With the express
conditions etc etc. Done at Fort Amsterdam in N. N. the 27"" of Novbr 1654.
Patent to Claes Jansen Backer fob land at Pavonxa.
Petrus Stuyvesant etc. with the Hon''''' Council declare, that we have to-day, date nnder-
written, given and granted to Claes Jansen Backer a parcel of land, situate at Pavonia, back of
the land of Claes Pietersen Cos, running N. E. for 120 rods, N. W. into the woods 200 rods, wide
in the rear 120 rods, altogether 40 morgens. With the express conditions etc. etc. Done at Fort
Amsterda7n, this 27"" Novbr 1654.
Patents issued for lands in New Jersey on the 4"" and 5"' of December 1654.
To Jan Cornelissen Buys a piece of land across the North river between Gemoenejpaen and
Kil van Col, running all the river or bay S. W. 60 rods, width in tlie woods in the rear 60 rods
stretching into the "Woods N. N. "W". 250 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 4""
1654.
To Jan LuUbo'tsen* a piece of land across the North river between Gemoenepaen and the Kil
van Kol, running along the river or bay S. "W. 80 rods, width in the woods in the rear 80 rods,
stretching into the woods N. N. "W. for 187|- rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr
5"' 1654.
To Jan Gerritsen van Immen a piece of land between Gemoenepaen and the Kil von Kol,
running along tlie river or bay S. "W. for 40 rods back in the woods 40 rods wide, stretching into
the woods N. N. "W. for 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 5"" 1654.
To Jan Cornelissen Schoenmaecker a piece of land between Gemoenepaen and the Kil van
Kol running S. W. along the river or bay for 40 rods back in the woods 40 rods wide and stretch-
ing into the woods N. N. "W. for 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 5"" 1654.
To Gerrit Pietersen a piece of land between Gemoenepaen and the Kil van Kol, running S.
"W. along the river or bay for 40 rods, wide in the woods at the rear 40 rods, stretching into the
woods N. N. "W. for 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 5"" 1654.
To Lubhert Gysbertsen a piece of land on the other side of the North river, between Jan
Vinge on the North side and Jan Cornelissen Buys on the South side, nnining along the river
* Appointed Clerk of the Company Sept. 8, 1054, licensed to keep school in New Amsterdam Aug. 13, 1658,
Commissioner to fortify Bergen in 1663. — B. F.
38 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
S. "W. by "W; for 90 rods, -width in the rear in the woods 90 rods, stretching into the woods N.
N. "W. for 333^ rods on either side, together 50 morgens. Decbr 5, 1654.
To Gyshert Luhhertsen a piece of land between Gemoenejpaen and the Kil van Kol, running
S. "W. along the river or bay for 40 rods, wide at the rear in the woods 40 rods, stretching into the
woods N. N. "VV. for 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 5, 1654.
To Hendrick Jamsen van Schalckwyck a piece of land between Gemoenepaen and the Kil
van Kol running along the river or bay S. W. for 40 rods, wide at the rear in the woods 40 rods,
stretching into the woods N. N. "W". 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Decbr 5, 1654.
To Jan Cornelissen Cvynnen a piece of land between Gemoenepaen and the Kil van Kol,
running along the river or bay S. W. 40 rods, wide at the rear in the woods 40 rods, stretching
into the woods N. N. W. 375 rods on either side, together 25 morgens. Dec. 5, 1654.
{Jan Cornelissen Crynnen being dead, the same land was patented to Isaac de Foreest
April 17, 1664, who proved to have purchased it from the original grantee.)
Pkotest against Thomas Pell foe settling on lands belonging to the Dutch
WITH notice to quit.
19"" April 1655.
Cornells van Tienhoven, by virtue of his commission as Fiscal for the Province of JVeio
Netherland and Attorney for its authority and jurisdiction, etc etc
To you, Thomas Pell or whom else it may concern.
Having been directed to proceed to and upon the lands of Vreedlandt, taken possession of
during the time of the late Hon''''' Director-General Kieft and bought from and paid for to the
actual owners and proprietors, natives of this country', as the Book of Deeds and their signatures
prove, I inform and warn you and all, whom it may concern, herewith, that you and your associ-
ates have not only settled ujjou lands, bought many years ago by the Dutch nation and occupied
by the late Hon''"' Director Kieft by virtue of the title deeds, but that you also occupy it by
usurpation, contrary to the agreement made at Hartford and to the peace concluded between the
two nations in Europe, against the will and consent of the Director-General and High Council of
New-Neiherland.
Therefore, I, the Fiscal, give you and all, whom it may concern, this public notice in the name,
and on behalf of their Noble High: Might: the States General and the Lords Director of the
Priv. W. I. Company by the bearer hereof, Glaes van Elslandt, Court Messenger, chosen and
appointed to execute this errand, to warn you not to proceed witli building, clearing, pasturing
cattle or cutting hay or whatever else may be necessary for the cultivation of the soil upon tlie
aforesaid purchased and long possessed lands contrary to the agreement made at JIartford and to
remove within fifteen days after the service of this notice from the lands witliin the jurisdiction of
Kew Netherland with your people, servants or bound slaves, furniture, cattle, implements and
everything brought there by you or yours as your property, under the penalty, that if you or any
of you shall be found after the date aforesaid to have acted contrarily, of being prosecuted, you
and all whom it may concern, according to law. In the meantime I protest against all damage,
New Yorh Historical Records. 39
injury, miscliief and trouble, which througli your actions may arise, wliile wo declare before God
and the World to be innocent thereof.
Done at Amsterdam in New Netlierland on the date as above.
Whereas the present situation does not permit, that the Fiscal of N. Netherland should servo
the foregoing notice and protest in person, therefore the Court Messenger, Claes van Elsland, is
authorized to do it. Done at Amsterdam in JV. JY. date as above.
Order on the representation of the Magistrates of Fort Orange, to pub-
lish AN ORDINANCE AGAINST RUNNERS AMONG THE InDIANS.
Monday the 1'' of June 1655.
******
In regard to the running into the woods, to draw out the savages with their beavers and the
subsequent inconveniences, which might arise therefrom, the Commissary and the delegates of the
(aforesaid) Fort {Orange) and of Beaverswijck shall have permission, to frame, conclude, publish,
affix and execute in our name such a placard, as they, being on the spot, shall find most proper aud
necessary for the best of the community and the prevention of evil.
Letter from mHAuiTANTS of Gravesend to the Director and Council, stating
THAT THET ARE THREATENED BY InDIANS.
Copy. S"-* September 1655.
Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, the Honorable Director-General
and High Council of Nexo-Netherland, Greeting!
Your Worships. We have here daily strange reports from Hemsteede, Neiotown and else-
■where, to the effect, that the savages intend to pick out the Duteh from among the English in
order to destroy them, demanding of the English at Gravesend, that they should separate from
us, so that they might not be in the same danger of blood and good. Last night, when we were
all under arms, a letter was read to us to the same effect, of which we send herewith a copy to
your Honors, and we have great many other reports, too long to repeat, but all tending to make us
remove from here, as we have been publicly admonished by Tilton\ and the Magistrates, that it
were best for us and the preservation of our lives, if we separated from them and moved to the
Manhattans, by which means the English would also remain safe ; if we would not remove, they
would nevertheless do their best for us : we think this a poor consolation, if the savages should
come : it is also reported, that the Indians of the North and of the neighboring places make great
preparations to carry out their plans quickly, so that they urgently request, we should separate
from them to save our lives and that as speedily as possible : these incessant solicitations have made
us perplexed and surprised, as we do not know, what to do and what not or to whom we shall
* This is a clerical error in the Original. It ought to be either 28th or 8th Octbr. — Ed.
t Clerk of the village of Gravesend.
40 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
listen, except, after God Almighty, to your honorable Worships, who, we trust, will assist us with
their wisdom and power, as the present necessity requires it, since, as it seems, the water is already
up to our lips and, if we once leave here, Long-Island is no longer inhabited by Dutch people.
Therefore we presume, it rests with your Honors to see, what our situation is, which we cannot
understand ; for they are abroad day and night, on foot and on horseback, from one to the other,
whence your Worships can in your Honors' wisdom conceive, what we may have to expect. Tester-
day T'dton and the Sheriff of Newtown came, to-day they went away again together. If your
Honors resolve to save Long-Island and us, a moderate force could do here much or at least
enough, but if your Honors wished to have us near the Fort, then hands and feet alone could not
get our food or that of our wives and children and it woidd be necessary, to send a well-armed
vessel to Antony Ja/nsenH s place, in order to take aboard as much provisions and other things as
possible; we'll leave to your Honors' wisdom and discretion a matter, which we trust will
thereby be looked after to the best, and we expect your Honors' advice and orders, according to
which we shall govern ourselves, in the meantime we are and remain your honorable Worships
subjects (signed) Jacobus vajj Cobler, Jan Tomassen, Hdtbeet Jansen Stoock, Jacob Hellekas,
LtTYCAS VAN DEE LiPHOKST, Baeent Babtes, the mark •-+-» of Hendeick Coenelissen, the mark ^~\
of Jan Jacobsen, the mark f of Willem Willemsen, the mark 12 of Coenelis Beeckeman
(dated) Gravesend adi ut supra.
Westchester, 27"' September 1655.
Respected friends. After my respects presented unto you I am sensible of your feares & it
is not without grounds I feare to use the Best meanes as in my power shall not be wantinge in
mee to you for 3'our preservation to speake with the Indians. We know not how the bearer
hereof can further inform you. But if you send a messenger about Saturday with your mynde I
thinke our Saggamaker will be hear, but if you doe not, my true indeaver shall be used for j-our
safetye and my weake advise to you at present iff you intend your preservation &alsoe the Dutch
that are amongst, iff they meane to saue theyre Liues, there must be meanes used for them to
Retourne to theyr owne contriemen for safeguard ; for this I fully understand that the Indians
will pich them out of every English towne upon the Hand & in New-England, it is a trouble to
our Saggamaker, that there is soe many Dutch with you, for feare the should wrong you in killing
of them, soe desiring the Lord to protect you I rest
was subscrybed Tho : Wielee.
The Indians intend
noe wrong to the En-
glish, if they assist
not the Dutch with
men or provision.
New York Hiatorical Records. 41
Declaeaiion as to the hostility of the Indians.
8'" September 1655.
Jo>>ej)h Safford and Thomas Bead, residing at Mespadts JvU,'^' testify that they were tins day
informed by Joseph Fouler, Goetman Beets, Samuel Touw and his son William Bead, that some
inhabitants of Gravesend had been at Westchester and that the sachems of the savages had been
there at Lieutenant Wheeler's and that they would send to the English villages on Long-Islands
to deliver and place in their hands Thomas Nuton, Henry Nuton, and Edward Jesop, because
they had assisted the Dutch in the Fort during that night, when the savages here did so much
Iiarm, while the savages had forbidden the English to bring any provisions or fuel to the Ma7i-
hatans and intended to burn their huts and houses, in case the English would help the Dutch with
fuel and provisions. They declare, that this is true and are willing to confirm under oath, that
they have it thus from the above named persons. Date as above and signed Joseph Safford ; the
mark "^ of Tomas Reedt (Beneath stood). This was written in the presence of Mr. Lamontagne
and the Burgomaster Mr. Allard Anthony, in whose presence the affiants took the oath adminis-
tered by the Fiscal. Date as above, and signed : Lamontagne and Allaed Antony.
Minute and votes of the Council on the action to be taken eegakding the
foeegoing.
9'" October.
Present in Council the Hon*"' Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant, the Hon"'" Councillor
Lamo7itagn6 the Hon''''' Fiscal Tienhoven, M.!: Allard Antony and Mr. Oloff Stevenso7i,^w:go-
masters and Mr. Johannes Nevius, ex- Alderman of this city.
The above letter, received last night from the Dutch of Gravesend,, having been read and
opinions pro et contra having been expressed in the Couucil, it was resolved, that each member
should express his opinion separatel}', as to what action ought to be taken.
Opinions given by the gentlemen themselves or dictated by them.
The Hon''"' Director-General thinks, that it would not be bad, if Messrs. Montagne and Al-
lard Antony went to Gravesend as a committee to find out, how matters stood and to sound the
feelings there.
Mr. Lamontagi\ie advises.
That 20 or 25 men ought to be sent to .the village of Gravesend to assist the Dutch.
Advice of Fiscal Tienhoven, written by himself.
After the letter, written in English from Westchester to the people of Gramesend and sent by
some of them to the Director and Council together with a letter and request for assistance, advice
and orders, had been read in the Council, whereupon the Council expressed opinions pro et contra,
Cornelis van Tienhoven advises, that for pregnant reasons no soldiers should be sent to the village
aforesaid for the present, but at first to try mediation and summon some of the magistrates by a
friendly letter, to appear as soon as jjossible before the Council here in the Fort, then show them
the letter from Westchester, remind them of their proper honor, oath and duties and recommend
* On Long Island.
42 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to the Dutch to niaiutaiii a firm stand at Gravesend and not to leave their home without necessity.
Date as above and signed, Cornelis van Tienhoven.
Advice of Mr. Allard Antony, written by himself.
Having heard the Hon"'" Director-General's proposition regarding the letter, arrived from
Gravesend, to send two delegates to them, my advice is, that it is only necessary to write to the
magistrates of Gravesend, that they should appoint two of their number to come here to the
Hon"'" General with two of the Dutch nation and that, as we had understood, they had received
a letter of advice from Lieutenant Wheeler of Westchester to communicate the same to the Hon"'"
Director-General and Council. Date as above, signed
Allaed Antony.
Advice of the Hon"'" Bm-gomaster Olqff' Stevenson* :
That two delegates ought to be sent there, in order to find out, how matters stand, for if only
two are summoned from there, probably no complete information could be obtained.
Advice of Mr. Johannes Nevius, written by himself.
My advice is, to write a letter to the people of Gravesend, that they send us two delegates
with two Dutchmen, who are well informed of the daily rumors current there, then to inquire as
well as possible into tlie truth of these and this as soon as feasible, as the present situation does not
admit of a long delay ; then we can, in accordance with circumstances, resolve upon the best means
to prevent further harm and for the best of the country. Date as above, signed
Joannes Nevius.
It having been resolved by a majority of votes, to write regarding the foregoing to the people
of Gravesend, the following letter was sent to them to-day, both in Dutch and in English.
"Worshipful, Dear and Faitliful.
AVe have received last night a certain letter from the Dutch in the village of Gravesend,
in which they inform us of their fears of being surprised by the barbarous savages in these dan-
gerous times, which fears seena to be the result of a certain letter, said to be written by Lieutenant
Thomas Wheeler of Westcliester to your worshipful Council, advising the English and Dutch to
separate from each other. Altliough we do not know, whether it is so or not, we consider the
proposition of separation, based only on reports or a simple letter, quite unfounded and unadvised,
therefore we write herewith as well to the Dutch people as to you, that you remain together and
keep together good watch and be on the look-out : if you should believe some soldiers required for
greater safety, we shall not fail to send them to your assistance, as the circumstances will permit ;
now, however, this letter is to request, that you will delegate two of the magistrates and send
them hither, to arrange with us regarding the present critical situation of the village and to give
us a more detailed report on the common rumors and the letter of Thomas Wlieeler and whereas
it is Sunday to-morrow, we shall expect your delegates next Monday relying upon which M-e com-
mend you to God's protection and remain
Your good friends
Date as above The Director-General and Council of Wew-Netherland.
(signed) P. Stuyvesant.
The letter was directed : To the Worshipful, Dear and Faithful, the Magistrates and Com-
munity of the village of Gravesend.
* Van Cortlandt.
JSfew Yurh Jlidorical Records. 43
On the IS"" of October 1655 two delegates from the magistrates, Will. WilleJcens and Will.
Boune appeared before the Council in pursuance of the request of the foregoing letter and thanked
the Director-General for his offer and will give information, as soon as they hear of danger and
then state what thej require. Date as above.
EeSOLUTION FOEBroDING THE SAILING OF THE VESSELS IN POET AND DEPAETUEE OF
ABLE-BODIED PASSENGF.ES, UNTIL THE PRESENT CRISIS IS PAST.
ll'" October.
The present critical situation of the country having been taken into consideration bj' the
Director-General and Council, they have, in the presence of the Burgomasters and Scheepen of
this City, resolved for weighty reasons not to let the homeward bound ships, now ready to sail,
depart, before the man-of-war " De Waagh^'' which is expected every day, has arrived : regarding
the passengers, who to the number of 60 or thereabouts have given notice, that they will leave
with the aforesaid ships, it has been unanimously resolved for the greater safety of the country,
not to allow any passenger, able to carry arras, to leave for the present, unless God shall give a
change for the better. Date as above and signed P. Sttjyvesant, Lamontagne, Cob, van Tien-
HovEN, Oloff Stevenson, Joannes Nevius, Jacob Stkyckee, J. Vinge.
Minute of the attendance of Jacob van Coeler and Jacob Silliakes with the
MAGISTEATES OF GeAVESEND.
12'" October.
This day appeared before us, pursuant to summons, Jacob van Corler and Jacoh Sillialces
with the magistrates of Gravesend / after their request had been heard, tlie Director-General and
Council decided, that whenever the magistrates and inhabitants of the village of Gravesend should
hear of or suspect any greater danger, than the present one and give information thereof to the
Director-General and Council, succor of soldiers shall be sent to them, as circumstances will per-
mit, in accordance with the letter of the Director-General, written to them on the 9"" inst. Date
as above in Fort Amsterdam in New-NetJierland.
Lettee feom DiEECTOE Stutvesant TO Capt. Bryant Nuton, warning him to
BE on the look-out FOE InDIANS.
Capt" Brian Nukin. This is to inform you, that 3 or 4 canoes with savages have been seen
near the Hellegat on Loiig-Island, who have taken Pieter, the chimney-sweep, prisoner ; therefore
you will have to be on your guard and keep your men close together and whereas I have been in-
formed, that the free people, contrary to my order, do not remain together, but that every
one runs here and there to his own plantation, you must once more and this the last time
warn them, that they take care and keep together according to my order or that I shall be obliged,
to take other measures herein. You are hereby especially directed to keep your soldiers together
44 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
and keep a good watch. Farewell. Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherlani , IS"" October
1655.
The letter was du-ected: To the Valiant, Pious Brian Nuton, Captain-Lieutenant, at present
at Amesfoort.
A letter of the same tenor was also sent to Sergeant Nicolas Velthuysen, now at Midwout.
Minute of the appeaeance before the Council of Stephen Neckee, who had
BEEN TAKEN PRISONER Wn'H 5 OTHERS, BY InDIANS AND IS SENT TO DEMA.ND A
RANSOM.
13'" October.
Stephen Neclier appeared before the CouncU and reported that Peter, the chimney-sweep with
five others, of whom he was one, had sailed to the aforesaid chimney-sweep's plantation to fetch
some animals from there ; after they had been there about half an hour they were attacked by
about 30 savages, he does not know of what nation, who took them all prisoners ; four of them
had been wounded and he with Cornelia Mourissen (afterwards shot in the back with an arrow,
which has been cut out by the barber) have been sent here by the savages, to ask for their ran-
som the following articles, which the savages had marked with notches on a stick :
20 coats of cloth 40 knives
20 handfuls of powder 10 pairs of shoes
10 bars of lead 10 pairs of socks
10 kettles 10 addices
2 muskets 10 hatchets
3 swords 20 tobacco-pipes.
20 strings of wampiim
Minute of a message brought from the Indians at Paulus Hook, that the
prisoners will be released in two days.
13"" October.
Peter CocTc, who conducted Captain Post* and others to Paulus Hook, reports that the In-
dians had told him, the prisoners shall all be here in two days, come over, then you will see it.
Also, that the savages are not satisfied, that Captain Post had not come over at the fixed time and
that they say, you Dutch people lie so much, that you cannot be trusted. Date as above.
* Captain Adrian Post, his wife, five children and servants were captured in the attack by the Indians on New
Amsterdam and the other settlements Sept. 15, 1655. See Col. Hist. Vol. XII, pp. 98, etc. Post settled after-
wards in Bergen, N. J. — Ed.
New Yorh Historical Reccyrds. 45
Resolution not to pat thk eansom, demanded by the Indians.
IS"" October.
It having been considered in Council, whether the ransom demanded by the savages should
be paid for the four persons, who have been taken prisoners by the Indians to-day and for others,
who might yet be captured, when they, like the former, without knowledge, even contrary to
orders of the Director-General and Council go to distant and lonely places, it was after some de-
bating pro et contra resolved, concluded and decided in the negative, because, as soon as the other
savages, who have 73 of our people as prisoners, would hear, that so much has been paid for 4
they would demand a considerable sum, and for other pregnant reasons to be brought forward in
due time. Date as above.
OEDmAJJCE AGAINST PERSONS GOING INTO THE COUNTEY IN SMALL PAETIES, PASSED OcT. 16, 1655.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 198.)
OeDEE FOE THE SAFETY OF AmESFOOET AND THE BaY.
16'" October 1655.
"Whereas this day appeared before us with Captain-Lieutenant Brian Nuton, Elbert Elherisen,
Marten Jansen, and Albert Albertsen, all inhabitants of the village of Amesfoo7% who report tliat
some of their townsmen have removed and others in the village are unwilling to work with them
and help carry the general burden of the village in keeping up the guard, therefore the Director-
General and Council having taken it into consideration, it is concluded and resolved, that the ab.
sentees, who have their houses on the aforesaid Bay, as well as those, who are present, must help
carry and contribute to the general burdens of the village and its safety, as well in maintaining the
military garrisoned there as safe-guard as in watching and patroling with the others. The Di-
rector-General and Council further ordered, that the absentees must keep for each bouwery at least
one stout man, properly provided -with musket and side-arms and that until further orders, each
bouwery shall provide two soldiers with sufficient provisions for their board and in case of refusal,
the above said Captain-Lieutenant Brian Nuton, EJhert Elbertsen and Marten Jansen are ordered
and authorized to hire a man for each bouwery and to put the soldiers in board with some one at
the charge and expenses of those who disobey or refuse ; the Director-General and Council being
responsible, at the expense of the refusing parties, for the just and lawful expenses, subject to the
decision of two impartial men. Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in Neio-Netherland date as above,
(signed) P. Stuyvesant, Lamontagne, C. van Tibnhoven.
Lettee to Capt. Post, oedeeing him to inquiee what the Indians peopose to
DO with theie peisonees.
Captain Post. Whereas the savages often impose upon us by displaying the flag and lure xis
over the river for trivial matters, which makes our people tired to ci-oss and re-cross, without get-
46 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
ting an answer from them in regard to our prisoners, therefore your Worship or somebody else,
■who knows the Indian language, must ask the Sachem Pemiekeck, Oratany and others, what they
really mean and intend and whether they will return the prisoners or not and when and that they
must not cause any further delay or lie to us. Done at Amsterdam in New-Neiherland date
as above (16'" Oct. 1655).
Copy.
Ordinance foebidding all persons going across the eivee oe commtinicating
WITH THE Indians, without a pass, passed Octbe 18, 1655.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 200.)
Minute of the eetuen of l-i prisoners (men, women and children) by Pen-
nekeck, chief of Achkinkeshakt.
Monday, the IS'" of October 1655.
Whereas the chief of the Indians of Achhinkeshahj* by name Pennekeck has sent yesterday
the 17"" October, with Captain Post, one of the prisoners, fourteen Dutch people, men, women
and children, to the Hon"'" Director-General as a token of his good heart and intention and said
chief requested, that the Hon''''' Director-General would show his kindheartedness by sending
some powder and lead,
The Director-General and Council finding the request of Penneckek oi importance and having
considered the present situation of affairs, have resolved and concluded, to send him, as a reward
and token of affection two Indians, taken prisoners by our people, although not of liis nation and
to give him some powder and lead, hoping by these means to get the other Christians in a friendly
manner and at the same time to inform him, that when all the Christian prisoners have been re-
turned to us, he shall be rewarded courteously. Thus done in Council of the Hon""' Director-
■ General and Council, date as above (signed) P. Stdyvesant, Lamontagne, Cob. van Tienhoven.
Instructions to Capt" Adrian Pt)ST to obtain the release of the prisoners,
STILL IN the hands OF THE InDXANS.
18'" October 1055.
Instructions giving to Captain Adriaen Post by the Hon"'" Director-General and Council of
Neiv-Netherland.
Whereas the said Captain Adriaen Post brought us yesterday 13 or 14 of our Christian
prisoners, who had been surrendered to him by the Sachem Pennekeck, with the message that he
thus showed to the Director-General his kind heart and affection and expected in return by the
Director-General's favor and friendship some powder and lead, therefore the aforesaid Captain
Post is authorized and directed, to cross over again and answer the said Sachem in our name, as
follows :
* Hackensack, N. J.
New York Historical Records. 47
That we thank Pennelceck and the other Sachems, wlio are with him, for their kindhearted-
iiess and affection, which they have shown in retunung the prisoners, whom they had, and that
we, in proof of our friendship and good intentions send and give to them, in order to return them
again, each to his people, two captured Indians, whom, although they are not of his nation, one
being a Wappiiuj and tiie other from Esojnis or Waerinnewmujh, Pennekech must nevertheless
accept as a token of our good heart and affection, and that he must do his hest, that we may again
get the captured Dutch or Swaneclces* who are in his or other Sachems' possession.
He shall further tell Pennekeck, that it is not customary with us to pay nor to accept pay-
ment for prisoners, but to return them in friendship, as we do with these two prisoners, and that we
likewise expect from him, that he will give something to the poor prisoners, who have suffered
much from cold and inconvenience and much damage, as we have done to their prisoners, so that
they bear us no more ill-will, and therefore we would not send "any powder and lead for the prison-
ers, which Pennekeck sent us yesterday, except a little for the chief Pennekeck and the other
chiefs in proof of our good will and that only, that they might exert themselves with the other
Sachems, to get the other prisoners and that he would tell, where our other prisoners are and when
they will return.
Also that, when we shall have got our other prisoners, we are willing to give as token of our
affection, some powder and lead to the Sachems and shall expect them in return to show their friend-
ship and good will by presents, when our prisoners are surrendered.
Whereas many false stories are carried back and forward by Dutchmen, who cross over with-
out being sent by us, he shall tell Pennekeck and the other chiefs, that we have forbidden any one
of the Dutch people to cross over as long as the negotiations last, excejjt Captain Post or those,
who bring with them this token '■'^^^.•' made by the Director-General's hand and that he shall
not believe others.
Fourthly, he shall say to Pennekeck, that we also have forbidden, that, in case messengers
come over from him, no people shall be on the river bank, except such as we have sent and that
if he send messengers, he must not send bad men or ragarauiBns, but a Sachem or chief, whom the
Director-General may believe and that he shall have liberty to come and return. Done at Fort
Amsterdam in New-Netherlcmd, date as above.
Letter of inhabitants of Geavesend, L. I. pbaying fok protection against tue Indians.
20'" October 1655.
Copy.
Honorable General.
"We are at present surrounded here by Indians, of M-hom some have been permitted by the
English to come in. They say, ihe English never give them anything to drink, they will have
nothing to do with them ; it may well be, that our turn will come soon, at the latest to-night.
We ask for speedy assistance, for tlie English allow the savages to go in and out ; the blow will
undoubtedly fall on our heads. We are confident, that since they are without restraint, no assist-
ance will be given to us, so that we all, with wives and children, are very anxious and request
* "Schwonnack," Indian word signifying "people of the salt water" because the Dutch had come over the
sea. — Ed.
48 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
tlierefore respectfnlh', young as well as old people, to send us speedy help, (lower stood) In the
name of all (signed) Jacob Swart, Jan Tomassen, the mark + of Antoijy Jansen, Laueis
Jansex, the mark P.E. of Pieter Ebel, J. van Curler.
The Hou"'" Director-General and Council having seen and considered the aforesaid request,
resolved to succor the inhabitants of Gravesend as far as possible with twenty men and to direct
them to secure the safest place. Date as above, New-Amsterdam (signed) P. Stutvesant, La-
MONTAGNE, CoENELIS VAN TiENHOVEN.
Message of the Indians bent with some prisoners and answer thereto.
21^' October 1655.
Some powder and lead for 28 of our prisoners having been brought over to the Indians by
Adriaen Post and Claes Jansen Ruyter, accompanied by Pieter Wolphertsen, pursuant to the reso-
lution of the IQ"" October, they return this day and bring the said 28 prisoners according to the
promise made by the Indians ; and report, that the Sachem Pennekeck had directed them to tell
the Hon'''^ Director-General, that Claes Jansen de Ruyter nmst return again to-day and bring with
him a quantity of goods, as powder, lead, duffels, guns, wampum etc^ to ransom the prisoners, who
were still among them, 20 to 2J: persons, else he would go with them into the interior. It was
resolved, to send the aforesaid persons over again and to ask how much they would take for the
whole batch of prisoners or for each single one. Date as above.
Answer of the Indians to the foregoing.
26'" October 1655.
To-day, the 26"" of October, Captain Adriaen Post and Claes Jansen de Ruyter came over
from Paulus Hook and reported, that they had had a conference there with the chief of Achkin-
keshaky and his people and other savages of Mochgeychkonk. They declared on their word of
honor to the Council and related, that the said chief Pennekeck had, in the name of the otlier
savages, directed tiiem to tell and request the Hon''"' Director-General, that, if his Honor would
be pleased to send him and his people 75 pounds of powder and 40 bars of lead in three kegs, either
as ransom or as present, they would immediately surrender the 28 prisoners.
The Hon''''' Director-General and Council and the Burgomasters of this City having heard the
report of the aforesaid persons and having further seriously considered the inconvenience of the
captured Christians, whose imprisonment rather ties our hands, they have with common advice
and consent resolved (liowever unwilling), for the sake of the prisoners' preservation and in the
hope to recover them and the balance of the prisoners, to give to the savages the demanded lead
and powder as ransom for the captives, as no other means can at present be discovered to recover
them, and the more so, as they are scattered here and there among the Indians in the distant in-
terior and to prove to them our sincere good-will, it is resolved to send them as a present 25 pounds
of powder and 10 staves of lead over and above the ransom. Date as above : present were the
Noble Director-General, the Hon'''^ Lamontagne and the Hon'"^ Fiscal Tienhoven.
Neto YorTi Historical Records. 49
Eemonstbance of the Dieector-Geneeal Airt) Council of New-Netheeland to
THE StATES-GeNEEAL, EXPOSING THE BAD CONDUCT OF THE BAEBAEOUS InDIANS
TOWAEDS THE DuTCH. 3] OcT 1655.
To tlieir Noble High-Mightinesses, the Honorable States-General of the United Netherlands.
"We remonstrate with due reverence and profound humility, also as far as we know in all
sincerity and truth, in the name of and for all your Noble High-Mightinesses' subjects, who through
God's providence, under authority and protection of your Noble High : Might : and with the
knowledge and consent of the Hon'''* Lords-Directors have transported themselves hither and set-
tled in this Province of New-Netherland., a country not much differing from our Fatherland in
regard to climate and fertility, in which your Noble High-Might^ : subjects can easily gain their
livelihood. They have done so for a time and would be able to do so in future, with the evident
prospect of producing a great many and different good fruits and merchandises, in case your Noble
High Might^ subjects could be and remain somewhat safe against the molestations, annoyances and
murders committed by tlie barbarous natives, from whom we have, from time to time, suffered
much insult by the killing of our cattle and the murdering of persons, with the particulars of
which, referring to past times, we will not trouble your Noble High : Might :, in order not to
make the report too long and to interrupt your Noble High : Might' : constant attention to more
important and grave matters. We shall only state briefl}', that after a war had been waged during
one or two years by various barbarous Indian tribes against the Netherlandish nation, subjects of
your Noble High : Might :, the lawfulness or unlawfulness of which we will not discuss to any
one's discredit, in the year 1045 a firm and inviolable peace was finally made with the afore-
said natives on the conditions here annexed. Since that time the aforesaid Indian tribes have,
without cause having been given, as far as we know, not only killed and destroyed many animals,
as cows, horses and hogs, belonging to your Noble High Might' : subjects, but have also horribly
murdered ten persons, first Simon Waliiujen* in the second year after the peace was made, in
1651 the wife of Jan Pietersen on Long-Island, in 1652 four persons on this island of Manhat-
tan, a year later again ihree persons on Staten-Island and last year Jochem P ietersenKuyter in
his own house, whereupon the Chief Magistrate of this province demanded the murderers, but
they were always refused, at least they never appeared. These infractions of the treaty made by
them have always been passed over by the said Magistrate for the sake of peace and for the best
of the country and the people and without show of hostility or revenge. It has further happened,
that on the 15"' of September last past, (while the Director-General had proceeded, pursuant to
orders and directions of the Lords-Directors, Patroons of this country, with the few soldiers of this
Province, to the South river, to resent the injuries and affronts inflicted by the Swedes and to re-
duce that river again to the jurisdiction of this Province, for the success of which expedition,
blessed be God, we are truly thankful), fourteen days after the General's departure at a very early
hour of the morning 64 canoes full of savages arrived in the neighborhood of this City of New-
Amsterdam, who, almost before any one had risen from bed, spread over this City and during the
day offered and committed in many houses and to many citizens insults, whicli to particularize
would lengthen this humble petition too much. Their Sachems or chiefs were then summoned
before the Council and gave good words and promises to depart before evening, but they remained,
the Lord only knows with what intentions : in the meantime the good citizens, already uneasy on
account of the insults suffered during the day, became very circumspect and, afraid of further mis-
* Van dor Bilt, came to Rensselaerswyck in 1636.
50 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
chief, strengthened their guards bj order of the remaining members of the Council and other
officers during the following night. However, about eight o'clock one Paulus Leendertsen^ was
threatened, according to liis declaration, with a hatchet and tlie former Fiscal van Dyck was wounded
by an arrow within this City, whereupon a great outcry and noise was made and some of the citi-
zens began to shoot at the savages and a few were killed on either side. Shortly afterwards and
dm-ing the whole night following a fearful fire and massacre was committed by the aforesaid
savages, so that in tliree days' time about 50 Christians were killed and murdered, more than one
hundred, mostly women and children, captured, of whom -we afterwards ransomed 60 to 70 with
great expense, the rest being still in their hands, 28 bouweries and some plantations and about
twelve to fifteen thousand schepels of grain burned, 500 to 600 heads of cattle either killed or
taken by the barbarians ; anyway. Noble Lords, your Noble High Might' : subjects and humble
petitioners have suffered tlirough these barbarous Indians a damage of more than two hundred
thousand guilders and more than 200 persons, besides those, who were killed or are still in
captivity, have lost their possessions and having nothing left to procure food and clothing for
themselves and their families must be a charge upon this City alone. Finally, the country
in general has gone backward so much, that it will not be in the same flourishing state for
several years, that it was in six weeks ago. To this the fear must be added, which most of the
inhabitants entertain (and not without reason) to be again surprised so unexpectedly, in case no
steps are taken to prevent so general a massacre and so great a loss. It makes them and many
others circumspect and timid to go again into the open country. It is besides impossible, unless
they receive assistance from others, hence we have only to expect, in consequence of the failure of
cultivation and harvests, poverty, want, famine and a final total ruin of the countrj^ We, your
Noble High Might^ : subjects and petitioners very humbly and respectfully submit this dismal and
doleful state of affairs and ask herewith for help and advice, how we shall act towards these bar-
barous tribes in regard to the aforesaid and other murders, affronts and enormous damages. We
are very much disinclined, to enter without your Noble "Worships' knowledge, advice and assist-
ance into an open war, which, if, besides God's help, no assistance and succor is sent from our
dear Fatherland, it would be, humanly speaking, impossible to carry on and bring to a de-
sirable result. We have considered all this thoroughly, also the present critical situation of the
Lords-Directors of the Priv. West-India Company, who are unable to send us such a relief and so
soon, according to your Noble High : Might' : advice, as the present general distress and circum-
stances of the country may require, and we find ourselves compelled to have recourse to your
Noble High : Might : with the knowledge and approbation of the Lords-Directors the Patroons
of this Province and to ask, besides the good advice of our Lords-Patroons, with great respect for
the wise counsel and effectual assistance of your Noble High : Might : ; with this assistance, we
hope to subdue under God's guidance the barbarous tribes and to inhabit the country in peace.
We, your Noble High : Might : petitioners have commimicated tlie details to the Lords-Directors
and omitted them liere for brevity's sake, in order not to trouble your Noble High : Might :,
busy with more important affairs. Awaiting your Noble Lordships' wise counsel and assistance
with humility and patience your Noble Lordships' petitioners and subjects shall pray the Almighty
God for your Noble Lordships' lasting success and prosperity, etc.
♦Van die Grift.
JSfeiv York Historical Records. 51
Simple and true narrative of the bad treatment, wliich the Dutch nation received from the
barbarous natives during our times, presented in form of a petition to the Honorable, Prudent
and Yery Worshipful, the Lords-Burgomastera and Council of the City of Amsterdam.
(This address is the same as the foregoing, mutatis mutandis.)
Simple and truthful report of the bad treatment, which the Dutch nation received from the
barbarous natives during our times, presented in shape of a petition to the Noble Honorable,
Prudent and Very "Worshipful the Lords- Directors of the West-India Company, Department of
Ajnsterdam.
(This address, too, is the same as the two foregoing, mutatis mutandis, except tlie latter part, which reads as
follows) : ^
We have considered all this thoroughly, also the present situation of your hon'''"' Worships,
which is too precarious to send us such a relief, as the present general distress and circumstances
of the country require and have concluded (in order to avoid exceptions being taken on account
of neglecting to report to the higher authorities) to send first and above all this humble petition
to your lion""' Worships and besides, but with your Honors knowledge and approbation, to their
.noble High: Might: and the worshipful Magistrates of the City of Amsterdam or else your
Honors must instruct there our deputy, Cornells Jacobsen Ste^enioyck in regard to the succor, with
which, under God's guidance and help, we hope to subdue the aforesaid barbarous nations and to
possess afterwards the country in peace and without fear from them. We require (with due sub-
mission to your Honors' wise judgment) 3000 to 4000 good soldiers, one-half with match locks
{vuerroers), the other half with iiiut-locks (snaphaen-^oers) of 3^ feet length and (a calibre of) 16
balls to the pound and not more, who after having helped us to attain our ends, are willing to settle
in the country and increase the population ; besides these a supply, to the value of 30 to 40000 guild-
ers, of needed commodities for clothing and feeding the military : also some very much needed am-
munition according to the annexed list. Very worshipful Gentlemen and Patrons, we, your Honors
subjects and petitioners, pray humbly, that this our respectful remonstrance and petition may be
taken into serious consideration by your Honors and favorably recommended to others, so that we
may speedily get good advice and help from your Honors or somebody else, before more misfortune
can befal your Honor's subjects either here or at the now conquered South river. Your Honors
will thereby bring us and all other subjects of your Honors under obligation continually to pray
for your Honors' success and prosperity and to remain
Honorable, Prudent, Yery Worshipful
Gentlemen, Your Honors'
humble subjects.
PEOPOSmONS SUBjnTTED BY THE DiRECTOK-GeNEEAX, PeTEUS StUYVESANT, TO THE
HONORABLE CoUNCIL AT THE MEETING ON THE lO"" NoVBE. 1G55.
The differences of opinion, which we now and then encounter to our great alarm, in regard
to the distressing situation of the country, to which it has been reduced b/ the last unfortunate
rencontres between our nation and the Indians, each discoursing about it according to his opinion,
if not passion, the one for peace, the other for war, have compelled me to make to j'our Honors
the following propositions in writing, as it is impossible to serve these so antagonistic masters or
to please both parties, differing so much, and to request your wise opinions also in writing thereon.
52 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
First : Whether it is lawful and we can justify going to war with the natives, because of the
last occurrences between our nation and tlie Indians.
Second : Whether, if the war is justifiable, it is timely just now ; if not when.
Third : "Whether, supposed, that the war is thought to be justifiable and timely, it can be
brought to a desirable end with the forces, which we now have, without endangering considerably
the country in general.
We earnestly request the honorable members of the Council for their written opinion on the
foregoing proposition, given either collectively or each for himself ; the latter would be prefer-
able, to avoid one-sidedness. We on our side shall not fail to lay our opinion on the table beside
those of your Honors, so that our Lords-Superiors in the Fatherland may so much the better be
informed in regard to the state of affairs here and we arrive at a salutary resolution.
The fourth point has been omitted in its regular order, to wit : What is to be done regarding
the Indians, if a war is deferred for some time and until further orders from the Fatherland, either
because of its unla\vfulness or its untimehness or our impotence,
first in regard to the losses sustained,
second about the captives, still in the hands of the Wiequasheck and Highland Indians.
After this was read as above to the Council a copy of it was handed to each member. Date
as above, in New-Netherland (signed)
P. Stuyvesant.
Opinions of the Dieector-Geneeai. and members of the CoinsrciL on the fore-
going.
Advice of the JS'oble Cirector-General on the foregoing propositions.
We agree on the first point witli the general opinion, that the Indians, upon their first arrival
here, had no other intentions, than to fight the Indians on the East end of Long-Island, inferable
from various indications, too long and 4oo manifold to follow up here, and that careless watching
and all too hasty inconsiderateness of some hotheaded individuals diverted the Indians and gave
them a cause for the distressing subsequent actions and excessive damages. Nevertheless, consid-
ering the sauciness of the Indians, which is unbearable and the ransom which we have had to give
for our captured countrymen and which made them undoubtedly very eager, to act the same
tragedy over again at a future time, it is in my opinion very necessary, that their sauciness should
be somewhat repressed and curbed, not directly however by declaring and beginning an open war,
but by some strict orders, the disobedience to which would make the punishment more lawful and
justifiable. What orders it is necessary to consider, will follow under the last head.
The second point is partly answered with the first and I think (under correction), that, although
the war may be lawful and justifiable, which I will not absolutely contradict, the present is not
the time for it ; many reasons might be adduced herefor, which we will pass over at present for
the sake of briefness and not to cause any more unpleasant feelings and dissensions. But I have
to observe in a few words that the proposition made by one or the other, to capture some Indians
in order to exchange them for our captive Christians, is in our opinion too dangerous for the present
and impracticable besides. I say too dangerous, because new occasion might thereby be given to
J^ew York Historical Records. 53
the savage tribes either to murder tlie captives or to carry them off furtlier inland, without leaving
us hoj)e to ransom them and I value the blood of one captured Ciiristian more than luO Indians.
It is impracticable, because the remainder of the captives are not with one nation or tribe of In-
dians, but are scattered here and there, and of the nations or tribes, with whom the prisoners are
but few come here or none at all ; on the other side, it appears to me as dishonest and impractica-
ble to seize and keep as prisoners Indians of one tribe, to exchange them for prisoners in the hands
of another tribe. We have also been sufficiently taught by the experience of the last war, that our
side having many and various Indian prisoners never could ransom one Ciiristian for them, not
even while negotiating for and concluding the last made treaty of peace, but that we have had to
ransom our prisoners separately. I refer for proof to the declarations of the old inhabitants, who
have been here before my time.
As to the third point, whether, in case the war is considered both lawful and timely, we are
powerful enough, humanly speaking, in our present state of affairs, to carry it on and bring it to a
desirable end, the opinions will not agree without unpleasant feelings and hence I shall, for the
sake of harmony, refer to the eonchisive remonstrance, sent by the last ships to the higher and
lower authorities of our Fatherland, by which we asked besides assistance and succor their advice
and wise counsel regarding the lawfulness of a war with the Indians and for this reason we are at
present imqualified to begin an aggressive war, unless we desire to subject us to the reproach of
inconsideratencss, in asking for both advice and assistance and then, before they are received, fol-
lowing without reflection our own caprices ; therefore, even though no other reasons could be
adduced, I cannot advise an aggressive war for some time.
As to the fourth point, omitted in the regular order and therefore the last of the jjrojjositions :
What is to be done with the Indians at present as well in regard to the damages sustained as to
the prisoners, my advice is this.
First, to begin at the fountain-head, there is no doubt, that common sins are the causes of
common punishments: it is therefore our duty and besides necessary, that conmion, private and
public, sins, as drunkenness, profanation of the Lord's Kame and Sabbath, swearing in public and
in private, done even by children on the streets, meetings of sectarians and other irregularities be
forbidden by the renewal of good orders and placats, to be promptly executed and by the issue and
strict observance of new orders, to prevent as much as possible sucli occurrences.
That from henceforward no separate bouweries or jjantations shall be made, but that the
out-lying farmers shall be compelled to draw together their deserted houses and henceforth no one
be allowed to settle in the open country, except in clusters of at least 10, 12 or 16 families living
close together, according to the plan to be resolved upon by the Director-General and Council or
their deputies, suitable to the condition of the country and the place and that it shall be ordered,
that henceforward nobody is allowed to live on the separate places, which have been either burned
or deserted.
Thirdly, that on the occasion of forming new villages and hamlets a blockhouse shall be made
of logs for a refuge and the safety of the inhabitants.
Fourthly, I think it would be of service to erect such blockhouses, on the first opportunity
offering, in sight of the Indians, one near AchkinkeshaTcy and another near Wiequaeskeck, where
the best and most fertile land is, to dislodge the Indians from there or keep them under better con-
trol and in case of war to get at them quicker and easier.
Fifthly, to forbid by strict orders and placats, to be rigidly enforced against those who disobey
them.
That no Indian, coming to any place, village or hut, shall be allowed to remain there over
54: Culonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
night, except in a special place, to be fixed upon for that purpose according to the localities of the
village.
That no Indian with any kind of arms shall be allowed to come into any place or hamlet on
the penalty of being seized and forfeiting the arms, which he has with him.
That nobody shall sell to any Indian any strong drink on the penalty of corporal punishment
and that, to find the party disobeying this rule the easier, the drunken Indian shall be apprehended
and kept in prison, until he shall have told, from whom he has received the liquor
Sixthly, I am of opinion in regard to the captives, that it is necessary to get them back by the
friendliest means, even if it were by giving some contraband articles as presents and Mhen they
have been recovered, then to publish and execute the abovementioned orders, but not before.
Seventhly, we ouo-ht to endeavour with all possible smoothness to balk the Indians in the use
of their guns and ammunition ; to accomplish which, it is, as I believe, necessary, to prohibit gen-
erally, that anybody should trade and negotiate with the Indians except upon a certain place, to be
determined upon, and further to forbid, that any gun or locksmith shall repair any lock or make
a new one, except upon the showing of a note with our seal, in which the name, for whom, is
stated and that then the gun shall be marked or branded and a record kept of them.
(Signed) P. Stutvesant.
27"' Novbr. Answer to the propositions, submitted by the Woble Honorable Director-General
Petrus Stuyoesant to their Honors, the High Council on the 10"" November 1655,
read at the meeting in Fort Amsterdam and delivered.
It is answered to the first point, that, if the Avar is considered justifiable, the question is,
whether we have forces enough to attack them, leaving behind the necessary garrisons. If this is
answered in the affirmative, then it must be begun with a warning to and advice of the principal
inhabitants of all our villages and colonies in this province or the answer to our general letter, sent
to our superiors, must be awaited.
He says to the second point, that he has answered the second by the first.
On the third point he says, that if it has to be undertaken soon, without waiting for the afore-
said answer, we must first provide for everything and be sure of it ; then we must await the issue.
He says in regard to the last point, that, if the war with the Indians is brought to a close,
first the natives must be forbidden not only this island but also the city and especially the fort and
all inhabitants must be interdicted to give them lodgings and, by penalty of the gallows, to sell or
give them brandy, but that a trading place should be appointed for them, the Indians, outside or in
the outskirts of the citj', where it may be considered most suitable : that the soldiers' quarters in
our fort Amste?'dam must be finished speedily, also the gates provided with locks, and other means
of securing it and other requisites, as victuals, ammunition of war for the defense and maintenance
in case of misfortunes, which might befall us, must be stored in it : and that our Christian captives
jnust be demanded from the Indians or if refused so many of their nation must be captured, as we
shall find necessary to redeem our people. Done at Amsterdam in New-Netherland on the day
as above, (signed) NicAsrus de Sille.
New York Historical Records. 63
Opinion on the proposition of the Noble Honorable Director-General, submitted to
the Council on the 10'" Novbr. 1655.
My opinion is, that it is impossible, to judge from the last rencontre between us and the
natives, whether a war between us and them is lawful or unlawful, because it is necessary to know
first, whether they were the cause of it or not. The affair must be judged by their previous
actions, for supposed, that they have had no bad intentions in this matter, having nevertheless laid
themselves open to suspicion and given occasion for the rencontre, they will always be considered
the instigators and aggressors and hence the " causa movens " of the same. First the unseason-
able gathering here of 1900 savages, without our knowledge and consent, of whom nearly 800 were
already here, to attack, contrary to their usual manner, 50 or 60 ; was it not sufficient to create sus-
picion of their bad intentions? And did not their insufferable insolence, shown by breaking into
Mr. Allertori's house and beating some of our citizens in their own houses increase that suspicion ?
Then, was not their remaining here contrary to their promise and the murder, which they tried to
commit after the mounting of the guard on the person of Captain Paulus Leendertsen, proof
enough, to impute bad intentions to them ? And all the citizens (to whom the guarding of the
fort was entrusted) were they not in duty bound, to give assistance to every citizen, who called
"murder" and "help" (because they were not put there only to guard the fort, but to protect
from there the whole place), or coming up and finding the same citizen wounded in the breast -with
an arrow, was it not their duty, to run up to the Indians and examine their bearing and finding
them armed and with guns, had they no occasion to resist them ? But why do we try, to argue
so accurately upoTi the lawfulness of a war between us and the savages fi-om the last rencontre,
seeing that they have given a just and sufficient cause, aye, even more than sufficient cause before the
conflict by murdering ten of our people at different times, without having been willing to give
us any satisfaction, contrary to the peace made between them and us; during the same conflict, by
murdering so many people, men, women and children, by taking so many prisoners, by burning so
many bouweries and plantations and by destroying so many animals contrary to the articles of
peace, especially demanded by them, which say that in case by any accident any of our people or
of theirs should be killed, no war should be begun against each other, but before and until satis-
faction and accommodation had been demanded, and the same had been refused, the war against
them should not be considered just, especially not against those of Ahasimus, Hachkinkeshal'y,
Tappan and others, who were all in this engagement and did the most damage to our people and
committed the fearful cruelty of murdering seven men and a woman, whom they killed in cold
blood (contrary to their promise, confirmed by an oath, never before taken by them, to wit : God,
who is above, shall revenge it on us, if we do not keep our promise). But of what advantage are
these investigations to us, since we have not the power to cai-ry on the war, were the same lawful
or even necessary.
To the second article : as we have no power to carry on the war, it is not the time for it now ;
when we shall have received the means, then the time for it will have come.
Not having the means, as I believe, to carry on the war, the country in general should not be
placed in danger by it.
To the fourth article : as we have no means to make war, the necessary consequence is, that
we must keep quiet, until we get them, and do not trust in the meantime the Indians too much ;
as to what we shall do with the Indians concerning the sustained losses, I do not know of
56 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
any advice, because they cannot be recovered either by war or by peace. As to the captives, ex-
perience has taught us, that they must be ransomed.
(signed) Lamontagne.
Opinion on the propositions, submitted by the Noble Honorable Director-General
Petrus Stuyvesant at the meeting of the lO"' Novbr 1655 and read to the Council.
To the first point : After a general peace had been concluded with the natives in August
16i5, the peace and the articles of the treaty have been infringed and broken as follows :
1.
First in killing 14 Christians since August 1645 (up to 15"^ Septbr 1655) at different places
and at various times, for which we have never been able to get justice done, much less satisfaction,
notwithstanding we asked for it in accordance with the treaty, but on the contrary they have fooled
us with lies and false reports, as is well known to the Hon"'^ Director-General, the Council, the
inhabitants of this country and our neighbors.
2.
The Indians have violated and broken the treaty of peace in an outrageous manner in this
city on the 15"" of September last, as follows :
1. In that they landed very early on the rivershore within the city-walls from 64 canoes about
500 men, all in arms, without having given previous notice of it, and that the}', immediately upon
their arrival, almost before any citizens were at hand, ran in large crowds of armed men through
the streets, breaking forcibly into the house of Mr. Allerton, bursting off the lock of the door,
threatening and beating the people ; that they noisily searched the house under the pretext of
looking for Northern Indians, as tiiey did in many houses in this city, until upon the complaints
of the inhabitants, and to avoid further troubles, they were driven from the High Street to the
banks of the North river, where their canoes laid and they had landed in the morning.
The chiefs or sachems of the savages, belonging to different tribes, were friendly asked by the
Council to appear at the Council-chamber in the fort, which they did : there they were asked by
the members of the Council then present, in the presence of the Burgomasters, Schepens, citi-
zens and military officers for the reasons of their coming thus armed and without liaving given
previous notice, also why they and their people attacked and molested the citizens in such a man-
ner by breaking locks, bursting in doors, pushing the people and searching liouses, which no
Netherlander may do without order and authorization from his superiors : the members of the
Council, then present, with the aforesaid officers of the citizens requested, that for our and their
own greater safety and to prevent mischief and trouble the savages should remove themselves from
this island to Noten- Island* before sunset, which they promised and then took their departure.
Instead of leaving, as they had promised, they were joined in the evening by 200 armed
savages more, they shot after guard-mounting Hendrick van Dyck, the foi-mer Fiscal, with an
arrow into the breast and threatened to kill Paxdus Leendertsen, Captain of the train-bands, with
an arrow. Upon these and other occurrences the cry was raised " Murder, murder, the savages
kill the Dutch " ; by this dismal cry the citizens, standing under arms in the fort, to keep
good watch, were thrown rather into confusion and hastened without any order through the
gates and over the walls, so that they came in conflict with the savages, who were prepared, on the
* Now Governor's Island.
Nexo York Hlstorkal Records. 57
strand. Two Dutclimeu were killed and three wounded, three savao-es remained dead on the
strand, where they were found (afterwards). After this rencontre had taken place the savages
■went over the river and elsewhere and burned during the night many houses, murdered and cap-
tured Christians, killed cattle and a few days later cleared Staten- Island of people and houses,
which too is contrary to the articles of peace, made in the year 1645, whereby it was expressly
stipulated, that if reciprocally on one or the other side one or more persons had been killed or
murdered, no general war should therefore immediately be begun, but that the injured party should
make its complaints to the chiefs or magistrates of those, who had committed the deed, so that then
justice might be meted out to the malefactors, according to circumstances.
This point has been sacredly iipheld by the Netherlanders, although li Christians had been
murdered before the 15"" of September and notwithstanding that the contract had been violated
and broken in all these cases by the Indians, in killing people 'and cattle and stealing goods, while
we were never able to get justice done.
Having considered all this conscientiously the Fiscal is of opinion, that it is and must be neces-
sary, just and righteous to make war on the Indians for the breaking of the treaty and their fearful
deeds.
To the 2''.
It would be just and necessary (subject to correction), to pnnish the savages with God's bless-
ing by force of arms and subdue them, because we have instances in our neighbors, living to the
east and south from us, that they could not remain safe, before and until the Indian tribes were not
reduced and brought to submission.
Now as to the time, the season to inflict punishment on these barbarians would be in the months
of December, January, February and March, but to take this step would, in my judgment, not be
advisable, until we have received special authority thereto from our superiors and in the meantime
we must dissemble, though it be unpleasant, and if possible not spare some small presents, in order
to bring the savages to a truce, without making an absolute compact, and help the captives.
To the Z^.
The war against the savages, just according to the law of nations and not the less necessary
for the safety of New-Netherland must be deferred, that in the meantime the villages may be
prepared and placed on a defensive footing, also that we may wait for the answer from Holland
to the letters and petitions sent there, together with the demanded succor, necessary for it. With-
out the latter I do not think, that the just war could, humanly speaking, be brought to a de-
sirable end.
To the 7'".
My advice on this last article is given under the 3*, to which I refer. On the li*** of Novem-
ber, at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherlomd^ a" 1655 (signed) Coknelis van Tienhoven, De-
livered the 29'" Novbr 1655.
58 Colonial kiattlements on tlie Hudson River.
Proposition made by the Indiai^s of Long-Island, eequesting a continuance
OF THE peace WITH THEIK TEIBE.
27th JS'ovember 1655.
To-day appeared before the Noble Hon*'* Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Lien-
tenant of the train-bands, Peter Woljphertsen, understanding the Indian language, seven Indians
from Lmig-Island, among whom one Adam, who spoke very good English and six others with
him, who made the following statement both in English and in Indian :
1. That they have been sent by the chief of Marsepain, called Tachpwusaan, alias Meautin-
nemin, to offer us his friendship and to say that formerly, during the times of the Hon''"' Kieft, a
war had been waged between their nation and ours and that there were people killed on either
side, on theirs and on ours, but that this must be mutually forgiven and forgotten.
2. They further declare, that in the former differences between their Sachem and our nation
and between them and the Indians of the Narricanses, the present Sachem's father, called the
" One-eyed ", when beaten by our nation in the abovementioned war, had directed and ordered
his son, now called Tachpausaan to make peace with the Dutch and the Indians from Narrican-
ses and to keep it and that he should forget for the future what had happened and that he must
not for this reason shed any more blood in future. The present Sachem has obeyed this, his
father's, order and has done no damage to the Dutch people since the last war, not even to the
value of a dog and he is still of intention thus to continue.
He declares also, that his chief has been on bad terms and at war since almost 1-2 years with
the savages, who have since and again now done so much injury to our nation and although this
nation considers the chief only little and not bigger than a fist, he nevertheless feels sure, that he
will be strong enough for them, but that until now he has been sitting as with a hanging head, he
hopes however, we shall soon see now, what he shall do against these savages and he further says,
that his Sachem did not yet declare, he would assist us against the savages, who did us the last
damage, but that we should see it directly and that his chief does not nor will say or promise any
thing else, but that he will show and prove it directly.
He further presents a small box with wampum, which, he says, have been sent by his Sachem
Tachpausaan and the chiefs on the east end of Long-Island with the request to accept it as a
token of their friendship and to assure us, that whenever we needed their Sachem or his people,
we had to summon them only, they would be ready at all times.
He further states, that the Indians of the North, that is those living back of Onckeway and
Stamford towards the Fresh river, had been in company of these Indians, when they made the
last onslaught on us, but that none of the Long-Island Indians had been with them. Date as
above.
Questions submitted by the Dikector-Geneeal to the Council on
EXCLUDING Indians from the settlements and answers.
The G'" point was agreed 6. Whether it is not advisable and necessary, to
to as necessary, but it order by placat, that no Indian shall be allowed to
New Yurie Historical Records.
59
was resolved to delay its
being carried out.
It is judged, to dispose
of this seventh point by
a placat.
It was resolved on the 8"" point, to
direct the magistrates of each village,
to make iuquii'iesin private, what arms
the people in their jurisdiction had
and to report thereon to the high
Council.
come to any bouwery or plantation, except 3 or 4 Sa-
chems (?) without arms and that nobody shall give
them lodgings for the night nor carry on any trade,
neither directly nor indirectly, with them except upon
certain specified places.
7. Whether it is not advisable, that no guns should
be either directly or indirectly mended or repaired in
tlie open country nor withiu this city, unless upon,
showing a written consent, which stated the name of
the owner.
8. Whether it is not necessary, to make a general
monthly muster of all men, able to bear arms, in
each village or hamlet, to find out how they are
armed and to take a list of them, in order to prevent
the selling or destroying of the arms.
Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland.
Date as above (IS"- Jan^ 1656).
Paper eead by Dieectok Stutvesant to the Council, containing information
ON THE causes OF THE LATE DIFFICULTIES WITH THE INDIANS.
26"" January.
To-day the following letter was
read by the Noble Hon*'" Di-
rector-General to the Council at
the meeting in Fort Am,sterdam.
I informed yonr honors partly by word of mouth, that on the 22'' inst. I had a visit from a
Mr. Weyls, formerly a resideiit of Stamford, now sclioolmaster at OncTceway, who among other
reports of news from Europe told me in presence of Z>° Drisius and 'Will^m HarcJie, that he had
had in his house lately an Indian from Wiequaeskeck, who was a good friend of Yaiider Donch
and had tended his cows *for a time ; he thought, his name was Joseph and he spoke pretty good
English, anyway so much that he could understand him. He had talked with this Indian about
the late troubles between his and our nations and these were the details :
First, why they had killed and captured so many Dutchmen %
Second, why they do not return the captured Dutchmen and whether they are not afraid, that
the Dutch will again attack them ?
Third, what they and their neighbors intended to do with the captives ?
He answered to the first, that they had not been the first cause or that they did not begin
and that they were afraid, the Dutch would not forget it, and they comprehend, why the Dutch
kept so quiet.
As to the captives, they were a burden to them, for they had to feed them, but they retained
them, as they knew well and expected, that, as long as the prisoners were with them, the Dutch
would not trouble them and they were resolved, to have the prisoners ransomed in the spring or
60 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to offer them to the Dutch. To the question, whether they would then make peace with the
Dutch, the Indian answered the Dutch would not keep the peace and that therefore they did not
intend to ask for peace nor to make it. Asked, what they would do against the Dutch, who were
so strong and it being impossible to kill all or drive them out of their strong positions, he said,
they knew that well, therefore they would not visit them in their castles nor make war upon
them, but they would hide in small parties in the underwood, to surprise any one, who came out,
hinder them in planting and kill their cattle, when it came into the woods, until they finally
would have no more food and so forth ; the aforesaid Wyles thought it his duty as neighbor, to
inform us hereof.
He stated in regard to the massacre and unlucky engagement, that the matter had been
received by the Commissioners and other principal persons of New-England with great and heart-
felt [regret] and that it was their opinion, they were, considering their neighborhood, close union
and the congruity of the divine service of the two nations in duty bound, to assist us against the
barbarous tribes, if they were requested and many were astonished, that we thus passed over the
affair, disregarding the Christian nations.
He said also, he had heard to his regret, that many here believed, the people of New-England
had had something to do with it, with the intention to get under that pretext possession of Long-
Island or the new plantation at Westchester : he affirmed with great confidence, that to favor such
belief was unneighborly and unchristianlike, that they were so far from it, that they did not want
more of Long-Island, than what was agreed to in the treaty made at Hartford and they them-
selves did not approve of the action of Mr. Pel in establishing a village upon somebody else's
territory. He thought, this was now broken up, because Mr. Pel was drowned or as is supposed
shipwrecked with his vessel and property. This is the substance of his statement to me, made in
the presence of the aforesaid D" Drisius and William Ilarck, which I have thought necessary to
communicate to your Honors and to have inserted, with your knowledge, into the minutes, also to
recommend it to your Honors' further consideration, to which I must add, that, as your Honors
know, some savages, about 30 in number, have [plundered] the yacht '■'■ Endracht''\ stranded on
the Sandpaint, and robbed the sailors under threats, although they did not hurt them, of their
property, which has caused me, to prevent further mischief and bloodshed, to take away the sailors
and the things, easiest to transport, from the stranded yacht and to abandon the yacht, until better
times and oj^portuuity. I stop here and impress it upon your Honors' mind, whether it would not
be well, to remove also the small garrison on Staten^Island, which has no more protection, but
much less than the sailors on the yacht, before something like, what I spoke of before, if not
worse may happen to them and to order Captain Post, to proceed with his cattle and the few
soldiers with him to Nayeeck and join the troops of Mr. Werckhoven, where a suitable refuge of
stockades has been made, snfiicient to defend it with Boldiers against an attack by the Indians.
Date as above. (26'" January 1656).
Advice of the Honorable meivdjers of the High Council, Nicasitts de Sille,
Lamontagne, and Coenelis van Tienhoven, given to the foregoing.
The High Council advise on the proposition of the Hon"'" General, that, whereas Captain
Post is mostly camping out with his soldiers on Staten-Island under the blue sky, during this cold
winter, without having provided any stronghold, protection or means of defense for himself, his
Neio Yorli Historical Hecords. 61
people and the soldiers and considering tlic conflict and tlie plnnder of tlie yacht on the Sand-point,
which mishap, yea even worse might befal Post and his jjeople, we believe, Captain Post should
be directed to move himself, his people and the soldiers together with his patron's* cattle to Long-
Island to Mr. WerckKoveii^s place, where they have means of defense, stables for the animals and
lodgings for the men, maintaining however his master's right to Staten- Island and if Captain Post
will not follow this direction, for the prevention of mnrder or other misfortune, the Director-Gen-
eral and Council shall withdraw the soldiers and shall not be responsible in case of mishap for
anything, that may happen on Staten- Island. Done at Port Atnsterdam in New-Netherland, on
the day as above (26"' January 1656) (Signed) Nicasius de Sille, Lamontagne, Coenelis tan
TiENHOVEN.
PETrrioN OF Michael Jansen foe a lot in the city, all his peopeett having
LATELY BEEN DESTEOYED BY THE InDIANS ; GEAJSfTED.
To the Noble, Worshipful Director-General Petrus
Stuyvesant and the Eight Honorable Council of
New-Neth erland.
Shows with great humility and due respect Michiel Jansen, farmer and former resident here,
that during the last unexpected disastrous conflict with the Indian natives of this country he was
bereft not only of what he had earned here with God's blessing during a period of 17 years, but
also of all, what he, the petitioner, had brought to this country and what had been sent to him.
All of which has been cruelly burned or taken away by the aforesaid Indians, so that he, the peti-
tioner, has now no means in this world, to live on with his wife and six children, but as he desires
to gain a living, like the other inhabitants of this place, by doing something or another, wherefor
he first needs besides God's blessing your Honorable Worships' good favor, he, the petitioner,
therefore addresses himself respectfully to your Honorable Worships praying that in consideration
of tlie above stated facts }'our Honorable Worships will favor him with a lot within the city next
to Abraham Clock, 30 to 36 feet wide, whereas the same would be very useful to him, the peti-
tioner, for what he intends to undertake for the maintenance of his family ; which doing etc shall
remain as ever Your Honorable Worships' obedient subject (signed) Machiel Jansen.
The foregoing petition was read at the meeting and after having put the question, the follow-
ing decision was made.
The petitioner is granted a small lot within this city, next to Ahralmm Martensen Clock,
measuring in front and rear 26 to 27 feet and as long as the lot of the said Ahrm Clock, provided
that the petitioner shall fence the aforesaid lot on the side toward the strand in the same manner
as the fencing has been begim on the city-gate. Done at the meeting in Fort Amsterdam in N.
N., date as above. Below stood : The above order was annulled for some reasons on the 15"" Feb-
ruary 1656 and another lot granted to him.
* B;iron van der Capelle toe Ryssell.
62 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River. ^
Order directing Captain de Coninck to capture the leading Englishmen of
Vreedland (Westchester), and his instructions.
6"' March (1656).
The orders of the Lords-Directors and their letters of the 23* Oct 1654, 26"» April and 26"'
May 1655 show and the Director-General and Council have been reliably informed, that the Eng-
lish in the village, by them called Westchester, situate upon the Vreedland about 2 leagues from
this City, not only harbor fugitives and robbers, preying on this Province, but that also, as can be
proved by the copy of a certain letter, their chief officer Lieutenant Wheeler has been in commu-
nication with the barbarians at or about the time of our last dreadful rencontre with them.
It has therefore been resolved for the welfare and advantage of the counti-y and for the main-
tenance of the right of the Lords-Directors against such usurpers, to take up the said Englishmen,
or at least their leaders in the most secret and civil way, to make the rest remove with their mov-
able property and to commit the execution hereof to the valiant Captain Frederic de Coninck,
Capt. Lieutenant Brian Nuton and with them to the Fiscal Cornelis van Tienhoven, who is to
serve his protest in this case and have some fugitives and thieves arrested.
Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Neiherland, date as above.
P. Stuyvesant,
N. de Sille, La Montagne, Corn, van Tienhoven.
7'* March. Instructions for the Valiant Capt. Frederic de Coninck, Capt. Lieut.
Brian Nuton and the Fiscal Cornelis van Tienhoven commissioned
in pursuance of the Resolution of the Hon"'" Director-General and
Council of the G"" of March 1656 to go to Westchester and execute
their orders.
1.
They are to proceed to-night with the detailed detachment of soldiers to Vreedland and after
having taken possession of the houses of the Englishmen, settled there upon the Hon"'" Company's
ground, direct them to remove with all their movable property and cattle.
2.
If the English do not immediately prepare to break up and leave, they are to make them leave
willingly or unwillingly and if some of them should offer resistance by shooting or otherwise, they
are to meet force by force and proceed against the usurpers as against enemies, in accordance with
the orders from the Lords-Directors.
3.
The houses are to be demolished, with the exception of 3 or 4 for shelter of the goods and
soldiers ; the principal fugitives and criminals, who have fled there, are to be sent here as soon
as possible.
4.
They may leave if they think fit, some of the less prominent men to watch the goods and
command them to remove with all their property and cattle within 3 days, at the risk of being
proceeded against according to law.
5.
They are to ])revent all thieving, plundering and similar doings, as much as possible and for-
bid it to their soldiers.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 63
6.
If tlaey meet savages, which is not expected, they must either act on the defensive or attack
them, as the situation may require it.
Done in Council at Fort Ainsterdam in N. N. on the day as above.
P. Stuyvesant,
NiCASIUS DE SiLLE, La MoNTAGNE.
Oedee eespecting the Prisonees taken at "Westchester.
14'" March (1656)
Concerning the English prisoners, lately brought down from Yreedland out of the village,
by them called Westchester and imprisoned on board of the ship '^DeWaagh^\ it is unanimously
agreed and resolved, that all, who have formerly been under this Government and had sworn
obedience and who have run away either on account of debts or for other reasons or against whom
the Fiscal as public prosecutor believes to have any charge, shall be placed in close confinement by
the said Fiscal, who is hereby authorized thereto and who shall proceed against them according to
law. As to the others, who have come from New-England or elsewhere, misled by either Mr.
Pell or somebody else, and have settled within the agreed boundaries and against whom the Fiscal
has no other charge, these are to be detained in civil arrest at the City Hall or elsewhere imtil
further examination and order. The people, who have remained in the said village, are to be
warned, that they must remove.
Thus done in Council at Firrt Amsterdam in N. N. date as above.
P. Stuyvesant,
NlCASIUS DE SiLLE, La MoNTAGNE.
Extract from a letter of the Directoes to the Director-General and Cohn-
CIL ; THEY regret THE DAMAGES INFLICTED BY THE InDIAN RAID ON NeW-AmSTER-
DAM AND GIVE DIRECTIONS FOE THE RELIEF OF THE SUFFERERS. 13™ MaECH 1656.
******
The only thing which has greatly disturbed and vexed us in your Honors' last letter, is the
sad misfortune, which befell us unexpectedly from the natives ; the considerations, which arise
therefrom, are whether to make some arrangement with tliem or revenge the bloodshed and
inflicted damages in a proper manner ; we can as yet come to no final conclusion about the one or
the other. The first would be best adapted to the present condition of the Company, while the
other is the safest and most necessary, so that we may not be subject to sucli unlucky events in future,
whenever the desires and rapaciousness of the savages call for it. We shall communicate the
whole matter to the Government of these States and ask them also for the needed succor, of which
we shall give further iirformation to your Honors in due time. Meanwhile we would recommend
your Honors to bring your affairs provisionally to such a condition, that not only the poor pris-
oners may be ransomed in a suitable manner and returned to their families, but also such precau-
tions may be taken at every instance, that such disasters are not to be feared in the future. Your
64 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Honors are on the spot there and better inJbrmed of everything, than we, who cannot jndge so
well of the particular circumstances and consequently cannot give advice from here. Your Hon-
ors' proposition, made for the security of the people in the open country, to settle in close neigh-
borhood and provide their settlements with some means of defence, suiiicient at least against an
attack, is not extravagant, we think, and it would seem to be quite advisable, to make a provisional
treaty, that the savages must keep away from the places, where our people have settled, but above
all you ought to insist upon restitution of the stolen booty and extorted ransom, for else it must
be feared, that the savages will be induced to take hold of the opportunity at the first pretended
unlucky event ; we leave it to your Honors' own consideration, what steps might be taken for this
pnrjjose towards an offensive alliance with the English, for which plans have been made before.
As to the requested subsidy for the suffering and impoverished people, for which your Honors
propose the hundredth penny of the real estate tax, which we have since changed to the twentieth
penny on the houses and the tenth on the plantations and bouweries, which remained intact, we
are satisfied, that the aforesaid revenue may provisionally be used therefor this year and shall like-
wise exert ourselves and see, whether something can be obtained for the rehef of these poor people
besides the succor, which we ask from the City.
To prevent as much as possible all chances, that the savages may be provided with arms by
our people, to their own damage, we have resolved upon your Honors' proposal, that the passen-
gers and free men, who may henceforth go to New-Netherland, shall be obliged from now to take
with them a matchlock in place of a flintlock, as may be seen by their passports.
Application of the Fiscal, EECAprrrrLATiNG Pell's diteusion at Westchester
ETC AND REQUESTING, THAT HE BE OEDEEED TO QUIT.
March IS*"-, 1656.
To the Noble Hon"'" Director-General and Council of New-Netherland.
Not only your Honors but everybody else living in this Province know, that many years ago
the land called VreeJland has been settled by several persons under patents from your Honors'
predecessor and peacefully occupied under this Government until the war of 16't3. Now one Mr.
Pell, a resident of Onckeway in New- England, has against Christian law and custom dared lately
to repurchase these lands from the same natives, from whom years ago they were bought and paid
for through your Honors, as the Book of Deeds shows, and to enter upon them in his own name
and live there contrary to the settlement of the boundaries agreed upon with the United Colonies
of New-England in 1650 and without your Honors' knowledge or consent. Against this usurpa-
tion the Fiscal has protested ex officio in the name and on behalf of his superiors, but notwith-
standing this protest duly served. Lieutenant Wheller, who commands there as chief officer, remains
there with the rest of his associates and continues to build and plant, receiving and sheltering
several fugitives, vagabonds and thieves, who on account of their bad behavior had to fly. There-
upon your Honorable Worships, following the instructions and orders of the Lords-Directors and
in order to maintain the agreement of Hartford, have resolved, to dislodge the said Wheller and
his people by a troop of soldiers. These persons met, according to your Honors' declaration of the
H:"" March, the Hon""' General, there present with the rest of the soldiers, they had drawn up in
line under arms and showed themselves unwilling to remove, saying the land belonged to them.
JS'e^v Yoric Historical liecords. 65
Thereupon the siiid Englishmen were deprived of their arms and 23 of them were brought as
prisoners on board of the ship '' de WaaijW^ on tlie same day, while a few with the women and
children were left behind, to take care of their goods.
The Fiscal therefore requests, that your Honors will please to send the Courtniessenger with
one or two of the oldest men to Vreedlandt, who are to warn the remaining Englishmen, that they
must remove and take away everything brought there by them, at the risk of being proceeded
against according to law, if they do not obey ; also that the aforesaid Lieut. W/ieller and his com-
panions pay, before being released, the expenses incurred by your Honors through their acts and
disobedience in coming hither in boats and with armed men and further that they sign an act,
promising never again to come and live, build, plant, sow or mow without your Honors' consent
and special order upon our Lords' land, situate at Vreedlandt, which they have lately called West-
chester, or upon any other land within the boundaries, agreed upon at Hartford, under penalty of
suffering corporal j)unishnient according to the exigencies of the case, if found to have disobeyed.
The above written application and motion of the Fiscal, as plaintiff and attorney, against the
imprisoned Englishmen, arrested lately at Yreedland, by them called WestcJtester, having been read
and considered together with the humble remonstrance of their wives here annexed and taking
into consideration the dangerous situation and the inclemency of the winter, We, the Director-
General and Council of New-N etherland, have resolved for these and other weighty reasons, to
release the English prisoners, after they have pronaised under oath and by their signatures, to
remove from the lands of Yreedland and out of this Province with their property and cattle within
six weeks and not to come back in to this jurisdiction, without our special consent. After having
sworn to and subscribed this, the Fiscal is authorized and directed to release these Englishmen,
against whom he, as public prosecutor, has no other charge than that of usui-pation, as soon as
they have satisfied him for the expenses incurred, to be estimated by impartial men, and this shall
be his sufficient warrant. As to the fugitives or other criminals, also those who refuse to sign the
aforesaid promise, they must be apprehended according to the resolution of yesterday and be pro-
ceeded against according to law.
Thus done in Council held at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland date as above.
P. Stuyvesant.
NiCASIUS DE SiLLE.
La Montagne.
Petition of Thomas "Wheeler and othee settlers of Wkstchester, submit-
ting TO THE Government of New Nktherland and asking for certain
privileges, which are granted.
Honoured S' with the Rest of your honoured Court, the Gouernour and Court to the New
Netherlans.
Ma}' you be pleased to take in to your Consideration the humble request of your pore and
humbell petisinors that wheras it doth appeare that you make claim to the plase where we ware to
bee the writ of the hye and myghtic States of the Netherlands, wee whose names are underwritten
are willing to submit ourselves unto the government of the said Netherlands soe Long as we Con-
tinow within theyr Jurisdiction provided that wee may injoy our Liberties in chusing our ofisers
66 Colonial Settlements on the Had>ion River.
for the administration of such Lawes as may be maid for tlie good of our tounship, which wee now
inhabit as alsoe wee may haue our amies Eeatored according to your promise, which ware taken
from us : Avhereby wee may be abell to attend ourselves from such as may uniustlie a salt us and
to make such Lawes and orders as may be for the particular good and welfare of the said phace
not beino- Kepugnant to the Generale Lawes and to distribute our Landes unto the inhabitans none
admitted according to first proposition as Lj'ckewyse to Eeseve such inhabitans as may be com-
fortabell to us in particklar and the good of the generall as far as we are abell to judge. March
16, 56.
Thomas H Neuman: John Broundish:
Thomas "Wueelee: Ebmod Cajjiff: Edwaet "Waters:
EoBBERT Basset : Nickxis Hill : Samuell Babet :
Isayh Gillbeet : "William v.^^.^ Benfull : "William "Wakd.
J OHN Roes : John \/\ Yennet :
Eobeet EoEs : Egbert ^'tMeakee:
Obodiah Gllbeet :
The Director-General and Council of New-NetKerland having read and considered the fore-
going petition, grant to the petitioners, that upon taking the oath of allegiance they may remain
as good subjects of this Province and live at the place called Yreedland, under such conditions and
patents, as other free people in the villages of Middelhorch, Breukehn, Midwout and Amesfoort
enjoy ; they shall also have the right of nominating a double number for officers and magistrates
for the better govermnent of the said village of Yreedland, whose selection and confirmation is
reserved to the Director-General and Council, conform to the general orders. Thus done in
Council held at Fort Amsterdam in jSf. N. date as above.
P. Stotvesant,
NicAsius de Sille,
La Montagne,
CoENELis van Tienhoven.
CoMivnssioN FOR Thomas "Wheeler, to be Chief Magistrate at Vreedland (Westchestee).
"Whereas Lieutenant Thomas Wheeler and some of his associates have lodged and settled
themselves upon the land, called by our Principals Yreedland, and have voluntarily submitted to
the Government of Neto-Netherland as good subjects and whereas care must be taken of the
administration of justice and good order observed in all cases, while the act of their privileges is
being drawn up and until it is definitely ascertained, who will remain there and who intends to
remove.
Therefore the Hon'''* Director-General and Council of New-Netherland have appointed and
commissioned the said Lieutenant Thomas Wheeler as chief magistrate there to represent the
Hon'"''' General and to see, that cverytliing is done justly and fairly and if anybody should disobey
liim he is to have liim arrested and send him hither, to receive condign punishment as an example
to others and all tliis till further order.
■ Amsterdam, in New-Netherland March 16^'' 1656.
P. Stutvesant.
Ntw York Historical Records. 67
Oedeb for the niscHAEGB OF Capt. KicnAED Panton and others of Veeedland
(Westchestee) on condition that they leave the country oe being security
FOE their good behavtoe.
March 25. Saturday (1656.)
The Director-General and Council of New-Neiherlcmd have read the answers given in their
examination by the Fiscal Cornelis van Tienhoven by Capt. Richard Panton, WilUavn EUt, Black
llarchand, Jan Gray and Rogier Whealer, all Englishmen, detained for having taken up arms
against the Hon''''^ Director-General and his command at Yreedland on [the Id"" inst], and having
heard the report of the Commissaries directed to be present at this examination, the Director-Gen-
eral and Council resolve, in consideration of their surrendering on our promise of good treatment,
to forget their former misdemeanor and to release tlie said prisoners from arrest, ordering them to
remove out of the lioundaries and jurisdiction of New-Netherland, unless some of the inhabitants
of the village desire to be their bondsmen and give bail for tlieir good behavior.
Thus done in Council at Fort Amsterdam in N. N. on the dav as above.
OeDEE ox AN APPLICATION OF NiCOLAS VaeLETH FOE LEAVE TO EEMOVE TnE FEAME
OF A HOUSE FROM IToBOKEN TO AMSTERDAM ; DENIED ON ACCOUNT OF THE InDIAN
DIFFICULTIES.
28 March (1656)
Before the Council appeared Nicliolas Varleth and requested permission to remove the frame
of a house, standing at Ilohoochen, which he had sold to Michiel Jansen for 230 11., and asked for
6 or 8 soldiers for defense or protection, which having been taken in consideration, several diffi-
culties presented themselves, which might arise therefrom and which were suggested to him,
among others that upon meeting with savages our men might come to words with them and from
the words to blows, whereby the whole country and all the savages would again get excited, the
more so, as the savages pretended, according to his own statement, that the said house barring the
nails, belonged to them and that our time had not come yet, as tlie savages still lield in captivity
about 20 of our children, further that an order from Holland regarding this matter was expected
everyday and several other reasons, which if they did not satisfy him, he is directed to make his
application in writing. Date as above.
Indictment and sentence of Sandee Totjesen and wife foe selling liquoe to the Indians.
Copy. To the Right Honorable Director-General
and Council of New-NeiherlaTid.
On the 4"' of March last past two Indians of 3Iochgeychkonkh were arrested, who were
exceedingly drunk and run about on the streets here and into the Fort with a great deal of noise.
These Indians declared of their own free will, after having been in prison one day, that they had
68 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
received the strong liquor from Samder Toursen and his wife, adding thereto, that, in proof of tlie
truth of what they stated, some black wampum laying at the end of a certain chest, would be found
near the bedstead, which belonged to them and had been given to Sander, to buy more brandy for
it upon another occasion. Tlie deposition of Jan Gerritsen van Immen miist be added, who says,
that he has seen the wife of Sa?ider Toursen run in and out of the tavern with a calabash and
carry the same out of the garden, which opens on the strand, to the savages, who run along
the strand very intoxicated and whereas we have, as in duty bound, made great endeavors to get
more information, yet Sander Toursen and his wife remain obstinate in their denial, the Fiscal
requests, that for the maintenance of justice and as an example for other dealers in brandy, these
two persons be publicly placed on the pillory and banished the country, so that liquor dealers,
selling to the Indians, on seeing the punishment, may be on their guard and mischief be prevented.
Dated the 2'' April A° 1656 (signed) Coenelis van Tienhoven.
The foregoing complaint of the Honorable Fiscal Comelis van Tienhoven, preferi-ed ex officio
against Sander Toursen and his wife, having been seen, read and deliberated upon by the Director-
General and Council of New-Netherland and it being further considered, that several persons
greatly suspect, notwithstanding their obstinate denial, that Sander Toursen and his wife have
sold liquor to the savages, besides, that the Indian prisoners have, of their free will, declared, they
had received the brandy from Toursen and his wife and the proof, which they had offered in veri-
fication of their statement, has been found correct. The Director-General and Council aforesaid
have banished, as they herewith do, the said Sander Toursen and his wife and condemned them
to be sent to the Fatherland b}^ the ship "(ielTaa^A" now here ready to sail, as an example for
others, who sell brandy to the savages. Thus done, at our meeting held at Fort Amsterdam in
New-JSetherland. Date as above.
OeDEE foe a CONTErBUTION OF CLOTH FEOM THE MEECHAJSTTS FOE THE EANSOM OF
THE PEISONEES, STILL HELD BY THE InDLAJSTS.
12'" April (1656).
The report of those, authorized to make a collection for the children still in captivity among
the barbarians, has been received and as for their ransom (besides what has been already col-
lected or given from the lion. Company's and the Poor funds, consisting in wampum) some pieces
of duffels ai-e required and necessary and not to be had for wampum. Therefore it is ordered, that
for supplementing it the merchants are hereby required and requested in the name and for the sake
of the poor prisoners, to deliver each one, either as charity for the poor prisoners or else for our
account, to the bearers hereof one piece of cloth. Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland,
date as above. (Signed) P. Stuyvesant, Nicasits de Sille, LaMontagne, Cok. van Tienhoven.
Oedinance of the Director-Geneeal and Council of New-Netherland against
lodging Indians in New-Amstekdam. Passed May 29, 1656.
(Sec Laws of New Netherlaud, p. 228 ■)
New York Historical Records. 60
Resolution to give privatk notice to Jan Diecksen and his wife to quit the
country, thet being suspected of furnishing liquor to the indians and
another resolution to suspend the first one.
Saturday, A? 1656, the 1"' of July.
Present at the meeting in Fort Amsterdam in JVew-Netherland the Right Honorable Di-
rector-General Petrus Stuyvesant, the Honorable Councillors JY^icasius de Sille and J. La Mon-
tagne and the Worshipful Burgomasters of this City of Amsterdam, Allard Anthony and Oloff
Stevenson Cortlandt.
Whereas a deplorable experience shows and has shown for some time past, that many savages
run, while drunk, on the streets without that it has been possible so far, to discover with certainty,
where they get the liquor contrary to the strict orders and further that the savages are told many
things by evilminded people and imposed upon, as among others, that the Director-General and
Council had sent for five hundred men, that they could not get any soldiers, that nobody would
come hither and many similar stories, the parties spreading which cannot be discovered, and
whereas many and almost general complaints and suspicions point to one Jan Dircksen and his
wife, whose house the savages frequent uncommonly much and have done so some time, the Di-
rector-General and Council have decided, with the advice of the Burgomasters, (judging it would
be better, that the interests of one, as the lesser part, should suffer for the best of peace and safety
and to stop the talk of the people) that the aforesaid Jan Dircksen and his wife should be pri-
vately informed and directed to leave by the first ship. Thus done at the meeting in the year and
on the day as above. (Signed) P. Stuyvesant, Nicasius de Sille, J. La Montagne.
Upon the intercession of the Burgomasters of this City and the requests of the preachere and
for other reasons, it has been resolved, to suspend tlie foregoing resolution and to reprimand and
warn the person to be on his guard. Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in Neio-Netherland, the 3*
of August A? 1656. Present the Honorable Director-General and the Honorable Councillors
jVicasius de Sille and J. La Montagne.
Ordinance of the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland re
newtng the Ordinances for the formation of villages and against admit
TING ARMED InDIA-NS INTO CITIES, VILLAGES AND HOUSES. PaSSED JuLY 1°' 1656.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 234.)
Patent to Cheistoffel Davids for a tract of land in the Esopus (Ulster Co.)
Petrus Stuyvesant etc with the Hon''"' Council declare, that we have to-day, date underwrit-
ten, given and granted to Christoffel Davids a parcel of land, measuring 36 morgens, situate about
a league inland from the North river in the Esojnis, on the west side of the Great Kil, opposite te
the land of Thomas Ohamhers, running S. W. and N. E. halfway to a small pond (binnewatev)
70 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
on the border of a valley, which divides this parcel ^iid the land of the Hon"^ Johan de Eulter,
dec*., with as much hayland (meadow) as shall pro rata be allowed to the other bouweries. Under
the express condition etc etc. Done at Fort Amsterdam in Neio-Nethedand, the 25"" of Septem-
ber 1656.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stutvesant and Cotincil :
THEY accuse THE (FORMER) FiSCALS VAN TlENHOVEN AND VAN DyK AS BEING THE
CAUSE OF THE LATE InDIAN MASSACRE.
******
The reasons, which your Honors bring forward in so many words to vindicate and excuse the
former Fiscal van Tienhoven* cannot by any means make ns retreat from our former position,
Dissatisfaction of ^o take wliich we were not prompted by light and unimportant reasons : we do
ors over the 'rea-" not think it necessary to repeat them all, eithei- to discuss them or to hear him
sons for the ex.-ui- defended, as we are confident, that the charges are true. Whoever considers only
van Tienhoven. his last transaction with the savages, will find, that with clouded brains, filled with
liquor, he was a prime cause of this dreadful massacre. Anyway, he might have prevented it to
a great extent by caution and good management, either in warning the people in the country or
Why he ought not by rendering some slight assistance; your Honors ought to know this better, than
to be exculpated. we and we are therefore Very mucli astonished, that your Honors shield him in
such a manner, with which we are not at all satisfied and shall be still less so, if the same Tien-
Great displeasure, hoven should aaaiu be employed by your Honors in one or the other service there
if he should again . f . • ] i
be employed. against our ctrict instruction and order.
Fiscal van Dyk has As far as we can learn from the transmitted papers and verbal reports of
Uon for'the^ate Other private parties, also the former Fiscal va7i DyJc\ has laid the first founda-
massacre. tion for this dreadful massacre and given the most offence, by killing one of the
squaws for taking some peaches or other fruits from his garden. If this is true, then we wonder,
that no more mention is made of it and that he has not been brought to iustice
If true, he is to . ^ .
suffer according to as a murderer : we deem it necessary to remind your Honors of it and recommend
law.
it seriously to your attention.
*
No opportunity to Although we are still inclined to revenge the disaster, brought upon us by
fortune 'bn>i™ht ^^^® savages, by the use of arms, our situation does not yet admit of giving any
about by the assistance by sending troops and other required necessaries. We trust however,
that the arrival of the City's ship and troops at the South river shall strike these
tribes with awe and that consequently it will be easier to keep them in submission. Tour Honors
must try to remain in the meantime on the former footing with them and deprive them, as far as
They approve of possible, of all chauces to injure our people there. We are well pleased with the
concerning settL o^der issued by your Honors in that respect, also with the placat in regard to the
ments which is to concentration of the scattered farms, provided, that it only affect the erection of
affect only the i -i i.
erection of new new Duildiugs and not such parties, as have already built their houses, for we do
buildings. jjq(. consider it just to compel these to move. In the meantime we are very
* Cornelis van Ticnhovcn, the Fiscal or Attorney-General of ITew-Netherland had been charged with irregu-
larities already in A|)nl 1655, the complaints against him and his brother Adrian, Collector of the Revenues, in-
creased so, that in March 1050 the Comijany dismissed him; when called upon to render his accounts, he ab-
sconded in Novbr. 1650. — B. F.
t He had been removed by Stuyvesant in March 1653, for slandering the Director.— B. P.
New Yoi'k Historkal liecords. 71
anxious to htar, how the deputation, to be sent by your Honors to the meeting of the Legishiture
'They desire to of the Emjltsh, to make an offensive alliance with this nation, has succeeded ; we
hear of the result trust, that your Honors will have proceeded in this matter with such discretion
of the deputation t-ii i*(?i r^ • ^ •
to the English As- ^nd caution, that the authority or tlie supreme (jovernment or this country has
^^■"'''y- not been compromised.
******
Petition of Johanna de Laet, widow of Johak de Hultee foe lettees patent
TO LAND PUKCHASED FROM THE InDIANS BY HEE DECEASED HUSBAND.
To the Noble, "Worshipful, their Honors
the Director-General and Council oINew-
Neiherland.
Shows with due reverence Johanna de JIulter, widow of the late Johan de Hulter, that her,
the petitioner's deceased husband petitioned your Honorable Worships on the 5"" of November
165-t for letters-patent in proper shape for tlie land, which he had bought with the consent of your
Honorable Worships from the natives, who declared themselves to be the lawful ownei's of the
same, and paid for with goods, whereupon your Honorable Worships were pleased to decree and
to order, that the bill of sale and conveyance should be exhibited to your Honorable Worships and
properly recorded, when letters-patent in the usual form would be issued and granted, as may be
seen by the register of your Honorable Worships' resolutions of the aforesaid date.* As since
that the Lord has taken out of the world the husband of your Hon**'* Worships' petitioner, leaving
her as an afflicted widow with four fatherless children in this vale of tears, she is now compelled
to turn to your Honorable Worships with the humble petition, that your Honorable Worships
will please to favor her with letters-patent for the land bought by her deceased husband with the
knowledge and consent of your Honorable Worships, so that your Hon''"' Worships' petitioner and
her young children may have some hope, to reap evenings and mornings some advantage of the
great and excessive expenses and labors, which her late husband has had with it in rather an
excessive manner. The bill of sale and conveyance, demanded by your Plon*"'* AVorships, are
hereunto annexed and I respectfully request, that after they have been recorded, they may be
returned to your Hon*"'" Worships' petitioner, which doing etc.
(Below stood) Your Honorable Worshijjs' humble servant (and it was signed) Johanna de
Hultee.
The following decision was given on the foregoing petition, after the question had been put.
Fiat quod petitur according to the decision given to petitioner's husband on the 5"' 9'""' l(35i.
Dated the 27'" of March 1657. •
. Patent to Johanna de Laet, widow of Johan de Hultee, foe 500 moegens of
LAND on the EsOPUS.
Petrus Stuyvesant, on behalf of their High Mightinesses the Lords States-General of the
United Netherlands and the Noble Lords-Directors of the Incorj^orated West-India Company Di-
* The Council-Minutes of that time make no mention of the petition of Johan de Hulter. — B. F.
72 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
rector-General of New-NetKerland, Curacao, Bonayro, Aruha and its dependencies, together with
the Honorable Council testify and declare, that to-day, date underwritten, we have granted to'
Mrs. Johanna de Laet, widow and remaining possessor of the late Johan de Rulter's estate, a
parcel of land at the Esoj)us, containing altogether in arable lands, meadows and woodland five-
hundred morgens, contiguous on the northside to the land of Thomas Chambers and Christoffel
Davits, where the boundary is formed by a large Kil and it is further divided at the north from
the land, on which Juriaen van Westj)halen lives now by a small Kil, under express conditions
and reservations etc.
Done at New-Amsterdam in New-Netherland, on the 27"" of March A° 1657.
Resolution or the Magistrates of Fort Orange and Beterwyck, permitting
THE inhabitants TO EMPLOY InDIAN BROKERS FOE ONE YEAR.
The magistrates of Fort Orange and of the village of Beverwyck etc.", having been informed
of the complaints made by the community concerning the trade with the savages, in which they
state to be much interested, because they have been forbidden by placat to employ brokers, resolve
to satisfy the community and consent, that they may employ Indian brokers for the trade during
this year. Actum Fort Orange, the 6"" June A" 1057.
Propositions of the three Mohawk Castles, to renew the old covenajsti' chain
and answer thereto.
The 16*'' of June A° 1657 the Sachems of the three Castles of the Mohawks sent to the Hon.
Mr. Lamontagne, the Vice-Director, a chief, called Sasiadego, who requested in the name of the
same Sachems, that they should be heard the same day, whereupon the Vice-Dii-ector called the
Court together.
The three Sachems of the three Maquaes Castles appeared before the Court and made the fol-
lowing propositions, after going through the usual ceremonies :
First. They request us, as old friends, that we should accommodate them with a few horses,
to haul pallisades out of the woods for the repairing of their Castle and that we should protect
their wives and children here in the village, in case they should go to war with the Sinnehes.
They present on this proposition a string of wampum, worth fl 16.12.
Second. They ask, because all three Castles belong to the same tribe and they are bound to
help each other in time of need, which can be done only with difficulty, if they cannot warn one
the other of their distress, that we might assist each of the Castles with a cannon and that the
same should be brought by horses from here to the flats, a distance of 8 miles. They present
another string of wampum, valued at fl. 16.9, on this proposition.
Third. They state, that they have called on us in passing through on their way to the Mahi-
kanders, to renew the old friendship between us and thein, giving thereupon a third string of
wampum, worth fl. 13.10.
On the 22'^ of Jmie 1657 the Sachems or Chiefs of the Maquaes Castles appeared again and
asked the Court for the answer to the propositions, made by them on the 16"' of this month. The
Court gave the following answer to their requests.
New Yorh Historical Records. 73
The answer to tlie first proposition, eoneerniiig the horses, was, tliat they had no liorses of
their own, but if they wish to pay for them, then the Court will see to induce some of the inhab-
itants to help them. As to the receiving here of their wives and children, in case of war with the
Sinnckens, they are ready to do it for the sake of om- old friendship, but we hope it will not be
necessary.
The answer to the second proposition, concerning the request for cannons, was, that the can-
nons did not belong to them (the Court), but to their Chief, who had given them for their own
defense, so that they cannot give them away nor lend them witliout his consent, but they will
write about it to the Director-General and await his answer.
The answer to the third proposition, concerning the renewal of the old friendship between us
and them, was, that we are ready to maintain and thank them for the friendly opinions, which
they have expressed.
EXTKACT FEOM A LETTBE OF THE DiEECTOES TO PeTETJS StUYVESANT : THE PEISON-
EES IN THE HANDS OF THE InDIANS TO BE DEMANDED FEOM THEM IN THE NAME
OF THE StATES-GeNEEAL : A BLOCKHOUSE TO BE BUILT AT EsOPUS. IS'^" SePTBE
1657.
* * e * K *
1.
It is difficult to understand the unbearable boldness of the savage and barbarian tribes there
in demanding and insisting upon so large a ransom for 4 or 5 Christian children, captured by them
They do not ap- at the time of the last surprise and massacre and although we would be glad to
prove of paying a ^^^ them released and would contribute our share to it, we have as yet not been
large ransom for ^ ' «^
captured children able to approve, that these barbarous tribes should be humored in their dishonest
to the °'*'^°° "" proposals ; and that only on account of the consequences and results of the case,
consequences. as, having their appetite whetted thereby, they would often i-epeat these practices.
Your Honors must therefore make an experiment and send some delegates to the said tribes to
To demand the demand the aforesaid children in the name of Their High Might : the Lords-States
prisoners by dele- „ i i i -trr tt*-i t ' c iici -i
gates. General and the vVest-lndia Company and it necessary to ask tor them with great
threats, perhaps they migiit be persuaded thereby ; we shall expect to hear the result of it by the
first opportunity.
******
3.
We do not deny, that the erection of a wooden blockhouse or of a little fort on the extreme
The erection of a boundaries against New-England would be advantageous for determining our
wooden block- Hmits or that a redoubt at the Esopus for the defense and protection of our inhab-
house on theboun- ■' ^
daries with New- itauts there would be not only useful, but also necessary, as we have recommended
England and at the j^ before to-dav to vour Honors and especially the first : however, that we should
Esopus 19 cousid- J J r^ ^ j ^ ^'
ered necessary. assist your Honors in it, the bad condition of our finances in this country would
permit as little as your Honors' own scarcity of funds ; the treasury there ought to be in a better
condition now, considering that the debts contracted before by your Honors for an unexpected
emergency, have undoubtedly been paid, so that, as soon as your Honors shall have sent over
the remitted 4 p. ct. and consequently also the 8 p. ct. retour recognition, we shall not fail, to
10
74 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liiver.
invest them here and supply your Honors in return not only with the required commodities,
but also with some soldiers and more mechanics, who are needed for the garrisoning and erecting
of the aforesaid places and strongholds. Meanwhile we intend and shall give our orders accord-
ingly, to provide and send to your Honors the one or the other, as far our means and the situation
permit, by the ships, wliich are to sail from here before winter.
Affidavit of Jan Gillisen Kock in kegard to Cattle at Catskil.
Before me Johannes Lamontagne, Commissary of Fort Oi^ange, the village of Beverwycknnd
dependencies appeared Jan GilUsen Kock, who declares, that while on board the yacht of Evert
Pels on the last of October he had heard, that Jan van Breemen had gone to the farmers at
Katskil for fodder for the cattle on board of the yacht of the said Evert Pels and that he had said,
he could not obtain any fodder for the animals, six in number, because the kil was dry and he had
then taken two men, to wit the farmer from his bouwery and Gerrit Segersen, to drive the cattle
overland to Fort Orange ; whereupon Tryntie Juriansen asked of the said Jan van Bremen,
whether no fodder could be brought there overland or in carts, to which Jan van Bremen had
answered, " the Devil may carry it overland " and he had said further to Tryntie Juriansen :
"Before we let the animals starve, wo better drive them overland to Fort Orange" The aforesaid
Tryntie Juriansen then remarked : '• Is there no danger for the cattle from the savages " and
Jan van Bremen answered " For one guilder I will run all the risk." They then landed the
cattle from the yacht and the animals ran away and could not be found. He certifies this to be
the truth and will if necessary coutirm it by his oath. Actum at Fort Orange, the 7"" Novbr A.
D. 1657 in presence of
J. Peovoost
Gillisen Kock.
Nathaniel Pieteesen.
List of the faemers, men, women, children, male and female servants sent
BY YONCKEK HeNRICK VAN DER CaPELLEN TOE RySSEL TO StATEN-IsLAND IN
New-Nethekland in West-India since May 1650.
And of those who were alive aftee the dreadful and bloody massacre by
THE savages in SEPTEMBER 1655.
1. Captain Aclr'uun Post with his wife, five children, one male and one female servant, is still
on the Island.
2. Hendrick Swerinck with his wife, two children and a man-servant, is at the ManJiatans.
3. Paul Erchs with his wife, a child and a man-servant, is at Foil Orange.
4. Hendrick MarcelUs with his wife, two children and a man-servant, is at Fort Orange.
5. Jan Aertsen van Heerde with his wife and eiglit children lives at the Manhatans.
6. Aelhert Giiyssebertsen van Heerde with his wife, four children and a man servant, is at Fort
Orange.
7. The wife of Aerent van Hengel, now married to one Severyn, with three children, lives at
the 3fanhatans. He has stepped into the contract of Aerent van Hengel, whose widow has a son
doing all kind of fann labor.
New Yurh Historical Records. 75
8. The wife of Jan van Oldenzeel, called Elsken, married to a basketmaker, with three children
lives on Long Inland.
9. The wife of Jan Wesselinck, married to an Englishman wlio is a carter, lives with Iier three
children at the Manhatans.
10. Gylart, the servant of the late farmer Jan Wesselinck lives at Mespackkil.
11. The wife of the basketmaker (?), engaged at Zutphen, named Ilermhen, lives with two child-
ren at Fort Orange. She is married to a carpenter.
12. Three children of Corporal Gerrit Jansen van Steenwycl', who have been brouglit at his
Excy's expense.
13. Wi/noit, servant to the late Sans Berenisen of Osenhrugge, was taken North by Mehjn, but
has returned and learns ship carpentering.
14. Also a boy of Berene Driessen from Oostenengh lives on LongJsland with a farmer.
15. The smith van Steenderen, called the crooked smith lives at Breuckel, opposite the Manhatans.
There are all together sixty-two living souls. This has been reported at Zutphen on the i-^
November 1657 by the wife of Captain Adriaen Post and by the farmer Jan Aerentsen van
Heerde.
Extract from a letter of the Directors to Director- General and Council of
New-Netherland; Indian Affairs; the colont on Staten-Island. 22'' De-
cember 1657.
"What diKtarbed us most in your Honors' letter was the information, that tlie savages continue
in their old boldness, threats and insolence and have only lately murdered three Christians and as
we have come to the conclusion, that this should not be submitted to any longer, but ought to be
resisted, therefore and to carry it out so much better we are about to send yotir Honors herewith
1000 lbs. of powder and a detachment of about 50 soldiers, who, added to those, whom your Hon-
ors have there already, ought to be sufficient, to attack one or the other of the dangerous tribes or
the most principal of our enemies, especially if use is made of the assistance of the savages, who
are our friends and allies, which we understand the Long-Island savages to be. Although your
Honors are better informed concerning these matters, than we, yet we must earnestly recommend,
to handle this affair with the utmost caution and choose the most convenient time for it, that our
good success may serve as an exampel to make other tribes more circumspect and easier to be kept
in check. We consider it therefore also especiall}' necessary, that henceforth the said savage tribes
be not indulged in such liberties and freedoms, as tliey have now there and at the llanfuittans,
for they are only emboldened by it and made to respect our people still less, wlio, to gain an
advantage in trade one over the other, caress and cajole them, even have armed them to their own
destruction.
******
13.
We have seen, that Lvhhert van DinMagc, attorney of Baron Hendrick van der Capellen has
bought there, for accoimt of the same, from the natives or savages the Staten-Lsland, without giv-
ing any information either to us here or to your Honors, which astonished and puzzled us very
much, as it is a matter, which infringes upon the prerogatives of the Company, to whom alone it
76 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liiver.
is and must be reserved and as such proceedings neither can nor ought to be allowed in any shajie,
we have deemed it highly necessary, to direct your Honors herewith to annul the conveyance
made for it and to have the respective chiefs, savages and owners make a new conveyance to your
Honors in behalf of the Company, under condition that the same goods shall be paid for it, as have
been stipulated at the sale and as may be learned from the enclosed bill of sale : and then your
Honors may grant to the said Mr. van der Capelle or his attorney as much of the land there, as
ho may be entitled to, under the same conditions as it is granted and conveyed to others : this
until we shall give other orders.
14.
As his Honor has informed ns, that the majority of his people, sent there at his expense, have
since the last massacre removed from the Island and are now living here and there in places under
the Company's jurisdiction, according to the enclosed list and as he therefore requests us to
assist him in getting the people back into his service, agreeably to their duty, therefore we desire
to recommend herewith to your Honors to give him or his attorney every possiblt- assistance, pro-
vided it goes no farther, than what reason and equity demand, so that his Honor might be satis-
fied by it.
Action foe Debt. Coknelis Teunissen against Jacob Jansen Stoll foe ex-
cise ON slaughteeed cattle, involving a question of the jueisdiction or
Esopus.
(Taken from Volume A of Mortgages in the County Clerk's office at Albany.)
29"' January 16.5S.
Cornells Teunissen, plaintiff, contra Jacob Jansen StoUe, defendant. The plaintiff asserts,
that, as he has rented the excise on slaughtered cattle, the people of Esopus and KatsTcil must also
pay the said excise.
The Defendant answers, tliat tlie inhabitants of Esopus are exempted from every excise for
the time of 4 years more, pursuant to the "Exemptions of New-Netherland'''' but in case they
ought to pay the excise, the proceeds should be used for the benefit of their place, according to the
orders of the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland,
The Court refers the
matter to His Hon'"''
Worship the Director-
General and Council.
Lettee of Jacob Jansen Stoll to Dieector Stuyvesant with a cargo of whf.at.
No. 43.
Honorable General Pieter Stuyvesant !
Your letter has been received. It is all right about Harman Jacdhsen, as far as I am con-
cerned, that I owe him one hundred guilders, to wit the wheat at three guilders per schepel and
not otherwise (nothing else) and whereas he refers to Frederic Flipsen, that I should pay him the
New Yorh Historical Records. 77
same sum, viz. one hundred guilders, I am always ready to deliver it at the rate of tliree guilders.
As to the rest, I do not kuow anything about it.
Sir! I send herewith in your Honor's yacht fifty schepels of wheat and also one hundred
sehei^els of oats. Please excuse me this time ; I have done the best I could, as I have some more
\\heat to thresh, besides I have got a little behindhand through the last flight and I try to liquidate
my debts with the help of God Almighty, so that I shall easily send your Honor some grain in a
month or six weeks, but not now, for we have had already too many guests in our granary {al
vry lichters aen hoort). Besides, Sir, please not to take it amiss, if I ask, whether the people of
JFort Orange have leave to sell openly brandy and distilled waters to the savages, the barbarous
people, as we, not only I, but all the inhabitants of the Great Soopis see them daily drinking,
while they say, that they get it from there ; no good can come from it, but it must tend to the ruin
of the whole country. They have also caused great inconveniences to Jacob Andriesen on the
Strand, while they were intoxicated. Closing herewith and commending your Honor to the pro-
tection of the Almighty, who may grant good health and a long life to your Honor and your Hon-
or's family, Amen ! I am and remain
Your Honor's faithful servant and subject
On the 12"" of April A" 1658. Jacob Jansen Stoll.
To the Honorable, "Wise and
Very Rigorous, His Honor
Pieter St^iyvesant
General for the Privileged
West-India Company
at the Manhatans in
Foi't Amsterdam.
Letter of Thomas Chambers to Director Stuyvesant : demands assistance, as
THE Indians have murdered some of the settlers at Esopus.
Very Noble General, Petrus Stuyvesant and Honorable Gentlemen of the Council of Ifew-
Netherland. Greeting I
To-day, the first of May 1658 great trouble has arisen here through the fearful intoxication of
the cruel barbarians and I myself with one Pieter Dircksen and Hendrick Cornelissen came
to-day to the tennis-court and saw that the savages had an ancre of brandy lying under a tree and
have tasted myself, that it was pure brandy and according to all appearances they got madly intoxi-
cated and about dusk they fired at and killed Ilarmen Jacopsen, who was standing on the yacht of
Willen Moer, and during the night they set fire to the house of Jacop Adrijansen, so that the
people were compelled to fly ; therefore I request, that we should receive assistance of troops, that
■we may make some stronghold for our defence; as we have been driven away once before and
expelled from our property and it begins anew now, therefore, as long as we are under the juris-
diction of the Hon''''' West-India Company, it is proper, that we should ask your Honor for assist-
ance, so that this fine country might be retained and we remain in our property, for this Aesopus
is a place, which if well peopled could feed the whole of New-Netherland and it would be, so to
say, a sin, which could be avoided, if we should have to leave such splendid country : hence we do
not doubt, but your Honor will assist us speedily and I have informed myself among the savages.
78 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
who or which savage had killed the aforesaid Harmen and they liave promised to deliver the
said savage in bonds to myself and I shall then send him to your Honor, but please to be careful
and not begin the war too suddenly, so that we may first have a stronghold for our defence and
as there is a good chance here, to inflict great damages to the savages, we hope your Honor will
(juickly assist us and not desert us in our need, for we here are also Christian people and it is
everybody's duty to give help in time of distress. Closing herewith, I commend your Honor
with many good wishes to the protection of God Almighty and am and remain
Your Excy's servant
Great Aesopus Thomas Chambeks.
the S"" of May An" 1658.
To the Noble Mr. Petrus Stuyvesant
and the Hon"'" Gentlemen of the Council
of New-Netherland in the City of
New-Amsterdam.
Letter from Andries van der Sluys and other iNHAsrrANTS or Esopcs to Di-
rector Stuv\t;sant confirming the foregoing letter.
The Noble Honorable Petrus Stuyvesant is hereby informed, that the savages have used vio-
lence at the house of Jacob Adrijansen on the first of May 1658, whereby I, Andries van der
Sluys, living in the family of the said Jacqp, was compelled to fly with the said Jacop, his wife
and children to the yacht of Willem Martensen, Ifoer towards evening, after the savages had killed
Harmen Jacopsen on the yacht of said Moer and towards midnight they sat fire to the house and
on the morning of the 2'' of May we and the yacht of Louwrens Louivrensen left the Kil and
remained at its mouth and transferred the body of the aforesaid deceased Harmon Jacopsen to the
yacht of the said Louwrens, that he should take it with him to the Mannathans. We, the under-
signed, declare all this to be true and truthful and promise to confirm it under oath and have
therefore signed it with our own hands.
Actum ; 2 : May : An" 1658 Great Aesopus.
Andries Yander Sluts
Willem Maktensen Fuers (?)
Harmen Harmensen Gansevort
Jacob Adrijaensen
The mark of — J. Dikrick Hendeicksen.
Letter from Thomas Chambers and others to the CotTiciL op New-Nethee-
LAND complaining AGAIN OF THE InDIANS AND ASKING FOR ASSISTANCE: POPULA-
TION AND PEODUCE OF EsOPUS.
Honorable, Wise, Rigorous Gentlemen.
Loyal Gentlemen ! This is to inform your Honors, that we have received yoiu- Honoi-s' letter
of the 4"" of May and that we are pleased to Icam of your Honors' anxiety and great affection for
New York Historical Records. 79
us. "We now have to report, that, although we have done our best to ajjprehend the murderer,
we are mockingly refused by the barbarians and as to the seller of the brandy the savages refer
us to no one, but to many, now Peter then Paulus. But it is evident, that not only for the sake
of selling their stock of beavers they all keep near Fort Orange, whei-e as the make of the brandy-
keg proves, the coopers have hardly sufficient time, to supply the demand by these people. The
savages have, as we previously communicated to your Honors, set fire to the cowshed, the pigsty
and then the dwellinghouse of Jacoj) Adrijaensen and not being satisfied compelled us here, to
plough for them, taking upon refusal a fire-brand and holding it under the roofs of the houses,
to set fire to them ; they use great violence every day, which we are not capable to relate to your
Honors, and derisively say, that if they kill a Christian or more, they can pay for it in wampum
and we have so far been obliged to carry out their wishes ; further, your Honors are well acquainted
with this fine country and know, that there are 990 schepels of seed-grain in the ground, that
our dwellinghouses and furniture are here also and that between GO and 70 Christian people live
here and attend divine service on all the proper days and that we maintain our reader at our own
expense : therefore we believe, that your Honors would regret sincerely, if so many innocent
souls should be so wretchedly murdered and driven away by the cruel barbarians and it looks very
much like it, (which the Good and Almighty God may prevent). We hope, your Honors will
consider, that it is useless to cover the well, after the calf has been drowned ; for the common
rabble of the savages do not pay any attention to their chiefs now and the latter have no more
authority over them and we are obliged to remain in our houses, as the savages would immedi-
ately attack us, as soon as we began to stir about, and set everything on fire, so that we are in such
a distress, that we dare not turn about or move. Therefore we most humbly request your Honors,
our faithful Mastei-s, for help and a succor of about 40 to 50 men. Christ did not desei-t us, but
assisted and saved us and gave his own blood for us, Christ has gathered us in one sheepsfold,
therefore let us not desert each other, but rather help each other to alleviate our sufferings and if
it may please your Honors, our faithful Masters, let some of the Honorable Council come here
quickly with the desired assistance, (but arrived here at the strand, please to keep the men quiet
and close to the bank and inform us of the arrival) and take a look at the situation here and if it
does not seem advisable to your Honors and worth the trouble and expense, then we leave all at
your Honors' discretion. While we expect your Honors' speedy assistance we commend the Hon-
orable Council of New-Netherlan,cl to the protection of God Almighty and remain
The Honorable Council's of New-Netherland obedient faithful servants
Great Aesop us Jacob Jansen Stoll
the 18"" of May Thomas Chambers
An° 1658 CoKNELis Barentsen Slecht
The mark ''y )/- of Pieter Diecksen
The mark ^y of Jan Broeesen
Jan Jansen
Andries van der Sluys
To the Wise. Prudent, then present
Rigorous Gentlemen,
the Council of Neio-Netherland
in the City of Amsterdam
by the yacht oi Jan Coppen, which God may guide.
80 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
ExTEACT FROM A LETTEE OF THE DlEECTOES TO DiEECTOE-GeNEEAL AND CoUNCIL ;
Indian affairs ; emigeants and soldiees. 20''° May 1658.
******
3.
Although we have in our last etter sufficiently explained to your Honors our opinions and
intentions concerning the unbearable conduct and insolence of the savages, we shall nevertheless
add, to make them still clearer, that we are by no means willing, that these commotions, robberies
and violent proceedings of the barbarous tribes should be submitted to any longer, they must be
Ordered, not to Suppressed by all possible means ; for it is impossible, to make them desist, as long
submit any longer ^s they perceive, that we concede everything to their threats and let them pass
to the insolence of -iii i -i e ^ i i rrii
the savage but to unnoticed and do not dare to punish any one ot them, who may have oiiended our
resent and resist it. people. And when sucli offenders and malefactors should have fled and are de-
manded from their tribe, but refused, then we think to have reasons enough and the time to have
come for immediate revenge and a forcible attack on such a tribe, so that for once we may be ena-
bled by such an example to keep others in check. Without it we consider it to be absolutely
impossible and in case your Honors should think themselves not sufficiently strong to carry out
this plan with the soldiery now there, althougli we believe they are sufficient, then your Honors
might employ for assistance such free men, as may offer themselves, and of well-affected savages, our
allies, as many as your Honors may judge advisable for a safe result. We would furtlier direct
and recommend in this regard not to let pass the best and most suitable time and to undertake
and carry out the plan with caution, provided that good arrangements have first been made for
the people in the open country to be secured as much as possible and protected against surprises,
which your Honors being there on the spot will know better how to do, than we could say.
Resolution, that the Directoe-Geneeal peooeed to the Esopus.
28"' May A" 1658, Tuesday, Fort Amsterdam in N. Nd.
Present at the meeting the Honorable Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Hon"'"
Councillors, Nicaslus de Sille, Pwter Tonneman and Johan de Deckere.
The Director-General and Council of New-Netherland took up and seriously considered the
letters of the 2'' and 18"' inst, received from the Esopus, by the first of which they were informed,
that the savages had killed one Uarmen Jacohsen alias Bamhoes, liad set fire to two houses and
behaved and acted very insolently and wantonly ; by the second that the savages were continuing
in their unbearable boldness, forcing our people living there to plough for them and threatening,
in case of refusal, with the firebrands in their hands, to fire the houses, calling them dogs and
heaping upon them other such unbearable treatment, M-ith which the verbal reports of people,
coining from there, agree and on account of which the inhabitants of the Esopus, numbering about
60 to 70 souls, ask for military assistance. After having considered this request, it was resolved,
that the Honorable Director-General should go there forthwith, taking 50 or 60 soldiers with him
as liis bndy-guard, in order to make such arrangements, as he shall find necessary and the best ad-
vantage of the Company, this province and its inhabitants shall require. Date as above.
Hew YurJc Historical litcurda. 81
Ageeemknt made bt the Settlers of Esopus to eemove theie dwellings and form a tillage.
Copy.
We, the undersigned, all inhabitants of the Aesopus, having from time to time experienced
very distressing calamities and felt and discovered, to our loss, the unreliable and unbearable au-
dacity of the savage barbarous natives, how unsafe it is to trust to their promises, how dangerous
and full of anxiety to live at separate places away from each other among so faithless and mis-
chievous tribes, have resolved (upon the proposition and promise made by the Director-General,
the Hon"'* Petrus Stuyvesant, that he will give us a safe-guard and further help and assist us in
future emergencies) and deemed it necessary for the greater safety of our wives and children, to
pull down our scattered habitations in the most convenient manner immediately after signing this
agreement and to move close to each other to the place indicated by the non"'" General, to inclose
the place with palisades of proper length with the assistance provided thereto by the Hon''"' Gen-
eral, so that we may protect ourselves and our property by such means, to which the All-Good God
may give His blessing, against a sudden attack of the savages ; while we bind ourselves, after im-
ploring God and His divine blessing on all lawful means, to carry out directly imanimously and
without opposition the foregoing agreement and to accomplish it as quick as possible under a pen-
alty of one thousand guilders* to be paid for the benefit of the settlement by him, who should
hereafter make any opposition by word or deed. To insure this still more, we have signed this
agreement ^vith our own hands in presence of the Hon"'" Director-General and S^ Goovert Loock-
ermans on board of the ship '■^Steele Amsterdam "f in N ew-Netherland. Done the last of May
An" 1658.
It is signed : Jacob Jansen Stoll
Thomas Chambees
Present: Coenelis Baeentsen Slecht
P. Stuyvesant "Willem Jansen
Oovert Loockerman. Pietee Diecksen
Jan Jansen
Jan Beoeesen
DiECK Hendeicksen Geaaff
Jan Lootman.
Jouenal of Dieectoe Stfyvesant's visit to the Esopus.
Verbal and written report made by his Excellency,
General Petrus Stuyvesant concerning the occur-
rences and the affairs at the Es&pus.
In conformity with the resolution we left in the private yachts on the 28"" of May and arrived
safely at the Kil or river of the Esopus on the 29"". In order to avoid making any commotion
among the savages, either by astonishing them by the sight of so many soldiers or by making them
flee, before we had spoken with them, fearing also that during or before theii" flight they might
* $400.00. t I. e., the City of Amsterdam.
11
82 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
inflict some more harm upon the small number of Christians, I had given orders to the accompa-
nying yachts which carried most of the soldiers before arrival at the said Kil, to follow separately
at a distance and not to anchor near me before night-fall and not to show upon deck any soldieis
or at least as few as possible. While we thus led in the yacht of Master Ahram Staats, ill luck
would have it, that in entering the Kil at low water we run aground. Meanwhile we sent S'' Go-
vert Loockermans with the barge ashore, opposite to the two little houses of the savages standing
near the bank of the Kil, to invite 2 or 3 savages on board and despatch one or two others inland
for the farmers, to regulate my conduct by the knowledge of their present condition. When he
came back he brought with him two savages and with them came Thomas Chamhers and the Pre-
centor (voorleeser) Andries van der Sluys, induced to come down to the river by the longing for
help and the good south wind, to look out for the requested and e.xpected relief. Their report and
complaints agreed substantially with the letters previously sent to the Hon*"'" Council ; they added
that the boldness and threats were still continuing and that they (i. e. the Indians) had since killed
two sows, being with pigs, of Jacob Jansen Uaj) near his lot. It would be too long, if it were
possible, to repeat all the particulars, because they were given verbally, not in writing, and are
therefore not all remembered. But a further detailing is unnecessary, because, as I said before,
they agreed substantially with tlie letters previously sent.
I persuaded the savages, brought along by S"' LoocJcennans, by a little present to go inland to
their Sachems or chiefs and inform them of my arrival, which was not to do them or the savages
in general any harm, but to inquire into the causes and who was guilty or not guilty of the quar-
rels, murders and incendiarism : they were therefore to tell the Sachems and savages in the neigh-
borhood, that they need not be afraid, but that they should come to meet me and speak with me
at the house of Jacoi Jansen Stoll the following day or the day after, no harm should be done to
tliem or theirs : they agreed to do it and left after some further talk together with the aforesaid
two Christians, viz. Thomas Chamhers and Yan der Sluys. The other yachts arrived in the mean-
time towards evening and passed by us, who were sitting aground. I ordered the Captain-Lieu-
tenant to land the soldiers with the least possible noise, without beating the drum, to keep them
well together and after having landed them, to send for me and the peojile on my yacht : this was
done by sunset : we marched on the same evening to the bouwery of Thomas Chambers, being the
nearest, and remained there for the night. On the morning of the SO"", Ascension-day, we marched
to the bouwery of Jacob Jansen Stall, which is the nearest to most of the habitations and planta-
tions of the savages, where we had appointed to meet the Sachems and where on Sundays and the
other usual feasts the scriptures are read. After this had been done on that day in the forenoon,
the inhabitants, who had assembled there, were directed either to remain or to return in the after-
noon, that they might report for our better information everything concerning the reasons of
their request for assistance and hear from us, what they and we were to do.
When they had assembled in the afternoon, pursuant to orders, I stated to them, what they
saw, namely that at their urgent and repeated requests I had come M'ith the soldiers, numbering 60
men, and asked, what in their opinion was now best to do for the welfare of the country generally
and for their own greater safety, adding in a few words, that I did not think the present time was
favorable, to involve the whole country in a general war on account of the murder, the burning
of two small houses and the other complaints about threats, that before now massacres, incen-
diary fires, sustained losses, injuries and insults had given us much more reason for immediate
revenge, which nevertheless we had for prudence's sake deferred to a better time and chance
and that, as they knew themselves, now, m summer, with the jyrospect of a good harvest before
us, it was not the jyroper season, to malce lad worse, least of all by giving room so hastily to a
New Yvrh Historical Records. 83
hlind fear / that on the other side they also knew very well, it was not in our power to protect
them and other out-lying farmers, as long as tliey lived separately here and tlicre and insisted upon
it contrary to the orders of the Company and our well-meant exhortations. They answered, that
they had no objections to make, but they were now situated so, tliat they had spent all they were
worth on their lands, houses and cattle and that they would be poor, indigent and ruined men, if
they were now again, as 2 or 3 years ago, obliged to leave their property. This would be tlie
unavoidable consequence, if they could get no assistance and protection against the savages. I
told them then, that no protection was possible, as long as they lived so separate from each other,
that it would therefore be for their best and add to their own safety, in fact absolutely necessary,
as I thought, that they should either immediately move together at a suitable place, where I could
and would help and assist them with a few soldiers until further arrangements are made, or retreat
to the Manhattans or Fort Orange witli their wives, children, cattle and most easily moved prop-
erty, so as to prevent further massacres and mischiefs ; else, if they could not make up their minds
to either, but preferred to continue in such a precarious situation, they should not disturb us in
futui-e with their reproaches and complaints. Each proposition was discussed, but it would be too
tedious to repeat the debates in detail.
Every one thought it nnadvisable and too dangerous to remain in their present condition with-
out the assistance and succor of troops ; the prospect of a good harvest, so close at hand, the only
means, with wliich they are to clothe and feed themselves and their families during the coming
winter, would not admit of abandoning so suitable and fertile lands and of throwing themselves
and their families thereby into the most abject poverty.
The necessity of a concentrated settlement was conceded, although discussion ran liigh regard-
ing this point as well as on account of the time, harvest being so near at hand and it being therefore
thought impossible to transplant houses, barns and sheds before it, as on account of the place,
where the settlement was to be made, for every one proposed his own place as being most con-
veniently located ; to this must be added, that they were to help in inclosing the settlement with
palisades, which, they apprehended, could not be done before harvest-time. Therefore they pro-
posed and requested very urgently, that the soldiers, whom I had brought up, might remain
there till after the harvest, which we considered unadvisable for many reasons and therefore re-
fused peremptorily, insisting upon it, as I did not want to lose time, that they should make up
their minds without further delay in regard to one of the abovestated propositions and in order to
encourage them to take the safest and most advantageous step, I promised them, to remain there
and assist with my soldiers, until the place for the settlement was inclosed witli palisades, provided
they went to work inmiediately before taking up anything else and carried it out, whereupon they
finally desired time for consideration until the next day, M'hich I granted.
On the next day, which was the last of May, the aforesaid inhabitants of Esopns brought as
answer, that they had agreed imanimously and come to the conclusion to make a combined settle-
ment, to acquiesce cheerfully and faithfully regarding the spot and arrangements, which we were
to indicate and prescribe, and they signed immediately the inclosed agreement ; the place was
inspected and staked out the same forenoon.
I have forgotten to mention at the proper place, that some savages, but only few, about 12 or
15, made their appearance at the house of Jacob Jnnsen Stoll yesterday, but there were only two
Sachems or chiefs among them ; they said, that the other Sacliems and savages could not come
before the next day and that some were \'ery much frightened and hardly dared to appear, because
there were so many soldiers here and the report was, that many more were to follow. After I
had given them verbal promises and assured them, that no harm should happen to them, they be-
84 Colonial Settlemenls on the Hudson River.
came a little more clieerfnl and satisfied and promised to communicate it to the other savages the
same evening, in consequence of whicli about 50 savages, but few women and children among
tliem, presented themselves at the house of the aforesaid Jacob Jansen in the afternoon. After
they had gathered under a tree outside of the enclosure and about a stone's throw from the hedge,
I went to them and as soon as we liad sat down, they began according to their customs a long
speech through their spokesman, which consisted, as the inhabitants iutei-preted it to me, in the
relation of occurrences, whicli had happened before my time, especially of the war waged between
them and our nation in Mr. Kieffs time, how many of their people had then been killed,
which they had put away and forgotten and great many other things having no reference to the
matter in hand. We answered, as was proper, that all this had taken place before my time and
therefore did not concern me, that they and the other savages had drawn the war upon themsel ves
by killing several Christians, the particulars of which we would not repeat, because, when the
peace was made, they had been forgotten and put away by us, (this is one of their customary ex-
pressions on such occasions) ; I had them asked by the interpreter, whether since the peace was
made, or since my coming and remaining here, the least harm had been done to them or theirs :
as they kej^t a profound silence, I stated to them through Jacob Jansen Stall and upbraided tlieni
for the murders, injuries and insults, which I then could remember and which they and other
savages had committed against our people during my administration, adding thereto finally what
was still in everybody's memoiy, their latest proceedings in the J^sopns, to discover the truth and
the authors of which had induced me to come to the Ksojnos this time, without as yet having any
desii-e to begin a general war, to punish or do harm and evil to any one, who was innocent of it,
if the murderer would bo surrendered and the damages for the burned houses paid. To con-
vince them hereof still more, I added, that we had not asked them, but they us, to come and settle
on the Esoj)us, that we did not own one foot of their land, for which we had not paid nor did
we desire to own it, unless it was paid for. I closed with the question, why then did they commit
such murders, burned the houses, killed the hogs and did other injuries and continually threatened
the inhabitants of the Eiopus. For their vindication they had little to say, which was to the point,
they hung their heads and looked upon the ground ; finally one of the Sachems stood up and said
in reply, that the Dutch sold the " hoisson ", that is brandy, to the savages and were consequently
the cause, that the savages then became cacheus, that is crazy, mad or drunk and then com-
mitted outrages ; that they, the chiefs, could not keep in bounds the young men, who then were
spoiling for fight ; that the murder had not been committed by one of their tribe, but b}' a
Newesinh savage, who was now living at Haverstroo or about there ; that the savage, who set
fire to the houses, had run away and would henceforth not be permitted to cultivate his land.
As far as they were concerned, they had done no evil, they were not angry nor did they desire
or intend to fight, but they had no control over the young men. I told them hereupon, that if
any of the young men present had a great desire to fight, they might come forward now, I would
match man with man, or twenty against thirty, yes even forty, that it was now the proper time
for it, but it was not well done to plague, threaten and injure the farmers, their women and chil-
dren, who could not fight : if they did not cease doing so in future, then we might find ourselves
compelled, to lay in return hands upon old and young, women and children, and try to recover
the damages, which we had suffered, without regard to person : we could partly and easily do that
now by killing them, capturing their wives and children, and destroying their com and beans ;
I would not do it because I had told them and promised, that I would do no harm to them
now, but I hoped that they would indemnify the owner for the burning of his houses, arrest and
surrender the murderer, if he came again to them and do no more evil in future. In closing
W
I Tlirlilocli/ioiise
i The (hi/r/i ,(■' l>i/iri/ir/p/f//r
■1 T/ir Mi/iislrr.s- llniiy,-
■{■ Tlic i><irl xrpanitrd .( fortified
0 Tlie Stockade
0 TheJIonxi- where thf (kiirr/wr i.t entertained
7. 7 The Town &(tte.i
SM llie ff/ites to the scpmate fortified fiiirl
!> The House where die first Srneitr of the Steite of
J^'nvTnrk silt ui ft 7?
New Yorh Historical Records. 85
the conference I stated and informed them of my decision, that to prevent further harm being
done to my people or brandy being sold to them, all my people should move to one place and live
close by each other ; that it would be the best, if they were to sell me the whole country of the
Esopus and move inland or to some other place ; that it was not good, that they lived so near to
the Sioa7inekus, that is white men or Dutch, so that the cattle and hogs of the latter could not run
any more into the cornfields of the savages and be killed by them and similar reasonings after the
customs of the savages to the same purjiose, namely, that they ought to sell me all the land in that
vicinity, as they had previously offered and asked us to do, which they took in further considera-
tion, as the day was sinking and so we separated.
On the first of June we viewed and marked out the place for the settlement ; tlie savages
came in the afternoon and their chiefs asked again through Jacob Jansen Stoll and Thomas Cham-
hers, that I would not begin a war with them on account of the late occurrences, they promised
not to do so again, as it had been done, while they were drunk and requested the aboveinentioned
men to speak a good word for them to me. I went to the savages with the aforesaid savages,
when they reported this, and they offered me a small present of about 6 or 7 strings of wampum
making thereby these two requests :
First, that they were heartily ashamed as well because of what had happened, but still more
because I had challenged their young men and they had not dared to fight and that therefore they
requested, not to say anything about it to others.
Second, that they put away now all malice and evil intentions and would do no harm to any-
body hereafter.
I ordered to give them in return a present of two coats and two pieces of duffel, together
about four yards, and told them, that I too had put away my anger against their tribe in general,
but that the savage, who had killed the man, must be surrendered and that full satisfaction and
indemnification must be given to the man, whose houses were burned.
They answered in regard to the first demand, that it was impossible, because he was a strange
savage, who did not live among them, but was roving about the country.
Concerning the second demand, namely, the payment for the fire, they thought, that it should
not be asked from the tribe in general, but from the party, who had done it and was now a deserter
and dared not return ; as he had a house and land on the bank of the Kil and had planted there some
Indian com, they thought, that, if he did not return, this property ought to be attached ; finally,
however, they said, that satisfaction stiould be given for it.
Before separating I stated again to them, that it was my will, that my people should live close
to each other for the reasons given before and that we had never taken nor would ever take any-
body's land, therefore I asked them again to sell me the land, where the settlement was to be
formed, which they promised to do.
On Monday, the S"* of June, in the morning I began with all the inhabitants and the soldiers
of my command to dig out the moat, to cut palisadoes and haul them up in waggons. The spot
marked out for the settlement has a circumference of about 210 rods* and is well adapted bv
nature for defensive purposes. At the proper time when necessity requires it, it can be snrrouiidLd
by water on three sides and it may be enlarged according to the conveniences and the requirements
of the present and of future inhabitants, as the inclosed plan will show.f
On the 4"" of June I went to work again with all hands, inhabitants and soldiers. For the
sake of carrying on the work with better order and greater speed I directed a party of soldiers
* One Dutch rod is equal to 12 feet.
t Missing, the Editor has substituted for it a copy of a map of Kingston, published in 1695.
86 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
under Sergeant Christian and some experienced woodcutters to go into the •woods and to help
load the palisades on the waggons, of which there were 6 or 7 ; the others I divided again into two
parties of 20 men each, under Captain-Lieutenant Newton resp. Sergeant Andries Lourcnsen,
who were to sharpen the palisades at one end and put them up ; the inhabitants, who were able to
do it, were set to digging the moat and continued, as long as the weather and rain permitted.
Towards evening about 40 or 50 savages came to where we were at work, so that I ordered six
men from each squad to look after their arms. After the working had been stopped the}- asked
to speak to me and stated, that they had agreed to give me the land, which I had desired to buy
and on which the settlement was being made, to grease my feet, because 1 had made such a long
journey to come and see them : at the same time they repeated their former promises, that they
would put away all their evil intentions and that in future none of them would do any harm to
the Dutch, but that they would go hand in hand and arm in arm with them, meaning thereby,
that they would live like brothers. I answered them becomingly, that we would do the same, if
they lived up to their promises.
On the 5"" and C"* we continued our work and the Company's yacht arrived. As I found my-
self in need of several necessaries, especially gunpowder, of which we had not more, than what
was in tlie measures or bandoleers, nor had the yacht received more than two pounds for its own
use, and as we were much in need of a few live and six inches planks for building a guardhouse
and some carpenters to help us at our work first and then to assist the inhabitants in erecting their
dwellinghouses, after the enclosure had been made, I concluded, in order to promote the one and
the other, to go as quickly as possible on the Company's yacht to Fort Orange and was still more
forced and encouraged to go by a good south-east wind, which blew all Thursday morning, and by
a drizzling cold rain, which promised little prospect of progress for our work on that day.
On the morning of the 7"" I arrived at Fort Orange, to the surprise of everybody.
The yacht did not arrive before the S"", the tide running down so fast, and I shipped on her
for account of the Company 160 hemlock boards, 100 five and six inch, iron pins and an anker of
brandj' for the people working at the Fsopus, as none had been put aboard or sent to me nor had
I any for my own private use.
On the 9"" was Pentecost.
On the afternoon of the 10"^ I left again after divine service and pass over for brevity's sake
and for other reasons what happened there, as it has no relation to this subject.
I arrived again at the Fsopus in the afternoon of the 12"" and found everybody at his work
and two sides completed. The wet and changeable weather had hindered the workers, as they
unanimously declared.
On the 13"", 14"" and 15"" we were busy making the east-side and Fredrick PhiUipsen erected
with the help of Claes de Ruyt^r and Thomas Chamhers in the north-east corner of the enclosure
a guardhouse for the soldiers, 23 feet long and 16 feet wide, made of boards, M'hicli had been cut
during my absence.
The 16"' was Sunday and after divine service I inspected with the inhabitants the land on the
Esopus, which had not been purchased as yet, and found it suitable for about 50 bouweries.
On the 17"" and 18"" I had palisades put up on the northside. This was harder work, because
this side could not be made as straight as the others, which the plan will show.
Four carpenters came also on the IS"", engaged by Mrs. dc Hulter to remove her house, barns
and sheds and on the 19"" three more, whom I had asked and engaged at Fort Orange to make a
bridge over the Kil. They were also to help the others remove their buildings, for which they
had asked me before my departure for Fort Orange.
New Yorh Historical Hecords. 87
Further, as tlie inhabitants were still hauling palisades with their waggons and horses and
therefore not yet ready to employ the cai-penters immediately and as I had given them a promise
at J^ort Oratiffi', that they should be employed immediately or else receive free return transporta-
tion and daily wages besides, therefore I resolved to have them score some timber for a small house
or barn at my own expense ; the ridge of it was to lie on two beams and the people, who could
not move their houses so quickly, were at first to be lodged there and afterwards I tliought to use
it according to circumstances as waggonshed or stable for horses and cows, for I had long intended
to begin the cultivation of my bouweries in the Esopus, incited thereto by the fertility of the soil,
but prevented so far by the audacity of the savages and because tlie people were so scattered. The
last objection ha\-ing now been removed and thereby, as I hoped, also the first one, I toolc the
aforesaid resolution principally to encoiu-age the good inhabitants, by hazarding my own property
together with theirs, to make the settlement and cultivate the ground and to fulfill my former
promise, although I was not obliged to do it at present nor would be in a year or two and there-
fore the building is made as small and plain as possible, for I thought more of employing the car-
penters, who had come there at my request, and of the convenience of the people, than of my own
advantage. When the timber had been scored and brought to the sjiot, my carpenter and others
told me, that it would make only a little difEerence in the costs, if I had a small barn of 5 or 6
crossbeams made, in case the ridge was laid on two beams, as I said before : I referred the carpen-
ter's work to the opinion of my carpenter, Fredrick Philipsen.
About noon of the 20"" the sides of the stockade were completed and it was only necessary,
to stop up a few apertures, where roots of trees had been in the ground : this was accomplished in
good time on that day.
We might have inarched on the 21^' or 22'', but the wind was unfavorable and I let the men
rest ; some helped in breaking down and removing the houses of Thomas Chambers and Jacob
Jansen Sloll and put up six crossbeams for their barns.
Towards evening of the 24"" it began to clear up in the northeast and I ordered the Captain-
Lieutenant to march off with 36 men, leaving 2-t men under Sergeant Andries Lourensen in the
guardhouse; before departing myself I had some of the Sachems, who live near there, informed
of my departure, but that I could easily return ; I reminded them, that, pursuant to their promises,
they must leave the inhabitants in peace : the inhabitants would have liked to keep 8 or 10 soldiers
more, but I did not consider it necessary, if they would only be on their guard, for they count
themselves 30 fighting men, besides the 25 soldiers and 7 or 8 carpenters, who too are well-armed:
they are therefore, in my opinion, perfectly able to protect themselves.
On the 25"", about noon, we left the Kil, the wind being fair and the soldiers embarked on
the Company's yacht ; we were two days coming down and arrived at the Manhattans on the
28"'. The Lord be praised for His mercy and blessings on the successful execution of a matter,
which every almost approved, as being necessary and honorable to our nation.
Thus done and delivered at the meeting of the Council at Fort Amsterdam, in N. Netherlands
the last of Jime A° 1658.
Ceettficate, that Haemen Jacobsen alias Bamboes was shot by an Indian at
THE ESOPUS AND BROUGHT TO AmSTEKDAM FOR INTERMENT.
(ll'" July 1658)
The Director-General and Council of New-Netherland certify and declare hereby at the
88 Colonial /Settlements on the Hudson River.
request of Marretje Pieters, widow of S' Harmen Jacohsen alias Baniboes, that it is true and
correct, that the said Harmen Jacohsen, her late husband, was iu the beginning of May last past,
while standing in a yacht, which lay off the Esopus on the Northriver about 18 miles from this
place, accidentally shot by a drunken Indian or savage, who stood on the shore opposite the yacht,
that he died immediately after and was brought here and buried a few days after. In testimony
whereof we have signed this and confirmed it with the impress of our seal. Date as above.
Letter from Sergeant Louwrens at Esopus to Director Stutvesant: the In-
dians RENEW THEIR INSOLENCE ; A SUPPLY OF AMMUNITION IS NEEDED.
Honorable General, Petrus Stuyvesant, Greeting !
May it please your Honor to send me quickly orders, hj which I can govern myself, because
the savages here are becoming very arrogant and spiteful and have already killed a fine mare of
Jacob Janseji's ; they are very angry that your Honor had challenged twenty of their men to fight
against us and those, who have now returned from the beaverhunt, say, that, if they had been here,
they would have accepted the challenge ; they talk about it a great deal every day and to-day
about 500 savages are assembled ; their number is constantly increasing, God only knows, what
their intentions are : but the Almighty will vouchsafe us what shall be for our safety : I therefore
ask, that your Excy. will please to send quickly orders, for Thomas {Chambers) and all the people
from over the Kil have not yet come into the Fort with their dwellings and I cannot well compel
them. I pray, that your Excy. will please to send orders about it as quickly as possible, for I am
of opinion, that it is necessary, that we should all be together and further, that the Hon''''' General
will please to provide us as quickly as possible with a much needed supply of ammunition, upon
which I rely and commending your Excy. to the protection of the All-High, I am and remain
Great Aesopus Your Excy's obedient and
the 8"" of August faithful servant
An" 1658. Andbies Louwrens.
To the Worshipful
Rigorous, His Honor
Petrus Stuyvesant
in the City of Amsterdam.
Minute of the Council fob Fort Orange. Appeabance ra court of 15 Mo-
hawk Sachems ^vith a French prisoner, whom they desire to return to
the Governor of Tbois Rivieres.
(Albany City Records.)
Present Lamontagne Extraordinary Session
Pieter Ilartgers held at Fort Orange on the
Jan Tomassen 13"" day of August 1658.
Francoys Boon
Adrian Gerritsen
Dirch Janssen Croon.
Before the Court appeared the eldest Sachems of the Maquas, 15 in number, who brought
Ne%o YorTc Historical Records. 89
with them a Frenchman, Louis Parraget by name : they declared, that tliey desired to surrender
him with two other prisoners to the French Governor at Trois Rivieres in Canada in exchange
for six of their people, who had been taken prisoners by the French and tliat they were willing to
make a general peace with the French, asking for this purpose, that we might assist them by lend-
ing them one of our men, who could talk French.
The Court answered to this request, they were glad, that they desired to return the French
prisoners and they hoped, that they (the Maquas) also would get back their people, but they did
not know whether anybody could be found here, who would undertake such a journey.
The aforesaid Maquas replied hereto, that at the time of the war against the savages they had
gone down to the Manhattans and had done their best to preserve peace, therefore we too were
in duty bound to do the same for them, while they promise to exert themselves in future as medi.
ators between us and other savages.
The Court thereupon summoned immediately the crier and had it proclaimed, that if anybody
would undertake such a journey, he should receive for his troubles one hundred guilders. Pursu-
ant to this proclamation Hetulrick Martensen offered his services to the Court, which pleased the
savages very much and they expressed their joy by all kinds of gestures.
The aforesaid Ilendrick Martensen was despatched on the 16"' inst. to Canada with the Ma-
quas, who promised to bring him back in 40 days. The following letter was given him :
A Monsieur
Monsieur De la Poterie, Gouverneur
des Trois Rivieres
En la Nouvelle France.
Monsieur.
The Indians, which our people call Maquas and yoiir people call Trroquoys, have come
here bringing with them a Frenchman, called Louys Paraget, whom (as they have told ns) they
desire with two others to bring back there and surrender to you in exchange for six of their peo-
ple, whom you hold as prisoners : at the same time they desire to make a general peace with all
the Indians in your country and as they dare not do it of their own accord, they have asked me
instantly to assist them with somebody, who knows the French language, to make use of him for
that purpose : I could not very well refuse it for fear of preventing or spoiling the chances of so
laudable an object. This is the reason, why I have sent this soldier, the bearer hereof, Henry
Martin by name, to serve them in this matter according to his ability. I hope your Lordship will
iind acceptable what I have done ; it results only from good intentions and affection. In the
meantime I remain with my dutiful salutations
Foi^t Orange IS"" Aug A° 1658. Your very humble and obedient servant
La Montagne.
Lettke fbom Seegeant Andkies LotJwRENs TO Director Stuyvesant: failuke
OF THE CEOPS ; MOVEMENTS OF THE InDIANS.
(The first nine lines are gone.)
The harvest turns out a very poor one, so that Thomas, Jacob and companion ha\'e brought
in only about one half of their wheat, while Comelis Slecht has not gathered anything yet : it
12
90
Colonial Settlements on the Hndson River.
must therefore be feared, as the grain begins to grow on the field through the continuous rain
(God may prevent it), that only little grain shall be won this year. Concerning the gathering of
the savages, they separated about two or three days after I sent the last letter. It is rumored
among them, that they would return in a day or two aud go to war with the 2Iorahicanders, but
God only knows, what will come of it. On the 2P' of August two Maquaes Sachems came here,
but I cannot yet hear, what their intentions were; the soldiers here are still in good spirits and
health, except Gerrit van Canipen. Herewith closing I commend your Excy. and family after
sincere salutations to the protection of the Almighty and remain
Great Aesopus,
the 26"* of August Your Excy's faithful and
An° 1G58. obedient servant
Andries Lodwrensen.
To the Noble, AYorshipful "Wise, Prudent, Rigorous His Honor Petrus Stuyvesant Director-Gen-
eral of N. Netherlands Curacao, Bonayro and dependencies, residing in the City of N. Am-
sterdam.
Complaint against Chris. Davidsen, a native of Englaito, for spreading a
FALSE REPORT AMONG THE HIGHLAND InDIANS.
(Albany City Records).
Extraordinary Session
held at I^ort Orange on
The Hon'"^ Comjnaxjder Pltif. against the 3* of September A" 1658.
Christoffel Davidsen, Deft.
Plaintiff says, that an .affidavit, made at the Esopus, has been handed to him, according to
which Defendant came from the Manhatans in the yacht of Euert Pels and, when they were in
the Highlands, said to two savages, who had come on board, that the Sachem, meaning the Hon""'
General, had killed at the Manhatans 4 savages and tiiat he would come to the Esopus during
the following night and break the necks of all the savages there, whereupon the savages of the
Esopus took some Christians prisoners and committed a great deal of mischief. The Hon*""
Plaintiff asks therefore, that Defendant be examined by an interrogatory.
Interrogatory held with Christoffel Davidsen at
the requisition of the Hon'"'"' Commander in pres-
ence of the Commissaries of the District.
1. 1.
How old and where were you born ?
2.
Whether, coming from the Manhatans and
while in the Highlands, he had not called out
or said, that the Dutch had killed many sava-
ges at the Manhatans in the night of the 23''
of August and would come to the Esopus dur-
ing the following night, to break the necks of
the savages there.
Answer : 42 years and born in England,
2.
Answer : No, but that he had said to the sav-
ages, who came on board : I do not know any-
thing about it.
New Yoi'k Historical Records. 91
Defendant pleads not guilty and produces two affidavits, one from Henderich van Dych and
one from Dirck Jansen, a skipper, who attest, that, while they were in the Highlands, two sava-
ges came on board, who asked Cbristoffel Davids, whether the Sachem would come and kill all
tlie savages in the Esoj>us and the Highlands and Christoffel Davids answered : I know nothing
about it.
Lettek from Andriks van der Sluys to the Director requesting to be ap-
pointed PRECENTOR AND SCHOOLMAS'lER AT EsOPDS.
Honorable General Petrus Stuyvesant.
The object of these few lines is to request your Excy. most humbly, that your Excy. will
please to inform me, whether your Excy. has not been informed in regard to the office of pre-
centor, which was given to me by the Noble Lords-Directors of the Privileged West-India Com-
pany, as your Excellency saw and read in the extract. I need the said position very much to
support myself, my wife and child with decenc}', whereas the present prospect is very bad and
besides I have suffered great loss here on the strand during the last troubles, which brings us
3-oung people much behindhand. The inhabitants here would like to keep me in the office, to
proclaim the Lord's gospel according to my ability and catechise the children and teach them read-
ing and writing : but because the Hon"" General has spoken with them about a preacher, therefore
they dare not or cannot engage me for several years. I request therefore most humbly and sub-
missively, that the Hon"'" General will please to assist me in one way or the other, that I may
honorably make my way through the world by these means and with God's assistance ; awaiting
hereupon your Excy' favorable reply in as short a time as possible and commending your Excy.
after sincere salutations to the protection of the Almighty I am and remain
Great Esopus Your Excy'' faithful and obedient servant
the 28'" September Andries van der Sluys.
An" 1658.
To His Noble Honor,
the Director-General
Petrus Stuyvesant
residing in the
City of N. Amsterdam.
by a friend.
Letter from Sergeant Andries Loowrens at Esopus to Director Stuyvesant:
THE BRIDGE SWEPT AWAY ; FAILURE OF THE OATS CROP : StUYVESANT's FARM.
Honorable General Petrtis Stuyvesant.
This serves as answer to your Excellency's last letter of the 23'' of September. The bridge
has been swept away with the exception of one beam, so that it cannot be repaired and the
farmers say, that it will not suit them to begin making a new one before winter.
I cannot inform your Excy. for what pui-pose the savages brought the wampum to the Chris-
tians, except in giving the statement, which they have made.
92 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
I have spoken with Jacob Jansen and Thomas Chambers about the feeding of the horses ;
they answered, that they could accommodate your Excy. with long fodder, but they have no oats
whatever, as the worm has destroyed it and they have not harvested any oats. If your Excy. is
satisfied with it, then please to send up the horses.
As to Jurryen We^tfalen, he thinks, he will come down by the first opportunity and see,
whether he can agree M-ith your Excy. about the rent of the farm here, but that the oxen would
be of no service to him at present ; he will speak about it more in detail with your Excellency.
Please to inform me by the first chance, how it shall be held ^vith the barn, for it stands just
as at the time, when your Excy. left here. I have got people to mow reeds and Jurryen Westfa-
len is willing to put up the roof ; the reed-cutters demand 30 stivers for mowing the marsh : I
expect your Excy" orders in this regard as soon as possible.
The Hon'"'' General will also please to remember our provisions, also bricks for the guard-
house, for a chimney is much needed. Closing herewith I commend 3'our Excy. to the protection
of the Almighty and am and remain
Great Aesopus, Your Excy' faithful and obedient servant,
the 28"" September in the name of
An" 1658. Andeies Louwrensen.
Minutes of the Court at Fort Orange. Attendance of the Mohawks to
inquire for the frenchman, whom they had brought on the 13™ of au-
GUST AND ASKING FOR AN INTERPRETER, WHO COULD GO WITH THEM TO CaUADA
TO MAKE A PEACE ■WITH THE FrENCH.
(Albany City Records.)
Present Commissary Lamontagne Extraordinary Session held at
Jan Tomassen. Fort Orange on the S'"" of Oc-
Fieter Ilartgers tober An" 1658.
Adriaen Gerritsen.
Before the Court appeared the Sachems of the three Maquas Castles with Saciadego as
speaker and they made the following requests :
First, that we should tell them, whether we knew, where the Frenchman was now, who
came here with them the last time.
Second, whether we knew, that they had not killed that Frenchman.
Third. They asked, that we should write to the Governor of Canada, that they had not
killed that Frenchman.
Fourth. Whether Commissary La Montague would not go with them to Canada to make
their peace with the French.
The Court answered to these questions or propositions, first, they did not know where that
Frenchman was now.
Second, that they had not heard, they had killed him.
Third, they were willing to write to that effect.
To the fourth proposition : that the Commissary had been appointed to look after this place
and therefore could not leave it without consent of the Great Sachem.
Hereupon they asked, that we would provide them with a man, who understood French and
New YotTc Historical Records. 93
also with a letter to the Governor of Canada. This was promised to them and Jacob Begyn, a
soldier, offered immediately his services. He went with them on the 9"" inst. and took a letter to
that effect.
Minute of the Dieectoe-Geneeal's depaetuee for the Esopus. (His second visrr theke)
(9'" October 1658)
To-day, the Honorable Director-General Petrtis Stuyvesant left with about 50 men for the
Esopits, to see whether the Indians had made good the losses caused by them, according to their
promises, given when the Honorable General was there the last time. Date as above.
Peoposals made to the Esopds Indians and theie answees.
1658, 15«' October.
On the IS"" October we called up and there appeared at the house of Thomas Chamhers, a
resident at the Esopui^, several Sachems or chiefs of the savages, namely Pajypequahen, Preuwa-
mackan aiid Nachchamatt. to whom the following propositions were made in the presence of Cap-
tain Martyn Cregier, Schepen Pieter WoljyJiertsen, Pieter Cornelissen van der Veen, Augustyn
Ileermans and others :
First, whether they were authorized and willing to execute, what they should agree upon in
behalf of the other chiefs of this place, called Eso_pus, with the Director-General, the Sachem and
chief of all the Dutch. ; to which they answered, tliat, what they did and promised, would be car-
ried out.
2*. They were then asked, what were the names of the other chiefs of the Esopus, for whom
they answered, so that we might know, with which and how many chiefs we made the compact.
Sewackenaem, Caelcop, Pemirawachgink, Juhoeron were named.
3. Then the affronts and injuries, which they had done to our Christiiins, were again repre-
sented to them, as it had been done in the month of May, to wit : that they or their tribe had
killed two horses of the widow Hulter.
That about a year or eighteen mouths ago they had wounded with a hatchet one .Jacob Adri-
aensen on the head, while in his own house, in consequence of which he is still blind on one eye
and they had also mortally wounded his little child.
That since the spring they had burned his house and plundered his goods, also killed a Dutch-
]nan on one of the sloops.
That they had stolen and taken with them from the aforesaid burned house some duffels and
shirts of Adriaen van der Sluys.
That they had compelled the farmers, namely Cornells Barentscn Sl^cht, to plough their land
for corn and had threatened to burn his house, in case he should refuse, taking a firebrand for that
purpose and running up under the roof to fire the barn.
That they had extorted at different times new payments from the Dutch, who had bought
land from them and had paid for it according to the bill of sale and had inflicted many more threats,
affronts and damages upon our nation, which have been the cause, that the people have been obliged
94 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to pull down their houses and to move close together and that the Director-General has been forced
to inclose this place by palisades with great labor and expenses and to send and keep here so many
soldiers.
That since they have killed again, contrary to their promise, a horse and several hogs, belonging
to Jacob Ilajo, for all which losses and damages caused by them, proper satisfaction is demanded
or else we shall be compelled to look for it and time was given them to consult about it until to-
morrow, provided they would promise to give an answer to-morrow ; if they did not do this, but
were to flee, they would give us cause to think and believe, that they did not wish to give xis satis-
faction and therefore intended mischief.
First, the land from the Esopus so far as I have viewed it, is demanded for the expenses and
troubles incurred by the Director-General in coming here and establishing this fort, also because
the farmers have had to pull down their houses.
For Hulter's horses we demand, that they should be satisfied with the payment once made
for the land and not trouble his widow again about another payment.
They shall give within one year one hundred strings of wampum for the house of Jacob J^eus,
for the killing of Jacob Janserus horse 50 strings of wampum.
For Andries van der Sluys forty strings.
After the aforesaid propositions and demands had been stated to the said chiefs, they tried to
avail themselves of many subterfuges and told a long tale of what had happened long years ago,
before our time, in and before the last war, when, as they said, they had suffered great losses and
had lost many of their friends in the wars; for which they had received no satisfaction, but now
one ought to be balanced with the other and people ought to live in friendship ; they added hereto
by their interpreter, that the demands had surprised them and they asked for time to consult with
others of their friends and fellow-chiefs who were out hunting, before they could give an answer ;
this was absolutely refused, as in their reply to the foregoing second proposition they had abso-
lutely declared themselves to be qualified and authorized for what they should contract and transact
with us ; we therefore persisted in the demands made by us and in the last proposition to wit, that
they should promptly answer now and declare themselves, whether they would give us proper
satisfaction or not, the answer to which was only Yes or No ; wliereupon after many discussions
they requested to consult over night, promising to come again the next day ; this was granted to
them.
On the 16"", at about one or two o'clock in the afternoon, they stated, according to promise,
through Jacob Jansen Stoll and Thomas Chambers, both residents at the Esopus, that they were
inclined to peace and friendship, they would give also fair satisfaction, but our demands -were too
great and they are badly provided with wampum ; they offer first, in compensation for the killing
of Widow Hult^rs horses, to desist from their claims for payment as to one half of the land,
whereupon we informed them by the said interpreters, that the offer concerned only the Widow
Hulter, that neither I nor the other parties in interest were satisfied with it ; when this had been
comnmnicated to them, they repeated, that they had no wampum, but if the demanded large tract
of land would satisfy me, they -would give and convey it to me : I had them answered upon this
last offer, that it would satisfy me, but that the three other interested parties, namely Jacob Jansen
Stol, Jacob A7idriesen and Andries van. der Slwjs did not receive any satisfaction nor compensa-
tion by it and therefore I had them asked a third time, whether, as they said, they had now no
wampum, they would not satisfy the aforesaid persons hereafter, that then I should be satisfied
and talk and treat with them about the continuation of our friendship, whereupon they stated the
following according to their custom.
New York Historical Records. 95
1" As to the land of the Widow Hulter, they surrendered it to nie for the killing of her two
horses and would not demand any further payment for it.
2^ They give a beaver and say, that it was sent here by the Southern Indians for the purpose,
that they should not begin a war with the Dutch, but live in friendship with them, which they
were inclined to do.
3* They say, that the Minquaes will come into our land in the summer and when they see,
that there is everywhere peace between the Dutch and the savages, then they will come with all
their beavers to StuyvesanV s land to trade there and with nobody else ; they give a beaver.
4"' They say, that the Minquaes had told them, the Dutch measured tlie powder by snuff-
boxes, they would be very glad, if it were measured to them by the handful, they would then bring
many beavers ; they give a beaver.
S"" They say, the Minquaes had told tliem, you are our subjects and have to submit to us or
hide yourselves, as we also have to submit to the Dutch or hide ; why will you fight against the
Dutch ? they give a beaver.
6"" They give a string of wampum, saying, that the Minqimes and the S'mnekes of the first
castle say, they would like to have powder and lead from the Dutch to shoot deer with and trade
these to the Dutch.
T"" They give a short string of wampum, saying, that they desire to inform me, that a horse
of Jacob Jansen Stall has been in their corn-field and has damaged two plantings and a boy came
and has killed it, for which they gave to Jacob Jansen 70 strings of wampum, but they do not
give this small string on that account, only that the soldiers should leave them in peace, \vlien they
come to this place and not beat them.
■ As the foregoing statement made by them did not agree with that, which they had first made
to the interpreters Jacob Jansen Hap and Thomas Chambers and had asked, I should be informed
of, I asked them througli the said interpreters, whether they intended to satisfy me thereby and
whether it was this, which they had first offered tlirough the interpreters regarding the land ;
whereupon they answered, that one of their fellow<'hiefs, called Poenap, the greatest landowner,
had gone to Fort Orange and that Caelcop, who had been here with them yesterday, had not come
now, they could therefore do nothing herein, but would come again with the said chief to-morrow
morning and give a conclusive answer, which although I thouglit to be a subterfuge only, to gain
time either until my departure or until the arrival of other savages, yet to give them full measure,
I allowed them this delay until to-morrow, notwithstanding that the wind was favorable and my
departure necessary.
As the savages did not come on the IS"" according to their promise, I asked Jacob Jansen Ilap
and Marten Metselaer (the mason) whether they would not go to the houses of the savages to recon-
noitre, whether they were there still and then to ask what conclusion they had come to, whether
they would give satisfaction or not. They returned about noon and brought as answer, that the
said chiefs had made game of them and had plainly said, they had no intention of giving satisfac-
tion, as they considered what they had done of no consequence. Therefore I judged it best for the
present to depart as soon as possible and to leave there imtil further resolutions and order the ensign
Dirck Smith with 50 men and the following instructions.
Instructions for Ensign Dirck Smith
First. He shall join to the old garrison 25 men from the military brought up here, so that
they will number 50 men and he is to have the supreme command and authority over them until
our further orders and give out the countersign and put and keep everything in good order.
96 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
Second. "With the assistance of the inhabitants he shall iininediatelj make secure the inclosed
place, mount a proper guard at the two gates and the guardhouse in daytime as well as at night,
not allow any savage to pass through except upon permission of Jacob Jansen StoU and Thomas
Chambers.
Third. Until further resolution and order he shall not act hostilely against the savages, unless
they begin first and harm the Christians, in which case he, with the advice of the said Stoll and
Chambers and the assistance of the inhabitants, shall attack defensively, apprehend, resist and
pursue the savages, as the occasion may require always being well on his guard and lookout, to
keep this place garrisoned by some men.
Fourth. The jjloughing and sowing shall proceed and be kept up as far as possible and for the
present only when a guard of about 20 or 25 men under the command of a sergeant can be given,
according to the decision of the inhabitants each on his own land or all working together, to pro-
tect them against the hostilities of the savages ; the inhabitants besides must take their arms with
them, that in case of attack they may make a better stand against the savages.
Fifth and last. He shall, except during the ploughing and sowing, keep his men as close to-
gether as possible, without granting leave to one to run here and to the other there or detaching
them. Thus given until further resolution and order at the Esopus, the IS"" of October, 1658.
Letter of Jacob Jansen Stoll to Director Stuyvesant ; the Indians do not
surrender the land according to agreement.
Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant Sir, Mr. Pctrus Stuyvesant, Greeting! I have at present
nothing to write to your Honor, except that the savages promise us daily with a good deal of talk,
that they will come from day to day and give us their decision and it does not go further. Now,
on the 2S"' October, they have promised me to be here at noon and announce us their intentions ;
as Monsieur Montanie was here at the Kil and we did not think it worth while to detain the
sloops any longer, because they lie so much to us, we shall not wait for a sloop, but send down a
canoe to inform your Honor as soon as we have been informed by them. We trust, that pursuant
to orders, they will finally give up the land, of which your Honor knows. In the haste I know
at present nothing more to write to your Honor, except to recommend your Honor to God's
mercy and to send my sincere greetings, remaining
Your Honor's faithful servant and subject
Actum Great Esopus Jacob Jansen Stoll.
the 2S"' October A" 1658.
To the Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant, his Honor Petrus Stuyvesant, General for the
Privileged West-India Company, at Manatans in the Fort Amsterdam
Letter from the same to the same: the Indians have made a conveyance of
the tract of land, as agreed and ask for a return-present.
Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant Sir, Petrus Stuyvesant, Greeting !
Whereas on the 28"' of October of the present year the Soopu^s Sachems or right owners of a
New Yorh Historical Records. 97
certain piece oi land, whic^li your Honor well knows of, namely the largo tract spoken of by your
Honor, came to my house and have given one half of it as a present to me in reconipensation of what
they liave done, saying they hoped, that now they need fear notliing and the soldiers would lay
down their arms and live as good friends ought, and that it is not always their fault but also the
fault of those, who sold intoxicating liquors to them, further that they were ashamed now befoi'e
other savages, who might upbraid them, that they had given away their land to the Dutch for
fear and saying on tiie other side, that they had now satisfied the General and would discover by
this grand present, what the heart of our Sachem said, whether he would not make some presents
to them in return, whereby they could see, that there were no more doubts or dangers for them
and when this was done, they should make a present of land to him, as it is an established custom
with them ; that should then be a sign of solid peace and they would do all possible favors to us,
either in bringing a good trade in beavers or otherwise, whereby they could be of service to us,
but we should endeavor to be provided with everything; they would go to hunt many beavers in
the spring or during the winter and would then pass by Fort Orange and come with their trade
to us.
And that we should not lie to them, but that they might firmly rely on our word, as our Sa-
chems may now firmly trust to them and shall see, tliat after this time we shall do no more harm
to the Dutch neither to their cattle nor otherwise, therefore the land shall be given as a present to
the Honorable General in proof hereof, under the condition, that they request and would like to
see, that it should soon be inhabited, so that they might be supplied with everything, not in the
manner, in which as they say, the late Johan De Hulter did it, who fenced in the land and then
let it lie unused ; they do not like that, but desire to have it inhabited so that many Dutch may
come here ; they could see that we try to live in friendship ; they said, they liked to see the
ploughs work and no soldiers.
Further, Honorable General, we ought. Christian like, give them some presents in return, as
they make such fine promises, which could be done easily. The proverb says, " a child's hand is
soon filled" ; your Honor could also easily fill their hands, upon wliich they sincerely rely and say
as before, they will see thereby your Honor's good heart and be assured, that your Honor forgives
their misconduct and says "quits". "\Ve therefore replied to them, that they should have some-
thing either next spring or during this fall and otherwise the last mistake may be worse than the
first.
Then we went, three of us, to the land and on the 29"" had them show us, how much and which
parts they intended to keep for themselves; there are some plantations, but of little value; it is a
matter of one or two pieces of cloth, then they will surrender the whole piece and remove. Closing
herewith I commend your Honor to the protection of the Almighty remaining Your Honor's
faithfid servant and subject
Great Soopus Jacob Jansen Stoll.
29'" October A" 1658.
All this talking has been done with dry lips. Your Honor may imagine, how zealously we
have sat here with these kings, but we hope, your Honor will remember his servants and give us
something good for our lungs, which we could apply ourselves, if we had it.
Jacob Jansen Stoll
Thomas Chambers.
Done as above Derck Smidt, Ensign.
13
98 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant and his
council; they approve of the proceedings at the ESOPIJS AND WILL SEND
CLERGYMEN TO SUPPLY THE WANT OF PREACHERS. IS"* FeBR' 1659.
"We are well pleased with the commissioning of the Director-General to the Esopus to curb
They are well ^'^^ boldness of the savages and with his proceedings there, for the drawing to-
pieased with the gether of the inhabitants is the safest and best way for their protection and defense
ceeding"'arthe ™ ^"*^ therefore it must be done at all occasions and in all settlements of outlying
Esopus. farmers in the open country, as we also think, like your Honors, that it is more
reputable and safer to employ, in case of a punishment to be inflicted on this or other tribes, the
help of your own subjects as well as the assistance of some allied savages. The matter is left
altogether to your Honors to do on such occasions, the best and safest and at the proper time.
******
The report made by the Director in his aforesaid letter in regard to the bad condition of the
public church-service in the open country on account of the lack of preachers and that the same
troubles may take place in the villages there, has been so conceived by us, that we have considered
his proposition to be well founded and of importance and therefore intend to look out here for two
suitable and pious candidates, who shall be sent there in due time and occasion. Arrived there,
they are to be placed by your Honors, where they may be of service and needed. But as the Com-
pany's treasury and revenues are consumed and diminished by such charges, your Honors must
arrange to have them paid in the most convenient manner by the community, as we told your
Honors several times before.
Action about a Bridge at Esopus. Court- Minutes of Fort Orange, April 5^° 1659.
******
Coriielis Woutersen ag' Mrs. Johanna de Laet, wife of Jeronimus Elibingh.
Plaintiff demands payment of fi 275 for making the bridge at the Esopus, for which Defend-
ant has promised to pay and offers to prove it by Geert Ilendricksen and Jan Barentsen, whose
testimony he produces.
Philijyp Pieterse Schuyler, as attorney of Defendant, requests to have the case adjourned
until the return of Defendant and her husband.
The Court having heard the witnesses and read their testimony, from which it appears, that
Defendant has been talking with Plaintiff in regard to the bridge, and not knowing, whether a
later contract may not have been made between the parties, consents to adjourn the case, until
Defendant or her husband should next come up here, without prejudice to the claims and rights
of either party.
New Yorh Historical liecai-ds. 99
Extract from a letter of tite Directors in Holland to Stutvesant ; in re-
gard TO COPPER mines IN TUB NevERSINGHS AND A CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN IN THE
Catskils. 25'''' April 1659.
******
We liave lately been shown a small piece of mineral, which is said to have come from New-
NetJierland and which we found to be good and pure copper, so that we have thought it worth
while to hear Claes de liuyter about it, a person who showed that he was not ignorant of it and
consequently demonstrated, that a copper-mine was said to be in the N'evesinJcs, also that there
was lying between the Manhattans and the South-river a crystal mountain, of which he says he
brought several specimens, as your Honors will be able to hear from him in detail, as he at least
is going over again. Your Honors are therefore earnestly desired, to inform 3'ourselves well hereof
and send us, if possible, samples of the one or the other by the first ship, to ascertain here their
quality and worth, as we are sure that the population there will increase upon the discovery of
such minerals and in consequence also the country will so much sooner gain in prosperity and
influence.
Gerrit Jansen Kuyjper and Abel de Wolf have also requested us, that such lands and min-
erals might be granted to them (as we conceive situate near the £sojous Kil in and about the high
Catskil Mountains), as may be allotted to them there by Gerrit Baancker and Ilarmen Yedders.
And as the aforesaid petition is not unreasonable but just and equitable, therefore we have resolved
to direct your Honors herewith and to recommend that the said lands and minerals be vested in
these parties, as they shall show and elect, provided however that they are not owned and held by
anybody else, and this imder such conditions and obligations as they are now made there by the
Company and by which they have to govern themselves.
Letier from Sergeant Andries Laurensen to Director Stuyvesant on affairs at the Esopus.
Laus Deo semper.
I beg to inform his Honor, the General, by these few lines, that I have received the goods
on the 20"" of May, 2 barrels of meat, one barrel of bacon, 50 pounds of powder, 915 bullets,
11 musket-matches, 4 ells of duffels and the weights, C kettles, and the corn, when measured, was
found to be 29J. I have heard from A7idries van der Sluys and Jacob Jansen Stoll, that your
Honor had promised some presents to the Indians, that the Indians are said to murmur on tliat
account. I have heard on Ascension day, that the aforesaid persons have left, that the savages
intend to build a fort on the land, which they have given to your Honor, God knows, whether it
is true. Geonje Westphal does his best to plough the land and fence it ; I have lent him 69 pounds
of bacon, as he needed provisions. The oats are in the ground, all which your Honor has sent,
the spring-wheat came too late and the land is fenced nearly all the way round, the ploughing con-
tinues, since your Honor has sent the oxen. The oxen, in which your Honor is privately inter-
ested, draw well. He has sold his cows by order of your Honor. I have delivered the iron and
ropes, which your Honor had sent. No more at present, except to commend your Honor to the
protection of the Almighty God. Sighatum Aesopus, the Si"" May Anno 1659.
Your Honor's servant Andreis Ladrens.
100 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson -River.
Extract feom a letter of the Dieectob- General and Council to the Direct-
ors m Holland ; nothing is known of a Coppermine m the Neveblnghs, bdt
THEY WILL TRY TO GET INFORMATION AND SAMPLES. 23" JuLY 1659.
******
We learn with astonishment from your Ilonors' letter of tlie report made there by Claes de
Ruyter, of a Coppermine in the Newesinghs and of the request of Gerrit Jansen Kuyper and Abel
de Wolff 2i% neither before nor since any communications in this regard have been made to us nor
any petition been presented : if it should be done hereafter, your Honors' orders in this respect
will be obeyed. The shortness of time, the distance of the places, the inconveniences of the season,
for the land is now everywhere covered with high bushes, which make the passage impracticable
at this season of the year, prevent for the present to get some samples of the minerals, agreeably
to your Honors' orders and to send them to your Honors by these ships. We shall have better
time and opportunity to look for them either late in the fall or early next spring, when the woods
and the hills are burned over and cleared of brushes, and if the good God gives us life we shall
then not fail to make inquiries and send your Honors samples of the discovered minerals.
Letter of Sergeant Andeies Laurensen to Director Stuyvesant ; he reports
THE Indians are dissatisfied and the crops have to be cut under an armed
GUARD.
Honorable, Yaliant and Worshipful Sir !
Honorable Peter Stuyvesant, Greeting !
These hasty lines are to inform your Honor, what the savages intended to do with us, as on
the 29"" of July A° 1659 we were warned by a certain 3Iaquaes, called Amit^os, to be on our
guard, because, he said, the savages about here were looking out for us, as it was close to harvest-
time, they intended to murder us ; also from another side, a certain southern savage said the same
and we, having been warned, keep together good watch ; besides we have heard from Claes de
Ruyter' s own mouth, that he stated in presence of Jacoh Jansen StoU, that he had been advised
at Little Soopus not to come in here, because the savages intended to go to war. We therefore
decided and have resolved with the farmers, to mow and bring in the corn all together. After a
genei-al consent had been given hereto, Cornells Slecht and Willem Jansen went to their own fields
and barns and broke the resolution without gi'ving notice to anybody and consider their treachery
to be nothing and not worth mentioning, but Jacob Jansen^ s people, Thomas Sianiher {Chambers),
Pieter DircTcsen and Jurgen Westval help each other ; to them I have given a detail of soldiers as
guard in the country, until your Honor, the General, shall come here himself, for we were told by
Claes de Ruyter that we may expect your Honor soon. I commend your Honor in haste to the
protection of the Almighty and remain your Honor's faithful servant by name
Great Soopus, 4"" Aug 1659. Andries Loirissen.
To the Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant Sir, the Honorable General Petrus Stuyvesant at
Fort New-Amsterdam
Manhatans.
New York Historical Records, 101
Minutes of the Court of Fokt Orange. Arrival of Major General Will-
iam Hawthorn and Captain John Plnchon, proposing to take tip land East
^ of Wappingers Creek.
On the 4"' August [1659] appeared at Fort Orange before the Commissary and Magistrates
Major-Geueral William Hawthorn and Capt. John Pinclwn who declare to have come here from
Hartford, to open friendship and correspondence with us, also to supply this place with cattle and
that they had found a convenient place, to facilitate it., at a village five Dutch miles from the
JVorth river East of the Wappingers Kil. They intend to establish themselves at this place, if it
is not within our jurisdiction and if they would be allowed free passage by the said Kil to the
Northriver. AVe answered to their proposition after having thanked them for their offer of
friendly intercourse, that we had here onlj' subordinate jurisdiction under the Director-General
and Council of New-Netherland and therefore had no authority to give them a consent or permis-
sion, which properly had to come from the Director-General and Council, to which they assented.
Letter of Director Stuyvesant to Sergt. Laurensen at the Esopus ; rev. Mr.
Megapolensis proceeds thfthek ; increased vigilance recommended.
Honorable, Valiant Sir !
Your Honor's letter of the 4"' instant has been duly received on the 6"', but has remained
unanswered because I intended to come to the Esopus myself, on the following day, which mv
indisposition has so far prevented, as I have had since that time daily violent fever, which still
continues.
As to the rumors, which your Honor mentions, we have since learned from passengers, who
came from above, that everything is as yet quiet there and that they were only sensational rumors
and reports, which God may grant ! meanwhile your Honor is strictly charged and recommended
to be well on your guard under all circumstances, as if they were true, and to watch by night and
by day, to hold together the soldiers, as well those who have been there before, as the 15 who
were sent up from here last Saturday and to recommend in our name to the inhabitants, that they
shall scatter as little as possible and be well on their guard with your Honor and the soldiers. — In
case your Honor should discover any probabilities in the rumors or signs, that the savages might
attempt sometliing, your Honor will communicate it to the bearers hereof, the reverend D*" Mega-
polensis and Ensign Dirck Smith, upon receipt of whose report and opinion such orders shall
be given, as will be found to be needed : wherewith closing we will commend your Honor to the
protection of God and remain
Honorable, Valiant Sir
Your Honor's affectionate
Amsterdam in
New-j^etherland, P. Stuyvesant
the ll'" August A» 1659.
102 . Colonial Settlements on the Hridson River.
Letter of Director Stuyvesant to Sergeant Lourissen and others at the
Esopus ; Kev. D° Bloem proceeds thither to take charge of the congrega-
TION THERE.
Honored, Dear and Beloved Friends
According to the promise, -n-hich I made, I have informed the Lords-Directors last year of
vour just demand, to have there a good, orthodox and pions preacher, which their Honors did not
less judge proper and necessary and tliey resolved thereupon, to inquire for some suitable and pions
candidates and send tlicni here. As in the meantime, the rumor spread of the lack of preachers
in the open country here, D° Jlarinanus Bloem, a candidate, resolved to make a voyage hither
and inspect the condition of affairs and he arrived here by the ship " de Otter ", bringing with
him very good testimonials from several ministers concerning his life and good qualities for preach-
ing ; during his stay here he has several times publicly preached God's Word, as well in this city
as in the villages of Brooklyn and Midwout, to the great satisfaction and pleasure of his hearers,
so that some of tlie neighboring villages have made several requests, to have him as their minister,
l>ut considering tliat these neighboring villages can go to church to one or the other place near by
and have the benefit of partaking of the sacraments, while on the other side you can get to hear
God's Word and partake of the sacraments only with great difficulties and troubles, I have per-
suaded the said D" Blom to make a trip to the Esopus with me, as I intended to visit you before
the sailing of the lately departed homeward bound ships, but being prevented by the great mass
of our business and the time for the Lord's Supper coming on in the meantime, I resolved to par-
take of it myself, so that it was finally decided to leave here next Thursday, but Homo proponit,
Deus dispanit ; since that time I \\a,ve suffered almost daily from a %iolent fever, which still con-
tinues, so that my indisposition does not allow me to go from home now. But in order not to
delay so important a matter but to let it have progress, I have resolved, to request our reverend
D'' Megapolensis, the bearer hereof, to conduct the said D' Blom thither and inform you of our
wishes in this regard. You will now hear yourselves the said D" Blom preach. If you are satis-
fied with his gifts (and we do not doubt, but he will please yon) you may take hold of this chance,
which will not offer again apparently in some years, to ask iiis Reverence to be your minister and
notify us of it by letter, also how much you will contribute yearly for his maintenance, which you
will have to raise from the inhabitants in due time in the best and most convenient manner. Re-
lying hereon we commend j'ou all, with cordial salutations, to God's merciful protection and remain
Honored, Dear and Beloved Friends
Actum Fort Amsterdam Your affectionate friend,
in New-NetKerland
the [11^''] August A" 1G59.
Pkoi'osai.s made by the Esopus Indians and the answers of the Dutch thereto.
On the 17"' of August, Sunday- in the even- Answers made by us, through Jacob Jansen and
ing, at the Esopus. Thomas Chambers in presence of all of us.
1. The Sachems stated, that they had no evil in- AVe answered in general, that we should re-
tentions towards us and tliat there was no truth port their statement to the Hon. General and
in the reports made to us. that the Hon"''' General has long ago desired and
New York Historical Records. 103
2. Tliey had patiently borne the blows, which intended to come here, but that ho fell sick on
each of us had often given them. the day before his departure ; therefore it was
3. X^iey had quietly suffered, that our people delayed, but as soon as his Honor was well again,
had taken away from them i com heaps. he will make the journey with God's help.
4. The Sachems showed 17 staves of wood, with
which they signified, that our people had at dif-
ferent places wrongfully beaten and injured their
tribe.
5. The Sachems said also, that they were very
willing to keep in peace with us and would pre-
fer to submit to many things, that they also ex-
pected, the Honorable General would fulfill his (Endorsed)
promise as to presents, for as long as that was Heport made by Domine {^MegapolenslsfA^
not done, thej' could not imagine, that the Gen- upon his return from Fort Orange and the Eso-
eral intended sincerely to remain in peace with pus.
them. 1659.
Petition of inhabitants of Esopus, eequesting that the Rev. Mr. Bloem be
aprointed theie minister.
To their Noble Yery Worshipful Honors,
the Hon'"'"' Du-ector-General and Council
of New-Netherlmid,
Show with due humility the inhabitants of the place, called the Esopus, that on the 17th of
August the Rev. Harrnanus Bhem has preached at the place of the petitioners in the fore and
afternoon, which has satisfied the petitioners very well and they wish sincerely, that they could
obtain him for their duly authorized minister. They request therefore respectfully, that j'our
jjQj^bie "Woi-gliips ^vill please, to consider this matter and effect, that he may be appointed here
by the proper authority, while we promise to treat him decently and in order that his Reverence
shall be able to sustain himself and be more encouraged in his work we have all resolved (subject to
your Hon*'" "Worships' approval) to make a good bouwery for him, provide it with a house, barns,
cows and other cattle as proper, to tend the land, which your Hon*"'" Worships shall please to allot
to him, plough it and bring the whole in good order, so that he may cultivate it himself or hire it
out advantageously, as long as he shall fill the position of preacher here, but in case he should
leave or die, then this bouwery shall always remain for the support of the minister, then being
here, and as the number of the petitioners is as yet very small and the establishing of sucli a bouw-
ery will be troublesome and costly for them, may the petitioners therefore be granted, that all
who hereafter come to take possession of lands and bouweries here shall also contribute pro rata
to the obligations of the present petitioners, who must now incur these expenses. We await a
favorable decision hereon.
Esopus, the 17'" of August 1659.
WiLLEM 07 JanSEn's JaCOB JanSEN StOLL
•^^ Thomas Chambers.
- mark Jueiaen — -^ Bestvaal's mark
104 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Jan "xT y Beokesen's Jacob J«. Jansen Stoutknboegh's
mark
Jan Jansen
DmcK ^4*' Heneichsen ETeneick ^ Coenelissen'8 mark
Matihys;?^ Roloffsen Pietee -^\^-^ Diecksen's mark
Aelbeet j4, Goebeetsen Coenelis Baeentsen Slecht.
Statement kegaeding the feaes of the people at Esopus and theie eeasons
FOE rr; they ask foe a little bell feom Foet Oeange and bequest a visit
FEOM Die. Stuyvesant.
The inhabitants of the Esopus fear, that the savages have evil intentions, their suspicions hav-
ing been roused by the causes given here. Their suspicions were caused:
1. By tlie departure of a young savage, who worked for Clapboard*
2. By a Maquaas.
3. By a southern savage, who told them, that the Esojnis s;ivages intended to murder the
Dutch.
4. Claes de Huyter says, that he has been warned by the Wa2jpi7igs or Iliyhland savages not
to go to the Esopus, because etc *.
5. Kit Davidsen says, that he was warned, the Esopus savages would beat the Dutch, that
he understood it perfectly, that the Indians meant them.
Keasons.
That General Stuyoesant had not kept his promise of giving them presents, as he had prom-
ised. That some complaints had been made, but that his Honor General Stuyvesant had promised
to come himself, to complete the conclusion of a permanent peace ; as this has not yet been done,
they cannot believe, that it was really intended, but to keep it in suspense and then all at once
attack them unexpectedly.
2. They complain, that their corn-pits were robbed by the Dutch last winter and some bea-
verskins were taken.
3. That Boertsen had badly beaten an Indian and pointing a knife to his breast had threat-
ened to kill him.
It had been agreed, in pursuance of "an order from the Hon''"' General Stuyvesant, to assist
each other during the harvest and help in hoeing the corn and that for the protection of the inhab-
itants and laborers some soldiers should go with the laborers to the field to protect them, but some
of tliem separated themselves immediately after the resolution and agreement had been made.
The laborers, who earn high wages there, still refuse to join in an expedition or to do guard-
duty and all this falls on the shoulders of the few inhabitants.
It is necessary, that some men were appointed, also a messenger, to hold some kind of a court,
that everybody, no matter who, could be made to go along.
Tliey desire, that an order be given regarding the thatch-roofs of houses, in which people live
and make fire without chimneys. ,
♦ Clajiboard was a uicknamc givcu to Thomas Chambers. — Ed.
JSfeto Yorh Historical Records. 105
That they might have tlie little bell from Fort Orange.
That they might have a drum, because there are now 40 soldiers tliere, besides the iuliabitants.
2 or three little pieces for a present to the Indiaus.
The Sergeant talked also of intending to make a redoubt near the guardhouse ; if the IIou""^
General consented, they would make it of sods.
Montagnw asks for some muskets fuses.
Jurriaen Bestvaal would like to have 2 or 3 more cows, a dwellinghouse and a farmhand.
The inhabitants of Ksopus desire the Iion'"'= General to come there, that some more lots may
be surveyed, as there are several people, who would like to cultivate the land, but they have no
lots. Likewise the people of Fort Orange desire the Hon''''' General to come there, to settle some
matters.
Leti-ek OF Sergeant Andeies Laurensen to Director Stuyvesant ; Indian news
AND REQUEST FOR SUPPLIES.
Honorable, Wise and Yery Discreet Sir !
Honorable General Pieter Stuyvesant, Greeting !
These few words are to inform your Honor only, that the savages are rather quiet at present
I trust, their hasty undertaking has been postponed : furtlier, Cit Davits continues in his old
tricks of selling liquor and tattling, as I with other persons have found a drunken savage there,
called PoeM«/?, on Tuesday, being the IS"" of August of the present year; then, your Honor,
please to think of us with victuals, meat or bacon, as it is all consumed and the farmers are them-
selves as badly off as possible. Herewitli goes a soldier, Gerrit Velser, who has poor health.
Closing I remain Your Honor's faithful servant by the name of
Actum Great Esoj}us Andries Loorissen.
2P' August A° 1659.
In haste.
To the Honorable, Wise and Yery Yaliant Sir His Honor, General Peter Stuyvesant at
Fort N. Amsterdam
on the Manhatans.
Letter from the same to the same : the Esopus Indians are preparing for w.ui.
Honorable, Wise and Yery Valiant Sir!
Honorable General Pieter Stuyvesant, Greeting !
Whereas we have heard from Mr. Abram Stoats on the 29"" August, that the savages had
killed some people at Mespat there, therefore I inform your Honor by these few lines (as the skip-
per would not wait), that the savages keep all away from us, but they prepare themselves evidently
for a war, for we have been informed by a certain savage here, that the savages are making bows
and arrows day and night. However we cannot learn, what their intentions are ; we were further
advised by Cit, that the Sachem Caelcop had said to him, he should move away from the strand
14
106 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
for the savages, not only the barebacks but also the Sachems had resolved, to beat ns. How ranch
truth is in this, God knows. Please send us some bacon or meat for the soldiers.
In haste.
Closing I commend your Honor to the protection of the Almighty and am and remain
Your Honor's faithful servant in the name of
Actum, Great Esopus Andries Loukissen.
1". Septbr 1659.
To the Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant Sir, His Honor General Pieter Stuyvesant
at iV(?t« Amsterdam
on the Manahataes.
Peoposals made by the Esopus Indians.
The Esopus Indians, numbering about 9C, small and large all told, made the following ]>ropo-
sitions on the l"" of September.
First ; that on the 3'' of September they had been together at one of their savage houses and
only deliljerated upon good things, as they now proved coming with women and children and
without arms, so that we might not have any suspicion of them.
Second, that two Mingaes Sachems, Sinnekens and southern Indians had been with them and
had advised, that they should reconcile themselves again with the Christians, for wlii(;h pui-posc
they had now come : they had also said, they should be ashamed to act so towards the Christians.
Third, three years ago last fall they had been at the Manliatans, then they came here to the
Esopus, but they did not injin-e any one of the Dxiteh nor did any other liarm and they let the
Christians return to their possessions and shortly after they made an everlasting compact M'itli the
Christians and the ^laquaes and to confirm it, they locked their arms together with iron chains
and said, who shall first break this, he shall be made war against in common.
Fourth, that they altogether willing to be peaceful and had no more evil intentions, people
may go to work now, as one fire is burning between us and we may go to sleep on either side
with safety and that formerly many news reports had come from other savages, that the Dutch
would come to kill them, and then this and that, but that now they would not listen to such talk.
Fifth, that they cannot understand, why the Fort had been made here ; that it would have
been better, if every one had remained on his bouwery, for then we Christians would have been
enabled to harvest our corn better, while now it is spoiled and the horses would have brought
home more in one da^', than what now has been cari-ied off by the water.
Sixth, that they have been wondering, why we do not plough ; they had suspected us of evil
intentions, but we should commence ploughing, whereas we need not fear an}' harm from them
and that tliey are not very well pleased, because they can not use the path, wliich formei-ly run
through the guardhouse-grounds; that it was lucky, that the soldiers had beaten just a Sachem or
some others, for using that path, for if it had been barebacks,* they \\o\\\A have lustily fought for it.
Seventh, they say, that JaroVs liorses and hogs had destroyed a whole plantation and they
guess, that, when they drove out the animals, the horse, which Jacob lost, nmst have fallen on a
stump, for if it had been shot with a bullet or an arrow, the bullet or arrow-stick would have been
found and they say, it died from the cutting open.
* Young warriors,
N(w Yoric Historicul Records. 107
Eighth, they brought wampum for the horse and acknowledged, that they liad killed it ; 40
strings of white wampum.
Ninth, they bring wampum for Jacob Jansen^s hogs and acknowledge, they had killed them
too ; 10 strings.
Tenth, Wampum for capturing our four Christians ; 3 strings.
Eleventh, Wampum, that we should declare ourselves satisfied ; 5 strings.
Twelfth, Wampum, that the soldiers shall not beat them any more ; 5 strings.'
Twelfth,* Wampum, that the Dutch shall pay the savages, who have worked for them ; 5
strings.
And we have answered, that we could not do anything, but that all would be arranged prop-
erly, when his Honor, the General, came. Your Honor will please, to send also an order, what
we shall do with the wampum.
Extract from a letter of Director Stuyvesant and Council to the Direct-
ors IN Holland : a settlement on Wappinger's Kil recommended : Indian
murders and causes thereof : reinforcements sent to Esopus. 4:'"^ Septem-
ber 1659.
* * * * * * +
We consider of greater importance, what we heard from J^ort Orange lately, that is, that in
the latter part of July some Englishmen from Boston arrived there, among them two of position
and distinction according to their commission ; they inquired for a fortnight or 3 weeks after the
territory between the two places and having spied the land along the North river under pretext of
investigating and looking up, how and where the lines and limits of their Colony or Province may
terminate, they came finally, as they say, to Fort Orange. After the usual compliments, they
made among others a proposition, that they were willing and intended to make a village or settle-
ment at the end of the Wappinger'' s Kill. This Kil has its source some leagues inland to the east-
ward and empties into the North river above the Highlands, above 13 or 14 leagues from this ])lace.
According to the reports there are good and fertile lands on either side of it and whereas there is
no other way to it than along this North river, the aforesaid Englishmen proposed and requested
to have unmolested passage up to and down from it. Your Honors may easily infer, in your usual
sagacity, what the consequences hereof would be, that is, to get into our beaver-trade with their
wampum and divert tiie trade ; we can very well imagine, that your Honors' advice and order will
be, to resist their undertaking by all means and prevent it if possible. Right Honorable Gentle-
men, there will be no M-ant of our inclination to do so, while however the power may be wanting,
if they undertake it in earnest and will continue or hold it forcibly. Many hounds are the hare's
death. I can hardly imagine the latter, at least as long as the state of affairs in England under
the last changes is so uncertain, but it is undoubtedly to be feared, that they may send some colo-
nists with cattle there overland, to crawl along in time and finally obtain their end ; your Honors
are most likely of opinion, to oust and drive away the colonist, who should settle there ; this would
be feasible at first, if it remained so and they had no followers; in our opinion the best and safest
plan would be to forestall the English, by peopling and settling the lands with some good and
» So ju the original. — Ed. t For the preceding see Vol. XII Col. Doc., p. 349. — Ed.
108 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
clever farmers, abont 25 to 30 families and to assist these witli a guard of 20 to 25 soldiers for two
or three years for their protectious against the barbarians, who are thereabout somewiiat strong
and bold. That this might be carried out the sooner and with greater celerity and siifety, your
Honors will please, if jwssible, to cause, that some homeless I'oJish, Lithuanian, Prussian, Jut-
Mndish or Flemish farmers (who, as we trust, are soon antl easily to be found during this Eastern
and Northern war) may be sent over by the tirst shijjs. We shall on our side endeavor to provide
them with cattle and necessary provisions and other means and in order that these people may not
be delayed upon their arrival here, I hope, if it pleases God to give me life and sufficient health,
to go there during the coming autumn, view the land and buy it from the savages and at the same
time look up an opportunity, to make the settlement defendable, which with the blessing of God
will increase and not only will promote civilization and bring safety to the yachts and passengere
travelling up and down the I'iver, but will also cause mistrust and terror among the bai'barians or
natives.
Without wishing to excuse the foregoing* cruel deeds of the savages, we shall meanwhile not
fail to revenge them in due time and are already endeavoring to discover with perfect certainty,
what savages and from which tribe have committed this last murder (at Mespat Kil, L. I.) : to
take revenge for it at the proper time with your Honors' advice and approval ; this must not be
undertaken too rashly or too soon and therefore we shall await your Honors' advice, partly for the
aforestated reasons, that the separate living people, of whom there is a considerable number, cannot
now remove so suddenly their corn and winter fodder for tlieir cattle, which they have gathered
up near their houses and if they remain in their scattered dwellings, cannot be protected ;
Partly because we are informed by verbal and written reports from the Esojnts (as your Hon-
ors may see from the enclosed copies of the letters) that the affairs with the savages there are not
in the best and safest condition. Already a month ago, we have sent 15 men there as reinforce-
ment for the garrison of 22 or 23 men stationed there ; but as we have been verbally warned of a
larger gathering of the savages up to the number of 500 (to which daily more are added), we con-
sider it advisable to send there 10 or 12 men more by the first opportunity; we hope and have no
doul)t, but assisted l)y tlie inhabitants and with God's blessing these will be able to defend the
place, in case the savages should make any attempt against it, as is firmly believed, which I how-
ever trust will not come to pass, at least not before they have harvested their corn. 1 hope in the
meantime to prevent if possible the mischief and war, should the good God please to give me
health. Our military meanwhile is and remains too scattered to make any aggressive beginning
in regard to the above stated affairs before better times and chances appear.
PitoPosmoNs OF THE Mohawks. ^riNUTEs of tuk Court of Fort Orange, Septbr fi, ir>5i>.
Present J. Lamontagne. Extraordinary Session held by both
Jeremiaa van Rensselaer. the Courts to hear the j>ropositions
* In the fort'goiti;; paia<jraplis two murilers, committod I).v the Indians, are rei)orteil. The cause of the mur-
ders is indicated to have been tlie distance of the dwellings of the murdered persons. — Ed.
New York Ilidorical Records. 1 00
Arent van Curler. of the Maquaes this 6"" of Septem-
Francis Boon. ber 1659.
DivcTc Jansen Croon.
Andries Jlerherttsen.
Sander LenderUen.
Jan Yerheeck and all
the late magistrates.
1. They say, they had made tlie journey, to treat with ns in friendship and give a string of
wampum.
2. They say, that tliey and other savages do not Hke to see their tribe drink so much liquor
and give two beavers.
3. They say, we have been agreed here, that we had made an alliance ; the Dutch say, we are
brothers and joined togetlier with chains, but that lasts only as long as M'e have beavers, after
that no attention is paid to ns, but it shall always be, as if we needed each other. They give two
beavers.
4. The alliance made in the country, who can break it ? Let ns at all times keep together
what has been made one. They give two beavers.
5. We have to expect our enemies, the French, and if we drink too much, we cannot fight ;
we request therefore not to sell any brandy to our people, but to put the bung in our casks. They
give two beavers.
6. When we go away now, we shall take with us a good deal of brandy and after that no
more, for we will burn our kegs ; but although we propose that now, it will not be carried out.
Therefore when the savages come into the country with brandy, we shall come to the chiefs of the
Dutch and tell them, who has sold the brandy to them. They give a string of wampum.
7. The Dutch must leave off their wickedness and not beat them as much, as they have
done. They give one beaver.
8. We desire, that the smiths should repair our things, even when our people have no money,
or let them have much or little wampum. They give a beaver and a string of wampum.
9. We request, that the gunmakers shall dispatch making the guns and not let us wait so long
and lose time. They give a beaver and a string of wampum.
10. When M'e come from the country and the muskets are all repaired, we have no powder,
you must therefore give us some powder and when the enemy comes, j'ou must be willing to help
us ; you are too timorous, but send us 50 or 60 men for assistance. They give two beavers.
11. He has two sons, taken prisoners by the French and held a long time. We trust, that
the}' will bo released and request, that the Dutch will send for them, we shall be very willing to
do the same for you. They give two beavers.
12. Look at the French and see what they are doing for their savages, when they are in dis-
tress. Do tlie same for us and help us repairing our castles. They give a coat of beaverskins.
13. Come to us with 30 men and with horses to choj) wood, cany it to our castles and assist
us in repairing them and the Dutch can carry their wood-sleds into the country. They give a
beavercoat and a beaverskin.
14. When any one of us dies and one of the Dutch should be his companion, it was his
duty to give to the friends of the deceased one or two pieces of linen. They give a beaver.
15. It is not necessary, that you should make us now presents in return. Tliey give a beaver.
Action taken on the proposition of the Mohawks and answer gi\'eu to them on the S"" of Sep-
tember.
110 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liivei'.
The Court resolved and decided, that a provisional answer should be given to the Maquaes to
the effect, that no doubt has arisen in regard to the brotiierhood between the Dutch and the JMa-
qua^s, agreed upon many years ago and that it should always be maintained and the chain remain
unbroken.
2. We expect here every day Mr. Stuyvesant, to confer with you and we shall let you know,
when he arrives or some of the Dutch Sachems will come to you.
Then 50 tl in wampum were given to the Maquaes.
Further action of the Magistrates of Fort Orange on the Mohawks' propositions, Septbr 16,
1659.
Court Minutes.
"Whereas their Honors have been gathered here on the 6"" mst. to listen to the propositions,
which tlie eliiefs of the Maquaes had to make, and having heard them, gave a provisional answer
to the said Maquaes on the 8"" to the effect, that a conclusive answer should be given upon the
arrival here of his Honor, the General, and whereas they were afterwards informed to their great
sorrow, that the General could not come on account of ill-health and sickness,
Therefore their Honors have for the sake of peace and the well-being of the country decided, to
depute some members of the Ilon''''^ Court to make a further alliance with the said Maqyaes, to
thaidi them for their old and continued friendship, shown to our nation and further to give them
a fair and proper answer to their propositions and to bring them at the same time a present of tl
in wampum, 75 lbs of powder, 100 lbs of lead, 15 axes and 2 beavers worth of knives. Mr.
Jeremias van liensselaer, Francis Boon, Dirck Jansen Croon, Andries Ilerhertsen, Mr. Arent
van Curler, Adrian Gcrritsen, Jan Tomassen, Volckert Jansen, Philipp Pietersen and Johannes
Provoost offered voluntarily to go as dejjuties.
Extract from a letter of Stdyvesant to the Directors in Holland: no news
from the esopus, but reinforcements have been sent there ; eqcipments for
CAVALRY required; THE ReV. HaRMANUS BloEM HAS ARRIVED AND TV IS PRO-
POSED TO SEND HIM TO THE EsOPUS ; A SETTLEMENT ON "VVaPPINGERSKIL AGAIN
• URGED. 17'" Septbr 1059.
******
Since our last we have liail no news from the JSsopus ; 5 or 6 days ago we sent some men
under command of Ensign Dirck Smith there with three light ciinnons and some other ammuni-
tion of war. We believe and trust, tliat it shall be nothing hut an Indian bravado, nevertheless
these and other rumors make the out-lying farmers circumspect and not without reason timid and
jilacc them on their guard; tliey have therefore requested us through their magistrates to be pro-
vided with sonre powder, lead and small arms, also a drum for eaeli village, to call together the
inhabitants at night or in case of mischief. We have provided them with the tii-stmentioned arti-
cles, as far as our stores permitted, giving each village ;10, 40 or 50 pounds of powder and lead
and some muskets to those, who needed them under i)romiso to pay for them with grain, the small
arms fo be returned, when asked for ; whereas our stores jiave been considerably diminished hereby
and through the daily consumption, we respectfully request your Hoimrs to su]>ply us soon, that
we may accommodate the villages with a goodly quantity of powder, lead and fuses, also a dozi'ii
of drums, which may l)e put one into the otlier to reduce the freight.
New Yorh Historical Records. HI
Should jour Honors deem it advisable, to attack the savages on account of the present and
repeated murders, we have previously asked thereto for some cavalry saddles and pistols to organize
a little troop of horsemen on Long- and on this island, which would be of great service and very
much needed, to keep the two places free from Indians; your Honors sent pistols before this, 25
to 30 common saddles are herewith respectfully asked for.
Your Honors inform us in their favor of the 13"" February, received by "(?<? Trouw''\ among
others, that for the promotion of divine service in the country your Honors had resolved and already
issued orders to send over 2 or 3 God-fearing and suitable candidates. Upon the strength of that
rumor one Uarmanus Bloem of Amsterdam has now proceeded hither, persuaded and advised
thereto, as his Reverence says, by some preachers of the aforesaid city ; he has preached here as
well as in the country to the satisfaction of his hearers, so much so that we have been petitioned
in regard to him, to have him as their minister, as your Honors may see by the enclosure N" 4;
under the circumstances, as your Honors are the Lords and Patroons in general and consequently
this matter concerns the Classis, we did not wish to meddle any further in this matter, except to
recommend the said D" Uarmanus Bloem to your Honors and to request, partly on his account
as he has been candidate for a long time, partly for the sake of the inhabitants of the Esopus,
that your Honors will please to look upon him with favor. We hope and trust from the short
conversation had with him, that he will be for many a good leader to salvation and should your
Honors indeed send beside him, 2 or 3 God-fearing candidates more, even though only at a salary
of 5 or 600 guilders, we trust, nay, we may assure your Honors, that the balance up to 10, 11 or 12
hundred guildei's will be raised here by the parishes, one contributing less, the other more, accord-
ing to the ability of the villages.
We asked in our last of the 4"' of September to send over some farmers, to make a village or
settlement on the Wappimjhshil next spring and gave the reasons for it in detail in that letter.
We shall accommodate these farmers to the best of our abilities, but we would require thereto above
all some ploughshares, sickles, scythes and other farming implements, which are very scarce here
and hard to be obtained, and then at pawnbrokers' prices. Your Honors are respectfully reminded
and requested to send with the farmers the above and other necessary farming implements.
Lettee from Jacob Jansen Stoll at tue Esopus to Director Stuyvesant: all
QUIET ON THE EsOPUS.
Sir.
Your Honor's favor has been duly received by the Ensign and his soldiers, with whose
coming we were well pleased. We hope further, that the Almighty God will please to give health
to your Honor and remove our anxiety, if it would tend to j-our Honor's salvation ; may the Al-
mighty grant your Honor, what will be beneficial to your Honor ; but I hope to hear with great
joy of your Honor's good health. What regards the savages, they are very quiet, but we do not
know, what intentions the Almighty has concerning us.
I send further to your Honor 3 muds* of wheat; I would have provided your Honor with
more, but as I have no time now, the skipper desiring to sail immediately, I have to pay my com-
* One mud is equal to 4 schepels^G bushels. — Ed.
112 Colonial Settlements on tJie Hudson River.
plimeuts to your Honor with these few lines and the seed-wheat ; also your Honor's further com-
niiinds and orders shall, if God grants me life and liealth, be projjerly carried ont, until tlie last
drop of blood lias been spent for and to tlie honor of tlie Incorporated Company, whereupon your
Honor may lirmJy rely, as if your Honor were present in person.
I am your Honor's faithful servant
Jacob Jansex Stoll.
The Honorable General will please to provide me with a piece of good linen for shirts, which
I need : I shall paj- your Honor in good wheat.
Jacob Jansen Stoll.
This by the yacht
Actum Great Emj>us, the 17"" Septbr. 1659.
To the Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant, His Honor General Peter Stxtyvesant.
Final Answer given to the Mohawks at their first Castle Kaghnuwage in
PRESENCE OF THE CHIEFS OF THE THREE MoHAWK CaSTLES, SePTBR 24, 1G59.
1. Brotliers, we have come here onlj' to renew our old friendship and brotherhood and you must
tell it to your children ; our cliildren will always be able to learn it from the contents of our writ-
ings, which we leave behind us, for they remain while we die. From them they will always see,
how we have lived in friendship with our brothers. Brothers, we could not bring any cloth, for
we could not get men to carry it ; but friendsiiip cannot be bought for merchandise, our heart has
always been good and is still so and if that is of no value to you, then we come not to buv friend-
ship, even if the land was full of merchandise and beavers. Three boxes of wampum were given
to them.
2. Brothers, sixteen j-ears have now passed, since we made the first treaty of friendship and brother-
hood between you and all the Dutch, whom then we joined together with an iron chain. Since
that time it has not been broken either by us or by our brothers and we have no f&ir that it will
be broken by either side, we will therefore not speak of it any more, but we will all be and remain,
as if we had lain under one heart and in grateful remembrance of our brotherhood we give you
now two boxes of wampum.
3. Brothers, 18 days ago you were with us and made your propositions to the Dutch, your
brothers, we did not give you a conclusive answer then, as we expected Mr. Stuyvesant and prom-
ised to inform you, when Mr. Stuyvesant should come. But as he has fallen very sick, he cannot
come for the present and we now tell you, brothers, that what we shall say, wo say with the au-
thority of Mr. Stuyvesant, all the other chiefs and of all the Dutch and their children. Wc give
the brothers as a present and as a token of truth two boxes of wampum.
4. Brotliers, we now say for once and for all times in our own behalf and in behalf of all the Dutch,
now in the country or who may yet come and of all the cliildren, as we cannot come here every-
day, the roads being very bad to go over, that you henceforth must have no doubt of our always
remaining brothers and whenever some tribe or other savages, whoever they might he, should
come to incite you and s;iy, tiie Dutch are going to war against you, do not listen to it or believe
it, but tell them, tlii'y lie, and we shall say the same; the brothers shall say of you tlie same thing
an<l shall not believe any prattlers ; we are not going to war against you nor leave you in distress,
if we are able to help you, but we cannot compel our smiths and gunmakers to repair the muskets
New Yo7'h Historical Records. 113
of our brothers without receiving pay for it, as they must earn a living for their wives and chil-
dren, who would otlierwise perish from hunger; or they would remove from our country, if they
received no wampum for their work and then we and our brothers would be very much embar-
rassed. We give you hereon two boxes of wampum as a present.
5. Brothers, 18 days ago you requested us not to sell brandy to your people and to bung our casks.
Brothers, do not allow your people to come to us for brandy, none shall be sold to them ; but only
two days ago we have met 20 to 30 little kegs on the road, all going to obtain brandy ; our chiefs
are very angry, because the Dutch sell brandy to your people and always forbid it to our people,
now you forbid it to your people and if you desire lis to take away from your people the brandy
and the kegs, then say so now before all these people, but if we do it afterwards, you, brothers,
must not be angry. They were given two boxes of wampum.
G. Brothers, we give you now as a present this powder and lead, which you must well take care
of, so that, if you want to attack your enemies, you may use it and divide it among your 3'oung
men, with which we give 75 lbs of powder and 100 lbs of lead.
7. Brothers, we see that you are very busy cutting wood to build your fort. You had requested
us for horses to haul it out, but that is impossible to do with horses, for the hills are too high and
steep and the Dutch cannot carry it out, because they have become weiik from their march to this
place, as you may see by looking at our people ; how should they now be able to carry pallisades?
But as the brothers sometimes break their axes in cutting wood, we give you herewith a present
of fifteen axes.
8. Brothers, as some of your people, also of the MaMcanders and Sinnehus occasioiialy kill our
horses, cows, pigs or goats, we request you, brothers, to forbid your people doing it and we give
you two beavers' worth of knives.
All the foregoing propositions having been made the same were courteously accepted by the
chiefs and all the people standing around, also that the brandy kegs should be taken from them.
As we had made our propositions, a letter was handed to us by the negro-servant of Mr. La
Montagne, expressly sent after us by his Honour. We learned from the letter, that some mischief
and fighting lias taken place between our people and the Esopus savages ; we immediately com-
municated the news to the chiefs and the people around us, who listened to it with great astonish-
ment and said, they were very glad and we had very well done, by making it known so promptly,
because, when now the Esopus or other River savages should come to them with presents and ask
for assistance, to fight against us, they would kick them and say. You beasts, you pigs, get away
from here, we will have nothing to do with you.
After having attended to this matter, we requested the Maquaes to I'elease froin captivity
their eight French prisoners and to bring them back to their country. They answered, that they
must first deliberate about it with their Castles, that done, they would inform us by two or three
of their chiefs. They complain bitterly of the Frenchmen, because the French do not keep the
peace made with them, but French savages attack them, whenever they are out hunting and thrash
them, because parties of disguised Frenchmen are always among them.
We were further informed by a French prisoner, that the wreck of a small vessel was said to
have been found on the island at the mouth of Canada, of a sloop rowing there with 6 or 8 men
and the Frenchmen said and insisted, that it had been the bark of Jan Peree. This for informa-
tion.
We received also a package with letters, brought by a Maquaes of the third Castle from Trois
Rivieres. It was directed to Mr. Jacob de Hinson, who being present, we opened the package
15
114 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
and found in it 3 or 4 letters to the Captain of a bark, said to have sailed from Canada for the
Manhatiu/M, also a letter to his Honour, the General, vkich npon a uuanijuoud resolution was
also opened to learn, whether its contents might be of service to us on tliis occasion, as it was writ-
ten by the Jesuit Si>/i07i LeMoyne. We hope, his Honour the General will not be angry, for we
have done it for the public service and the best of the community.
Order That no offence shall be given to the Inbians under severe penalty.
Fort Orange Court-Mintjtes, Sept 27, 1659.
Their Honours the Commissary and tlie Magistrates of Fort Orange and Beverwyck Village,
having received several complaints against the insolence and injuries done to the savages by beat-
ing and throwing of stones, which must tend to a dangerous ending, forbid herewith, in order to
prevent and forestal any mishap during these dangerous times, all residents within their jurisdic-
tion to molest any savage, of whatever tribe he may be, under pain of arbitrary correction. Thus
done at the session of the Hon**'" Court for Fort Orange and Beverwyck village, at Fort Orange,
the 27'" of September 1659.
Letter from Ensign Smith to Director Stutvesant enclosing a report of the
rising of the esopus indians and of a collision between tuem and the set-
tlers ; war is declared.
Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant Sir,
Honorable General Pieter Stuyvesant Greeting !
Your Honor's favor of the IS"" has been duly received, but whereas some trouble has arisen
here, I request the inhabitants to give further information, who, it seems, have immediately hired
a yacht, to give your Honor a detailed report of it ; although I shall always obey your Honor, your
Honor will please to answer me by the bearer hereof, that I may govern myself accordingly. I
remain Your Plonor's faithful servant and subject
Actum G-reat Sopez Dikck Smitii.
22" Septbr 1659.
To the Honorable, Wise and Very Valiant, His Honor, General Pieter Stuyvesant at
N. Ainsterdam.
To the Honorable Director General Pieter Stuyvesant.
I, Dirck Smith, Ensign of the Company, beg to inform your Honor, that. I have not refused
to obey your Honor's orders, but have executed them in every way and respect and after receiving
the Hon*"'"' General's letter on the 2()"' I prepared myself to leave here witji eigiiteen men for the
Manhattans. The iidial^itants kept me on account of a commotion among the savages and thei-e
were no yachts here, except tlie one, by which I received your Honor's letter and which sailed up
the river. As on the 20"' at night between ten and eleven some savages raised a great noise and
yelling under tlie fort, whereupon Pirck de Goyer, Marten Ilofman and Gdlis de Xecker alarmed
me and the guard, I comniaudi'd the Sergeant to take 9 or 10 men and directed him togo out by
one of the gates and return by the other one and not to molest anybody, but to see, what was to
l)e (lone ; the Sergeant sent a man back to me, saying that a crowd of savages was there and Jacob
Janseii Stall came to the guard, saying: I will go, give me four or live men ; he thereupon took
New York Historical Mccords. 115
four or five men, namely Jacob Jatuen van Stoutenbu7'gh, Tomes Iliggens, Gisehert Philtjts,
Eoert Pelts, Jan Artsen, Berent Ilermsen ; His Honor, the General, may at any time inquire of
these inhabitants, whether I have given any other command, as to shoot, fight or boat, but the one
to see, what mischief was brewing there outside of the Fort. After their return, I asked them,
who had ordered them to fire and they said, the savages had shot first and Jacob Jansen abusing
the Ensign violently, said: We wanted to slap their mouths, for the dogs have vexed us long
enough and Jacob Jansen said, I know very well what orders I had from the Hon"'" General and
how they have sat here all in the Fort for eight days and could not get out, for they lie in the
bushes all around and how they have skirmished against them during twice twenty-four hours and
they have fired with innumerable brand-arrows into the grain stacks and the barn, the barn of
Hap being however covered with planks the eoi-n was, God be praised ! saved, but they killed the
horses and cattle, of the Hon*'* General's three, of Evert Pelts' three, of Tomas Clabherfis* four
and at the date of this letter we have got back one prisoner, who run away from them. I have
asked this returned captive, Harmen Hendrichsen, how strong they may have been, he said in
answer to me, that they must have counted over four hundred and thought that our prisoners were
all still alive and how badly they were off, for they had to lie every day under the blue sky, as
they had long intended this; if we had not had some cannons here, not one of us, large or small,
should have escaped.
On the 20"" inst. when I received orders from the Hon""' General to come down with so
many men, Jacob Jansen and Thomas (Jlabbert went to the Strand and hired one of the yachts,
which were to go up the river, to make their report to the Hon"''' General and after having dis-
patched their letter they wanted to go back to the Fort, numbering together 13 able-bodied men,
the Sergeant with five men, Thomas Clabbert, Jacob Hob, a carpenter, Abraham by name, Pieter
Dircks and his man, Eoert Pelts'' boy, I^wies, the Frenchman. At the tennis-court near the
strand they allowed themselves to be taken prisoners. Thomas Clabbert was exchanged for a
savage, and a soldier came back, who run away during the night: and ten are still in captivity
and they have actually declared war and do not want to know anything of peace, as the inhabit-
ants can testify. We have still an Indian prisoner and so far, thanks to God, no one else has been
wounded but two and Buertiei son is killed. The ■wounded have recovered rapidly. I cannot
write any more for the time is too short. His Honor La Montagnie has sent Kit Davit with a
Maq^ias Indian irom Eort Orange, to hear how matters stand here and will assist us, if your
Honor approves. I have been ready to come with my men at any time, but no yachts have been
liere. I remain Your Honoi''s servant till death
DiECK SCHMIT.
To the Noble Honorable Director General Petrtis Stuyvesant this is to be given.
Anno 1659 the 29'" Septbr,
Manathans.
Letter from Vice-Director La Montagnie at Fort Orange (Albany) to Di-
rector Stuyvesant with particulaks of the troubles at the Esopus.
Copy of a letter from the honWe Honorable, Valiant, Worshipful Gentlemen.
La Montagnie in which he com-
municates the unfortunate state Gentlemen. I regret sincerely, that I have to inform your Hon-
of aflEairs at the Esopus. ors of the dreadful occurrence, which has taken place at the Esopus
* Chambers.
116 Colonial Settlements on the HuJtion River.
last Suiulay the 21" iiist. about two o'clock in the afternoon, Avhcu of tliirtecn well-armed men
one was killed, one mortally wounded and eleven taken prisoners, to wit the Sergeant of the Fort,
Thomas Chamhers, Jacob Jansen Slol, badly wounded, Ahraham Vonhorgh, two farmers men, six
soldiers and Leivies the Frenchman killed. I cannot write your Honors all the particulars this
time, considering a north wind just begins to blow and I cannot detain the yachts here, to inform
your Honoi-s of what is necess;iry. I expect to-morrow the men sent from here to the Maqunas,
who went there with considerable presents. Captain Ahraham Staets shall leave here immediately
after their arrival and inform your hon''"' "Worships as well by his journal as liy letters, what has
occurred here. lu the meantime your Hon''"' Worships ought not to allow any weak parties to
land at the Esopuskil, for the savages are there with more than four hundred well-armed men and
have taken possession of Kit Davits house, where they keep a good watch and a look-out. I shall
inform your Hon'''" Worships by ray next letter according to my promise and as in duty bound.
Meanwhile I remain
Your Honorable Worships most humble and obedient servant
(signed) La Montagnie.
Fort Orange
26'" Septbr 1659.
I have previously asked your Hon'''* Worships for a ban-el of powder and 7 boxes of fuses,
which I hope to receive from your Honors soon, as they are much needed here. We have a suffi-
cient quantity of lead.
Letter from Jacob Jansen Stoll, Thomas Ch^vmbers and Evert Pelts to Di-
rector Stuyvesant reporting the late conflict with the Indians.
Honorable, AVise, Very Discreet Sir.
By these few lines we intend only to inform your Honor, that on the 18"" of September 1659
we or the Ensign received a certain letter from the Hon''''' General, by wliich we learned that the
Hon""' General directed the Ensign to get ready with IS men as quickly as possible and leave for
the Manatans. However on the 21" of September 1659 at about 10 or 11 o.'c. p. m. the inhalv
itaiits heard a great commotion among the savages and as the state of the savages is somewhat
alarming the Ensign ordered and directed Sergeant Amlries Lourissen to go outside with 8 or 10
men and to see, what the matter was. Meanwhile Jacob Jansen Stoll had come with his gun to
the guardhouse, although he was undressed to go to bed, and with him all the inhabitants and as
the Sergeant had sent back a soldier, to receive further instructions the Ensign said, that some
more men should go out, whereupon Jacob Jansen replied. Please let me go, which having been
done was thus reported to the Sergeant by the soldier and the Ensign ordered, that we should try
to get the savages here into the Fort, because they made such terrible noise outside. Then the
afore.said Sergeant and Jacob Jansen Stoll went out to the savages, the savages perceiving them
fired immediately at them, we replied, one savage, who had helped himself freely to brandy was
killed by the Sergeant, another was captured. Wc have since been warned, that they will roast
and burn the soldiei-s pursuant to orders.
Therefore, your Honor, wc iidiabitants have concluded to inform your Honor as sjwedily as
](iissible of the cruel uprising of the savages, to address ourselves in a friendly manner to your
Hum ir witii the rcipH'st, not to reduce our garrison in this ]irecarious state of alTairs, but we hujie
New Yovh Historical Hecords. 117
it will be increased and whereas it has pleased God, to visit the Hon''''' General with sickness, we
will on our side not fail in either giving advice or naaking pallisades, whicli are necessary for this
settlement ; we hope however, that God Almighty will not leave your Honor, our highly honored
Master, in this condition. In haste — Closing herewith we commend your Honor to the protec-
tion of the Almighty and are your Honor's faithful subjects and servants. In the names of all
the inhabitants of Great Esopus, in whose presence this is signed.
Jacob Jansen Stoll
TuoMAs Chambees
Evert Pels
The mark of Pietee Dirckskn ■'X/ y made by
himself.
In my presence
Andeies Loueissen.
Done G-reat Esopus, the 29'" Septbr 1659.
DeCLAEATION MiVDE BY INHABITANTS AND SOLDIERS AT THE EsOPUS, THAT EnSIGN
Smith did not oedee an attack on the Indians.
"We, inhabitants and soldiers, who have been out with the Sergeant and with Jacob Jansen
Stoll, desire to declare and attest, at the request of our Ensign, that the Ensign did give us no
order to fight or to beat, of which we will bear witness and testimony, especially Jacob Jansen
Sfoutenborgh, Tomes Hlggens, Gisehert Philipsen, Evert Pelts, Jan Artsen, Berent Ilermensen,
all inhabitants and also the following soldiers, Martin IJofman, Gillis de Necker, Abel DircTcsen,
Dirck Hendricksen, Michael Vreeg, Jooris Metser who have all been with the Sergeant and Jacob
Jansen Stoll.
•^ the mark of Jan Aetsen Smtt
-^ the mark of Jacob Jansen Stoutenboeg
t^ the mark of Tomes Higgens
Gysbeet Phillipsen van Yelthdtsen
-J— the mark of Beeent Heemensen
1-^ the mark of Gillis de Neckee
Abel Diecks
2^ Makges Heemens
^ the mark of Jores Metser
Maeten Hoffman
Machgiel Ferch
\ H 2 the mark of Dirck Hendricksen.
Letter from Ensign Smith at Esopus to Vice-Director La Montagnie at Fort
Orange; progress of the war wfth the Indians.
To the Honorable Mr. de La Montagne. I inform your Honor, that I shall willingly obey
118 Colonial S^ttleiTient^.an, the Hudson River.
tlie Hon'''"' General's order in every respect and that I have received a letter from his Honor the
General on the 20"' 7^'", to come up and I have been ready to leave with my men, when the inhab-
itants, little and big, all who were here, prevented me by prayers and a report of the General (?)
and as Jacob JaiutnJStoll and Tomes Clabhert had been on the strand and had heard, that the
yachts had gone up the river, they overtook one of the yachts and hired it without my Icnowledge,
so that I could not go along with my men. Whereas his Ilonor the General is very angry here-
with, therefore I request your Honor, Mr. La Montagnie, to write, if the hon*'" Mr. llontagnie
will please. These people, numbering 18 or 19 men, went to the strand guarded by a detachment
of eiglit soldiers under tlia Sergeant's command, altogether 17 or 18 persons, able-bodied men, to
dispatch the letter to the Ilon"'^ General. Coming back toward the Fort they let themselves be
taken prisoners, without making any resistance, to wit Jacob Jansen, Tomes Cldbberi, a carpenter,
Pieter Hillehrantsen, Pieter de Buer, the boy of Evert Pelts and the Sergeant with 6 soldiers ;
the rascally savages have long had this in their mind. It has been done through the liquor, that
comes here to the Esopus from Fort Orange, for we. are very badly off at present, obliged to be
under arms da}' and night and there have been here so many savages of all sorts and we have skir-
mished with them continually for twice twenty-four hours, for they have opeidy declared us war
and will not hear of any peace. The grain is all safe yet, but great damage has been done to the
cattle and horses ; God be praised not more than two men have been wounded and one killed.
We cannot tell, how many wounded and killed the savages have had for they attacked us fiercely.
Jacob HaFs house was fired by brand-arrows and it burned down and they fired nxunberless brand-
arrows into the cornheap and the barn, but the Lord has protected it. May God grant us delivery.
Herewith I commend you to God's protection. Written on the 29"" Septbr Anno 1659.
Your Honor's ser\'ant
. DiKCK Smit.
I have order and direction from the Honorable General, to send off Jxit J)avids. His Honor
Im Montagnie must be guided by his own pleasure and opinion.
, Letter. F^M Co^tNELis -I^^ENTSEN Slecht and other inhabitants of Esopus to
DiKECTOE StUYVPSANT ; THE SETTLERS ARE BESIEGED IN THE FoRT ; NO BLAME
CAN BE ATTACHED TO EnSIGN SmTTH.
Does your Honor, Pctrus Stuyvesant, Director-General of Ncw-Netherland, know, that we
are in great danger to be sui-prised by the savages at any hour, for they have kept us in the Fort
full eight days, so that nobody dares to go out, and they make great endeavors to fire the Fort.
Jacob Janseri's house has been burned down, but his grainstack and barn have been saved by us
with great trouble and danger and there are already taken and still kept as prisoners among the
savages eleven men, five soldiers with the Sergeant and Jacob Jansen with four others and Loowies
has been killed with ray son Jan. Therefore we sincerely request your Ilonor, that you please to
leave the Ensign here with us, for if he had not been here, wo would all have been murdered anil
the Ensign has given no orders to create this mischief, but I believe, that it was brought about by
nobody else, but by Jacob Jansen and the Sergeant ; therefore we sincerely ask your Ilonor, that
you will plejise to assist us, for else it is impossible to hold out here. Three of your Honor's
horses have also been killed, which were shot below the Fort and eleven belonging to other farmere,
also several. co\vs and 1 might write more of the situation, here, but your Honor shall hejir it soon.
Nexo Yorh Historical liecords. 1 1 i>
I beg of your Honor not to think ill of iny writing, if I slionld not have shown you the projwr
respect, please receive it in good part. No more in regard to this, than to commend you to God'B
grace and to greet you sincerely.
COKNELIS BakENTSEN SlECHT
Jan Jansen
tliis is the mark ^v '^^ J-^^ Bkoeksen
this is the mark ^^ of Wil'm Jansen
this is the mark ^^ of IIeyndrick Coenelis
this is the mark — e of Jukian "Wesi-val
this is the mark ^/W of Mati's Roeloffsen
this is the mark -4— of Dieck de Geaeff
this the mark -f. of Jacob Stoutenbdegh
Paulus Juecksen
Jan Aeesen
this is the mark -+?' of Baeent Heemens.
This letter is to be delivered to the Honorable Gentleman, to wit His Honor the Director
General of New-Netherland, Petrus Stuyvesant,
at the Manatis.
Lettee feom Seegeant Andeies Loueissen to Dieectoe Stutvesaijt. (October 3" 1659)
Copy of a letter, written by the captured Sergeant Andries Lourissen, to the Hon"^ General
at the instance of two £sopus savages.
Honorable General ! I inform youT Honor by this savage, that matters at the Esapus are in
ai bad condition ; it is besieged by 500 to 600 savages, so that nobody can go in or near it. I am a
prisoner with 9 men, Jacob Jansen is dead with 3 others. If Esopus receives no assistance, I am
afraid, it will have no good end. Our people have taken one prisoner of them.
Your Honor's servant
Andeies Laueens, Sergeant.
Received the 12'" Oetbr 1659,
Sunday before noon, but
the savage said, he had been
on the road for 9 nights.
Declaeation of ceetaxn Catskil Indians, as to the oeigin of the collision with
THE Indians at the Esopus, dieected to Vice-Dieectoe La Montagnie bdt
without date.
Booy alias Esquasicame, Ma^hach Nemeno alias
Maechschapet, Catskil Indiana, make the fol-
lowing declaration and explanation of the iirst
exploit and its consequences at the Esopi's.
They say, first, that the Esopus savages, eight in number had broken off corn-ears for Thomas
120 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
CJiamhers, there had been nine of them, but one went away and they were at work until towards
evening; then the savages said, " Come, give us brandy now,"' whereupon Thomas replied, " When it
is dark." The evening having come, he gave a large bottle with brandy to the savages and the
savages said, "We thank you, that you have given us so much brandy." Then the savages spoke to
each other, " Come let us go to the liquor-house and drink there our brandy," but the savage, who is
now a prisoner in the Fort said, " No, let us remain near the little Kil and make a fire there."
They then went to a place at no great distance from the Fort and there the eight sat down to
drink. These eight savages drank there until about midnight, then the brandy came to an end
and they begun to yell, being drunk. Said one to another, " We have still some wampum to buy
more brandy." The savage, wlio was killed, went towards Thomas Chambers' house, to fetch more
brandy. When he came to Thomas Chamhers he said, " I have no more brandy," whereupon Thomas
answered, " I have given you all I had." The savage then said to himself, " I'll go and see, whether I
caimot get brandy from the soldiers." The savage went up to a soldier with the bottle under his gar-
ment, askino- the soldier, " Have you any brandy," whereupon the soldier said, " Yes, I have brandy"
and the savage replied, " Here is wampum, give me brandy for it." Said the soldier, "No, what is
wampum, what shall I do with it " and he asked, " Where is your kettle" ; the savage answered, " I
have no kettle but I have a bottle under my cloak." Said the soldier, " Give it to me," and he
filled it, without receiving anything for it and the savage said, " I am very much obliged to you "
and caressed him and went away. Outside of the gate a soldier met him, who asked, " Comrade,
where will you drink your brandy," to which the savage replied, "Close by, near the little Kil" ;
the savage went on and came to the other savages, who were lying about crying and he said to them,
"Why do you cry, I have brought brandy." Thereupon they rejoiced and began to laugh and clap
their hands. They asked him, " Have you given all the wampum for it " and the savage answered,
"No, it, namely the brandy has been given to me." Said the others, "That is very good" and
they drank lustily out of the bottle, because they had no goblet or laddie. In the meantime, when
the bottle had been passed around once, the savages began to quarrel, among others one or two
savages who were present and had no cause to fight said to each other, "I will go away, I am too
small to fight against them." So these two went away and si.x savages remained drinking ; there
was however one drunken savage, who twice fired oft' his gun charged witli powder only ; they
beo-an ao-ain to drink and there was a savage, who M'as n<it quite so intoxicated and he said, "Come,
let us go away, I feel it in my body, that we shall be killed." Said the other five, " You are crazy,
who should kill us." Then the savage, who is now a prisoner, said, " We would not kill the Dutch ;
we have done them no harm, why, then, should they kill us and we have nothing to fear from
other savages." " Yes, said the other savage, that is true, but I am nevertheless so heavy-hearted."
So they continued drinking until the bottle had passed twice, when the aforesaid savage said again,
" Come, let us go, we shall surely be killed, may it come from whatever side it pleases, my heart is
full of fears."
Then this anxious savage did not want to drink any more brandy, went off and hid his goods
at a little distance, then coming back he drank once more, M'hen they heard the bushes crackle, as
the Dutch came there, without knowing who it was.
Then this savage went away and said, " Come, let us go, for else we shall be killed " and the
other ran away and the rest laid down together, whereupon the Dutch came and all of them fired
into them and shot one savage in the head and captured another. One savage was moving about
intoxicated, whereupon the Dutch fired at him continually taking nearly his dress from his body ;
then they surrounded him and wanted to take him prisoner, the savage called out, " Come kill
lue, I am not afraid" : the Dutch crowded around him and began to tattle among themselves, but
Nefio YorTc Historical Rtconh. 121
meanwhile the savage escaped, then the Dutch looked all over and conld not find the savage : then
the Dutch ran up to the tire and found there a drunken savage asleep, whom they cut into the
head with a sword or hanger, but the savage jumped up and ran away a little distance and the
Dutch ran then back to the Fort.
Thomas Chambers is free again, five have been cut in the head with a hatchet, one lias been
shot dead, the Sergeant is still living with two others.
Fighting continued for seven days, night and morning.
This is to be given to the Honorable La Montaynie at Fort Orange.
Extract from a letter of the Directors I^^ Holland to Stutvesai^t : Melyn
SURRENDERS THE PATROONSHIP OF StATEN-IsLAND ; NO NEW COLONIES TO BE ESTAB-
LISHED IN New-Netherland; van dek Capellen dead.
The 9'" of October 1659.
Honorable, Prudent, Dear and Faithful.
B3' the ship " r/tf Trouw''^* arrived here in safety on the ll"" of last month, we have duly re-
ceived your letters with enclosures. Although we had deferred answering it to the next opportu-
nity, yet as among other passengers of the ship " de Liefde "f , going by way of Curacao., Cornells
Melyn comes over in her, we thought it especially necessary to inform you herewith of the agree-
ment, made with him by us for the surrender of the patroonship over the colony of Staten- Island.,
which he has reconveyed to the Company under such conditions, as you may learn from the an-
nexed copy of the contract. We desire and wish, that its contents be strictly followed and that all
former charges and animosities, whatever they may liave been, shall not only be buried in eternal
oblivion, but also be entirely banished from everybody's thoughts ; also that all possible and fair
assistance be given to him and his people, especially in the restitution of the money, at least as
far as the Company's funds can afford, for certain houses and lots of his sold there under execu-
tion in behalf of Daniel Michielsen, formerly master of the ship '■'■Nieiu-Nederlandsche Fortuyn ":]:
and in all other matters and respects : for we have found it necessary and best for the Company's
service.
You will further learn from this contract, that by revoking these privileges, given formerly,
M-e express our intention not to allow henceforth the establishment of new colonies in that country
upon such a footing ; for they are very disadvantageous to the Company. Although Baron van
der Capellen, who lately died, had assumed the title of Patroon of Staten- Island, we see little dif-
ficulties in that, because his Honor had never been authorized thereto : for there is no reason and
it is entirely without precedent, to sustain his position on the private agreement made and entered
into here with Cornelis Melyn, who is now involved in a lawsuit about it with the heirs of the
Baron, or on a second purchase of the said island, which his Honor is said to have made later from
the savages. Especially the latter event makes it initenable on account of the consequences for
the Company. If therefore bis Honor's heir should happen to follow his example in assuming the
same title, no long connivance can be allowed, but it must be prevented and resisted by proper
and discreet means, offering him and promising as much land upon the said Island, as under the
general rules he may be able to settle.
* I. e. tlie Faith. t I. e. the Love. J I. e. New-Netherland Fortune.
16
122 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Peopositions made by Mohawk Sachems.
Present Extraordinaiy Session held at
J. LaMontagne Fort Orange, the 19*" of Oe-
Jeremias van Rensselaer tober 1659, to hear some prop-
Francis Boon ositions to be made by two Ma-
Andries Herhertsen quaes Sachems, wlio are sent
Dirck Jansen Croon by and speak for all of them.
Sander Leendertsen
Jan Verheeck
Arent van Curler
Volckert Jansen.
1. They say, it is very wrong, that the Dutch scold the savages so much without regard to
tribe, and that they call them " dogs " and " rascals " and they say even now, " You too are an
Esopus dog." They give a string of wampum.
2. They request, that the Dutch shall do no harm to any Maquaes, Mahicander or Katshil
savages, but that they live with them as brothers.
3. They have advised with their four Castles on account of the fighting between the Dutch
and the Esopus savages and inquire, whether we intend to go to war against the Esojnis or whether
we here would keep cpiiet, for all their Sachems leave the decision about the war to us and desire
an answer. They give a string of wampum.
4. You say, you have no war and that you will have none against savages. The savages are
very angry on that account, why do you say it, for you and the Manhattan people are one. The
Esopus might come now or next spring and kill the people on the out-lying places, what would
you then do, you have no common sense. They demanded back the strings of wampnm and
despatched a Mahikander Sachem to the Esopus, to bring here the Christian prisoners and the
Esopus chiefs, directing their messenger to give the three strings of wampum in the name of the
Maquaes, that the Esopus savages should do no harm to the Dutch up here and down at the
Jvatskil and release the Christian prisoners or else to proclaim war.
Leiter from Ensign Dirck SMrrii to Director Stuyvesant; progress of affairs
AT THE Esopus.
This is one of the papers, stolen from the files and returned JIarch 22d, 1877, one month after the publica-
tion of the list of stolen documents. — Ed.
Honorable, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir, Honorable Director-General of New-Nether-
land, Petrus Stuyvesant.
I beg to inform your Excellency herewith that on the evening of the JJO"" S*"" I have received
by savages a letter dated the 13"' inst., the contents of which I have well understood. As to the
Highland Indians, they numbered 110, as the Sachems said themselves at Thomas Siamhers' house.
They say also, that the Esopus savages must deliberate 3 days more, before they can give a defi-
nite answer ; we expect also upon the statement of these savages, to get back our prisoners in 3
days, if they keep their promise, but we cannot rely on it with safety. On the 13'" we have
spoken with some savages here under the Fort, who called out to us, they would come upon us
New York Historical Records. 123
with 400 men to fight. Regarding ourselves, we endeavor to keep good watch and good order.
In regard to Mr. LaMontagnie, I have had no news since his Honor's departure ; tliese savages
inform us also, that the Esojyus still live on their plantations and we do not go out with any soldiers
or other people. There is as yet no chance for tilling the land, for the fanners do not like to
endanger their horses and we do not now know any more to write to your Excy., except that we
are all in good health, which we hope is also the case with your Excy. and remain
Your Excy's humble servant
Actum Esojnts Dieck SMixn.
the 20 8''" 1659.
To the Honorable General
Petrus Stuyvesant
at the Manhatans.
Letter from Vice-Director La Montagne at Fort Orange to Ensigx SMrrn ;
Mohawk and Mohican delegates are sent to Esopus to arrange an ar-
mistice.
Copy.
Sir Ensign ! These two chiefs of the Maqriaas and one chief of the Mahikanders go to the
Esopus, to ransom the captive Christians and make arrangements for an armistice, therefore your
Honor will not molest the savages, as long as the negotiations last, but be upon your guard and
do not trust the savages. Meanwhile write us, what has occurred there since the departure of the
Hon""" General, to advise him thereof.
Your Honor's good friend and servant
At Fort Orange (signed)
21'' October A° 1659. La Montagne, Commissary
at Fort Orange.
On the 4i-^ of November another letter of the same tenor as above was sent to the said Ensign
at the Esopus by a Sachem of the Mahikanders called Nitamoret.
Copy
Extract from a letter of Director Stdtvesant to the Directors in Holland :
BAD condition OF THE COUNTRY : SIEGE OF ESOFCS : FAILURE TO RAISE VOLUNTEERS :
Stuyvesant proceeds with reinforcements to the Esopus ; siege raised.
Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet
Gentlemen.
Gentlemen ! The very precarious and dangerous condition of the countiy, which is so, that
according to the judgment of the most sensible and best minded people it has not been more dan-
gerous for years compels me to lay it before your Honors and inform you of it by a circuitous
route over New-England as well as over Virginia, hoping that one or the other letter may reach
your Honors before the sailing of the summer ships —
324 Colonial Settlements on the Hiuhon River.
That your Honors may speedily send such succor and assistance, as your Honors, in their
usual wisdom, providence and knowledge, shall consider necessary for the maintenance and pro-
tection of this weak province and its inhabitants.
The circuitous route and consequent insecurity of transmission do not admit a particularization
of the present situation and distress of the country. The enclosures will however give your Hon-
ors some explanations in regard to it.
On the 22'' or 23'' of September we received by an expressly hired yacht from the inhabitants
of the Esopus, the letter marked A, by which your Honors will learn the inconsiderate beginning
and from the letter marked B the sad consequences. I myself did not imagine from the first let-
ter, that the savages could be so well prepared, to resent the rash undertaking so quickly and wrote
to Mr. LamoJitagne, to settle the matter and bring it to an end, the more so, because, being about
to send 60 men besides the officer to the support of the Southrlver and keeping here only six or
seven sick and unfit men, we found ourseh'es unprepared for a war M'ith the savages. The coun-
try-people, made circumspect and frightened by the murder of four Christians, the unexpected
rencontre in the Esopus during the night from the 20'" to the 21'*' of September and other bad
rumors, and fearing a new surprise and massacre began soon to flee everywhere, leave their houses,
the corn just brought in and their cattle, even those living in the western villages on Long-Island
and on tlie bouweries on this island. I myself not believing the distress so great tried by showing
myself and riding about (notwithstanding my bad health made it difficult and troublesome) to
encourage the country-people to remain and to strengthen their villages : this resulted by means
of my personal presence in their taking courage and going to work and so far it has remained so,
thanks to God ! On the 29"' of September I rode to Breuckelen, Midwout and Amesfoort and
after having made some arrangements there, I received on my return late in the evening the letter
marked B, from which your Honors may learn the result of the inconsiderate action committed
the night before against some drunken savages. These woeful news came very unexpected to me
and were so much more distressing, as we were unprovided with soldiery, to assist the garrison at
the Esopus as quickly as they desired and their bad situation required, in which we have however
not failed to do our dutj', as is shown in my answer to that letter, marked C.
On the following day, the 30"' of September, I called together the Burgomasters, Schepen
and the Captains of the trainbands and stated to them the distressed condition of the Esopus and
that succor and relief were necessarily i-equired, which for the present could not be given except
with the assistance of the citizens. They were unanimous in their advice and opinion, that by
beating the drum a sufficient number of men could be got for the service or as volunteers, if the
savages, who might be captured, were declared prizes. Although this advice did not coincide with
my ideas, because it was an unsafe, or at least slow way and because there was great danger in
waiting, the Esopus people being then attacked and besieged already during 9 or 10 days and at
least 8 or 10 days more would pass, before we could be there with the relief, yet they prevailed
with their unanimous advice. The captains of the citizens undertook to incite each as many of
his men as possible, two days were spent in this maimer to enlist men, but few or none, any way
not more than 6 or 8 made their appearance, who wished or better said dared to be employed to
I'elieve the oppressed people at the Esopus. Such a terror and fear had taken hold of the citizens,
much more than of the country-people. Meanwhile Lieutenant Neuton was sent to the English
and Dxi,tcK villages : I myself called together the six soldiers of New-Haerlem, 3 from Staten-
Mand, the train-men down to the clerks in our offices inclusive, to whom I joined four of my house-
JSfeio Yorh Historical Records. 125
servants, three from my bonwery, 5 or 6 newly enlisted men, making up a company of 36 men.
The enlistments by beat of drum and the encouraging of volunteers thus went on slowly and in
the meantime I was from every side well posted and informed of the unwillingness of the citizens,
who encouraged and instigated each other not to let themselves be employed for the expedition to
the Esojiris, while the most inconsiderate ones even dared to say, that they were bound only to
defend their own place, that no citizen could be compelled, to place liis body and life in danger
against barbarous savages. These and similar reports and talks made me very angry, anxious and
liopeless, to get a sufficient number of men in this manner, therefore I convened the magistrates
and captains of the trainbands the same evening, reminded them as before of the danger of delay
and that the case required haste and progress : I told them, I had 36 to 40 men, soldiers as well
as train-men ready and hoped that 20 or 30 Englishmen would join from the villages, therefore I
directed them to assemble under arms the three companies of citizens early next dav, tliat I might
inform them of my resolution and demand, which was, first to try, by reminding tliem of their
honor and duty, who would step out as volunteer and join those, who were assembled there and
ready ; then, if this should not succeed, as I hoped, to detail one of the three companies by lot and
to punish those, who opposed, according to their merits. After some discussions they acquiesced
in my proposition. On the following da}', the 3'' of October, the three companies of citizens were
called out under arms and after reminding them of their honor and duty and how they would wish
to receive assistance and relief I said. If any volunteers, men of honor and courage, are willing and
I'esolved to go with me (although I am as yet weak from my sickness) either for monthly pay or
of their own free will and assist the besieged at the Esopus, and relieve them with God's help,
they could step forward and join the officers and train-men of the Company ; but few came for-
ward, not more than 24 or 25 men, which number was thought to be insufficient. Therefore one
of the 3 companies was immediately detailed by lot and the one, upon which the lot fell, was
ordered to be ready for embarcation the next Sunday after divine service, under a penalty of 50
guilders ; but if anybody was fiiinthearted or afraid, then he might find a substitute or be free
upon payment of the fine, provided he declared himself on the spot. A sense of honor and shame
compelled all to be silent. Meanwhile some provisions, ammunition and other necessaries were
brought on board of the yachts on that day and the following Saturday. On Sunday evening
after the last sermon the aforesaid company of citizens, numbering about one hundred, embarked
with the few officers and clerks and train-men, to whom came late in the evening 24 or 26 English-
men and hardly as many savages from Long- Island^ our friends, who embarked the next morning.
We sailed on the 6'" Monday about noon, the wind not being quite favorable at first, arrived off
the Esopus Kil on the 10"", when the contrary wind and tide did not allow us to run into the Kil
and land at the usual place. We had to land about a quarter of a mile below the Kil in order not
to lose any time and not to show any discouragement. The men got ashore at about noon and
marched immediately up to the settlement, — a march of about one hour and a half from the strand
— -a day and a half before the savages had left, after having made continual attacks and assaults
upon the settlement the previous night ; our people had had one man killed and 5 or 6 wounded,
the number of the killed and wounded among the savages is as yet not known. The savages had
besieged and surrounded the place during 23 days, fired with brand-arrows one dwelling-house
and four grain stacks. After thanking the Lord and providing the place with powder, lead, medi-
cines and other necessaries we left again with the citizens, the Englishmen and the savages the
next d.ay towards evening, seeing no advantage could be gained from a pursuit of the savages, who
had been gone now 2 or 2J days, because the land on the Esojnis was inundated and covered with
nearly 5 feet of water in consequence of a heavy rain, which fell about the time, -when the savages
126 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
left. How far and where the Esopus savages had retired during the time of 3 or 4 days, may be
seen from the postscript to the letter marked — .
Right honorable Gentlemen ! Against my intention I have enlarged greatly in this report,
especially on the circumstances attending to the assembling of the men, only to inform your Hon-
ors with perfect truth, how difficult it would be to get any courageous men out of the community
here and how dangerous it is for an officer, who has some regard for his oath, honor and duty, to
go into the field with such men. I am almost ashamed to write, that at our departure, while the
whole company of citizens could not be embarked all at once and half of it or more had to wait,
until the first were on board, the sentries and outposts created an alarm by discharging their pieces
2 or 3 times at the noise, made by a dog, as we found afterwards, whereupon many of the citizens
took to the water, before they had seen any enemy. I tell this here only, that your Honors may
form a correct idea of the present distress and situation of the country and may not allow the main-
tenance and protection of the country to depend on the body of citizens.
* * » * * *
We wrote your Honors detailedly in our letter of the 4"' of September of the pretexts of some
English emissaries, to begin a village or settlement on this Northriver near the Wappinglis Kil ;
we have since been further informed, (as your Honors may see by the enclosure marked AA,
which is a letter from the General Committee of the 4 English Colonies* and our short provisional
reply), that their aim goes farther, as they intend to settle above, near or back of Eort Orange,
without doubt to ruin and cut o£E our beaver-trade, as they have done, now 23 or 24 j'ears ago, at
the house, the Hojye on the Eresh river. * * * *
******
(This letter was sent to the Directors under corcr to Mr. Edward Man, merchant at Amsterdam.)
Letter from Ensign Smith to Director Stuyvesant ; an armistice concluded
WITH THE Esopus Indians.
The first of November 1659, at the Esopus.
Noble, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir .
Honorable Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant.
I beg to inform your Excy. herewith, that I received a letter from the Hon'''* Mr. Lamontagne
on the 26"" of October by two Mahikanders. We learned from this letter, that your Excy. had
written to Mr. Lmnontagne, we should make an armistice with the savages, if possible, which
directions his Honor gave us. The two aforesaid savages brought with them 2 small strings of
wampum from the Maquaas, one string from the Mahikanders, also from the Katskils 5 fathoms
of wampum as an offering of peace and armistice with the Esopus savages. The aforesaid savages
brought with them also an offering to the Esopus savages, to make them agree to an armistice with
us and the two Mahikanders have been with the Esopus for 5 days and on the first of this month
they came back to us and brought witii them 2 prisoners, a soldier and a free man. The soldier's
name is Pieter Lamertzen and that of the free man Peter Hillebrantzen and some Sachems came
* See Records of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay, Vol. IV, Part 1, p. 395, and Records of Plymouth Colony,
Acts of the Commissioners of the United Colonies of New England, Vol. X, p. 230. — Ed.
New Ywh Historical Records. 127
wUlh tJie prisoners. The Sachems came at the instance of the Ma<piaas, Mahihanders and Kats-
kils, to ask us for an arrnistice, to which we agreed for as long a time as it shall please the Hon'''"
General. Tlien tlie savages told us, that we might till our lands and sow again and do every-
thing, as we had done it before this. But we are nevertheless on our guard and expect the lion'"'''
General, as do also the savages. Herewith closing 1 commend your Excy. to the protection of the
Almighty.
Your Excy's humble servant
DiRCK Smith, Ensign.
To His Noble Honor
Petrus Stuyvesant
at the Manathans.
(Ensign Smith wrote a letter of the same tenor to Vice-Director Lamontague at Fort Orange (Albany) on the
same day, for which see N. Y. Col. MSS., Vol. XIII, f. 53.)
Letter from Ensign Smith to Vice-Director Lamontagne at Fort Orange:
progress of affairs at e^opos.
The 13'" November 1659
Honorable Worshipful Sir.
Honorable Director Lamontagne !
I beg to inform your Honor herewith, that I have received a letter dated the 2P' of last
month, as well as that I have received to-day a letter dated by your Honor the 10"" of November,
l)ut the bearer hereof, Nietonnoret, Sachem of the Mahikanders, would then not wait so long, that
^ve could write to your Honor, but he engaged another savage to carry the letters the next day,
but the savage never came to fetch tlie letters and we hehave ourselves as friends hut they show
tliemselves as rascals ; it is true, we have got back 2 prisoners, but they keep the boy yet and have
killed all the others ; it is true, we have made an armistice with them, hut none of the pnncipal
Sachems have heen present. We respectfully request, that a yacht may come here and that she
fire 3 or 4 signal shots, when we will come to the strand with a guard. We have been twice on
the strand with soldiers, but did not discover any 3'^aclits, which astonishes us much and I request
your Honor, that His Honor the General may be informed of this letter and v^e wish, it were other-
wise, than what our condition now is. Closing I commend your Honor to God's protection.
Your Honor's humble servant
DiRCK Schmidt, Ensign
To the Honorable Mr. Lamontagne
Commander at
Fort Orange.
Minutes of the Court of Fort Orange. Extraordinary Session Novbr 18^"
1659 TO consider a letter, received from the Director-General.
The Hon'''* Members of both the Courts met to consider a letter from the Hon""^ Gen-
eral to the Courts dated the 12"' 9""", in which the General speaks of retaining the Esopus savages.
128 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
About this matter we are still uncertain. As to speaking with the Katskils and Mahicanders, vre
have come to the conclusion after due deliberation, that it is not necessary, as we do not know,
whether his Honor the General shall be able to carry out his plan, pursuant to his letter, for in
case the General could come to the desired agreement with the savages, as he writes, then it would
be unnecessary to exehide the Esojpus savages from the llahihanders and Katskils at this time.
But as soon as we learu, that any fighting has been going on at the Esopus, we shall speak with
the said savages.
By order of both the Courts.
Johannes Peovoost, Clerk.
Letter from Dikector Stutvesant (in his own HANDWErriNo) to Ensign Smith
AT the.Esopus: instructions for the treatment of the Indians and orders
to capture if possible 12 OR 15 OF them and keep them as hostages.
Monsieur Ensign.
As the bearer, Derek StniJ,t, intends yet to make the trip to the Esoj)us, although it is uncer-
tain, whether the weather will permit the voyage, we did not like to lose the opportunity to send
you directions for the officers of the Company and the freemen, all according to the enclosed list,
besides to recommend to you, what you have been told by the Honorable Director, namely to treat
the savages as fair as possible until a better opportunity comes and to trade with them now and
then for maize and venison, when they come themselves and desire it * * ? and to give them
some goods in return ; but meanwhile you must be well on your guard and not allow the savages
to see or get information of the strength of the garrison ; you must therefore not let them come
farther into the fort, than Thomas Chambers'' house between the pallisades and allow them as little
communication and conversation with the free people, as in any way possible and if it should hap-
pen, that some should remain in Thomas Chambers'' house on account of bad weather, in such a
case you must remain there yourself and place there some other competent person, who understands
the language of the savages, so that no conversation can be held between the savages and our
people without your knowledge.
As to the order, left with you at the departure of the Hon'''* General, to keep some savages in
the fort, we still wish it carried into effect, but agreeable to the verbal instructions you must pro-
ceed herein with caution, when you can persuade 12, 15 or 20 together to come, for it would not
be worth while to begin with some 5 or 6.
We would further consider it advisable, not to carry out this project, until the river is open
again, unless it should suit you to make immediately on the evening after the capture of the savages
a sally and attack the nearest village of the savages : we must defer herein to your own discretion.
We hope to send you, as soon as the river opens, some more troops for assistance. You must
above all keep this order secret and promote as much as possible the threshing of the grain for the
seed-time.
11"> December 1659.
New Yoi-h HistoiHcal Records. 129
Letter EEOJt Ensign Ssiitii to Director Stuyvesant; reports the progress of
AFFAIRS AT TUE EsOPUS.
The 1?" X*"'% from the Esopus.
Noble, Worshipful, "Wise and Prudent Sir!
Honorable Director-General of New-Netherland.
I beg to inform your Excy., that we have had a talk with the savages on the 12"' and 14'"
inst. and we reproached them for not coming to his Honor, the General, when your Honor was
here. Whereupon they answered, they were afraid of his Honor and dare not come near his
Honor and the savages make great promises now, that they would like to be friends with us and
do harm to no one and we too gave them good words and treated them friendly : they promised to
bring us maize in exchange for cloth, but they did not come. I have received 3 letters from your
Honor and a fourth, which I shall do my best to send to Fort Orange. I have read the contents
of the letter marlced DC and will keep it safe, as directed, if your Honor will trust me and I hope,
it will go. Regarding the letter about the wheat, which is due to your Honor for the cloth, I
shall forward as much as possible. I send your Honor the probable measure (? loop-radeii). I
have received 1 piece of linen from skipper Dirck Vetsen with some buttons and •! kettles, and
the Honorable General will please to excuse me, as we have no time to M'rite more, for the yacht
must depart directly and I wish a happy New-Year to the Hon''"' General and your Excy"* whole
family.
Your servant
Dirck Smidt, Ensign.
In regard to the remaining bags, of which the Hon"''^ Secretary writes, I have made inquiries,
but could learn nothing of theni nor what had become of them : but I shall continue to do my best.
To the Honorable Director-General
Petnis Sttoyvesajit
at the Manatlians.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Director Stittvesant :
English settlements on the Northriver must be prevented : Rev. Harmanus
Bloem returns to New-Netherland. 22" Decbr. 1659 received 5^" April 1660.
******
Thus far in answer to your Honors' first letter of the 23* of July ; we now come to the sub-
sequent letters of the 4"" 16'" and 17'" September, in which the principal topic is the distressing
condition and decline of the City's Colony* ; as we have replied to this in our last, we shall pass
it over here and come to the one, which follows, that is the inclination of and the efforts made by
the English^ to form a settlement on the Northr'wer near the Wappinghskil ; we judge the reasons
To prevent the En- and difficulties, Stated by your Honors regarding this, worth consideration; also
fandson"the''North ^^^'^ advice, to anticipate this nation: therefore their coming in and settling
river. must above all be prevented and hindered by whatever means it can be done with-
17
New Amstel, now New-Castle, Del. See Col. Doc., Vol. XII. — Ed.
130 Colonial Settlements on the Hudaon River.
out difficulty, as there is no other passage to that place, than along the Northriver. The English
government here in this country is, we believe, not in a position to care for or trouble itself about
N. B. such affairs and illegal usurjjations in foreign countries, we are nevertheless glad to
hear of your Honors' intention to buy the land in that neighborhood in order to make our right
indisputable and thus to avoid all further cavilling as much as possible, for they often make won-
derful claims elsewhere, which cause here great troubles and dissatisfaction. "We shall not rest in
the meantime, but make efforts, to get some farmers, (for whose accommodation farming implements
are going over now) towards spring, for which we shall also call upon the Polish nobleman Lodeni
Bachio'* and others for help and assistance, that hencefortli the expenses, which the Company
incurs in bringing over such people, may become a source of profit. "We intend also to look about
for some young fellows of 15, 16 or more years, whom we shall not be afraid of sending over at a
monthly salary of 4 guilders, trusting tliat they will be in demand and may be employed in pro-
moting agriculture. In tiiat case the masters, who shall hire them, must refund to the Company
the sums advanced for the passage and handsel of the boys, farmers and farm laborers. Close
attention must be paid to tlieir conduct and work : the indolent must be compelled to work, for it
is at least their duty to repay by their labor the sums advanced to them. You will make such
regulations in this matter, as yon will deem best for the welfare of the Company and the com-
munity.
We have heard with deep regret, that the savages have again murdered six Christians there :
Separate habita- as this Can Only be prevented by the concentration of the separate dwellings, the
,tgj people must, necessarily, be compelled to submit to it as a measure, founded upon
sound political reasons and adopted for the benefit and preservation of the community. Meanwhile
you must endeavor to obtain possession of the murderers or at least of some members of their tribe,
which, we think, would serve to get hold of the others by means of threats : or else you must
Murders ot Chris- punisli the iunoccnt, in the hope of checking these barbarous tribes. You ought
lians not to be . , , i r /-n • • i • ■ i
compounded, but xmdcr no circumstanccs settle such murders or Christians by composition, but
the murderers or rather take the chance to fall upon them tooth and nail. For this purpose we
others of the tribe . • i i i • i i n , • • n i i i
to be punished. provide you With the desired saddles and ammunition ot war, as the enclosed
invoices show, so that you ma}'^ make use of them upon this or other occasions.
D» Biom engaged. At your Ilonors' recommendation we have engaged here D" Ilarmanus Blom
who now goes there as preacher at a yearly salary of 600 guilders, the balance up to 1000 or 1200
guilders, which is to be raised by the community, must not be counted and paid to him by them,
but by your Honors, as chief-magistrates, for reasons, Avhich your Honors will easily comprehend ;
the proper manner, in which tliis is to be carried out, is left to your Honors' judgment.
Extract feom a letter of Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland : A-rrrrnDE
OF THE SAVAGES AT EsOPUS. 26'"' DeCBK 1659.
-» -:;- « * * *
In regard to matters with the savages here and at the Esopus : they have done little since
* The war carried on successfully at this period by King Frederic of Denmark, with the assistance of the
Dutch, against Charles Gustavus of Sweden and Poland, seems to have brought the Dutch into closer connection
with Poland and put this notion into the heads of the Directors. — Ed.
jSfew Yorh Historical Records. 131
our last, apparently and without doubt hindered and kept back by the unfavorableness of the win-
ter ; they cannot be trusted however, which makes us keep on our guard, draw in the separate
dwellings and surround tiie distant Dutch, villages with pallisades ; we have not been able to come
to a conference with tlie Esopus savages, as is shown by the written report of the Hon"'" Director-
General under letter H. Meanwhile other savages, who are at present our apjjarent friends, inform
and warn us, that the Esopus are decidedly bent on war ; they solicit urgently help and alliance
from other tribes ; the separate bouweries of the Colony of Renselaerswyck and the imminent lack
of bread stuif, in case it should be destroyed or fired, before the grain was threshed, compel us to
abstain from hostilities against the Esopus savages and their allies for the present and to await a
better and more suitable time, which your Honors may find in detail in the aforesaid written report
and the copy of a letter on this subject sent by the Hon'''^ General to the authorities of Eort
Orange and the Colony of Renselaerswyck, here annexed under lit. I. On- c more we request
your Honors respectfully, to consider quickly and timely their own interests, the preservation of
the country and the safety and welfare of the inhabitants and send us over such orders and means,
as the enclosed list calls for or as your Honors shall deem necessary and serviceable in their wonted
wisdom and far-seeing observation. There is no question, that if the countryman in a new country
cannot plough, sow and harvest without being molested, or the citizen and trader may not travel
unhindered on streams and ri\'ers, they will both leave and transport themselves to such a govern-
ment and dwelling places, where they shall be better protected.
Letter from Ensign Smith to Director Lamontagne on affairs at Esofus.
The 28''' X"" 1659, at Esopus.
Noble, Worshipful, "Wise ana Prudent,
Honorable Mr. De Lamontagne.
I beg to inform your Honor, that his Honor the General has Deen here on the 28"" of Novem-
ber and that he has taken away the grain which had been threshed and he went off on the 3d X''".
On the 16"' X'""' a yacht from the Manathans arrived here, by which I received several letters
from the Hon*''' General, also a letter to the Court of Fort Orange, which I could not dispatch
sooner than by the bearer hereof: and after the departure of the yacht several savages have been
here and they brought with them 2 deer and 2 or 3 turkeys, for which we traded with them and
we treated them friendly and his Honor the General desired to have a letter sent to your Honor,
but I had no chance to forward it and I have received your Honor's letter on the 27"' X''" and
understand, that your Honor's letter was to be sent to the Menates, but after the departure of the
Hon'"'' General nothing of importance has occurred here, of which I could make a special report to
his Honor, except that 7 or 8 savages have been here. We remain however watchful, as we have
been before. I wish a happy New- Year to your Honor and whole family and remain
Your Honor's faithful servant
To His Honor DutcK Smith, Ensign.
Mr. De Lamontagne
Connnander at
Eort Oranqe.
132 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Letter fkom the same to Director Stuyvesant, on affairs at Esopus.
The 2S"' X"" 1659, at ^sojms.
Noble, Honorable, Wise and Prudent Sir,
Honorable Director-General of Beio-NetJierland.
I beg to inform yonr Excy, that I received to-day by a Maquaas a letter from the Hon*'*
Montague at Fort Orange and that I have forwarded the letter, destined for the Court at Fort
Orange, by the same Maquaas. I further inform your Honor of the condition of Fsojms. After
the departure of the last yacht of D'^rck Schmidt on the IS"* or 19"' X''"', we have talked with the
savages and they promised to come again to supply us with meat and corn, which they did the
next day with 2 deer and 2 or 3 turkeys. Our people bought them for wampum and traded one
turkey for a small box full of powder, upon which they insisted eagerly, apparently to disco^'er,
whetlier we were well intentioned or not and when they had received the small box of powder they
said, we were now good, and promised to come henceforth every day with Indian corn, but they staid
away and forgot to return and the savages still live at their places and we hope by the help of God
Almighty to lead them with good words and inducements until the proper occasion, which the
spring will indicate with God's help and I and my men are still thrifty and in good health and I
expect the gi-ain, of which your Honor has written ; I shall do ray best to get it together for j'our
Honor's cloth. As to the missing bags, I have got back three of them and shall look about for
the rest. I do not know to write any more to j^our Honor this time, but to wish a happy New-
Year to your Excy. and the whole family and remain
Your Excellency's humble servant
DiECK Smit, Ensign.
To the Nolile, "Worshipful, Wise and Prudent, His Honor Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-Gen-
eral of New-Netherland at the Manathans.
Letter from Abraham Staas of Beaverwyck (Albany) to Director Stuyvesant :
DisposmoN OF the Esopds Indians; the Mohawks promise to make peace with
the Canada Indians.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
Sir! Besides wishing happiness, prosperity and good success in the New- Year, these few lines
are only to inform you, that since the departure of the last yachts nothing special has occurred,
which is worth while the writing, except that the Esopus savages keep very cpyet now, but some
well-known Mahikanders say, that they do so, in order to carry out their intentions so much
better and are watching for the chance of a surprise, when the Dut^h will not expect it and then
to kill every body, whom they can. They have also stated to the aforesaid Mahikanders in plain
words, that they would not allow the Dutch to live any longer on the Esopus, only one house on
the bank of tlie Kil close to the river for their own convenience, to get some necessaries for their
own use. The Maquaes keep away from the Esopus savages at present, they have not been there
at all and say, that they mostly go out to catch beavers. It is also asserted, that the Slnnehes are
New Yorh HUtorical Records. l;^3
at war with the Minquaes and River Indians at the South.* As to the coming of the French,
whom the Maquaes have expected so long, it is again all quiet now. They say, they will bring
back to Canada the French prisoners in the sj)ring and then make a solid peace witli the French.
We are all in good health for which God the Almighty be praised and thanked for His mercy.
We hope from the bottom of our hearts to hear the same in regard to your Hon'^'" Worship, which
would please us very sincerely. Closing herewith T commend your Hon''''^ Worship and family to
the protection of the Almighty with our cordial greetings.
I am and remain Your Honor's humble subject and very obedient
Seaverwych Abeam Staas.
16'" January A° 1660.
To the Honorable, Valiant, Rigorous His Honor Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-General of N.
Netherland, Curacao and the islands thereof at Fort Amsterdam.
Letter from Vice-Director Lamontagne at Fort Orange (Albany) to Director
Stuyvesant : reporting progress of the affairs at Esopus.
Honorable, "\"aliant and Worshipful Sir.
Sir
It having been reported by several savages that the Dutch on the Fsopus had attacked the
Fsqpus savages, killed and captured many of them, among whom three Sachems, I was induced,
(in order to ascertain the truth) to send a Maquaes there on the 23 X*"" last past, with a letter to
the Ensign. This savage arrived here on the S*" instant, bringing an answer from the said Ensign,
which is here inclosed, as well as the copy of my letter. The said savage brought among other
letters one from the Hon*"' General, directed to both the courts, which I communicated to them
immediately. After they had read it, they were greatly astonished on account of the rascality of
\X\Q Maquaes, called Adoquatho, who was sent by them to j'our Honor; but they presume that
the interpreter, whom your Honor employed at the Esopus, could not understand this savage quite
well and that, as it is very probable, the Maquaes had told him, what he had said here, to cause
a continuation of the alliance, namely, that the Maquaas and the Dutch were brothers and bound
by one chain since a long time : if this chain were broken, they would all be very much distressed
and weep like children. Hearing however that the said savage has arrived here or in the Maquaas
country, we shall examine him in regard to this matter, as your Honor will see by the answers of
the two courts, here enclosed.
******
We hear so far nothing bad of the savages, they behave themselves more civil and modest,
than they have done formerly. Expecting your Honor's answer I remain
Your Hon"'" Worship's humble
At Fort Orange and obedient servant
16"" January A" 1660. Lamontagne.
To the Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful, His Honor Petrus Stuyvesant Director-Gen' and
Council of iV. Netherland at Foi't Amsterdam.
* See Vol. XII.
134 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Letter from Ensign Smh'h at Esopus to Director Stuyvesant: ague preva-
lent: HEAVY snow-storms.
The 19'" of January 1660, at Eaopus.
. Noble, "Worshipful, "Wise and Prudent Sir.
Honorable Director-General of New-Netherland,
Petrus Stuyvesani.
I beg to inform your Excy. that on the SS"" of December a Maq^iam from Fort Orange sent
by his Honor Lamontagne has been here, to whom I have given the letter, intended for the magis-
trates there, and I have also given him a letter, intended for the Hon'''* General, but I believe,
that your Honor shall receive the one by this savage first and I have received no letter by this
savage from his Honor Montagne. So much snow has fallen at present, that we cannot make the
savages travel. Once a while a savage comes here, but they bring nothing and we treat them with
gi-eat kindness, as well as we can. As to our people, they are in fairly good health, only fever
begins to trouble them here and there and the Ensign has also the fever and Cadet Ilendrick Tett-
nissen from Suytloh died of a severe rupture on the 4"' of January and I do not know to write
anything special this time, than to commend your Excy. and his whole family to the Lord and we
remain constantly on our guard as we have done formerly, for the savages hereabout cannot be
trusted and I remain your Excy's faithful servant
DiRCK SMrr, Ensign.
To the Noble, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent His Honor the Director-General of New-Neth-
erland Petrus Stuyvesani at the
Manathans.
LETrER FROM DIRECTOR StDYVESANT TO (EnSIGN SmITH AT EsOPUS) RECOMMENDING
CAUTION AND CIVILITY TOWARDS TUE IndIANS ETC.
Honorable, Valiant Sir:
Your favors of the 28"' of December and 19"" of January have been duly received on the 26""
inst. through the savage, who brings this. As since our last of the ll"" December no or only
slight changes have taken place here and on the Esopus., therefore we refer to our former letter
and repeat again the orders, which we then gave you, namely, to be as civil and outwai'dly kind as
possible towards the savages and to accommodate them occasionally with goods in exchange for
maize and venison, when they come to ask for it, even now and then (to deprive them of all sus-
picions) with half a pound or a pound of powder and some lead, but you must be, above all, upon
your guard and not allow the savages to see or get information of the strength of the garrison.
As to the further orders, given you before this, to inveigle some savages into the fort, when
occasion offers and keep them there, that must be carried out with special caution. I consider it
expedient, not to attempt it sooner, than when the sloops begin again to sail and when we can assist
you from here with men, provisions and ammunition of war, unless, as I said in my former letter,
you believe yourselves sufficiently strong, to make, directly after taking them, an attack on the
nearest village of the savages, M'hicli we must leave to your own discretion.
We hope and wish, that at the receipt of this letter you and your men will again be fresh and
New York Historical Records. 135
in good liealth, nieaiiwliile we coiiiniend you all to the protection of God and remain with our
greetings
Honorable, Valiant Sir,
29"* January 1660. Your affectionate friends.
Lettkk from Ensign Smith at Esopus to Vice-Dieector Lamontagne at Fort
Orange (Albany) : condition of affaiks at his post : his garrison 70 men.
The 5'" of February 1660, at Esopus.
Honorable, Worshipful and Prudent Sir.
Honorable Mr. DehiTnontagne. I inform your Honor, that this savage an-ived here from the
Manathcs on the 4"" inst. and he has brought me a letter from the Hon"'" General. I could not
omit to inform your Honor by this opportunity, that everything here has remained in the state, in
which it was before and now and then a few savages come here, but we do not trust them far nor
they us and we show them much kindness, as directed by the General. I speak fair to them, that
they shall bring us some venison or maize, but they bring us little and our storehouse is not well
provided with bacon and meat for 70 men, but we hope, that with a change of the weather we
shall receive sufficient victuals. I do not know of anything more to write to your Honor this time,
except that we are constantly on our guard as formerly and commend your Honor to the protection
of the Almighty and remain your Honor's
Humble servant
DiRCK Smitt Ensign.
To the Honorable, Woi"shipful, Wise and Prudent His Honor Delariiontagiie, Commander at
Fort Orange.
Proposals of Director Stuyvesant kespecting the measures to be adopted
against the hostile Indians at the Esopus and answers of the Council to
them.
Propositions made to the Honorable
Council and the Burgomasters of this
City.
Honorable Gentlemen.
Nobody, unless he be a stranger or a new arrival in New-Netherland, can be ignorant of the
injuries, massacres and murders, which the savage barbarians, natives of this country, have from
time to time committed and inflicted, contrary to the treaty of peace made and several times
renewed and their fair promises, upon the Dutch Colonists and inhabitants of this newly opened
province, not to mention the murders in the time of the Honorable Mr. Kieft and the dreadful
massacre in our time in the year 1655, during which about 50 to 60 were slaughtered and killed
mostly in cold blood, besides that about one hundred souls were taken prisoners, whom we had to
ransom from the barbarians' hands at a high price.
More than 20 Christians have been unexpectedly killed at different times and places in and
about their houses and isolated dwellings during the twelve years of our administration.
136 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
It is too dreadful and unbearable for a nation; loving honor and liberty and delivered by the
blessing of God from Spanish tyranny and inc^uisition ; Your Honors are aware of what has passed
and been done to the inhabitants of the Etsopus by the barbarians and it is therefore unnecessary,
as it is still fresh in your memories, to trouble your Honors with details, while in my present prop-
ositions I have no intention to demonstrate by a tedious relation what has passed, how we have
fallen into this abyss but how we may get out of it with the least expense and the most honor,
how for the greater safety of our good inhabitants, honor to our nation and the public welfare
such murders and massacres may in future be prevented as much as possible, for which I first desire
your Honors' good advice and then faithful assistance.
The boldness of the Esopus Indians, first in capturing 12 or 13 well-armed farmers and sol-
diei's, in the actual siege of and attack on the well-pallisadoed settlement, the fearful murder of
the greater part of the aforesaid 'jjrisoners, contrary to promises and after receiving and keeping
the offered ransom, is, with submission to better reason and Aviser judgment, too ignominious and
unbearable for an honor and liberty loving nation and it is therefore my opinion, in consideration
.of the suffered injuries and the restoration of the almost ruined Batavian reputation (as one sav-
age considers himself now as good as two Dutchmen) and on accoimt of the fertility of the lands
(directly ready for the plough without roding of trees or bushes and settled with 2 or 3 villages,
each of 20 to 24 families, which according to the convenience of the place are able and capable
each to produce every year as much grain, as all the Dutch and English villages in New-Netlt/-
erland together are as yet able to produce) that it is necessary to make war on the Esopus Indians,
using all imaginable means to get the advantage of them and to kaxxj it on against them as vigor-
ously as possible; when, with what forces and means, thereto my propositions demand your Hon-
ors' consent or better advice and judgment.
After calling iipon God for his assistance and blessing, and confessing our sins, which are the
causes of all general punishments and obstacles to all desirable results, the following considerations
and means would be necessarily required thereto.
We are credibly informed by verbal and written reports of the continued sinister and deceitful
intention of the aforesaid Esopus barbarians to make peace with us and to be in readiness for a
blow and attack our people unexpectedly, when they are in their fields, while some even dare to
say, they would have no Dutch on the Esopus, except one house on the bank of the Kil, to provide
them with the necessary commodities.
As violence is encountered by violence, so cunning may be opposed by cunning and the enemy,
desiring to make only a pretended peace, may be diverted, allured and entrapped with so much
more justice, as we have painful proofs of their deceit and credible reports of their falseness and
of the miirders committed by them imder the pretext of peace.
I beHeve, submitting however to wiser judgment and better information, that a diversion is
necessary and under cover of it an expedition, which must be entrusted to but few, whether suc-
cessful or not ; then we nmst make war and carry it on first against the Esopus tribe alone in their
dwelling places and wherever they may retreat to.
To begin this, according to human ideas the sooner the better, with God's help and blessing,
140 to 150 resolute men, soldiers as well as volunteers, would be required and necessary for the
first attack, besides 20 to 30 to remain in the settlements. The greatest difficulty is, where to get
these from.
It is true, the Hon''''' Company has in its service in this province about 200 men and more, but
your Honors know well, that they are scattered here and there according to the situation and the
unavoidable demands of the country, so thr.t we cannot get together, ]iere and at the Esopus, more
Neto Yorh Historical liecurJs. 137
than 120 men and although -we could make up the number for the expedition against the Jll'oj?us
Indians, it is, in raj judgment, considering late trials, not advisable thus to deprive at once this
and other places of their garrisons, so that upon one or the other occasion we would have no sol-
diers immediately ready. The troubles and difficulties, M'liich we have had to get some men for
the relief of our people on the Esojyus, when the Hon''"' Company's soldiers had been sent to the
Southriver, are of a late date and well known to your Honors all, which relief would been given
easier, sooner and with less trouble, if we had had a moderate number of soldiers at hand.
For this reason it is necessary, to prevent in future such inconveniences, that these principal
places, at least this island remain garrisoned by 50 or 60 soldiers, so that in case of a disastrous
rencontre, fresh succor might be sent to the Esojjus or in case of more and other savages rising, the
villages on Long-Idcuid and elsewhere might speedily be succored, before the country and the
fields are deserted to the great disadvantage of the inhabitants. Therefore I believe it is necessary,
to enlist, if possible, GO or 70 soldiers more, without distinction as to nationality, at least for the
time and until we receive assistance from the Fatherland by fresh recruits, for it is, according to
my poor judgment, best and most expedient, to resent the affronts, done to us, by making with all
possible force and means an aggressive war first against the Esojpus Indians and afterwards against
those who may have assisted or countenanced them.
To restore the almost ruined glory of the Dutch nation, to hope for an early success by force
of arms and freedom for the open coimtry, instead of ruining ourselves, burdened for the sake
of defense with so much soldiery and expecting and waiting for an vmcertain improvement of
savage barbarous tribes, not fettered by any form of government or laws or divine service.
That all this might be continued and carried out with some expectation of success, the fol-
lowing propositions are referred to your Honors' better judgment and information.
1. Not to engage ourselves too far, before we do not see a prospect of success against the Esojnis
savages and are assisted from the Fatherland. My advice would be to overlook the suffered inju-
ries, especially the murders lately committed at MespatJikil and to keep the savages about here
as quiet as possible and to renew the peace with them upon as fair and conciliatory conditions as
possible, until they give the slightest provocation. It is notorious and everybody knows from
experience that the murders and massacres committed on Christians in this vicinity fi'oni time to
time have been the result of the isolated habitations and have never happened, where 10 or 13
persons have dwelt together in a kind of village, which to prevent as much as possible in future,
it is necessary to renew and execute the well-intentioned order of the Lords-Directors and the
placat, resulting therefrom, of the Director-General and Council, to discountenance all separate
liabitations and farm-buildings as well on Loncj-lsland as at other places, to exhort and if possible
give some assistance to these people and encourage them to live together in villages or form new
settlements on the most suitable and best places and secure the same, further to prohibit by post-
ers and warn the Indians, that they must in future not come into or near such villages with their
arms, under penalty of losing them.
3. It cannot be doubted, that, if the farmer should be compelled to leave his village and fields or
run considerable risk to have his horses and cattle killed in the open country, which cannot be
kept in the stables and witliin the villages during the summer, very pernicious inconveniences, as
poverty, famine and finally desolation and complete abandoning would be the consequences. To
prevent this as far as possible, it is not only necessary to keep the beforementioned reserve-detach-
ment of about 60 to 70 soldiers here and in the neighborhood, besides those, who are required for an
aggressive war on the Esopus, but also to have a mounted guard, to patrol and make rounds on this
18
138 ' Colonial SettleTnents on the Hudson Hiver.
and on Long-Island, in the neighborhood of the villages and settlements now and then for the, if
possible, better j)rotection of the animals and laborers, who have to plough, sow, mow and work
outside of the villages every day ; the following propositions may answer, to execute this so mucli
better and with the least inconvenience.
We must consider, that as long as the state of the open country is so unsafe and as many will
be comjielled to leave their habitations and fields, the inhabitants of the villages and hamlets as
well as of pallisadoed settlements will be very unwilling, many even unable to raise the tithes now
due, of whicii as yet very little has been paid and very little may be expected for the present : also
■whether (in order to have ready in an emergency, besides the before required force as foundation,
some more troops, footsoldiers as well as horsemen) we shall propose to the magistrates and inhab-
itants of the villages an exemption from tithes for a period of 5 or 6 years, provided that each
keep in readiness 6, 8 or 10 men, according to their situation, subject to the command of the
Director-General and Council, either for attack or for defense, as the necessity and the situation of
the country may require, even if we had to promise them proper pay in case of an aggressive war
and relief and indemnification according to the articles of war, if the service in the active troops
was prolonged.
5. Whereas the mounted service, necessary for the abovementioned reasons, but also more expens-
ive, requires more incentive and encouragement, I am of opinion, that it is necessary to keep with
the foot-militia, a few horsemen, at first 12, 16 or 18, and in order to incite others, to establish a
general stable and provide this during the winter with fodder and 25 schepels of oats for each
horse, the balance at the charge of those who desire to keep there a good and suitable horse, to be
used in the public service, if necessity required it : if such a horse be shot in an attack from our
side, one-half of its loss shall be borne by the commonwealth, the other half by the owner, in whose
option it shall be, to do service in person, to put another suitable person on it or to let one be
chosen by the Director-General and Council, on condition that during an aggressive expedition he
shall draw pay like the regular horsemen of the lion""' Company. Done at Fort Amsterdam in
New-jSietherland, the 9"" February A° 1660.
The foregoing propositions were read in the meeting of the Honorable Council and the Bur-
gomasters of this City by the Right Plonorable Director-General and a copy thereof was handed
to each of them, that they might deliver their advice upon them at the next meeting or sooner.
Date as above.
Answer of the Honorable Nicasius de Sille
12"' February 1660. to the propositions of the Eight Hon""' Di-
rector-General, written by himself.
On the first proposition de Sille agrees with the opinion of the Hon''"' General, adding how-
ever that no mention ought to be made of it, before we shall have heard the result of Oncques'
plan.
As to the second, he thinks well of it and the sooner the better, that nobody of the scattered
settlers shall be indulged, but they must be constrained and if necessary assisted to pull down.
On the third de Sille also agrees with the hon"'" General, but he thinks it is necessary, to keep
here 100 or more soldiers, so that, in case an alai-m was caused here or there in one or the other vil-
lage, each place might be assisted with some soldiers ; he thinks it further advisable, to bring together
a file of horsemen under the command of a good corporal and horseman, to live in or near the
stable, to watch it and that good fodder is provided at the Company's or the country's e.vpense, of
which they would have to take good care as well as of the arms and that these might be enlisted
and employed not only as horsemen, but also as dragoons.
Neio Yorh Historical Records. 139
Regarding the fourth, he ■would not find it advisable to remit the tithes for a period, but to
farm them out and to buy with tue proceeds as niucii corn and long fodder or at least short fodder,
as it will pay foi', for the horsemen may Mell be told, where to make hay, as there-are about here
on Long-Island sufficient public meadows and I think, that, if we were to rely on the farmers,
they would in ease of need or danger do their best to bring away with their own people and horses
their own property and save their wives and children, instead of defending their villages.
To the 5"' d^ Sille says, that the cavalry stable must have nothing in common with the stable
of the volunteers, for then some might think, that the cavalry-men must serve them as servants,
feed their horses better and take better care of them, than of others, they would spare also their
own horses and ride every day and overexert the cavalry horses and ruin and break their horse-
equipments, from whence often quarrels and squabbles would arise.
The stable of the volunteers must also have a good superintendent, as above said, but no con-
nexion with the cavalry-stable and then they must be employed, as the Hon''''^ General says.
The riders or dragoons must be enlisted for cadet's pay and they must go, one fourth of them
every four days, into the stable, not only to mount guard there for 2i hours, but also to clean all
the horses and the stable and provide them with water and feed.
As to the recruiting, to get more men, it seems necessary, that the Swedish sergeant should
be dispatched by the first opportunity, to go to the Swedish quarter on the Southriver and enlist
there as many Swedes and Finns, as he can get for our service, for those, who are not fit for sol-
diers, are fit for peasants and it would cause a reduction of the Swedish quarter, while it would
strengthen us here.*
It seems to me further, that, when the report of enlistments being made becomes known among
the people, a tax of the 40"" penny for assistance of the recruiting and maintenance of the levies
could easily be levied, also a tax on cattle for the time until a firm peace is made between the bar-
barians and our nation. Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, date as above.
NicAsius DE Sille,
Councillor.
The propositions, made by the Honorable Director-General verbally and in writing in the
meeting of the 9"" inst. have been seriously considered by me, the undersigned, and I find them
to contain in substance :
First, a short relation of the injuries, naassacres and murders conmiitted by the cruel barbarous
natives against our nation, whereby the legality of making Mar on the Fsojpus Indians, if it is so
concluded by a majority of votes, is established.
2* Causes and reasons, why it is necessary to make war on the Fsojnis Indians, of which as
the most prominent is mentioned, to resent the suffered injuries, then, to restore the almost ruined
Batavian reputation and further to obtain peaceful possession of the land.
Thirdly, some propositions as to when to begin, with what forces, how to get the latter and
how to govern ourselves in regard to the other savages etc''.
Whereupon, before I give my opinion on the principal point, I consider it necessary, to say
something by the way on the first, although our advice is requested only regai-ding the second and
third point.
I admit willingly, that the injuries, affronts and massacres, committed from time to time by
these cruel barbarians are imbearable for an honor and liberty loving nation, but, since only the
question of making war on the Esojnis savages has been raised, I think it is necessary, because we
* See Vol. XII, p. 297.
140 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
are at all times responsible to their High Mightinesses, the Lords-States-General and onr Loi'ds-
Principals, to investigate strictly, not whether the Indians in general, hut whether the Esopus Indi-
ans have given ns sufficient and legal causes for the war, for we could not justify a wish to punish
the Esojms Indians for deeds, committed by others. It is said in the propositions, that the boldness
of the Esopus savages is unbearable (as indeed it is) first in taking prisoners 12 or 13 -well-armed
farmers and soldiers, in attacking the settlements and further in cruelly executing as they did, most
of the aforesaid prisoners, but the cause for these their actions has been omitted, to wit, that the
people there very thoughtlessly and without having any lawful reason for it at the time, attacked
some of them with an armed force, killed one and took others prisoners. It is true, that the reply
to this might be, that they therefore ought not have captured so many men, attacked the settle-
ments and executed the prisoners so cruelly, but to this again it can be sustained for their side and
with gofid reason, that they could not but presume and know, whether this was not a general design
of all the inhabitants at the Esopus to kill all the savages ; that they therefore have endeavored to
inflict all possible damage on their enemies. But, it may be said, besides this, the savages have
given us still other reasons, namely, by shooting Ilarmen Bamnboes, so that he died shortly after-
wards, by killing saveral animals and other affronts. What regards the wounding of Harmen
Ba7nboes, we are told, that it was done by a savage, who does not live among them, but goes here
and there, yet when the Honorable Director-General went with a party of soldiers to the Esopus
in May 1658, to demand of them the murderer and at the same time a compensation for the suffered
damages, the aforesaid savages knew how to make excuses as to the impossibility of apprehending
the murderer, because he did not live among them, but they promised to make compensation for
the damage done in burning two little houses and it was further promised on our side, to live with
them like brothers, as is clearly shown by the report of the Honorable General, dated nlt° June
1658 and delivered in Council. Since that time not they, but our people have very rashly broken
the compact ; this I have thought necessary, to remind your Honors of, that above all a close
inquiry and consideration may be had, whether the above stated causes are sufficient, to base thereon
the legality of a war, so that if tlie result should be a different one from what we picture it in our
minds, we may not be justly blamed for having thoughtlessly invoh'cd ourselves into an illegal war.
Since the condition of the country does at present not admit of making war, as I shall show
subsequently with more detail, I think, under correction, that it is best to persist on the i-esolution
adopted on the 26'-'' Octbr last past, namely to try once more to keep the open question and Avar
in the background and in suspense, yet in order to check and bridle somewhat the savages' bold-
ness, to make strict arrangements and a compact with them, which if they break, the war and the
punishment will be so much more justifiable and lawful. Thus far in answer to the first point,
what follows is meant as an opinion on the second.
Although the war against the Esopus Indians may be lawful and justifiable (which I do not
contradict absolutely), I believe, that the present condition of the country does not allow, to create
a greater loss for the sake of resenting a lesser one. Reasonableness is not always admitted, when
choosing what appears good. Other savage tribes have certainly given us before this by previous
massacres and burnings sufficient reasons for prompt revenge, which nevertheless has been deferred
to better times and opportunities for our advantage ; that now our condition does not adinit it, can
be inferred, I believe, from the following :
Your Honors know the pretenses and the right, which our neighbors of Maryland believe to
have on the Company's indisputable lands on the South river and that they persist in their opin-
ions, notwithstanding, that your Honors' deputies have demonstrated the contrary to them verb-
ally and in writing. Your Honors also know what our neighljors on the North have tried and
Neto Yorh Historical Recards. 141
will doubtless still further endeavor and attempt to obtain. These cannot wish for a better oppor-
tunity, if we arc involved into a war with the Indians, to invade, the one on the South river, the
other on the JYortk river, the territories of the Hon'''" Company ; besides, no reliance can be placed
on the neighboring savages, who are not bound by any government or laws (even though the peace
with them might be renewed) and it must be taken into consideration, that though they may not
openly declare themselves our enemies, they will yet assist each other secretly as much as possible,
for which instigation from outside will doubtless not be wanting. The answer to this could be,
that we must guard and provide against all this by recruiting soldiers : this would serve our repu-
tation, but where shall we get so many men, since in my opinion we require for this purpose not
only 60 or 70 men, besides the soldiers, M'ho are already in the service, but at least one hundred
to 150 more: the Honorable Director-General has had an experience of the difficulty of getting
men here, as not six persons presented themselves in the most pressing necessity for assistance of
the besieged inhabitants of Esopus, notwithstanding that the drum was beaten for several days.
I believe, that, humanly speaking, it is impossible to resent the suffered injuries without the
aforesaid military and, in case of uprisings among other savages or anticipations by our neighbors,
to be able to resist them and therefore it is decidedly unadvisable to begin anything without it, so
that we may not instead of restoring the glory of our nation and of obtaining peaceful possession
of the Esoptis territory, lose them altogether. If however it is decided that the condition of the
country allows it and that we have sufficient strength to begin the war, then, I think, it ought not
be commenced before the month of August or September, for the following reasons :
First, that we may then be able to destroy their corn for the next winter, which we could not
do if we commence now, because they will doubtless send their women and children inland to one
or the other unknown nook to plant corn there and gather winter provisions for them.
Second, because we have at present very little or no provisions on hand for the subsistence of
so many soldiers, much less to assist either the people from outside, who without doubt will come
in here from their isolated plantations in great numbers, or our good inhabitants here, who may
run short of provisions and there is little hope of receiving a quantity of provisions within the
next time, as the neighbors have little to spare on account of the good market, which they find at
Barbadoes and other islands. It must be further considered, that our people will not sow much
and consequently will harvest little, if we begin the war so suddenly, which would by its continu-
ation create great distress and famine ; therefore it is best to postpone it, until we are supj^lied with
the required provisions and other necessaries.
3'"'^ It is not advisable to begin, according to my opinion, until the newly surveyed villages
and hamlets have been properly fenced in and put in a state of defense, as directed, that the poor
out-lying farmers may not become the prey of the cruel barbarians.
4thiy jj]j(j lastly, I think it best to begin in the aforesaid months of August or September not
only because of the destruction of their corn, as above mentioned, but also because, the winter
being then at hand, they can be discovered more easily in the woods during the winter by their
fires or their foot-tracks in the snow, while on the other side during the summer they can subsist
and so conceal themselves in the tangled shrubs and underwoods, that they are almost indiscover-
able for our people and nevertheless have a great advantage over us by surprising us unexpectedly
from hollows and bushes.
"Whereas, further, we have in our last letter to the Lords-Principals asked for their assistance
and help, also orders and advice, it is, I think, necessary to wait with an aggressive war, imtil we
get an answer, unless we desire to lay ourselves open to the reproach of rashness in asking for help
and advice and meanwhile following our own mind, before it could come.
142 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Therefore, in order to answer your Honor briefly, my advice (under submission) would be
according to the aforesaid, that out of consideration for the present condition of the country we
should try once more to put a stop to the disputes now raised and to tlie war, make a safe and
bindino- comj^act with the savages and if they again should break this, then to attack them with
all our might —
In the meantime directly to disapprove of all separate habitations and farmbuildings and to
assist and promote the establishment of hamlets as much as possible, either by lending negroes or
carting out pallisades and further to take care, that 10 or 12 hundred schepels of bread corn and
other victuals in proportion are continually kept in store either by the Hon'''* Company or the City
and that all prepartions necessary for a war or a powerful expedition against the savages be made,
above all to enlist secretly as many soldiers as Ave may get somehow, so that we are immediately
ready if they should again break the new compact ; but if the said savages are not willing to make
such a compact, then to make necessitj^ a virtue, enlist and send to the Esopus as many men as
can be spared here to protect the settlements and the fields as best they can, until the demanded
succor and further orders shall have been received from the Fatherland. Regarding the proposition
of the Hon''''' General, to propose to the magistrates an exemption from tithes for 5 or 6 years on
condition that they should then keep some men ready for the orders of the Director-General and
Council, also conceruing the other proposition, to keep some horees in readiness and build a com-
mon stable, I agree with the opinion of the Honorable General, because I consider these measures,
especially the last, necessary not only in times of war, but also in times of peace. Done at Fort
Amsterdam in Mew-Netherland the 12'" Feb'^ A" 1660.
C. V. Rdyven.
Resolution to declare war against the Esopus Indians, to be commenced in
THE fall and meanwhile to enlist men.
12"' Febr.
Present in Council the Hon'"'" Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant, Mr. Nicasius de Sille and
the two burgomasters of this city. The foregoing opinions were read and the worshipful burgo-
masters asked, whether they had also given their opinions in writing ; to which they answered
excusing themselves, that they had no authority to do so. They were told, that having been
requested to do it by the Director-General and Council was suflicient authority. Finally after
many debates pro et contra it was decided by a plurality of votes, that the war was unavoidable,
but that, on account of the present embarrassments and weakness it should not be begun against
the Esopus Indians before the fall and to enlist in the meantime a number of men up to 100 and
more, if they could be procured, without distinction of nationality either from Virginia or from the
North. Date as above.
Extract from a letter of Director Stuyvesant to the Vice-Director at Cura-
cao ; eeoardino negroes, who are to be sent from there to the Manhattans
AND might be employed AGAINST THE InDIANS ; HORSES AND FUNDS WANTED. 17''*
February 1660.
******
The negi-oes, whom the Lurds-Directors ordered to send hither, must be clever and strong
men so that tliey can immediately be put to ^vork here at the Fort or at other places, also if they
New York Historical Hecoi'ds. 14;J
are fit for it, in tlie war against the wild barbarians eitlier to pursue tliem, when they run away or
else to carry the soldiers' baggage, for it is quite evident, that in order to possess this country in
peace and revenge the frequent affronts and murders we shall be forced into a lawful offensive
war against them. An important service would be done to the Company, to us and to the country,
if among the expected negroes some experienced men, who have been some time in Curacao, were
sent to ns.
******
For the greater security and protection of the outlj'ing fanners in the country, we have found
it necessary, to engage some mounted men ; we therefore need for the service of the Company and
of this territory some good and well trained liorses, strong stallions or geldings, the latter being
preferable as of greater service to ns. We expect them with their equipments, that is the saddles
and bridles, which are used there on the horses, by the galiot as soon as possible and in such a
number, as can be conveniently shipped; among them three or four good mares; all for account
of the Company.
******
On account of the troubles witli the savages we shall be obliged to recruit and reinforce with
over 150 freemen and the necessai-y horsemen our large garrison, which we must maintain against
them, numbering now about 200 men, if with God's help and blessing we desire to attack the
savages and protect the farmers in the country. To carry out this, we need funds ; if your Hon-
or's treasury is well provided, then your Honor is requested to accommodate us with 12 to 1500
pieces of eight for account of the Company either by the galiot or by next opportunity.
Letter fkoji Ensign Sihth at Esopus to Diekctoe Montagne ; affairs at the Esopus.
The 24"> of February 1660, at Esopus.
Honoi'able, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir, Mr. Delamontagne. I inform your Honor
lierewith, that Jacobus Theunusen arrived here on the 19"" inst. to ransom the boy of Evert Pels,
in which he does not seem to have been successful, as Jacobus has been here four days and four
nights and the savages have kept him day for day and he lias been on the I'oad to the savages, but
he could not get through on account of the deep snow and they promised every day to come to ns
and they say, the boy has a wife there and the wife is with child, who will not let him go and lie
will not leave her, as they say and as the snow is deep now, he dared not wait any longer. I wish,
lie had not come here to make such a difficult journey for nothing, but I trust to the help of God
Almighty, that I shall get him in due time. Therefore your Honor ought not to incur any more
expenses, for I shall not attend to it, as the savages here cannot be trusted and we ha^■e already
done a great deal for the boy and they have promised us daily to bring the boy. That has been
going on for about a month, but we are waiting for the same, that they are waiting for, only we
shall be on our guard and if they bring the boy, I have still some cloth and wampum to ransom
him, which I shall not fail to do and I with all my men are still well and in good condition, the
Lord be praised. Hoping that it is the same with your Honor and your Honor's whole family I
shall close and commend your Honor to the protection of God Almighty and remain your Honor's
servant
To the Honorable Mr. Delamontagne Derck Smit, Ensign.
Commander at Fm't Orange
this to hand.
144 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liivei:
Copy.
Petition of Nicholas Varleth fob the use of the Company's yacht for a voy-
age TO Virginia 4nd Resolution to hire the yacht to Me. Yarleth and send
AN OrnCEE WITH HIM TO ENLIST SOLDIERS IN ViEGINIA.
To the Noble, Right Honorable, Very
"Worshipful Director-Geueral and High
Council of New-Netherland.
Shows with great respect and humble reverence Nicolaes Varleth, Commissary in the service
of jour Right Honorable Worsliips, that he, the petitioner, is interested deeply in the (estate of
the) lately deceased Governor of Virginia and whereas he, the petitioner, is exceedingly anxious
to go there in person and he can attend to it best during the j^resent season of winter, therefore he,
the petitioner, very respectfully requests, that your Right Honorable Worships will please to con-
sent to it, and whereas no suitable ship is now here present or to be had for his use on the voyage
there anji back, therefore he, the petitioner, also requests, that your Right Honorable Worships
will please to grant or hire thereto the Hon*"'^ Company's yacht under such conditions, as may be
agreed upon with j'onr Right Plonorable Worships. If he, the petitioner, might be of any service
in Virginia to your Worships, he will endeavor zealously to do it to the satisfaction and pursuant
to your Hon'"'^ Worships' instructions. Expecting hereon yonr Hon'''* Worships' favorable decision
I remain
Your Right Honorable Worships' humble servant
N. Vaelet.
25'" February. (1660)
Whereas we have at j^resont little to do for the Hon*"'* Company's yacht and yachts can always
be had here for hire for any extraordinary occasions, it is resolved, to let the yacht to the petitioner
and to demand for it a reasonable hire, certainly not less tlian six guilders for each day.
The petitioner, Nicolaes Varleth, was summoned before the Council and the yacht was let to
him for six guilders per day, the rent to begin on the day of his departure from here and to end,
when she arrives here again and has discharged her cargo under the express condition and obliga-
tion, that he shall give free passage both ways to the Captain-Lieutenant, who is to go to Virginia
to see, whether ho can engage some soldiers there and that if the said Captain-Lieutenant should
get some men there, he shall take as many aboard, as he conveniently can, without charging any-
thing to the Company for it, but he shall not be obliged to wait longer than one day or two (after
he has informed the Lieutenant, that he is ready to sail). The petitioner accepted the yacht under
these conditions. Done at I'ort Amsterdam in New-Netliedand. Date as above.
Proclamation ai'i-oin-hng a day of general fasting and prayer.
Respected, Dear, Faithful !
Whereas it has pleased the Almighty God, the just judge of heaven and the whole earth, to
visit us, or at least many of us, justly for our sins, the cause of all punishments, with hot fevers,
heavy colds, giddiness of the head and many other diseases, the province in general with threatened
invasions and attacks by our neighbors on the territories, streams and rivers, long possessed by us,
with rumors of war and its immediate consequences, murder and arson by the savage barbarous
Neiv Yorh Hifitorical Records. 145
natives coniinilted liere as well as principally on our friends, countrymen and fellow-inliaLitants on
the Esopus, which though the righteous but not less merciful God has mitigated and so directed,
that it did not happen, against our expectation, in the worst manner and according to the evil
intentions of the barbarians and has made it cease for the present desiring doubtless our penitence
and turning away from our crying and God irritating sins, as the abominable desecration of His
Sabbath and His Name by swearing and cursing, our indifference and negligence regarding His
service, our drunkenness, feasting, voluptuousness, adultery, deception and other heinous sins, which
prevail among us to our shame before Christian neighbors and barbarous natives, from which if we
do not turn away, we can only expect, that like others we shall perish and that not the tower of
Siloa but the wrath* of God will fall upon us from heaven and envelop us in flames for our gi-eater
punishment, if we do not change to prevent one and obtain the other from the All-Good God,
Therefore, the Director-General and Council have thought necessary to appoint and proclaim for
this purpose a day of general fasting and prayer, which shall be kept throughout this pro\'ince on
"Wednesday before Easter, being the 24"' of March, and all inhabitants of this province, officers as
well as subjects are hereby directed to ajipear on the aforesaid day in the churches or where God's
word is xisually preached and taught, and after listening to God's Holy Words to call with humble
and contrite hearts solemnly upon the name of the Lord, to pray and beseech Him that His divine
Majesty may please, to turn aside His righteous visitations and well-deserved punishments which
our crying and dreadful sins have brought upon us, and to make them cease, to continue the peace
and good correspondence between us and our neighbors, to take us and this newly opened province
into his fatherly protection and to maintain it against the practices of these barbarous natives and
all evil-minded ])eople, who attempt its niin and destruction, to bless the fruits of the earth with
early and late rains and above all to allow the fear and knowledge of His Name and hate of our
own sins to grow and to increase among ns, principally also that His Divine Majesty will please
to favor the authorities of this country with understanding, wisdom, discretion and godliness, that
they may contemplate, resolve and courageously carry out what may be useful for the welfare of
the country and the wellbeing of its good inhabitants. That this may be done and executed so
much better, the Director-General and Council forbid during divine service on the aforesaid day
of general fasting and prayer all exercises of playing tenuis or ball, hunting, fishing, driving, j^lough-
ing, sowing, mowing, all illicit amusements as dicing and hard drinking under the penalty formerly
imposed thereon and the servants of God's holy word within this our Government are requested,
to adapt their sermons and prayers accordingly. Thus done at the meeting of the Right Honor-
able Director-General and Council, held at Fort Amsterdam in N. Netherland, the 23'' of Feb-
ruary A» 1660.
Commission of Nicolas Vaeleth and Bryan Newton as envoys to ViEomiA, to
CONDOLE THE DEATH OF GoVEENOE MatHEWS, TO PROPOSE A LEAGUE, OFFENSIVE AND
DEFENSIVE, AGAINST THE InDIANS AND TO BEQUEST PERMISSION TO ENLIST SOLDIERS
IN Virginia. Also their Instructions.
Petrus Stuyvesatit, on behalf of their Noble High Mightinesses, the Lords States-General of
the United Netherlands and the Noble Lords-Dii-ectors of the Incoqjorated West-India Company,
* In the original ; " (?e tooren van Siloa, maer de toorne Oodts", a play of words, which cannot bo rendered
into English. — Ed.
19
146 Colonial Settlements on the Hudso^i River.
Depai'tment of Amsterdam, Director-General of New-NetJierland, Curagao, Bonayro, Aruha and
its dependencies, together with the Honorable Council, To all, who shall see this or hear it read
Greeting. Know ye, that now as before actuated by a sincere and upright affection and desirous,
for the prosperity and welfare of our mutual subjects, to continue with the government and admin
istration of our neighbors in Virginia in good neighborly coiTespondence, peace, union and com-
merce, "We have, upon the sad and unexpected decease of the Honorable /Samuel Mathews, late
Governor of Virginia, deemed it best for the public service, to commission, qualify and send thither
as our representatives, as We herewith commission, qualify, authorize and send Our very dear and
faithful Sieurs JVicolaes Varleih, Commissary in the service of the aforesaid Lords-Directors here,
and Bryan Newton, Captain-Lieutenant of Our Company, to address themselves as Our trusty
envoys to the Right Honorable Lieutenant-Governor, President and Council of Virginia and after
condoling the death of the aforesaid late Honorable Governor Samuel Mathews to renew not only
the former old friendshi]), correspondence and neighborly intimacy, but also to propose a closer
union, offensive and defensive, against the barbarous Indian natives, the enemies of both our nations,
some further and surer footing in regard to commerce and trade, on the basis, which Our mutual
Govei-nments and their subjects in Europe enjoy, besides this to request pennission and consent
(whicli is especially recommended to Our Captain-Lieutenant) to enlist there a detachment of 25 to
30 free men as soldiers, for the reinforcement of Our Company. We request by this Our Commis-
sion and credentials that the afoi-esaid, Our beloved faithful Nicolaes Varleth and Bryan Newton
and their servants and baggage may not only be received, heard and believed in this capacity but
also granted and given, according to the laws of nations, free and unmolested passage and repas
sage, while We promise to ratif}', approve and value what Our aforesaid envoys may do, contract,
negotiate and resolve upon with the Honorable Lieutenant-Governor, President and Councilof Vir-
ginia, as if it had been done and resolved upon by Ourselves. Thus done and given under Our
usual signature and seal, at Fort Amsterdam, in N. Netherland the 27"" of February A° 1660.
Instructions for S"^ Nicolaes Varleih and Captain-Lieutenant Brian Nuton.
First to touch at Kychetan and salute Colonel Cldborn and learn from him, to whom you
will have to address yourselves now, the Honorable Governor being dead, to get a speedy answer,
also to request his advice, counsel and help for the greater security of the yacht.
2.
Having been informed by Colonel Claborn, to whom to address yourselves, and having deliv-
ered the credentials to such person, you will request a speedy dispatch, as the service of the country
and of the Company demand it.
3.
Having received an answer and consent to engage some men there, which is especially recom-
mended to the Captain-Lieutenant, you will try to get good and resolute men and among them as
many Scots as possible, bearing in mind not to engage more, than you have a chance to bring
with you in the Company's yacht and the yacht of Beyntje or any other vessel lying ready or
which could follow within a very short time and altogether not more than 25 or 30.
4.
If during the meeting of the Council or the enlistment of the men after the business has been
transacted some time is to spare or if you have to wait for one or the otlier, you might cross over
to Maryland, if feasible without too nuieli loss of time or danger and inquire, as secretly as pos-
sible, whether any preparations against puf people on the South river arc being made there.
JS'ew Yorh Jlidorical JRecords. 147
5.
In proposing and negotiating a closer correspondence, an offensive and defensive alliance
against the barbarians, in case tlie Government of Virginia inclines to it, you will not conclude it
absolutely and iinally, only subject to approbation and revision by either side, to be exchanged
within six weeks and the following must be borne in mind regarding it :
I. In case of an aggressive war the lawfulness and approbation of the war.
II. Not to demand nor promise more succor, than wliat the condition of either country may be
able to spare, one hundred good resolute men certain, fifty more according to the situation of affairs,
subject to the judgment of the party sending it.
III. The demanded succor to be as long as the necessity and condition of the party, demanding it,
requires, under oath to and in the pay of this party and to be commanded by no higher officer than
a Captain-Lieutenant and subaltern officers of their own nationality, but when they are in another
government, to obey, after having taken the oath, the orders of such a Captain, Major or Colonel,
as that government may see fit.
IIII. The demanded succor shall not be kept alone in the field by either side, but with them if not
more, at least not less, of the succored nation.
6.
You will propose with all possible persuasive reasons a mutual correspondence and unmolested
commerce and traffic, back and forwards, of the yachts, as both nations enjoy them in the Father-
land, with goods and wares from their own countries and places.
7.
In case upon the death of the Governor no other has been chosen in his place and the Council
might therefore make delay or take exceptions or if the Council will not meet for a long time, for
which you may not wait more than 8 or 10 days, you will take leave in proper form and request,
(if you see any inclination and hope for the aforesaid closer union and correspondence) to ap]5oint
a more convenient time towards the fall.
8.
Finally in order to accomplish everything better, if you should learn, that S^ Heermans, who
is weU acquainted with the Encjliah tongue, is still in Virginia and about there, then you will send
for him and let him serve you with his assistance and tongue.
Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Nethevland, the first of March 1660.
Teeatt of pkace renewed with the chiefs of Maesepingh and Rechkawick
(Queens County) Hackinkasaky (Hackensack, N. J.) the Highlands, Najeck
(Ntack), Staten Island, Eumachenanck (IIaveesteaw) and Wiechquaeskeck
(Westchester County).
To day, the 6"" of March 1660 appeared at the
City-Hall before the Honorable Director-General
in presence of the Council and the Burgomasters
of this City the following Sachems or chiefs of
the savages in this neighborhood, to-wit :
Meautinnemin, alias Tapousagh, chief of Marsepingh and Rechkawyck,
148 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Oratam, chief of Hackinkasacky for himself and the chief of the Hujlilands,
Mettano, former chief of Najeck, now chief of Staten-Island,
Cori'usp'm, brother and representative of the chief Rumachenanck alias Haverstroo,
Achkhongh, one of the chiefs or coimcillors of Wiechquaeskeck.
The aforesaid chiefs were asked, why the other chiefs and especially the chief of the Wap-
pings had not come with them, whereupon Oratamy, chief of the Hackinkasacky, answered that
the chief of the Wappmgs did not come, because he had no dispute with us and that the chief of
the Wappings inter-preted the return of the child and the presents made to him for it so, as if at
that time the treaty of peace had been renewed and consolidated and that he and they altogether
were willing to continue the peace formerly concluded.
Whereupon they were answered through the interpreters Claes de Ruyter, Claes de Norman
and Waeringh, an Indian understanding and speaking the Dutch and Indian languages,
That we, too, are willing to continue in peace with them and the Wappr?igs under the foUow-
ins: conditions :
1.
That Meautinnemin, alias Tapousagh, chief of Marsepingh should be included, because neither
he nor his people had ever done much harm to the Dutch and if it should happen, that any harm
was done to him or his people, it should be considered as having been done to us.
This having been said to them, they answered that they were well satisfied with it and that
they jointly promise to keep the peace, but that they did not speak for the Indians oi Esopus nor
for the Raretanys, with whom they declared, they would have nothing to do.
2.
To prevent, that no more mishaps or murders should in futiu-e take place between our people
and them, no Indian should come with his arms into our fort or villages, but they nmst deliver
them at the gate or at the first house of the village or settlement, to which they came and they
would be returned to them, when they left. They answered, that this was very good.
3.
Since it has been noticed, that some Dutchmen surround and press hard and occasionally
inconvcTiience the savages, who come here to market with peltries, fish and other wares, they shall,
to prevent this, come henceforth to no other places, than to near the former beaver-path and to the
neck {hoold) near the weigh-house, except if coming with firewood, with which they may go, where
they please. Suitable houses shall be built at the aforesaid places. They were well pleased with
this.
4.
That henceforth no war should be commenced for any private action, but if a Dutchman sliould
happen to kill an Indian he shall again be punished with death and if an Indian happened to kill
a Dutchman he should be delivered to the Dutch and also be punished with death and if any cattle
are killed, they shall be paid for with double their price.
5.
In order that the peace may be the better kept, all the savages, comprised in this treaty, shall
be held to assist in hunting and surrendering a murderer, if such a murderer, be he a Dutchman
or a savage, should fly and run away after having committed the murder. The foregoing 4"' and
5"" points having been comnumicated to them, they declared themselves perfectly satisfied with it.
G.
Whereas our descendants for many years can see and know what we now talk over with them
New Yorh Historical Records. 14i)
and conclude, wliieh their descendants cannot do, because they can neither read nor write, it would
be good and necessary, that they leave some of their children with us to be educated.
They answered hereto, that they would leave one child here immediately, which they had with
them, and would bring more upon some other oc^ision.
After the foregoing had been agreed upon with them to their satisfaction, they were asked,
whether they had anything more to say, whereupon they answered with a counter-question, why
Sauwenaro was not also present, whereas he was also a chief and their friend. They were told,
that on account of some charges made against him, he had been imprisoned, but that he should be
brought and released, if the Sachems Tapousagh, Oratam and Mattano and the others would
engage themselves, that he or his people should do no more harm to us or to ours or in case
it should happen, that they would then deliver the evil-doer into our hands, to which they all
answered : Yes.
Sauwenar was brought up and informed of the foregoing, whereupon he answered that he
was glad, that the peace was renewed, that his heart would henceforth be that of a Dutchman and
he would live with them like a brother. Thus they left satisfied and the Sachems engaged them-
selves, to inform all their savages and it was made known to the neighboring villages by the firing
of a cannon. Done at Amsterdam in N. Netherlaml, date as above.
Extract feom a letter of toe Dieectoes in Holland to Dieectoe Stdyvesant:
Esopus Indians must be punished : no English settlement can be peemitted
NEAE FoET Oeange. 9^'' Maecii 1660.
******
After we had written so far, the ship ^^ Spheramundi'''' arrived here, by which we received
your Honor's letters of the 29"' of October and 26"' of December of last year with enclosures ; in
About the Esopiia them our attention in the first place is called to the sad and unexpected occurrence
savages. at the Esojcius, between the savages and our people there, which we fear and are
also told by other people has been caused and begun by our men. This is really unbearable, con-
sidering that innocent parties are mostly suffering thereby and lose often their lives and property,
as it was seen in the previous general massacre b}' the savages, of which too our people were more
than the cause, especially the late Fiscal van Dych. And as such deeds and petulancy by our
people, originating in licentiousness and intoxication, must not be connived at any longer, your
Honors will thoroughly inform themselves in this regard and if any one is found guilty, punish
him as an example for others according to the exigency of the case : not that we thereby excuse the
action of the savages or consider ourselves satisfied with it, not at all, for we understand perfectly
well, that these and other injui-ies, which we have suffered, must necessarily be resented and
avenged on this barbarous Esopris tribe, from which neither the Company nor the inhabitants
derive the least profit or advantages. For this reason we have been willing to provide your Hon-
ors with the required ammunition of war and other implements by this and other ships, now ready
to sail. "We send besides such a number of soldiers, as we have already engaged or as still may be
engaged, while your Honors must watch for the best time and opportunity to carry it out. To do
this with the least danger and tlie greatest safety, we submit to your Honors' consideration, whether
the Maquas and other friendly savages there could not be persuaded and instigated against the
Esojnis savages, to punish them through these and humble and reduce them, either through the
150 Colonial Settlemeats on the Hudson River.
aforesaid friendly savages alone, or by joining our men to tliem, as your Honors may judge it best
and safest.
As to the intentions of some Englishmen, who proposed to settle not only on the North river
near WappingliH Kil, but even above or back of Fort Orange., in order to ruin and cut off so much
Concerning the easier our beavertrade, the reasons and the instance, quoted by yom- Honors as to
usurpation of the j^| ,j^anQgi. i,^ vvhicli WO fared with that nation on the Fresh river, ai'e so forcible
English above Fort '
Orange. and w'ell-founded that not the slightest encroachment or possession by them in
this direction must be allowed there. And if this has been done in any other way and without
our knowledge, then your Honors must immediately dislodge such unlawful usurpers and if neces-
sary proceed against them by force, as we are very sensitive on this point in consequence of the
former experience. Your Honors must in the same manner oppose tlie Maryland people, if they
iihould want to settle on the South river within our boundaries, first notifying and warning them,
tliat they abstain from such usurpation and it they pay no attention to it, then prevent them by
nction as before, for the Company's right to that river is indisputable, as well by virtue of first
possession as by purcliase of the lands from the natives and lawful owners themselves. To check
and prevent such usurpers the better, we have resoh'ed that the ship " ^S^^. Johii ", which will come
there from Curagao, shall be employed in place of the little vessel " Dwmen " ; it is, as we have
wi-itten your Honors before, very suitable and therefore your Honors can make good use of it on
such an occasion. *****
Minute of the appearance of Coetheos chief waeeioe of the Wappings, sent
BY the Esopus Indians to make peace with the Ddtch.
15"' March 1660.
Present in Council at Fart Amsterdam, the
Honorable Director-General, Mr. La Mon-
tague, Pieter Wolphertsen and does do Ruy-
ter as interpreter.
Coetheos, chief warrior of the Wajjpings, made his appearance and said he was sent by the
chiefs of Esopus, namely by
Kaelcop (Baldhead)
Pcgh Peghquanoch
Pemm.yrawech
Preuwamach
Scmeclcamenec,
to inform the Right Honorable Director-General, that they had been in great fear last winter, lest
the Dutch should come to make war against them, but since they did not come and because the
Dutch had made peace with all the other savages, they too desired to make peace and t\\ej had
wampum and bearskins ready to bring here, so that the Dutch and the saviiges at theFsopus might
again be at liberty to plant ; they would have come hci-e themselves, but they were afraid.
The answer to the foregoing was, that we were quite willing to make peace with them, but
that we had learned, the Esopus Indians had said, that they would make only a mock-peace with
us and when the Dutch on the Esopus least expected it, they would sur|)rise and kill them ; what
security shall we have, that they will keep the peace, if we make it with them ?
New York Historical Records. 151
He said, tliat lie too had lieard this of the Esopus Indians, hut only the harcbacks say it, who
arc opposed to make peace, hut that the chiefs especially Kaelcop and Pemmyrawcch arc very
willing to make a peace with the Dutch, that they would also persuade and induce the barebacks,
low or bad savages.
When again asked, what security we should have for the keeping of the peace, as the bare-
backs desired war, he made no answer to the point and he was finally told, that if the chiefs of
Esopus wished to make peace, they must come here themselves. Being informed hereof, he said
in answer as before, that they were afraid : after taking this proposition into consideration he was
told, that, if they did not dare to come here, the Director-General would go there at an early day,
that they then could state, what they had to say : this he undertook to communicate to the chiefs
of the Esopus savages. Amsterdam in N. JV. the IS"" March 1660.
Commission providing foe tue administration of public affairs during the Di-
eectoe-Geneeax's absence at the Esopus.
Wliereas the interests of the Hon*"'" Company and of the country urgently require, that I
should go to the Esopus and be absent for a short time and whereas during my absence some una-
voidable incidents might happen, either in the civil administration or in the employ of the Hon''"'
Company's military, therefore during my and the Fiscal's absence, the administration of civil affairs
is hereby entrusted to Secretary van Iiuyve7i, tho Burgomasters Capt. Cregier and Oloff Stevenson,
the management and command of the military is absolutely committed to Capt. Marten Cregier,
after having advised with the aforesaid gentlemen and for this purpose all upper and under officers
are hereby ordered, to obey, during our absence, his orders and commands and to follow him, as if
we were personally present, as we deem this necessary for the service of the Company and arc well
satisfied, with what during my absence shall be transacted and done for the public welfare by the
aforesaid officials. Done at Fort Amsterdam in N. Netherland the 15"' March 1660.
Letter feom Peteus Stutvesant to Secretary van Ruyven. The Esopus In-
dians HAVE been attacked AND DEFEATED; THE OUT SETTLEMENTS ARE TO BE
PUT ON THEIE GUAED.
Honorable Sir.
On account of contrary wind wc have not been able to make the Esopus before Thursday
evening. We fired immediately a shot and received an answer from the fort, but to my great
astonishment and not less anxiety no men came out of it. Of this we learned the cause and reason
only the next day, namely that the ensign with 40 men was out on an expedition ; about 3 miles
inland he came upon a house with about 60 savages, who made no resistance, but started to fly ;
they saw the ensign and his troop too early, but nevertheless 3 or 4 have been killed on the flight.
Our people saw 3 being carried off ; the evening did not permit a pursuit of the fleeing savages ;
they have burned a large quantity of Indian corn, bearmeat, bearskins and the house, of which we
thought necessary to inform your Honor and have therefore expressly dispatched the yacht of
152 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Tfwmassen, in wliieli are sent well secured 12 prisoners of the principal ninners and ringleaders.
I hope to follow in a short time, meanwhile your Honor will please to put the out lying settlers
on their guard and to keep good watch, in case I should go directly to the Kats Kil, to drive the
murderers from there.
I would else have come down at once with one of these yachts. My love to my wife and
children, tide and time forbid my writing to them and to lengthen this, wherewith I recommend
your Honor with my respects to God's safekeeping and protection and remain
On board the Your Honor's affectionate
yacht "(?e Haen''^ friend
Friday, the 18"" P. SxuTVESAjfT.
March 1660
Let the free and the Company's
negroes keep good watch on my bonwery.
Monsieur Cornelis van Euyven Secretary and the present Council at Amsterdam, N. N.
Letter of Secretary van Ruyven to the out settlements, warning them against surprise.
The foregoing letter of the Honorable Director-General having been received and read the
surrounding villages have been immediately informed by the following letter of the state of affairs
at the Ew])us.
Good friends.
This is to inform you, that onr people liave captured a party of Esopus Indians last Thurs-
day and made a sortie against them. You are therefore earnestly recommended and directed, to
be on your guard and keep a good watch continually, that you may not be surprised and attacked
by the barbarians. Trusting you will do this I commit you with my salutations to God's protec-
tion and remain
Amsterdam in W. N. • Your affectionate friend
22" March A° 1660. C. v. Ruvven.
Proclamation of war against the Esopus Indians.
Whereas Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, after having suffered many mas-
sacres, affronts and unbearable injuries committed from time to time by the Esopus Indians, find
themselves compelled, for the sake of maintaining and protecting their subjects, to begin a war,
offensive and defensive, against the aforesaid Esopus savages and their supporters, the good inhab-
itants of this province arc herewith informed of it, that everybody may be on his guard and keep
good watch, travel cautiously and in company on roads, streams and rivers, especially are all skip-
pers and shipmasters hereby warned, directed and ordered not to sail up or down the North river
e.xcept in company of three or at least two yachts, well and properly manned each with at least six
able men under the penalty formerly fixed. Everybody is warned of the danger.
Done at Fort Orange, the 25"' of March 1660.
New Yorh Historical Records.
153
Muster-roll of the Comi-any at the Esopcs.
On tlio 28"" of Marcli Ifil^O, on tlie Esopus tlu;re were in Netherland'ush service in tiie com-
pany of his iSoble llunur, tlie Diructor-Generul.
went to the 2lannihes
went to the Jlanat/ws
by order of the Hon.
General, because
lie was wounded.
went to J^ort Orango
gone to the Manaihes
20
Dirck Schm.itt, Ensign
Paulu^ Jansen, Sergeant
Cristiaen Nis-sen, Sergeant
Paulus Cristiaens, Druninier
Jan Piersscn, Corporal
Jonas liimtzaio, Corporal
Godfried Chuts, Corporal.
Vrhanus die Graeff, Corporal
Noel lieyss, Lancepesade
Joris Metzer, Lancepesade
Marcus Jantzen, Lancepesade
Jellis Buttein, Lancepesade.
Jacob Buirhans.
Jelliss die Needier, Cadet
Domini cus Siebrantz
Carrel Garret
Fransois die Gardous.
Jan Laquire
Marten Warners
Marten Jfarmsen, mason
Adam Bremen.
MarcxiS Harmsen
Jacob van Campen
Fransois Hey
Gernt Ahelhn
Pieter Lambertz.
Abell DercTisen.
Michiel Verrie.
Jan Joris
Adrian van Puinhercken
Walraett die Mont
Jacob Meloen
Perck Hendricks
Andries Hansen
Perck die Goyer
Jochem Hendricks
Valentyii Claessen
Caspar Lauter
Coenraedt Ham
Berent Jansen from Oldenbiirg
Joris Esias van Acker
154 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Willem Croeger
gone to the Manathes Jan Graeffs
Jan from Amersfoort
Tomas Tomassen
Paulus Tomassen
Jacob Daniels
Gerrit van Campen
Jan Jurryaens Steenman
Marcus Hoemoett.
Adriaen Varnier
Jan Ji/io, Englishman
Knuitt Mauritz.
Wolfgangk Kasten
Jan van den Buss
Pieter Wessels
Herman Ilendricks van Bamefelt
Hendrick Laurensen
Paul Laurens.
Cornelis Hogelandt
Willem van Vredeid)orgh
Anthony Carrll
Tennis Vaegt
AWert Goefers
Mathias Roeloffs, Constable
Jan Arisen, Smith
Jan Loottman, Baker
Jan Broersen fioiii Husum
The following have come from Fort Orange
Jacob Toennissen from Naerden
Michael Verbruggen from Leuwaeren
Jan Karstensen from Husum,
Peter Bruin from Rensborgh
Jan Pietersen from Guilyck
Jan Wybes from Harlingen
Cuelis Brantsen from Nykerk
Huibert Jansen from Prang
Paulus Paxdsen from Amersfoort.
This one was enlisted on the SO^*" of March
Derek Willemsen from Schalckwyck.
Letter from Ensign Smith at the Esopus to Director Stuyvesant: affairs at the Esopus.
The 29'" of March 1660, at the Esopxis.
i"^oble, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir. Honorable Director-General. I beg to inform
your Honor, that Tomas Schambers has j-et 300 schepels of wlieat for tlie service of the garrison
New Yorlc Histoi-ical Records. 155
in Esojms and at the house of Cornellis Bernizcn Schlegt with his farmhands also 300 schepels,
on condition, that tlie laborers shall have for each sehepel which they deliver 3 guilders in beaver,
the beaver at 8 guilders ; concerning the 100 schepels, which your Honor took from me and which
the Hon"'* Secretary had bought from me, I thought, these too were purchased for the Company.
No savages have been here imtil now and I humbly request your Honor, that j'our Honor will
please to provide me by first opportunity with bacon, ineat and peas, shirts, socks and shoes for the
men and our garrison consists now of 73 good soldiers according to the muster-roll and I shall not
detain this skipper, as your Honor directed : I do not know to write anything more to your Honor
and remain Your Excy° servant
Derck Smft, Ensign.
To the Noble, Worshipful Wise and Prudent the Honorable Director-General, Petrxis Stuy-
vesant at the Manailies.
Leiter from the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant. Rev. Haemantjs Blom
RETURNS TO NeW-NeTUEELAND TO TAKE CHARGE OF THE CONGREGATION AT EsOPUS.
The 29"" March 1660.
Honorable, Prudent, Beloved, Faithful.
We forgot in our last letter, a copy of which is here enclosed, to mention the engagement
here of another preacher, besides D" Blom (who has been married here), called D° Ilenricus Selyns
under the same s;dary and conditions ; they both go over in the ship " de Bever ", the first to take
chai'ge of the ministry at the Esopus, the other in the viUage of Breuckelen. To carry on the
service some books are sent over, which your Honors will hand to them, besides the small psalters,
prayers and catechisms, to be distributed and used as proper under the community in each respective
place for teaching. Closing herewith, as the time does not permit to write more. Honorable, Pru-
dent, Beloved, Faithful, we commend your Honors to the protection of God.
Amsterdam By order of the Lords-Directors of
29"" March 1660. the W. I. Company, Dep' of Amsterdam
To the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland
Received by "c^ vergulde Bever'''' ari-ived 11"" June 1660.
Resolutions aikjpted by the Coitet of Rensselaeeswyck during the Esopus troutsles.
Rens. Manor Papers.
April 1" 1660.
Whereas on the last day of March and this first day of April several reports have been made
to us, that the Esopus intend to attack the country people on their bouweries, lying within the juris-
diction of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck, either by firing their buildings or by killing and taking
prisoners the people, who might have remained on the bouweries.
Therefore their Honors of this Court wishing not to neglect any possible preparations, direct
that one shall warn the other by firing three signal shots, which must be repeated quickly by who-
156 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
ever hears them, that also the next neighbor may be informed and no other shooting shall be done,
unless and before the colonists have been warned, that some of them have been attacked or annoyed
by the savages.
Everybody whom this resolution concerns, is hereby warned not to take it upon himself to
fire shots, unless necessity requires, on a penalty of 25 Carolus guilders for those, who shall disobey
this our well meant order.
Everybody is further warned and directed to post during the night one or if possible two sen-
tinels, who, when necessary, shall warn the neighbors by the three signal shots.
The Court wishing to prevent harm being done as much as possible, have resolved that at
present and provisionally, a watchman shall be placed on duty during the night in the settlement
at the Green Bush, that the signal of three shots may be more easily heard, if fired at any of the
bouweries below. As chief officers of the watch we appoint our colleague Cornelis van Nes, Evert
Pels and Thomas Coninck, corporal.
Thus done etc
By order of the IIon'''° Court
Present D- V. Ham el. Seer''.
J. van Jiensselaei'
A. van Curler
C. van Nes
C. T. van Breuckeler
T. Spitsbergen
G. Swart, Sheriff
D. V. Ilamel, Seer''.
LErrER FEoii Ensign Smith ai' Esopus to Director Stuyvesant: the Indians
ARE GROWING INSOLENT.
Noble, "Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir.
Honorable Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, I beg to inform your Excy.
herewith, that we have asked the savages very civilly to return the arms and the wampum, which
they had taken from our men ; wo have expected them patiently from one day to the other, as
they delaj-ed and promised us from day to day to bring it, but now we hear, that it is only trickery
and that they try to delay us, as yesterday afternoon we have conferred with them the whole after-
noon and had a parley, for they kept themselves in two parties on the other side of the Kil, so
that the evening surprised us and the last answer, which we received, was, that we might hang the
captive savages and they challenged us to fight, which creates anxiety and uneasiness among our
farmers, to contiinie with their tillage and out-of-door labors. We shall nevertheless do our best,
to continue with it near the Fort here, but if it should happen, that we have an opportunity to
attack them once, we have no doubt but we shall bo successful and we shall then be more at ease
with our out of-door work. We have also made an estimate of our grain here, but as we now find,
that we must compel the savages by force and many men might be sent here by your Honor's
order, we shall require much : however what your Honor decides in this regard, shall be willingly
obeyed, for it lies here at your Honor's service and shall not be diminished. We send yonr Honor
one hundred schepels of oats by skipper Bnrtdt ; we have received by the same skipper meat and
bacon, of which 1008 lbs. were issued as rations for this month on the 3'* of April. 1 have received
New Yorh Historical Records. 157
the 38 sclicpels of wheat from Widow StoLscn and as to the balance, due your Honor, I t^liall (h)
my best. No more this time, only I wish your Honor good health and connneud your Honor to
the j)rotection of the Almighty and remain your Honor's faithful servant
Actum ^sopus, the 5th of April 1660
.Derck Swrrr, Ensign.
To the Noble, Worshipful His Honor the Director-Gen' and Council of New-Netherland at
the Manathans.
Letter from the same to Secretary van Rotven : sKiEMisn with the Indians.
Honorable, Worshipful and Prudent Sir, Secretary Cornells van liuyven. I beg to inform
your Honor, that I have received from Mathias Roeloffs' wife here 20 schepels of wheat for your
Honor and from skipper Vlodder or out of his yacht 145 schepels of spring-wheat, of which Jur-
ryen WestphaUn, your Honor's fanner has received 50 schepels, Cornelis Barentsen Schlegt also
50 schepels, the widow Jacob Jansen Sloll and Jaxdb Stoutenhurgh together 45 schepels. I have
also received 47 schepels and 3 pecks of peas, of which I gave 21 schepels to 84 men, each 1 peck.
1 have further received from Vlodder'' s yacht 3 barrels of meat, together 825 lbs. and 2 barrels of
bacon, weighing 400 lbs, of which we have issued as rations 1008 lbs, and 2 boxes with matches.
From the yacht of Dirck Jansen I have also received the spices, which your Honor sent me ; they
are very acceptable and will be used to advantage. On the 4"' inst. some savages have been before
the Fort here, who bragged much and we paid them in return with good words, we thought to get
back from them the muskets and swords, which they had taken from our men, also the cloth and
wampum, but they tried to entrap us with treachery, on account however of our watchfulness they
could not carry out their deviltry. This went on until evening and when they left us, they called
out to us, that we might hang our prisoners and they would fight us and come back in the morning.
Then I resolved to lie during the night in ambush with 45 men, I and the sergeant with me, about
2 or 3 shots distance frona the Fort. We did so, but were discovered by them, whereupon we made
a sortie against them and took one of them prisoner and they had some killed and wounded, but we
do not know how many and we pursued them a long distance, about one hour, but we have, God
be praised, not a single man killed or wounded, but of 4 horses 3 have been killed under the men,
who rode them and some of our muskets have been injured by their bullets and they keep their
noses now from the Fort and we intend to continue now our ploughing and sowing from day to
day, to carry out the Hon"'* General's order, which with God's help shall not be delayed. I do
not know of anything more important to write your Honor this time, except to commend your
Honor and the whole to the protection of the Almighty and remain in everything, which I can do,
your Honor's willing servant
Act. JEsopus, the 9'" of April 1660. Dieck Smitt, Ensign.
To the Worshipful and Prudent the Honorable Secretary Cornelis van Buyven at Fort Am-
sterdam, Manalhans.
158 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Stuyvesant: they
have appointed roeloff swartwout, sheriff at esopus and grant extension
OF TIME, IN WHICH TO COMPLY' WITH THE LAW CONCERNING SETTLEMENTS TO JeRON-
iMus Ebbing ; Rev. Blom and the question of baptism. 16'"' of April 166U.
By the ship " de guide Bevcr ", hy which we sent 3'ou a duplicate of our hist letter, we iuforincd
your Honors briefly, but especially, that besides the two preachers, D" Blom and Seli/ns, also some
books were sent over, which were to be given to them, to make use of for the ])ublic service; this
must be strictly adhered to : before their departure we had sounded both tlie aforesaid preachers
Formulary of bap- if regard to the old formulary of baptism and whether their Reverences might
'^''""- have some doubts as to using it, to which they answered negatively, as being indif-
ferent to it and they both engaged themselves to make nse of it in the exercise of their clerical
duties. ***-»**
******
One Roeloff Swartlwut, who now comes over %vith some 3'oung men and farmers, to settle at
the Esopus and engage in agriculture, has petitioned us here for the office of Sheriff at that plaice
and although it is premature in our opinion, we have granted the aforesaid request to encourage
the man and proinote justice, as soon as a court is establislied and have engaged him in this quality
provisionally on tlie usual emoluments and such further salary as may bo granted him in due time
subject to our approval ; this for your Honors' information and go\'ernment.
Jeronhnus Ehhiiuj and his wife, the widow of the Hon'''" Johan de Hulter have informed us,
that his predecessor, lier late liusband, had bought a piece of land on the Esopus and erected on
it buildings and barns, which were pulled down, wiien the habitations were drawn together and a
part of the land was taken into the fortifications there, whereby they suffered a great loss. They
request therefore, that they may not be subject to the general order and that the time be extended
and especially, that they may have two years, in which to cultivate the said piece of land. We
have consented to their request for the reasons adduced above, so that the aforesaid general order,
concerning the cultivation of laud shall have no effect as far as these people are concerued.
Commission and instruchons of Roeloff Swartwout, appointed Sheriff at Esopus.
The Directors of the Incorporated "West-India Company, Department of Amsterdam, being
especially directed and authorized to manage the affairs of New- Netherlands make known, that
whereas it is necessary for the promotion of justice in the village on the Esopus that a suitable
person perform the duties of a provisional Sheriff, for which one Roeloff Swartwout has been
propo.sed to us, who has been in that country a long time, therefore, jilaeing confidence in tlie
capability, piety and fitness of the said Roeloff Swartwout we have provisionally appointed nnd
commissioned, as we herewith appoint and commission him Sheriff in the aforesaid village on tlio
Esopus, giving him full power, order and authority to occupy this position in the said place and
in that district, to attend to and perfi)rm the duties according to the usages of the Sheriffs here in
the country and the instructions, given him or which may in future be given, to bring to trial all.
]>few YorTc Historical liecoi-ds. 159
■who obstnict and break political, civil and criminal laws, ordinances and placats and sue all delin-
quents in the said village and its jurisdiction according to his aforesaid instructions and to have
them conformably mulcted, executed and punished by the punishment set forth therein, to demand,
that upon his order and complaint all criminal matters and abuses shall be settled and abated and
all sentences be executed speedily and veithout delay and to do further in this regard, what a good
and faithful Sheriff is in duty bound to do, on the oath, taken by liim. We command therefore
all Burgomasters, Schepens and inhabitants within the jurisdiction of the aforesaid village to
acknowledge and respect the aforesaid Roeloff Swartwout as our officer and Sheriff as aforesaid
and if asked, to give him all necessary and possible assistance in the performance of his duties, for
we have found this to be necessary for the service of the Company and the promotion of justice.
Done at the meeting of the Directors at Amsterdam^ this fifteenth of April A° 1060 (signed) Ja-
cob Pekgens (Below stood) By order of the same (Signed) C. van Seventee.
Instructions for Roeloff Swartwout, who goes as provisional
Sheriff to the village on the Esoj>us in New-Netherlatid, by
which he will govern himself.
He shall have no other office, than that of Sheriff.
And he shall take rank of the Burgomasters and Schepens and sit in their meeting, when it
is a judicial one, as president, also to exhort the culprits, sentenced by the court, before sentence
is passed on behalf of the magistrates.
He shall publish and execute in conformity with their contents all decisions regarding the
excise, the village and other subjects with the knowledge of the Director and the assistance of two
members of the court.
Also take good care that the village is kept free from unruly people and peddlars.
Also that no whorehouses, whoremongers or similar bad houses are permitted in the place.
To this end (and to prevent all kind of licentiousness and violence) the Sheriff must endeavor
always to be at hand and his employes must continually go through the place and be found in
churches, on the market place and other places, where people congregate.
He shall be obliged to make or have made all arrests and then examine the prisoner without
delay, at least within four days after the arrest, to avoid great expenses and within four days there-
after bring hmi to trial and proceed against him according to law.
Also bring up all culprits for execution, without favoring any one except by decision or advice
of the court.
He shall make his list of persons, who are summoned to appear before the court, in con-
formity with the Sheriffs roll of Amsterdam, made the 27"" of April 1656.
For all these services he shall receive one half of all civil fines, which are paid in during the
term of his service according to the statutes of the ^-illage, either under sentence or by composition,
except such as concern ordinances made or to be made in regard to taxes.
He shall also have and receive one half of all fees for tax- and courtnotices and one third of
everything that falls to the village in criminal cases, also such salary as in time may be allowed him.
But he shall not be allowed to receive any presents either directly or indirectly by somebody
else, which is forbidden by law.
He shall further uphold the Director and Council, as well as the Burgomasters and Schepens,
when they come to be elected, in their respect.
And he shall take before the Director and Council the oath specified below, which shall remain
in force for the period of four consecutive years, after expiration of which the office of Sheriff shall
160 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
be abolished, unless the Directors may have thought fit before to abolish it or extend the time.
Done at Amsterdam^ the 15"" of April A° 1660 (Signed) Jacob Peegens. (Below stood) By oi-der
of the same (Signed) 0. van Seventee.
Oedee dieecting the people living rcatteeed theoughout the countey, to form
hamlets and villages.
12"' April, Monday
Present in Council at Fort Ainsterdam, the Honorable Director-General P. St-uyvesant and
Mr. Nicasius de Side.
The under-sheriff Resdlveert Waldron and Court messenger Claes van Ehlant ai-e directed
to warn once more the outlying settlers, each separately and to order them in the name of Director-
General and Council, that in accordance with the orders, formerly issued and communicated to
them, they must abandon their isolated places within a given time and move into the settlements,
under the penalty stated in the orders, because the Director-General and Council have again
decided it best for the country and highly necessary for the safety of the inhabitants. Thus done
at Fort Amsterdam in H. Netherlands the 12"' of April A° 1660.
Lettee feom Dieectoe Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith at Esopus : the attack on
THE Indians on the 4'"' Apeil appeoved and eeinfoecements sent.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
We received by the yacht of DircTc Smith your favor of the 5"" of April, from which we
learned of your expedition against the savages, which, (although you suffered no loss and did them
also little damage) we still approve and you must continue these proceedings cautiously, when they
return in such manner, especially after the ploughing and sowing has been done, the accelerating
of which we urge upon you most earnestly and that this, the one and the other, may be done with
more order and safety, we shall send you herewith 25 to 26 soldiers, among whom are two volun-
teers, according to the enclosed list, besides also some provisions, among them an anker of brandy
and one of strong water, to be issued according to your discretion to those who may need it and
are sick.
As to the 3 horses, killed in the last affair, their owners shall receive a proper and fair indem-
nification or be supplied in time with others in their place.
You must by occasion inquire from the prisoners, where the women and children of the sava-
ges keep themselves, also what savages of other tribes give assistance to the Esojnis and furnish
us as far as possible with the names of these savages and give us at every occasion pertinent infor-
mation and report.
If you should require still more seed-corn and there is time enough to get it into the ground,
please to inform me by the first opportunity. No more for the present. I commend you to God's
protection with my greetings
On the 15"' April 16G0. Your affectionate friend.
P. S.
FiC SIMllE OF THE LETTER OF DIRECTOR STDIYESAl TO ENSIGN SMITH OH PAGE 160.
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New York Historical Records. 101
Letier of thk s.vme to Vice-Dikector Lamontagne at Fort Orange (Albany):
INFORMATION REQUESTED, WHETHER OTHER InDIANS ARE IN LEAGUE WITH THE
Esopus.
Honorable, Beloved, Faithful.
"VVe are verj much astonished, that since our departure from thence we have not received one
word of information from jou in regard to the state of affairs there, whether the savages in your
iieighborliood are peaceful and do not molest the out-lying farmers. We expect to hear of this
by the first opportunity now, also to receive the list of the newly engaged soldiers, who have been
sent thence to the Aesojnis, and what and how much each received as enlistment-bounty.
Tour Honor will please to inquire if possible, but cautiously, at every opportunity, whether
the Mah'tkander and CatsJcill Indians do not assist the Esojnis and if possible, discover the opinions
of the runners, that we may make use of it in due time ; your Honor must also, at all occasions,
admonish the Sachems of the Mahihanders and Catsh'dls to come oftener and remind them of
what has been proposed to them and what they promised us, to wit, that they would not favor the
Esopus savages and would not allow them to remain among them nor give them any assistance.
Herewith goes the letter of confirmation for the Commissaries, wJio with your Honor are to
attend to the public welfare and the administration of justice in the place for the following year,
of which your Honor will make use at the proper time ; wherewith etc.
On the 15'" of April 16G0.
Letter from the Magistrates of Fort Orange and Renselaerswyck to Ensign
Smith at Esopus, with proposals made by Catskil and Mahikan Indians in
regard to the Esopus.
Monsieur Ensign.
Your Honor may judge from the inclosed propositions, made by the Katsk'd and MaJulcander
savages, what the chances are to make peace with the Esopus, especially as we hear only good-will
expressed by the Mahihanders and the savages in this neighborhood. And whereas the Mahi-
Jcanders go thither themselves, to bring the matter to a favorable end and fear that being witli the
Esopus savages and communicating with them they might be captured or killed in a fight or other-
wise, therefore they have asked us for tliis letter of safe conduct and requested also, that j-our
Honor will please to defer any further hostilities until orders from his Excy. the Director-General,
with whom too they are to confer in this matter and closing herewith we wish to commend your
Honor to God's protection and remain your Honor's
Actum, Eort Orange Obedient Friends
this 21"' April 1660. La Montagne
After closing this we Francoy's Boon, Jeremias van Rensselaer
have resolved to write to the Hon. General A. van Curler
by the next sloop, as the savages are afraid Jan Yorbaeck, Sander Conraedt.
of going to the MoAfihattans.
21
162 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Propositions made by the Chiefs of the KaiskUs,
in the name and on behalf of the Ewjjus Chiefs
and in presence of some Mahikan Chiefs.
They say and offer to surrender the whole Esojnis and the lands on and along the Kil alto-
gether and to abstain from and leave it.
Also to make restitution of everything, which they may have taken from your people, wam-
pum, clotli, cutlasses, ploughs and other articles.
Also to surrender against ransom the imfortunate Christians and reconcile them with wampum.
They request, that you should on the other hand release and deliver the captured £sopus sav-
ages.
Finally they ask for a firm and permanent peace for all times.
Done this 21st of April 1660
at jFort Orange.
Propositions made by the Maldkander and Katskil Chiefs for themselves.
They sa}', that they are very well inclined to peace and request that Mr. Stuyvesant will make
peace with the £sopus savages ; they offer to make a large present of wampum to Mr. Stuyvesant
as token of their gratitude.
They request also, that this may quickly be written to Mi\ Stuyvesant and to the Esapus,
that an armistice may be made there imtil Mr. Stuyvesatifs answer comes, and that in the ujean-
time the Katskil savages may have free access to the Esapus.
Extract from a letfek of Director Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland:
THE English project of a settlement on the Northriveb between Fort Or-
ange AND Wappingh Kil : report on the Esopus war etc. 21^^ April 1660.
« * » * * *
Concerning the people of New-En(jlaiul : although we have not received a written answer to
our imperative i-efusal of free passage along the North, river, yet, we hear from passengers and
skippers, lately arrived from Boston, that they persist in their intention to form a colony, with or
against our will, not far from the North river between Eort Orange and the Wappinghs Kil and
will again ask through two commissioners free passage there and our permission. In obedience
to your Honors' order, for the sake of our own roj^utation ami the public welfare we shall not onl}-
refuse, but also offer all possible impediments and resistance and prefer rather to be driven out by
force, than to suffer shipwreck of our honor and oath by intentional forbearance ; the subsequent
occurrences shall be communicated to your Honors in due time. Meanwhile we request your
Honors as before for the sake of your own ititerests and the welfare of this country and its good
inhabitants to give us in good tiuie such assistance in troops, ammunition and goods, as your
Honors may think, we need in the dangerous situation of the country and not to put any hope in
tiie weakness of the English government in Europe, and its disposition to meddle in affairs here ;
New-England does not need her interference and assistance in this matter, for she is conscious,
that her power ovefbalances ours ten times and it is to be apprehended, that they will in this mat-
ter make an attempt so much sooner, as the}"^ see and trust that during the present monstrous con-
New Yorh Ilidorical Recorih. ]()3
ditioii of tlio EiKjlifilh government no countermanding order ^vi^ be issued from that side: but wo
will willingly submit our speculations to wiser judgments and hope tlio best.
* * * -X- * *
The distressing situation of the country had compelled us, before wc received your Honors'
peremptory order, to draw the out-lying farmers together in settlements, to be at once delivered,
as far as possible, from murders of single persons, as your Honors may see from the enclosed
placat* No. 5, which is now daily carried out. We could wish, that the before reported single
murder had remained the only one, but your Honors will have learned with regret from our last
letters and enclosures or may learn from the here enclosed duplicates, that it has not been the case.
Irritated patience and our owii good reputation have forced us to an active revenge and war against
the E'sopus Indians, the success of which so far gives us hope of a favorable final result under
God's gracious help and blessing: we captured by a stratagem 14 or 15 of their most prominent
men ; two or three sallies have since been made against them ; the expeditions of our military
would have better results and the barbarians would be sooner conquered if they stood firm : how-
ever none of all the expeditions was quite without a result, if the reports of other savages can be
relied upon, which we do, because it is confirmed from various sides ; they are said to be willing
now, to lay their heads into our laps, to which we are as yet not willing to agree nor shall we soon
accept it, in order to give a sharp lesson to others, unless the apprehended and threatened invasion
of so-called Christian neighborsf places us in a different situation. As soon as we have done
with these with God's help aud blessing and if no other inconveniences arise, we intend to pay a
visit to the N^eu.ioesinh and Rarltan tribes, among whom most of the perpetrators of all the single
murders keep themselves, should they persist in refusing to surrender the well-known murderers ;
meanwhile we pray God for a successful result and your Honors for all possible and much-needed
assistance.
From the enclosure No. 8, your Honors may infer and can consider and weigh in j-our far-
seeing wisdom the continued claims, requests and projects of the Entjlish from Boston or the
Massachusetts Colony, which although they were answered to the best of our ability and informa-
tion regarding the matter and will also be resisted and defended by us, as far as we are able, still,
as we explained to your Honors above, as their power is ten times greater than ours, we shall
hardly be able, speaking humanly, to hinder them in their project, if it is taken up in good earnest,
which we and many others presume — will be done, unless we receive withotit delay and loss of
time from your Honors assistance and help in the shape of troops and means: our former letter
via Neio-England recites our necessities.
-» -X -X- * * «
Our beloved, faithful Nicholas Yarletli and Capt. Lieutenant Bryan Newton '" * arrived
here 2 or 3 days ago. "Wliat tlicj" accomplished and the answer of that Government {ofVin/inia)
your Honors will find in their letter and the resolution marked No. 9 of the enclosures, also the
reasons, why they could not allow us to recruit men there for a reinforcement of our company.
* * * * a *
* This is an Ordinance for the establishment of villages, p.assed February 9th, 1G60, for which see " Laws of
New-Netherland," p. 368.— Ed.
t Not only tlie English of the New-England Provinces set up claims on parts of New-Netherland, but also
Maryland under Lord Baltimore tried to get possession of some of the Dutch territory on the Delaware about
this time. See Col. Doc., Vol. XII, p. 347.— B. F.
164 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Mivei:
Leiter from Ensign Smith at Esopus to Directok-Stuyvksant : all quiet : nego-
tiations WITH the Indians.
Noble, Worshipful, "Wise and Prudent Sir.
Honorable Director-General and Council of New-Netherland. I inform your Honors here-
with, that I have received tlie goods and your Honors' letter on the 23'' of April, also that on the
ll"" inst. 3 Mirvckquas savages arrived here, who asked to make peace with us on behalf of the
Esopus and they brought us 11 fathoms of wampum out of their own means, as a present, they
said, because they came as strangers to talk with us : as it is not in our power to make peace
with them and we do not know, how your Honor intends to act in this matter, we have given them
in return 3 coats of duffels and they promised to come back the next day with muskets and the
swords, also the wampum, which they had formerly taken from us and to bring with them the
Sachems of the Esopus and they have been here twice again, but all they ask for, is onlj' peace
and I have directed them to your Honor at the Manuthans and I will further inform your Honor,
that on the G"" of this month, when we had the last engagement with the savages, 3 of them were
killed, 2 badly wounded and one taken prisoner, but now they keep their noses at a good distance
from the fort and do not molest us and we continue daily with our agricultural pursuits, so tliat
your Honor's farmer has now about 40 schepels of spring-wheat in the ground. As to the black
horse of Thomas Schambers, your Honor will get it by this same yacht and I shall not detain the
skipper, but urge him to depart as soon as possible.
Concerning the erection of your Honor's house, wiiich the carpenter is to build, I shall assist
the carpenter, as your Honor desires to have it done and as he had made the agreement with your
Honor, but as we have had bad weather for some time and we are helping now in the ploughing,
we shall still do our best, that the timber is brought to the work, but one MicJiiel Verrie, who is
about to go to tlie Manathans and get married with your Honor's consent and who was to help,
has promised me to return by the first yacht, whereupon I have given him permission to go and
get married and when he comes back, the work shall be continued with all diligence. I do not
know of anything else to write your Honor tliis time and commend your Honor to the protection
of the Almighty and remain your Honor's humble servant
Act. Aesopus, the Si'-'' April 1660. Derck Smitt, Ensign.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet, the Honorable Director-
General and Council of New-Netherland,
at Fort Amsterdam
in N. NetTierland.
Sir ! I inform your Honor, that after writing the foregoing a Katsl'il Sachem, called Kecssi-
eniueij, arrived here with a letter of the Hon*" Delamontagne from Fort Orange, whicli I send
herevvitli to your Honor and the aforesaid Keessie Weij goes to the Esopus Sachems to make them
come together and then he was to go to the Hon"'" General, to make a permanent peace and tiiey
offer to the Hon'''" Genei-al all the Esojnis country and propose to return everything, muskets,
cutlasses, clotli and wampum and make large presents besides and tiiey call only for peace, peace
and await your Honor's mercy. Closing herewith I remain your Honor's humble servant
Act. Aesopus, S-t"" April Dekcjc Smiti, Ensign.
To the Noble, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent His Honor, the Director-General of Neio-Neth-
erland Manathans..
Neio York Historical Records. 1G5
Le'itek from Director Stuyvesant to (Ensign Smith) : with directions yov. the
NEGOTIATIONS WITH AND TREATMENT OF THE InDIANS.
Honorable, Valiant.
You may infer from the enclosed instruction, for what purpose Claes Jansen liiiyter, the
bearer hereof, is sent thither; if you can get the better of the ^Esopus savages upon his or other
reliable information and report (but after Claes de Rxt)jter''s departure), then you are hereby com-
manded and directed to do it at the first favorable occasion, which offers, in quietness and with all
possible safety, especially if you have any hopes, to get a great advantage over them. We leave
this M'ith God's help and blessing to yonr pleasure and discretion.
If some ^'Esopus Sachems or savages should come with the bearer, Claes de Ruyter, to you to
ask for an armistice, then you will treat them friendly and say, that the peace must be concluded
here, that you can only do, what you have been ordered by xis and if then the chiefs desired it, you
must let them go and come unmolested, but if they are willing to come to the 21anhathans with
Claes de Riujter, then you must not prevent them, but rather give them one of the Council as a
proper safeguard on the yacht.
At the request of Jurian (?) Helm, made to ns, we have given him j)ermission to bring 20 or
25 schepels bread corn from the Aesopus.
Postscript.
If the bearer hereof, Claes Jansen liuyter, should be necessary for the better execution and
promotion of the exploit, then yon may join him to your present force either as guide or in another
capacity.
May 5, 1C60
Instkuctions fok Claes de Kuyter, sent to the Esopus to negotiate with the Indians.
Instrnctions for Claes de Jiuyter
lie shall go aboard of the Company's yacht and proceed with it to the Esojnis ; if he meets
any savages on his way there, he is to tell them, we had been informed, that the Minquas, Mahy-
cander and other Sachems asked for peace with the Aesopus savages and that he is therefore sent
to speak with the chiefs of that tribe ; if the savages should say, that they were going to the Man-
hattans, then he shall answer, that it was good, but he wished, they had come to meet him and go
first with him to the Aesopus chiefs and to hear, what they had to say and whether they them-
selves asked also for peace ; by such means or under such pretexts he shall try to find out from
the savages, M-here the Aesopus chiefs and savages are and whether there was no chance to have a
talk with them and hear from their own mouth, that the Aesopus savages asked unanimously for
peace and he is further to state, that if they did not demand it unanimously, they need not speak
of peace. By snch pretexts and under promise of a small present he sliall try to find a savage, to
bring him to the Aesopus savages, if he considers it advisable and safe for hiniself ; else, if possible,
he is to inquire and find out, where the Aesopxis savages are and make thereof as full a report as
possible to Ensign Derek Smitt, but to nobody else at the Aesopus, after which he shall depart
immediately.
If some of the Aesopus Sachems desire to go with him to the Ensign, he shall tell them, that
that would be useless and that the Ensign can only do, what he is ordered.
166 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
If however the Aesopus Sachems should wish to go witli him to the Manhattans, to sue for
peace here, then lie shall not refuse it, but lie shall not allow more than 2 or 3 of them come in
the Company's yacht and make all possible haste in his going and returning.
The 5'" of May 1660.
Letter from the same to the same: state of affairs: the agricultural im-
rORTANCE of EsOPUS.
'Noble, Worsliipful, Wise and Prudent Sir. Honorable Director-General of New-Nethei'land.
I have to inform your Honor, that I have dul}' received the letters by Claes de Ruyter on the 7""
iust. On the S"^"" of May I have been on the strand with a few men and had Claes de Ruyter
ferried over, to go to the savages and speak with them and as he was detained a long time I
returned with my men to the fort and he came to me in the fort during the evening and reported,
that the savages would come to me the next day, but nobody came, except one savage ; therefore
he went witli this savage again to the strand on the ll"" and this one savage went thence, to fetch
the Sachems, but he returned the same evening and brought no Sachem with him, which aston-
ished me very much. Then I went down to the strand on the 12"*, to dispatch the yacht, for I had
seen, that the yacht could do no good for the service of the Compan}', for since Claes de Ituyter
had spoken to the savages, we have not been able to lay hands on a savage, while we could do it
before. We stopped it however on account of our sowing and ploughing in conformity to the
order of the Hon'"''' General and if we can reajj any benefits from this place, we shall not neglect
to do it and the skipper of the yacht sliall give a full verbal report of the atfairs to your Honor.
I have to inform your Honor in regard to the spring-corn, wliich we sowed, that Thomas
Siambers has 100 schepels of barley and peas in the ground and Jurryaen Westphalen, your Hon-
or's farmer, has in the ground 100 schepels of spring-wheat and barley, as well as peas and oats
and Cornells Barentsen Schlegt 50 schepels of s]iring- wheat, nine of peas and a few of barley and
the Widow Stol 45 schepels of spring-wheat, 12 schepels of barley and four of peas, so that alto-
gether 320 schepels of spring-grain have been sowed ; Thomas Schambcrs has alco sowed 75 sche-
pels of winter-wheat and Cornells Barentsen Schlegt 20 schepels of winter-wheat and it has come
up nicely in the fields and we shall not be hindered in the ploughing and continue with it every
day, as your Honor's orders direct, but I cannot write your Honor with certainty, where the sava-
ges keep themselves. Written in haste on board of the yacht, the 12"' of May 16G0
Derck Smut, Ensign.
To the Noble, Worshipful, Wise and Pnident
His Honor the Director-General of
New-Netherland, at the Manathans.
Conference between the Director-General and Council ano the chiefs of
Hackinkasacky (N. J.), Na,iack (Ntack), Wiechquaeskeck (Westchester Co),
Haverstraw and the Wappinos. Peace concluded with the AVappings.
IS'" May.
Present the Honorable Dircetor-Gcnei'al Petrus Stuyvesant, ]\[r. JVlcasins de Sllle, Mr.
Allard Anthony, Burgomaster and Oloff Stevensen, ex-Burgomaster.
New Yorli Jlistorical liecorda. 107
To-d.aj appeared in the Council chamber
Oraktm, chief of Hackinkfsacky,
Mattano, hite chief of JVajack, now living on Siaien-Idand,
Sauwenaro, chief of Wiechqnatskecl:,
Corruspin, brother and representative of the chief of Ilaverstroo,
Kessachauw, one of the chiefs of the Wappingi^.
They propose and say throngh the Indian interpreter Waerhen, that the Wajpjpi.ngs have deter-
mined among each other not to injure the Dutch to the extent of a straw.
2. That the abovenientioned chief of the Wajypings has been sent by the Esopus Indians to
ask for peace for them and to say, that they will not make war any more.
3. He says on behalf of the aforesaid chief of the Wappings, that five of the captured savages
and a squaw are of the Wapping tribe and of his savages.
4. He says, that when before this the peace was renewed with the otlicr abovenamed Sachems,
the chief of the Wappings was not here and he comes therefore now and says, that he, like the
others, accepts the continuation of the peace, as aforesaid, and promises to keep it.
The answer given to the first and the last propositions, covering the same ground, namely the
continuation of the peace and that they would not do us any more harm, was, that they may rest
assured, that we neither would injure them and that it was well, that he, who had not been here
before at the renewal of the peace, had come himself and confirmed what had been previously
transacted with the other savages on the 6"' of March,
He was told on the 2'' point, regarding the request for peace by the Esopus Indians,
I. Whereas no Esopus chiefs have come, how shall we know, that the Esopus Indians make
this request through him.
II. That the Esopus chiefs had before this frequently declared to us, they, the chiefs, were
quite willing to continue in peace with us, but that the young people always wanted to fight and
they, as chiefs, had no command or power to punish the barebacks and yoimg people and we see
no occasion and safety in making peace with the chiefs only ; therefore it would first be necessary,
that he first and above all informed the Esopus Indians, old and young. Sachems and barebacks,
hereof and if they altogether desire peace, they nnist come themselves.
To the third proposition, regarding his statement that five of the prisoners and a squaw were
of tlie Wapping tribe and of his people
The following answer was given.
1. That we are not aware of it ; the Maquaas chief, who was with us and the aforesaid sava-
ges, when they were captured, says and declares, that they are all Esopus Indians.
2. Supposing, that, as he says, they are Wajypings, we did not bring them from the Wapping
country, but from the Esopus. What have his people to run to our enemies and help them ? We
have warned beforehand all the tribes as far as the JIahicanders, Maquaas and Menissinges sava-
ges, to keep their people out of the Esopus and that we consider and keep as our enemies all whom
we find or catch there.
Tliat nevertheless, as proof of the affection which we have for the Wappi7igs, we would give
the squaw to the Sachem of the Wajpings as a present on the condition, that he should command
all his savages not to trouble themselves with the affairs of the Esopus nor to come there nor let
the Esopus savages come to them. Whereupon he accepted the squaw. Done at Eort Amst&f-
dam in N. Neiherland, on the day as above.
168 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
CoNFEEENCE BETWEEN THE DiEECTOE-GenEEAL AND THREE CHIEFS OF THE MoHI-
CANS, AVHO ASK THAT PEACE MAY BE MADE WITH THE EsOPUS INDIANS.
Si'* May.
Present the Houorable Director-General, Claes de Ruyter and Jan Darech as interpreters.
To-day appeared in the Council chamber three Mohican chiefs, namely
Eskuvias alias Aepje7i (Little Ape)
Appamet and
Kesseway.
Whereas it was stated, that they came as envoys, they were asked, whether they came for
themselves or in the name of others.
They answered in substance, that they came in the name of the Esopus Sachems to ask for
peace, because they were no longer willing to make war, but wished to live as friends and that
tliey would leave the Esopus altogether and convey it to the Dutch.
They were asked, what security they brought with them or could show, that the Sachems
desire peace and that we must also know, whether the savages generally wanted peace too and
would not go to war any more, because the Sachems had declared, that they cannot punish them,
but must let them do as they please.
The Sachem Acpje put down two strings of wampum, saying, that is as security, that tlie
Sachem, barebacks, young and old, squaws and men desire peace and ask for it ; putting down two
more strings he said, that this was as security, that they were sent to make peace. The strings of
wampum were taken up and they were answered, we believed willingly, that they had been sent
and had come, but that no peace can nor shall be made, before and until the Sachems of the Eso-
pus came themselves here or at least to Eort Orange, to consider the conditions of the peace.
They put down again two strings and requested, that the Indian prisoners should be released.
The aforesaid two strings were handed back to them with the answer, that we ^^•ould not
accept them, as we did not intend to release the aforesaid prisoners.
They offered twelve strings again asking that the prisoners should be released. The same
answer as before was given and the strings returned to them.
Whereupon they inquired, what we would do with the said prisoners.
The answer was the question, what they liad done with our prisoners.
After the said three chiefs had spoken to each other for a while, one of them laid down a string
of wampum before the Honorable General's feet, saying, that they requested, we should not carry
the war fartlier than to the Esopus^- tlie answer was: As long as they kept quiet and lived in
peace with us, we would do the same and not make war against them. They put down another
string of wampum, saying, that we must not be angry with them, if it should happen, that the
Esopus savages were to injure or capture some Dutchmen along the river and near Eort Orange.
The answer was, that as our friends tliey should prevent tliis as much as possible and if they should
receive any information of it, they must warn our people ; if tliey did that, there would be no
reason to feel angry with them. The}' again put down a string, sa^-ing that thereby they cast
away the remembrance of the refusal of their present, which they had offered for the captive
savages and that they had no ill feeling on tliat account.
Giving still another string, they requested that the Sachems or chiefs of Esopus should accord-
ing to promise, have a safe conduct to Eort Orange, on which the aforesaid string was accepted.
They were further told, that we were willing to live with them as friends and brothers, (as
New Yorh IFisiorical Jieconh. 169
with tlic other neighboring savages), provided that they kept quiet and would have nothing to do
with the Esopus Indians, whereupon tlie following presents were given thein in return :
3 blankets at 11 guilders fl 33 3 axes 3 knives
3 pieces togetlier 2} ell duffels 7.4 3 pair of socks
6 small kettles each a pound of powder
Nota: the eight strings of wampum, given by them, were found upon counting to amount to
in light money fl 13S.5 wliich is in heavy money fl 92.3.5.
For this the cash book of the Receiver Ruyoen has been duly debited on the 26'" of Maj'.
Done at Fort Amsterdam in jV. Netherlands on the day as above.
Resolotion to tkanspoet to Curacao all bct two or tukee of the lately cap-
tured Esopus Indians.
May 25, 16C0.
It is quite evident from the propositions and the talk of the savages, that we shall not obtain
a firm and stable peace with the K»o])U8 savages, unless the captured Esopus Indians (of whom
the eleven here and the others still in prison at the Esopus are all bold and hardhearted fellows and
the most inconsiderate of the tribe) are released or they are deprived of all hope ever to get them
back and they are forced to a solid peace by force of arms (with God's blessing). Having consid-
ered this, after several serious deliberations it has been unanimously decided, that to release them,
would not only tend to create disregard and contempt of our nation among neighbors as well as
our own subjects, but also the neighboring barbarians and especially the Esojnis savages would
glory iu it, as if they inspired such great awe to our people, that we were afraid to rouse their
anger and that we had no courage, to treat, according to their merits and as an example for others,
the prisoners, among whom there are some, who have dared to miirder our people, captured by
them, in cool blood and with imheard cruelty. Hence, we have for the abovestated and other
reasons judged it to be best, to send the aforesaid Indian captives to Curacao by the fii-st good
opportunity and at the expense of the Company, to be employed there or at Bonayro with the
negroes in the service of the Company and to keep here only two or three of the aforesaid cap-
tives, who have murdered our prisoners in cool blood, and to punish them at the proper time in
such a manner, as shall be decided upon, in the meantime to continue a defensive and offensive war
against the Esopus savages and inflict all possible harm upon them, until such time, that we can
obtain a peace with them on favorable conditions. Amsterdavi in N. Nether^land, on the day
as above.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to Ensign Sjoth at the Esopus : Mohican
chiefs sent back from the manhattans to esopus, as the dibector desires
TO TREAT WITH THE EsOPUS InDIANS DIRECT ; THE HOSTILITIES AGAINST THE EsO-
PUS ARE TO BE RENEWED, AS SOON AS THE EnSIGN SEES THAT THERE ABE NO
CHAJ>fCES, THAT THEY WILL SUE FOR PEACE THEMSELVES.
Honorable, Valiant.
Since our last letter and your answer to the same we have not heard anything in regard to
the state of affairs at the Esopus, which has rather made us resolve to send the Company's yacht
22
170 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to tlie ^Esopus, to carry up tlie Mahicander chiefs, who have been here to ask for peace with the
^Esopus Indians. We have as yet not been able to come to a conchision, because they demand
the i-elease of the captured savages : in the meantime we have referred tliem back to the ^sopus
Sacliems, to tell them, that if they wanted peace, they must ask us personally either here or at
Fort Orange, where we would send a representative in that case. You will therefore allow these
Mahicander chiefs to go and come unmolested, also the Aesopus chiefs and savages, as long as the
Mahicanders are with them ; but as soon as these have left and bid good-bye to you, then you are
strictly charged to annoy and harrass, as before, in every manner the Aesopus savages and all
those, who may come to them or are with them ; if you should require thereto now or hereafter a
gi-eater number of soldiers or any ammunition of war, then yon will inform us ; we shall not fail,
to assist you according to our means. Nineteen soldiers were sent us from the Fatherland by the
last ship " de Moesman " and a greater number, up to one hundred men, is expected by the next
shi])s ; may the good God bless our just cause and grant us a good and desirable success ! We are
informed, that soldiers as well as freemen are altogether too confident and run out in small parties
now and then and dare to go on the strand, as if there was no danger or no more savages : we warn
and command you therefore, to prevent and stop it and to allow no small parties of men to go out,
but to attack at every possible occasion with the greatest caution and courage, beat and pursue the
Aesojnis savages as far as shall seem advisable to you and not to trouble yourself about any armis-
tice, unless you receive from here or from Fort Orange express orders thereto.
Six soldiers are going up for the better protection of the Company's yacht and as safeguard
for the Mahikander chiefs; you may keep them there, if necessary or send down in their places
some disabled or sick men, but do not leave the yacht without proper protection during her stay
there.
The 25"' of May 1660.
Letter from Ensign Smith to Director Stuyvesant ; he reports a raid on ax
Indian village on the Esopus and its result.
The 30^'' of May 1660, at the Aesopus.
Noble, Worshipful, Wise and Prudent Sir,
Honorable Director-General of Neio-Netherland. I have to inform your Excy., that I have
received the letter and the provisions sent by your Honor in the yacht, conform to the invoice.
But as Claes de Ruyter came to the Aesopus in the morning and as we did not know of his arrival,
we had marched out, 75 men strong, an hour before daylight, to make a visit to the savages and
took along one of the savages captured here, to get good information, where the savages might
keep themselves. Thus I came with my men to the second valley on Kit Davietsen^s river, on
which this valley is situated and there I discovered some savages, who were planting and also fish-
ing. We did our best to get through there, but it M'as not possible on account of the high water;
then we retreated very quietly, so that not one got wind of our presence, and returned to the fort
on Saturday morning, where, on making known our predicament and that they were at such a
queer place, where we could not get at them, I was instantly informed by the wife of Juryen
Wcstphalen, that there was a passage, but about 3 hours' march farther up in the aforesaid valley.
We resolved then to undertake it again immediately and took our road according to the infonna-
tion of tiie aforesaid wcjniau and got tlu'uugli and found their houses, but they discovered us
New Yoih lliafoi ical Iiecoids. 171
through the barking of their dogs and fled qnietlj' into tlio woods, without a shot having been
fired by us or by them and we got only one gun in the house and while looking for a canoe, to
cross over the Kil, we found the canoe, in which tlie old Premaeker had fished : this Premaeker
is the oldest Saehein of the Aesopus savages and father to our jirisoner Pissguartas. As he was a
very old man and spoke in arrogant words to our men, saying " What are you doing here, you
dogs " and aimed his gun at us, we took away his gun and six knives and a hatchet and as it was
a great distance we could not take \\\m along and therefore gave him a whack with his own hatchet.
About noon on Sunday we reached the fort again, but on our march here some savages leaped out
of the bushes and fired a few shots at our rearguard and wounded one of them, but pursued by
our men they retreated immediately into the thickness of the bushes and because the bushes are
now green and full of foliage, they go there now out of their houses and live everywhere in the
woods, for they have found out, that we pursue them, and they stay in bo place and we shall not
give them any rest, if we hear, where they keep themselves now and begin to plant, but shall again
pay them a visit, if possible. Concerning the ploughing and sowing, it is all done now and yes-
terday, Saturday, the last grain has been worked into the ground, so that now neai'ly all the land
is sowed; we have continually given them forty men as safeguard while tilling. Before the arri-
val of Claes de Ruyter I have tried diligently to attract the savages and to outwit them with
flattery, but since he and Jacob Toennissen have been with the savages, we have not seen one of
them, for none has been here in the fort, except a mute one, who coming with some Highland
savages, our friends whom we did not dare to molest, brought some fishes. As to powder and
lead, we are not yet in want of it, but socks, shoes and shirts are much needed by the soldiers.
The gunner was engaged at 16 guilders per month on tlie 15"" of October 1659; as he was not
satisfied with his pay and as I can spare him, I have discharged him on the IS"" of May. Closing
I commend your Excy. to the protection of the Almighty and remain your Excy's. faithful servant
Dip.cK Smitt, Ensign
To the Noble, "Worshipful, Wise and Prudent, the Honorable Director-General of New-Neth-
erlamJ, Petrus Stuyvesant at the Manathans.
Conference between the Director-General and Council and the chiefs of
Hackensack and Haverstkaav. An armistice is granted to the Esopus In-
dians.
3" June (1660)
Present in Council, the Right Honorable Director-General, Petrus Stuyvesant and Mr. Nica-
sius de Sille.
At the meeting appeared
Oratamy, chief of Hacliinkesack and
Curruppin, chief of Haverstroo with some other savages.
1. The chief Oratamy says, that during the last rencontre at the Esopus 4 or 6 days ago, when
only the chief Preumaecker was killed, about 20 Esopus savages were together, who all wished
to live in peace.
2. He says, that the Esopus chief Seuioackenamo, who was with them at Gemoenepa and on Sta-
ten-Island yesterday, was very sad upon hearing of the death of the aforesaid chief Preumaecker
172 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
and that lie suddenly departed thereupon, whereas he did not know now what to do or not to do,
but he had left in haste in order to see, M'hether he could quiet the savages and would come back
in 10 or 12 days.
3. He states, that the aforesaid chief Seuwaclienamo had told him and the chiefs hereabout, that
just before he came here he had spoken with the soldiers, that is the fighting savages, who camp
by themselves and had asked them, what they desired ; thej' had answered : We do not want to
fight any more ; then he had spoken Avith the women about what tlicy thought best ; they had
answered, that we may peacefully plant the land and live in peace : then he had gone to the unex-
perienced young men, who camp alone upon another place, to ask them, what they thought and
they had said, to make peace with the Dutch and that they would not kill a pig nor a chicken.
After the foregoing propositions had been answered to the effect, that we too were inclined
to make peace, the chief Oratamy replied, that he thought it strange then, that our people had
only lately made an expedition against the savages and killed the chief Preumaecker. He was
told, it was our way, to do our best as long as we had no firm peace, whereupon he requested that
there might be an armistice on both sides during the negotiations for jieace. We answered him,
that, if he would go there himself with our interjjreter Claes de Ruyter or send somebody in his
name, to hear, whether the Esopxts Indians were minded as they said, we would send him and
them in the Company's yacht and keep an armistice until their return. He accepted immediately
to do this, saying, he would now see himself, whether the Esopus savages were well disposed.
Done at Fort Amsterdain in N. Nethcrland on the day as above.
Commission foe Claes de Kuyter to accompany the chiefs to Esopcs to keceive
THE PEOPOSALS OF THE EsOPUS InDIANS AJJD HIS INSTEUCTIONS.
Whereas several tribes of savages, among others especially the Mahicanders, the Wapjnngs
land those of Ilnckinkesacky, JIaverstroo and Staten-Islaiid have at different times made proposi-
tions and tried to intercede for and in the name of the Esopus savages, asking for peace or at least
an armistice for the same, which has been denied by us, although not absolutely, while we as yet
have neither agreed to it, but have deferred it from time to tune on the grounds, that we could
not know, whether the Esopus savages desired it themselves and were disposed for peace, as long
as some of their Sachems did not personally appear before us and submitted to us some security
and reasonable conditions in this regard, whereupon the aforesaid solicitants every time stated to
ns, that the Esopus Sachems did not dare to appear here in person, that they had been on the road
once or twice, but had each time returned for fear,
Whereas among others Oratam chief of IlacMnkesacJiy, Corruspln, chief of Ilaverstroo with
two of his officers appeared to-day before the Council and declared that a few days ago one of the
Esopus chiefs, by name Seuwackenamoo had come to theni and left again yesterday, expressly sent,
as he stated, by the other chiefs and savages of Esopus to sue for peace, who had told to the said
Oratam that he had first sjjoken with the Wauwapiesjes that is soldiers or fighting savages, wlio
camp by themselves and had unanimously declared, that they did not wish to fight any more ; that
he then had gone to the women and young children camping at another place and had asked them,
what they thought about it and how they were disposed ; they had called for peace and that they
might peacefully plant their corn ; then the aforesaid Esopus chief had gone to the young fellows,
who did the most harm and had asked them, whetlier they wanted peace and they liad answered,
New Yorh Historical Records. 173
that henceforth they would not kill a pig, not even a chicken and that he then had conic to thcin
to state this and to request peace, whereas he had heard in the meantime, that in the expedition of
our men, while he was away, the greatest and oldest chief Preumaecker had been killed and he
did not know consequently, what to do, therefore he returned suddenly overland, but had said, if
the Esopus savages were still resolved to make peace, as before, he would come back to them in
10 or 12 days and
Whereas the aforesaid Oratain, chief of HacklnJcesacli/, and Curru/pjJin, chief of Ilaverstt'oo,
now request, that we will put a stop to our fighting for such a time and direct our soldiers at the
Esopus to make no more expeditions against the savages, so that in the meantime a good peace
might be concluded,
Therefore, after due consideration of the propositions and the condition of the season, the
country beginning to grow thick with busheS to the considerable advantage of the savages and
disadvantage of our people and having further considered, that if we should refuse suddenly the
various applications, we might arouse many more enemies. We have for these and some other
reasons of importance judged it best to reply to the aforesaid solicitants, that, if they would go
themselves or send somebody in their name with our interpreter Claes Jansen Ruyter to the
Esopus savages, to hear whether they are so disposed, as they say, we would send him and them
thither in a yacht and keep the armistice until their return and whereas they immediately accepted
this without conditions, to which the aforesaid chiefs added, that they would now see themselves,
whether the Esopus savages were well-disposed, therefore we have thought it best for the Com-
pany and the good inhabitants of this province, the time for tillage being at hand, and advisable
to let Claes Jansen Ruyter go thither with the savages, to hear the propositions of the Esopus
Sachems and savages, to answer conform to the following instructions and to promise an armistice.
Done at Eort Amsterdam in If. Netlierland, the 3* June A° 1660.
Instructions for Claes Jansen Rxiyter.
He shall proceed with Oratam,, chief of IlackinTcesacky, Corruspin, chief of Haverstroo or
their messengers to the Esopus Sachems and savages and inform himself there, whether they are
so disposed, as the chiefs of the Mahicanders, of the Highlands, Haverstroo, HacMnkesacky and
others had stated, to wit : to make peace.
If they show any inclination thereto, he shall tell them from us, that we are quite willing to
make peace with them, but only upon good and safe conditions.
That the prisoners, whom we have and who must be counted as dead, shall remain in caj>
tivity for greater security's sake, while he may give them hope, that, if they keep the peace well,
they or at least some of them may be returned.
That they must repay the muskets, wampum, duffels and other goods, which they had received
for our prisoners, whom they nevertheless had murdered.
That they shoidd leave the Esopus or remove a considerable distance from our people, to pre-
vent mischiefs and that if any of their people should hereafter do any harm, they must repair it
immediately, or else the war will begin again.
And if he finds them well disposed toward peace under the above conditions, he shall send us
information of it and direct the Ensign upon sight hereof and until further orders not to commit
any hostilities or midertake any expedition against the savages. Amsterdam in N. N^etherland,
the Z^ June.
174 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River,
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to Ensign Dirck Smith, directing him to
CEASE hostilities, IF THE EsOPUS InDIANS ARE \VILLING TO MAKE PEACE.
Honorable, Valiant Sir !
You will learn from his instructions for what purpose Claes de Ruyter has been sent to the
Esopus. In case the savages are inclined to make peace on the proposed conditions, you will dis-
continue hostilities and expeditions against them until further orders, but keep constantly good
watch and be well on your guard.
As to the request, made by you in your last letter of the SO'*" May, for socks, shoes, shirts etc for
the garrison there, we expect a large quantity by the ship " de Bever ", which is looked for daily ;
as soon as she has arrived, we shall provide you with these and other necessaries, with which etc".
Fort Amsterdam, in N. Netherlands
the 3^ June 1660.
Letter from Ensign Dirck Smith to the Director and Council, with particu-
lars OF A CONFERENCE HELD WITH THE InDIANS.
12"' June.
Honorable, Worshipful, "Wise and Prudent Gentlemen, Honorable Director-General and Coun-
cil of New-NetJierland.
I inform your Honors herewith, that we have duly received your Honors' letter, dated the 3''
June, through Claes de Ruyter. Pursuant to j'our Honors' orders we have called upon the Esopiis
savages to-day and have heard their statement and they avowed, that they had all requested the
Sachems to make peace with us and that they came now themselves to us for this purpose under
the blue sky to despatch it.
Secondly, that they with all their soldiers, their women and children were sincerely disposed
for it and they were glad, that it had proceeded so far.
Thirdly, they promise, that neither they nor their children shall do any harm to us or to our
animals, much less commit any thefts or mischiefs.
Then we proposed to them all what your Honors ordered in the letter written to us, to all of
which they assented and were satisfied with, but they requested, that a small piece of land might
be granted to them for their habitations and plantations and that at a great distance.
They requested also, that your Honor should come here by the first opportunity, bringing
along a good interpreter, who understands their language well, as whom they name one called
Waerhen in order then to conclude with your Lordship a firm, inviolable and eternal peace ; then
all the neighboring Sachems shall appear together at this place, to make the peace so much faster
and surer. Herewith commending your Honor to the protection of the Almighty, I am
Your Honorable Worships' humble servant
Esopus, the 12"" June 1660. Derck Smitt, Ensign.
Resolution that the Director proceed to the Esopus and conclude a peace
with the Indians.
2P' June.
The foregoing letter having been opened and read it was resolved, that the IIoi\orable Director-
General should go there, as soon as the ship " de Tronw " has sailed, in order to conclude, if pos-
sible, a peace on the formerly proposed conditions. Date as above.
New Yorh Historical liecords. 175
Letter from Vice D'r. La Montagne at Fort Orange to Dik. Stuyve6ant and
Council ; Indian brokers ; Mohawks and Senegas cut off a French fort.
Honorable, Valliant aud Worsliipful Gentlemen.
Having left you, gentlemen, ou the 14"" of May last I arrived here Friday the 21" of the same
month at night, since which time I have had no opportunity, nor even leisure to answer the objec-
tions made by Mr. van Rmjven to my accounts. On the Monday following my return my wife's
sister was by an accident mortally (as we then thought) wounded, Tuesday the Commissaries
met to dispose of more than forty cases and a petition by the principal traders of this place was
handed in against the placat issued by his Honor the Director-General and Council and since
republished annually, that only Indian brokers should be admitted to carry on the trade. After
the bench had taken this into consideration, it was ordered to call the whole community into the
fort, to learn their opinion on this matter. They assembled on "Wednesday and having been heard
individually they expressed a different opinion, viz that it would be better, to give the enormous
amount of brokerage, which went now yearly into the pockets of the Indian brokers — about fifty
thousand guilders — to Dutchmen. As this opinion went directly against the request of the peti-
tioners, the latter, increased to twenty-five altogether, presented "Wednesday a second petition,
repeating their former demands. Friday the other, small traders, also presented a petition signed
by fifty -four persons and now they began to scold and call each other bad names and threats were
littered: Saturday the Court was convened to deliberate how to settle this matter, in which the
parties were so bitter and hostile against each other : the Court could not come to any conclusion
and on that account was adjourned over till Monday, when the Court, having assembled, decided
to deny the petitions of either party and ordered that in accordance with the placat neither Dutch.
nor Indian brokers should be employed during the trading under a penalty of 300 guilders and
suspension from their pursuits for the time of two months.
Since that time I have been obliged to go into the woods with soldiers to prevent mishaps
and to see that the ordinances are observed. It comes very hard upon me, as I have no deput}-
sheriff, and it has gone so far, that I must frequently remain over night in the woods : that is the
reason, why I have until now been unable to answer the objections to my accounts and to bring or
send them : they will be brought down by me or by Johannes Provost in the next sloops.
Nothing new concerning the savages has happened here, except that the Maquas and Sinnc-
kus, six hundred strong, have attacked a fort, defended by seventeen Frenchmen and one hundred
savages : they overpowered the garrison and put them all to death with the exception of two
Frenchmen and twenty savages, whom they carried as prisoners back to their fort ; they have lost
fourteen killed ; nineteen were wounded. Hoping shortly to have the pleasure of seeing you or
sending you my regards through Johannes Provost I remain meanwhile
Fort Orange Your Honors' obedient servant
15 June 1660. La Montagne
Letter from Directoe Stuyvesant to Ensign Smith, respecting affairs at Esopus.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
I have with pleasure learned by your last letter that the Esopus savages desire peace ; before
we come to confirm it, we judge it advisable and also necessary, that the two savages, who are still
176 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Rivei'.
kept as prisoners at the Aesojms, be first sent down and the sooner the better, which you will carry
out upon sight of this, after the yacht shall have been unloaded and you will despatch the sailing
of the yacht as much as possible. Claes de Ruyter shall in the meantime remain there, until I
come, to have the Sachems and other Aesapus savages ready at my arrival. No more at present ;
I commend you to God's protection and am etc.
Amsterdam, 18'" June 1660.
Extracts from a letter of the Director and Council of New-Netherland to
THE Directors in Holland ; defending their course against the Indians ajstd
OBJECTING to THE APPOINTMENT OF RoELOFF SwABTWOUT AS SHERIFF AT EsOPUS.
Dated 25^« June 1660.
■ji- * * * * *
It is only rumored, that during the distressing occurrences and unexpected conflicts with the
savages on the Esopiis as well in the last general massacre some acts have been committed by our
nation, either prematurely or rashly, which had been better left undone, but in investigating the
matter thoroughly, sufficient proof could not be found to punish, as an example for others, this or
that act as tlie cause of these massacres. We have informed your Honors before this in detail
regarding the general massacre and could enlarge on the occurrences at the Esopxis, which however
at present time does not permit and it would also be unnecessary, as we have, in our former letter
of the 29"" Octbr., reported the circumstances, origin and progress of it in detail, to which, if we
have given any cause, we are not aware of it ; the barbarous tortures, which they suffered at the
hands of the savages, overbalance their deserved punishment and it is therefore not necessary to
make further inquiries, as to how they and we have fallen into the ditch, but it would be better to
think of means how to get out of it and fill it up. If concerning the subject of the Esopxis, you
would take up again our letters of A" '58 and '59, the vexation, threats and aff'ronts, inflicted from
time to time upon our nation by the Elsopus savages would become apparent. Et tandem pati-
entia laesu jit furor, therefore we have not failed to resent and resist them as far as possible with
the force and means, entrusted to us by God and by your Honors and thus far we have abundant
cause to thank the All-Good God for His blessing and the good results, of which more below or
in the next letter.
What your Honors recommend on this subject to our consideration, namely to punish, reduce
and subdue the Esopus Indians through the Maquas or other friendly savages, that has often been
thought of by us and we have tried to make the experiment, but we find the thing partly unsafe,
because they are all savages and the word and promise of one cannot be believed any more, than
that of the other, partly dangerous, especially and more so if we were to attempt it with the
Ma<pi,as, than with other savages, for they are a self-exulting, arrogant and bold tribe, made too
haughty through their continuous victories and advantages, which they have gained over the
French themselves and French Indians in Canada', if we were to ask them hereto and they
obtained and gained the desired result, they would exalt themselves and belittle us so much more
among the other tribes and in case we should not reward them according to their avidity and appetite
and did not continually stand there open-handed, we would constantly hear ourselves upbraided and
would have to fear an attack, if we contradicted them. For these and many other considerations
It is best, to stand as far as possible on our own feet and to pray the good God for a happ\' result;
He has so far blessed our work, that the Esopus Indians have themselves and through neighboring
]^ew YorTc Historical Recorih. 177
tribes asked for peace several times, to which we have, for reasons shown in the enclosure No. ,
so far iitisented that an armistice has been granted. Your Honors will be informed of the further
issue by our next letter.
******
"We have been very much astonished by the appointment to and the delivery of the Sheriff's
place at the Esopus to one lioeloff Swartwout, as well because of his minority as on account of his
unfitness for the place, especially, when a court shall be needed there, which, as your Honors say,
is as yet premature, as there is for the present no court of justice there and it does not appear,
that one shall be there in a long while for want of inhabitants, fit to sit on the bench,
Anyway, if in the course of time this should occur a man of greater age, capacity and esteem
is required to take the Sheriff's place ; it must be one, who at the same time is able to attend there
to the duties of Commissary for the Company.
The sequel of your Honors' letter informs us of the concession and grant made to Jeronimus
Ebbingh, who married the widow oi Johan de Hulter, that contrary to the general order he may
leave his land untilled for two years. Regarding his petition, we hav^e to say that it will not only
cause a great delay in the cultivation and settlement, but your Honors have also been deceived
and mis-informed, as well concerning the extent and location of the land, as that one part of the
same land was comprised or brought within the fortifications ; the contrary can be made as clear
as daylight. As to your Honors' extension of time, if it should go into effect, then not one bouw-
ery can during that period be made within the fortified settlement to the great inconvenience of
the farmers, who came over in this ship, and of others who might desire to settle there, whereas
otherwise the lands would have been taken by them at a reasonable price, to wit 10 or 12 guilders
per morgen, the same for which they offered their land here at their departure leaving verbal orders
and powers of attorney behind in regard to them, to convey them for that price to others, who
should like them : this would have been done already, if the war with the savages had not delayed :
12, 13 or 14 good bouweries can be made out of this land and the houses may be placed in and
near the settlements for the greater security of all. It would be very expensive and inconvenient
for the Company to begin a new village at a distance of a mile or one and a half miles, before this
first one was properly established, but in order to sustain your Honors' concession, as far as the
situation will permit and to guard as much as possible the owners against losses and complaints, we
shall treat with them in this regard with all possible amity and friendship, either by buying the
land from them at the aforesaid price or else, which is equally good, but somewhat remote to leave
them in their places, that, when in the course of two or three years a new village should be estab-
lished, they might be cultivated or conveyed to others according to their wish.
Petition of Dieck Jansen and Loueens Lourensen fob payment of hike foe
THEIE sloop, which WAS USED FOE THE PUBLIC 8EEVICE AT THE EsOPUS AND OEDEE
THEEEON.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful Honorable Director-
General and Council of New-NetJierland.
Show with humble reverence Dirck Jansen and Laurens Laurensen, skippers of the yacht
"<Ze Arent''\ that they, the petitioners, being with the same near the Em])us last year, with the
23
178 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
intention of continuing their voyage to Fort Orange, Jacob Ilap deceased, and Thomas Chamhera
came on board there with letters to your noble Worships, complaining of the great inconveniences,
created there by the savages and demanding of them, that, as the welfare of the country was deeply
involved, they should quickly return and deliver the letters, which they did and they brought
down at the same time two soldiers; that they were quickly dispatched by your Noble Worships
to the £!soj>us, which they executed also, and that they have been in service with their yacht for
ten days and have had to make the trips, without taking in any cargo to their great loss and
whereas the farmers are not willing now, to pay them for the aforesaid service, saying that it
should be done by the country or by your Noi^le Worships, therefore they are compelled to address
themselves to your Noble Worships and respectfully request, that your Noble Worships will please
to order that their aforesaid services and the transportation of the two soldiers be paid with such a
sura, as your Noble Worships shall deem equitable and fair ; doing which etc^.
Your Noble Worships obedient servants
(signed)
LOUEENS LoUBENSEN
DiRCK Jansen.
The question having been put, the following decision was rendered :
Before we can dispose hereof, the petitioners nmst prove, that they have been hired by ■the
chief-officer there C)r upon his orders, else they must apply to them, M'ho have engaged them. On
the 29'" of June A" 1660.
Oedee foe the teanspoetation of the captueed Esopds Indians to Cueacao
AND AGEEEMENT FOE THEIR PASSAGE.
29'" June.
Whereas a resolution was passed on the 25'" of May, to send the captured Esopus Indians to
Curagao, for which an opportunity presents itself now, as Nicolae^ VarUth and Jacob Backer
intend to let their ship soon depart for Ouraqao, therefore it is resolved to make a contract with
them for the passage of the said savages, for which the Hon"'° Nicasius de Sille and Secretary
Cornelis van Huyven are hereby specially authorized. Date as above.
In pursuance of the foregoing resolution the Honorable Nicasius de Sille and Secretary Cor-
nelis van Ruyven agreed in presence of the Hon'"^ General with S' Varleth and Jacob Baclcer,
that for each savage should be paid as fare thirty-six guilders beaver value here or thirty guilders
in silver or goods at current prices at Curcgao. Date as above
Appointment of Maeten Ceegiee and Oloff Stevenson van Coetland, to ac-
company THE DiEECTOE-GeNERAL TO THE EsOPCS.
5'" July, Monday.
Present in Council the Honorable Director-General, Pttrus Stuyvesant and Mr. Nicasius de
Sille.
Pursuant to the former resolution of the 21" of Juno and the promise made to the Esop^is
savages, to make a peace with them upon the conditions proposed to them by the intei-jireter Claes
Jansen de Ruyter and accepted by them according to a letter of Ensign Dirck Smith and the
New York Historical Hecords. 179
%-erbal report of the aaid interpreter, requesting only that the Hon'''" Director-General should him-
self come with a good interpreter to conclude the peace and to let them have a small piece of land
at a great distance, which they might plant and after due consideration thereof and reflection upon
the importance of the matter and weakness of the board of Director-General and Council, they
have unanimously decided and resolved, to send thither with the Honorable Director-General, one
of the active Burgomasters and a former Burgomaster of this City, namely the Worshipful Marten
Cregier and Oloff Stevenson, van Cortlandt, to assist the Hon'''"' Director-General in any difficulty
with their advice and counsel. Thus done at the meeting in Fort Amst"^ in N. Netherland on
the day as above.
P. Stuyvesant.
Extract from a lktter of Director Stuyvesant to the Vice-Director at Cn-
RAfAO ; REGARDING THE EsOPUS InDIANS TRANSPORTED TO CURACAO. 5^" JuLY
1660.
* * 4f * * *
I said in my last letter, that we were at open war with the savages of the Esopus, which the
good God has thus directed and blessed that the barbarians, seeing no other way out of it, have
solicited peace through nearly all the surrounding savages, offering all their lands for their depre-
dations and leaving for greater security thereof the prisoners, taken since, in our hands, who are
sent to the number of 10 or 11 by this vessel to your Honor, to be in safer keeping there on the
Island and to be employed with the negroes in the Company's service until further advice.
Hope is held out to the other savages, that if they keep their word in maintaining the peace,
they may perhaps get back some of their transported friends ; as I am about to leave to conclude
the solicited peace, I find little material and less time to enlarge this, therefore in closing etc.
Treaty of peace, concluded with the Esopus Indians on the 15^" July 1660.
Articles of peace, made at the request of the below named
chiefs of the savages between the Hon. Petrus Stuyvesant^
Director-General of New-Netherland and the Sachems or
Names of the chiefs, who asked chiefs of the Indians of the Esopus.
for peace in the name of the
Esopus savages and in whose , „ , .... . , . , i i, , ,, ...
^, All hostilities on either side shall cease and all acts and iniu-
presence the peace was con- . r „ , , , , r • , . , . ,
, , , ries shall be forgotten and iorgiven by either side,
eluded : o e j
2.
Of the Maquas : . ' . , . „ .
A 1 I • 1 Ihe ILsopus savages promise to convey, as mdemnmcation,
Adognmnoakque , , /• .. t~v V, i ,■ i • ,■ i r-
TTT , , to the aforesaid Director-General all the territory ot the A«£>jtws
w othesaQiiaCi^
^ , and to remove to a distance from there, without ever returning
again to plant.
Of the Mohicans: 3.
Esk^iyas, alias A&pye They promise further to pay to the said Director-General in
Amp^imet return for the ransom, taken for the captured Christians, 500
180
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Catskil :
Machahnemeno
Minqiias :
On derishochq ue
Kakonyentsschage
Wapj)ings :
Isschachga
Wisachganioe
Of Ilackinkesachy :
Oratamy
Carstangh
Of Staten-Island •
Warrhan
The following are the names
of the Esopus Sachems, with
whom the treaty was made :
Kcelcop
Seewackemamo
Neskaliewan
Paniyruways
schepels of Indian corn, one half during the next fall, when the
corn is ripe, the other half or its value during the fall next fol-
lowing.
4.
The Esopus savages promise to keep this treaty inviolable,
not to kill horses, cattle, hogs nor even a chicken or if it should
happen to be done, then the chiefs undertake to pay for it and
in case of refusal one of them shall be kept in prison or imder
arrest until the loss has been paid or made good, while on the
other side the Director-General promises, that the Dutch neither
shall be permitted to do any harm to them.
5.
If the Dutch should kill a savage or the savages a Dutchman,
war shall not be immediately commenced again for that reason,
but a complaint shall be made and the murderers shall be deliv-
ered to be punished, as they deserve.
6.
The Esopus savages shall not come armed to the Dutch planta-
tions, houses and habitations, but without arms they may go,
come and trade as before.
7.
Whereas the last war was caused by drunken people, no savage
shall be allowed to drink brandy or strong liquor in or near the
Dutch plantations, houses or settlements, but he must go with it
to his land or to some distant place in the woods.
Included in this peace shall be all, not only the aforemen-
tioned tribes of savages, but also all others, who are in friend-
ship with the Director-General, among others especially the chief
of Long- Island, Taj)ousagh and all his savages ; if any act of
hostility should be committed against these, the Director-Gen-
eral would consider it his duty, to assist them.
9.
The aforesaid chiefs, as mediators and advocates of the Esopus
tribe, remain bondsmen and engage themselves, to have this
treaty kept inviolate and in case the Esopus Indians should
break the peace, now concluded, they undertake altogether to
assist the Dutch to subdue the Esopus savages.
10.
On the foregoing conditions the said Director-General offered
first to the aforesaid mediators and they accepted eacli a piece
of cloth and to the chiefs of the Esopus savages 3 of their cap-
tives and each a piece of cloth.
Thus done and concluded at the settlement on the Esopus, under the blue sky, in presence of
the Hon. Marten Cregier, Burgomaster of the City oi Amsterdam in Nexo- Netherlands Oloff Ste-
Neto York Historical Records. 181
venson Cortland, ex-Burgomaster, Arent van Curler, deputy of the Colony of Renselaerswyck
and many people of the Esapus, both Christians and Indians, the 15"' July 1660.
, P. Stuyvesant Marten Cregier
Oloff Stevenson A. van Curler.
Endorsements on the foregoing :
5"' of August.
After the report of the Hon*''" Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant, concerning the occurren-
ces at (the Esoj)us), had been heard and read in Council, the same was duly thanked, on the day
as above.
The peace at the Esoptis having been concluded, the Director-General and his party left for
Fort Orange and what has passed there, worth writing down, has been recorded hereafter. This
pro inemoria.
Extract from a letter of the Council of New-Netherland to the Directors
IN Holland, communicating the conclusion of the peace with the Esopus
Indians. 26.^" July 1660.
******
In onr last preceding letter it has been stated, that the Esopus savages as well themselves as
through other neighboring tribes, had several times applied to us for peace and that an armistice
had been granted; since that time the Director-General has proceeded thither and after many
debates finally a peace lias been concluded with them, at the request and intercession of the Ma-
quaas, Minquaas, Mohicans, and other chiefs, the conditions of which are in substance as follows :
All former acts are forgiven and forgotten.
The country for 2 or 3 miles on either side of the Esopus Kil is given to us for reparation of
the damages.
For the ransom, which they took for our prisoners, whom they nevertheless killed, they are
to pay 500 schepels of Indian corn or their value.
No animal, small or large, is to be injured, much less killed, else they must immediately give
prompt satisfaction or go to prison, until the damage is made good.
No war is hereafter to be commenced for the sake of private quarrels, but the murderers are
to be punished by either side to the satisfaction of the injured party.
They are not to come armed into our places nor on our land.
They are not to drink wine or other strong drinks in the neighborhood of our houses or
settlements.
The mediators are security for the concluded treaty.
Minute of the return of the Director- General and party from the Esopus
AND journal of THE DiRECTOE-GeNERAL ON HIS JOURNEY.
The Hon. Director-General, accompanied by the Burgomasters Marten Cregier and Olof
Stevenson, who had left, pursuant to a former resolution of the 5"' of July, on the 7"' of the same
182 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
month, arrived here again on the 31" and delivered the following report, entered nnder date of
the 5"' of August. This pro rnemoria.
Journal and adventures of the Hon**'" Birector
on the journey to the Esopus.
On the 7"" of July we left pursuant to the resolution and on the 9"", Friday, the chief of the
Highlaiuls came aboard ; through him we sent two of his savages to the Esopus, to inform the
savages of our coming.
The 11"" of July, Sunday, we arrived at the Esopus and sent again some Savages to the Eso-
pus savages and informed them of our arrival and that if they desired to talk with us, they should
come the sooner the better.
12"" do; savages again sent out; they sent word, that they should come to-morrow, Tuesday.
IS"" do ; no Sachem has been heard from, but 10 common savages came, who said, the Esopus
Sachems would not come on that day, but perhaps to-morrow or may be, they would not come at
all ; nevertheless we sent again a savage to them.
14*" do ; when up to noon no Esojms Sachem nor any news from them had been heard from
we called before us the chiefs of the Alaquaas, 3 in number, the chiefs of the Mahicanders, also
3 in number, the chief of the Wapjnngs and the chief of Ilackinghsachin, also one of the deputies
from Staten- Island and made the following statement to them :
First, that they all knew very well, that we had given no cause for the war between us and
the Esopus savages, but that, after their having killed one of our people and burned 2 or 3 houses
the year before, we had nevertheless forgiven it and renewed the peace promising each other, that
henceforth no war should be begun, even though a man might be killed, but that the murderer
should be surrendered and punished.
The Esopus savages have nevertheless, now about 10 months ago, taken prisoners some of
our people, fired some of our houses, besieged and attacked this place on the Esopus and making
us believe during the siege, that they desired to make peace and would let us ransom the prisonere
ftnd the ransom for our captives being ready and brought before the gate, tiie Esopus savages
took it away by force, kept our prisoners, and afterwards shamefully killed them, whereby we
were compelled to begin this war.
However, at the request of all the savages, who are our friends and who solicited peace for the
Esopus savages, at the intercession of our friends, the Maquaas, Mahicandey's, Highlanders, Min-
quaas, Catskils and others we have made an armistice with the Esopus savages, who thereupon
were very glad and requested of our soldiers, stationed at the Esopus, that we should come ourselves
to the Esopus to conclude a firm peace. Having come and brought some of our friends, to make
a firm peace in their presence, the Esopus savages stay away, without once coming to us or speak-
ing of peace.
I had the aforesaid chiefs informed, that they all could see now, that it was not our fault, but
that the Esopus savages were trifling with us as well as with them.
And as it did not suit us, to remain here long waiting for an uncertainty and as further the
Maqnaas and other chiefs were tired waiting and would like to leave as much as we, I requested
them all to take notice thereof and to inform all otlier chiefs and savages, our friends, of it and to
tell them not to trouble themselves any more about the Esopus savages nor to let them live among
them.
Yet to give them full measure, I had them informed, that we should wait till evening and if
they did not come then, we would leave during the night.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 183
Towards evening of the li"" of July four of the Eaopus chiefs, to wit Kalcop, Seewackaenarao,
JVesAa/u'waa and Pamijyrawach appeared at the gate of the settlement of Esopus.
In presence of the below named chiefs of the Maquaas, MinquoMs, Mahicanders, Catskils,
Wappin^s, Ilackinkeaackinyhs, and the representatives from JVaJack and Ilaveratroo one of the
Jlinquaas chief, called Onderlshoghque took the word in the name of the others. His first propo-
sition was in substance as follows : that the Esopus savages had come to them, the Minquaae,
complaining, they were engaged in such a terrible war with the Dutch / to which the answer was
made, You have first done or commenced it, it is your fault, therefore we cannot give you any
assistance upon j-our complaint but we will, as far as is in our power, solicit peace for you and
help to promote it ; for the present, made by the Esopus savages when asking for help, he has
now brought in return a present towards the peace, which he asks for them ; he says, that if they
could not obtain it, the Esopus savages would return home crying.
We answered him upon the foregoing statement through our interpreter, that not only the
Jlinquas but also the Mahicanders, Maquas, Catskils, Highlanders, JIackinghsacks and other
surrounding friendly tribes had asked for peace for the Esopus savages and that out of regard for
the requests made by our friends, we were quite willing to treat with the Esopiis, if we could feel
assured of peace; after this had been represented to them once or twice, the Maquaas, Minquaas
and other beforementioned chiefs were asked, whether they would be bail, that the Esopus Indi-
ans should not again begin, as they have done now.
Whereupon the Macquaa chief Adoghwatque proposed and said to the Esopus savages : The
whole country is now assembled on your account, (who have always quarrelled and begun war,)
to solicit peace for j'ou and to conclude it. If this shall have been made, do not begin again
for your lives, for if you begin again and do not heed us, we shall most surely not intercede for
you another time. The Minquaas chief took up the word and admonished the Esopus savages in
the same manner, that they must not begin again nor that they should kill any horses or cattle
nor that they should steal anything, but they must buy or earn it and live with the Dutch like
brothers.
After a little consultation and talking among each others the Minquaas chief continued his
proposition to the Esopus savages: You harm us Minquaas and the Macquaas every time; it is
not your land, but it is oure, therefore do not begin it again, but throw down the hatchet and
trample it into the ground, that the hatchet may never again he taken up. He gives thereupon
a string of white wampum.
The aforesaid Macquaes taking the word spoke to our Dutch people of the Esopus and
admonished them in his manner, that they too should not begin again and that they should not
box the ears of the Esopus Indians and then ridicule them ; thereupon he took the hatchet out of
the hands of the Esopus savages, threw it down and trampled it into the ground, saying Now
they shall not begin again for their lives.
The Esopus savages continued then : Now, we have let the hatchet be taken from us and
trampled into the ground, we shall not take it up again in eternity.
After the foregoing discussion we answered the Esopiis savages through our interpreter, that
we were willing, at the request, made in their behalf by all the aforesaid chiefs, our friends, to
conclude a treaty of peace with them on the conditions previously communicated to them by our
interpreter Claes de liuyter, to wit:
1. That they must return all the muskets, wampum, duffels and other goods, given by our
people for om- prisoners and taken by them, notwithstanding which they shamefully murdered
the prisoners afterwards.
184 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
2. To compensate for the damages done to us and that the peace may be kept better, they
must remove from the lands on the Esopus to some distance and convey the land to us, without
being allowed to plant there again.
3. They should, not do any harm either by killing hogs or otherwise ; if any harm should
happen to be done by somebody, they must pay for it immediately and if they did not, then some
one of them is to be arrested until the payment is made.
Fourthly and lastly, the other chiefs of the Macquaas, Mahikdnders, Mincqxiaas and other
tribes shall be bail, that the corn will be delivered and that they do not begin again and if they
should default, that then they shall help us to whip the Esopus savages.
Fifthly, not only we, but all other savages, our friends shall be included in this treaty and
among others especially those of Long-Island, to wit the chief Tapusagk with his savages of
Iteckowacky , Marsepyn and Canaresse.
The aforesaid having been accepted by them, the peace with the Esopus Indians was concluded
under the following stipulations.
Conference held at Foet Orange (Albany) between the Director-General
AND the Senegas.
Present the Hon. Director-
General and the gentlemen Propositions made to us by the
of the two courts here. Sinneekes at Fo7-t Orange, the
25"' July A" 1660.
They say in the beginning, that it is now some years past, since they have been at the Mam,-
liatans and brought presents there, without having received any return for it, not even a pipeful!
of tobacco, whereupon they give three beavers.
Secondly, they say that, a year or two ago, they requested, that they should receive a blanket
and a piece of cloth for one beaver, to which they got no other answer, than that we would tell
them, when the ships came ; whereupon they give three beavers.
Thirdly, we have only a little request to make to you and yet what we ask for is, as if M^e run
against a stone ; they give thereupon three beavers.
Fourthly, they say, when we were at the Manhatans we have concluded our friendship with
a chain and united each others and this is now for a renewal of it, giving three beavers.
Fifthly, they say, let us have one mind and if you make a request to us, we shall listen to
you, whereupon they give three beavers.
Sixthly, they say, we are now engaged in a great war and cannot obtain either powder or lead
or else we must have beavers and a good soldier ought to have powder and lead instead of nothing ;
they give thereupon three beavers.
7"". They say, we thank you, that we now receive everything as a present, caps, socks, shoes,
shirts, cloth, whereupon they give two beavers.
S"*. They say, now number of Sinnekes shall again come and request, that they may barter
their beavers at pleasure and that they may not be locked up by the Dutch, but that they may go
with their beavers where they please, without being beating, when they want their beavers to go
to another place to trade ; they give three beavers.
9"". They say, you have taken us and the Macquaas and Mahikanders with you to the peace
conference at the Esopus, now you should return the captured Esopus savages; they give two
small beavers.
New Yoj'h Historical Records. 185
2Qth_ ■^g jjj.g very well pleased, that 3'ou have made peace with the Esopus, we have soiiie-
tiines to make use of the road, it is very good, that brothers live in peace.
11"'. They say, you are the chief of the whole country, to whom we all look up and we have
asked a piece of cloth for one beaver, 50 hands full of wampum for one beaver, and 30 hands full
of powder for one beaver, but you have been sleeping until now and therefore we now wake you
up again ; they give three beavers.
j2th_ They say, we must work hard to fetch the beavers through the enemy's country, there-
fore we ask, that we may obtain much powder and lead, for if the enemies overpower us, where
shall we then catch the beavers ; they give two beavers.
IS"". They say, they ask, that henceforth it shall be fixed, that they shall receive 30 hands
full of black wampum for one beaver ; they give thereupon 2 beavers.
li"". They say, that they request, they may get from now 60 hands full of white wampum
for one beaver and give thereupon 2 beavers.
IS"". They say, when we are sometimes in a trader's house and wish to go to another's to buy
goods, which suit them, then we get a good beating, so that we do not know where our eyes are
and that ought not to be, each ought to go where he pleases and where the goods suit him best ;
they give hereupon 2 beavers.
IG"". They say, we have now asked that the Dutch shall not beat us any more, you must now
forbid the Dutch to do it, so that we may smoke tobacco in peace ; buy 3'ourselves now tobacco for
two beavers then you can smoke it and consider everything well ; we intend to come with all the
chiefs next year and hear it all ; this is now only to wake you up, but then we will speak to you
plainly ; they give thereupon 2 beavers.
IT"*. They say, the Dutch send so many brokers into the woods from one house, that they do
not know, where to go with tlieir beavers, each ought to have something ; they, that is the brokers,
drag one, that he does not know, which M'ay to go ; this ought not to be permitted, but each house
ought to have something ; they give thereupon one beaver.
18"". They say, the French savages are to come to the Cahoos to the Mahikanders, wherefor
they lament very much ; now as you are boimd to them by a chain, you too ought to be sorry ;
they give 1 beaver.
IG"". They request, that the Director-General should warn all the Dutch, not to beat the
Indians any more, else the Diitch will say, we do not know anything about it and that we with
our beavers may go where we like without being beaten ; they give thereupon 1 beaver.
Answers to the propositions made
by the Sinnecus chiefs. Dated 26"'
July A" 1660.
l"' proposition answered : It is true, our brothers have been at the Manhatans 2 or 3 years ago
and made a treaty of friendship with us, which we shall always maintain, as we have done so far
and always will and because the tobacco was forgotten at that time, we give them now a roll of
tobacco, that, when they return to their country, they may remember their friendship and keep it
as firmly, as if they were bound to us by a chain.
2. "We have made peace with the Mopus at the request of our brothers, the Macquaas, MahiJcan-
ders and other friends, so that we and they may freely and safely use the roads and rivers and we
give you the hatchets, which we now lock up and you are charged not to kill any horses or cattle,
when you go away from here.
24
186 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
3. Our brothers, the Sinnekus, have tlianked us, because we have made peace with the Esopus ;
we now request them, that they too should make and keep peace with the Macquaas, so that we
may also use the roads to them freely and safely, as both our brothers do here.
4. As our brothers complain, that they cannot get enough powder, we give them now a keg full
of powder, but they must not use it against our brothers, the Macquaas, only against their distant
enemies, where they have to bring the beavers from.
5. The brothers complain, that their beavers are locked up, when they come into the houses; we
have forbidden our people to do so three days ago and the brothers may go with their beavers,
where they please.
6. Brothers, if any Dutchman beats you, come to the Sachems and make a complaint or if any-
body of the Dutch keeps or locks up your beavers, they will see that you get them back.
7. Brothers, it is well, that everybody goes now with his beavers, where he likes, and no brokers
shall henceforth be sent, but everybody may go with his beavers, where he likes and you are there-
fore directed not to listen to any broker, but strike them on the head, so that one cannot see,
where his eyes stand.
8. The Dutch cannot consent to what the brothers request, that we should give so much cloth or
wampum for one beaver, as it has to come a great distance over the sea.
Lease of a Farm at Claverak.
(Fort Orange Records. Vol. Notarial Papers, 16G0-1676.)
This IT"" day of August 1660 appeared before me, Dirck van Schelluyne, Notary Public etc
Mr. Abraham Staats, merchant at Beverwyck, party of the first part, and Christoffel Davids and
Hendrick Eets, farmers, parties of the second part. The said Staats declares to have let and the
said Davids and Eets to have rented from him a certain bouwery, belonging to the lessor, situate
and lying at the Claverak for the term of three consecutive years, beginning on the next first of
October and to end the last of September 1663. ********
Kent 150 fl a year during the first two years and 200 fl the third year. * * *
PExmoN OF Rev. Hermanos Blom and Rev. Heneicus Seltnus foe an allow-
ance FOE BOAED AND LODGINGS, WHILE DETAINED AT NeW-AmSTEEDAM ON THEIE
WAY TO THEIE PLACES OF DESTINATION, EESP. EsOFUS AND BeOOKLTN ; GEANTED.
Thursday, 2'' September (1660)
Present in Council the Hon''"' Director-General Petrus Stuyvcsant, Messires Nicasius de
Sille and Johan de Deckere, Councillors.
To the Right Honorable Director-General
and Council of New-Netherland.
"Whereas we, the undersigned, have left home in the service and employ of the Right Honor-
able Lords-Directors of the Incorporated West-Lidia Company, Department of Amsterdam, to
preach the Holy Gospel and by God's grace have safely arrived in New-Netherland, but could
New Yoi'h Hiatoiical liecords. 187
not be immediately forwarded to our places (to wit Esopus and Brooklyn, where wc were ordered
by their Lordships to take charge of the divine service and propagate the knowledge of God)
except upon a proper and solemn order of your Honorable Worships and have especially at the
Manhatans, where we took up our provisional residence, waited with sincere desire for the time
and opportunity of being forwarded and introduced into the service of the church, Therefore we,
the petitioners, request with all respect and due reverence, that your lion''''' Worships will please
to take upon themselves the payment of our expenses for board and lodgings, according to the
laudable instructions given by the Hon"" Assembly of the XIX and delivered to us, the petitioners,
with new signatures by the Lords-Directors, reading: Artie. XV the preachers etc*.
By doing this, your Hon"'" Worships will oblige the petitioners and animate them in their
service of the Word, in the meantime they hope for a favorable resolution and i-emain
Your Honorable Worships'
faithful servants
(signed) Heemanus Blom
Pastor at Esopus
Henricus Seltns
Pastor at Breuckelen
The foregoing petition having been received and read, the following decision was made :
For as long a time as the petitioners have been here at this place from their arrival until this
day one beaver per week shall be allowed to them for board and lodgings. Date as above.
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Petrus Stuyvesant;
they have received the news of the peace on thf, esopus with pleasure,
on account of the consequent revival of agriculture and are astonished
OVER THE OBJECTIONS TO RoELOFF SwaRTWOUt's APPOINTMENT AS SHERIFF AT
Esopus. 20" Septbr 1660
******
We have been pleased and gratified to hear of the good success, which your Honors have had
against the Esopus Indians, as it is in our opinion a matter of great importance. For, if the wings
of this barbarous nation could be clipped in such a manner, that they are kept without the power
and danger of doing harm, then, it is certain, that the cultivation of the soil shall be undertaken
with greater zeal and better result and shall increase directly more and more. And, while, as we
have said before, we trust, that your Honors shall not be disturbed by the English neighbors and
consequently shall have the hands free in that direction, yet your Honors ought not to neglect to
pursue and bring to a successful end the results gained from the said Esopus Indians, so that then
the Newesinks and Raritans tribes may be taken in hand with so much more safety and brought
to reasonable terms or perhaps be reduced and made undangerous.
******
We are glad, that the Eisopus savages have asked and solicited jjeace as well directly as through
others, as it is a sign, that their courage indeed failed them and we had grown more awe-inspiring
Esopus. to them. The motives, which caused your Honors to grant them first an armis-
tice, are not without foundation and as a peace was to be the final consequence, we will hope that
188 Colonial Settlements on the Hvdaon River.
the same shall be kept by them and shall be firm and permanent. Your Honors should have the
hands free in that direction, to resist the English usurpations, in case they should contrary to our
expectations carry them out.
"We have more reason to be astonished over the rejection of and objection to our choice, made
Roeioff Swart- o^ the person of Roeloff Swartwout as Sheriff on the Esopxis, than your Honors
wout. have had in regard to his having been chosen, in which as we have had sufficient
judgment, we also believe to possess power and authority, to have our orders and commands strictly
obeyed and we desire this especially in this case, unless much can be said of the said Swartwouf s
life, for in other respects he is old enough to be fit and if there were any deficiency herein, then
he has time to outgrow it, as he cannot execute his duties as long as there is no court of justice
established there, which will not be the case yet for some time as your Honors say yourselves.
******
When we had answered your Honors' letter so far and as far as we thought necessary, the
ship called " S'^ Catherina " arrived here and with it a letter from the Council, dated 26"" July,
in which we find nothing but the substance of the conditions of peace entered into and made with
the Esopus savages ; we can therefore only say in regard to it, we hope and wish, that it will and
may tend to the welfare of the country and its inliabitants.
OeDER on a PETmON OF THE WIFE OF ThOMAS HuGGENS, FOR PAYMENT OF A HORSE
KILLED IN THE PUBLIC SERVICE DDEING THE LATE EsOPUS WAR.
(23" Septbr 10.60)
The petition of Marritje Huyherts, wife of Tomas Huggens was taken up and read, who
demonstrated, that during the defense against the Esojms savages she had loaned a horse to Ser-
geant Christian Niesen by order of the Ensign, for the service of the Company; this horse having
been killed by the savages, she asks for payment for it.
Everybody's opinion having been asked, it was answered:
Before a decision is given hereon, the petitioner must prove, that the horse belonged to her
alone and after that has been done, she must have it appraised by impartial men, not according to
what it was worth at the purchase, but at the time and under the circumstances, when it was
Jdlled in the service of the country. Date as above.
Petition of Surgeon Gysbert van Imboech for Payment of his bill for attend-
ance ON A SOLDIER, WHO WAS WOUNDED DURING THE EsOPUS WAR ; GRANTED.
(SO"- Septbr 1660)
Copy. To the Right Hon"'" Director-General
and the Hon"'" Council of New-Neth-
erland.
Shows with due reverence Geysben van Imhurch, surgeon at Fort Orange, that a short time
ago during the war with the Esopus Indians lie, the petitioner, has treated one Dominicus, a sol-
Neto Yorh Historical Recoi-ds. 189
dier of the Ilon'''^ West-India Comjjany, who was brought to Fort Orange by the Hon'''" Director-
General himself on account of bis severe wounds, he having eighteen different wounds and
whereas he, the petitioner, cannot be credited by the lion"'* Receiver for the amount of his fees
the sura of which is 80 fl. in beavers according to the account rendered, without your non"" Wor-
shij)s' order, therefore lie requests with all respect, that j'our Hon'''° Worehips will please to direct
his Honor, the Receiver, to credit him, the petitioner, for the amount of his fees either on the
account of his former patient or that of the Hon"'" Company, as your Hon'''" Worships may
decide, so that in due time he may have the benefit of it; not doubting which he remains
Tour Hon"'" Worships obedient servant
(signed) Gysbert van Imborch.
The foregoing petition was taken up and read and after everybody's opinion had been asked,
it was decided, as follows :
Fifty guilders in beavers are allowed to the petitioner on account of the Company for curing
the aforesaid person. Date as above.
Extract from a letter of the Director and Coukcil to the Directors in Hol-
land : Rev. Blom has been put in charge of his church : Serg''. Andries Lou-
rensen returns to holland well recommended. 6'" octbr 1660.
******
The two preachers, lately arrived here, D° Blom, and Selyns have been put each in his place,
in accordance with your Honors' orders and their nomination.
******
The former Sergeant Andries Laurens, who goes over in the ship " Kyckcnhooin ", has re-
quested us for a letter of recommendation, that the balance of the monthly pay due him, 94 guild-
ers, might be paid to him by your Honors in silver-money (as he said, he had no other money for
his travelling expenses). Considering his good services at all occasions, in war and in peace, we
could not refuse his request. We would therefore respectfully ask your Honors to accommodate
him in this matter.
Report of Director Stutvesant's visit to Esopus and Fort Orange.
9"- November (1660)
It was stated at the meeting by the Hon'''" Director-General, Petrus Shiyvesant, that his
Honor intended, to go from here to the Esopus to morrow if the weather was favorable, to accel-
erate the threshing of a quantity of grain for the Company and make arrangements for completing
the redoubt there, preparing the dwelling of the preacher etc. Date as above.
On the lO"" November his Honor sailed in the yacht of Ylodder and returned here on the 27""
reporting in substance as follows :
First, that there was little hope at the Esopus to get from there a quantity of grain before
the winter, because the fanners there had as yet threshed nothing or only a little.
190 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Second, that this had made his Honor resolve to take a trip to Fort Orange, to see whether
they had more in store there, but that on account of the sudden frost he had not been able to get
more than 150 schepels.
Third, that his Honor had also met there some of the Macquaas chiefs, who said, it was their
intention to make an expedition with a number of men against the Kinnebeck Indians in a short
time, upon which statement his Honor had proposed to them, in consequence of the request pre-
viously made to us by his Honor, the Governor of Boston,, rather to try and make peace with' each
other etc and that he had finally persuaded them so far, that they promised first to speak about it
with the other chiefs, before they started. On the 27"" Novbr. 1660.
Extract from a letter of the Director and Codncil to the Directors in Hol-
land ; FEARS ARE ENTERTAINED, THAT THE PEACE WITH THE EsOPUS InDIANS WILL
not last long. 9'"' December 1660.
******
Matters here are in a reasonably quiet condition as well in regard to the barbarians as to the
neio-hbors, at least we neither hear nor learn of any troubles, though some people believe, that the
Esopus savages will keep the peace no lounger, than until they see a decided advantage: against
this we keep good watch and an eye on the sail ; they are quite bold and saucy in their talk and
have as yet not delivered the promised corn ; the Sachems plead in excuse, that on account of the
war they could plant little or nothing ; which stands to reason and therefore we have less insisted
upon it.
We have not yet attended to the Newesinks Indians, because the Sachems and the greater
part of these savages make the excuse, not to have had any knowledge of the murder and at the
same time show the impossibility of apprehending and surrendering the delinquents, without plac-
ing themselves in danger of being massacred by their relations. They have asked several times
and also made presents, that the matter should be adjusted and forgotten this time, which we have
so far refused for good reasons and have insisted, that they should surrender the murderers or at
least some of them, while we take in consideration the uncertainty of the result and that the war
would be very injurious to the newly commenced plantation and through fresh complaints would
delay the increase of population : we hesitate therefore to give them fresh causes for it and to
compel them by force of arms to an act of probable impossibility.
Letter from Sergeant Christian Ntssen to Director STurvESAin' on the state
OF AFFAIRS AT THE EsOPUS.
Noble, Very Worshipful, Wise and Prudent, Honorable Director-General.
I inform your Honor herewith, that I have duly received on the 12 X'" by Willem Moer, the
skipper, the goods sent to me and that the roof of the house on the strand is ready, my quarters
have also been prepared, as they ought to be and as your Honor ordered it. I would have sent
your Honor some wheat, but a sutficient quantity had not yet been threshed, but I shall send a
JS'ew York Historical Records. lyl
party of it by the first opportunity. I coinuiend your Honor to the protection of the Almighty.
In haste
Your Honorable Worships' most
Esopu.% 1660 obedient servant
the 13"' X"". Cheistiak Nyssen.
Council Minutes. Indian Conference at Fort Orange.
Proposals made by the chiefs of the Maquas in
presence of both the Courts, this 22" day of
January A" 1661, at Fort Orange.
They say first, that they have travelled over the whole country and have also been in the Sin-
nekus country and they intend at present to go to the Southriver, to bring presents there and in
passing here, they give us notice of their passage and of their intention to go through the Esojpus,
because the Esopus savages had said, that when the Maquas would go to the Southriver and would
pass there, they would kill them : they mean to show hereby, that they do not fear the Esopus
savages and present two fathoms of wampum.
Second. They will not call upon the Esopus savages in passing there, because the latter have
said, the Maquas were the cause, why they had lost so many men in the war against the Dutch.
They present a belt of wampum.
They say finally, that the chain, by which they and the Dutch are held together in brotherly
friendship, shall not be broken by them and they thank the Hon''''^ General for the cloth, which he
gave them, when he was here. They say, that they came too late into the country, their people
were already out on their expedition and like madmen did not want to return. Hereupon they
present a belt of wampum.
The members of both the Courts thank the Maquas for the continuation of their good feel-
ings and for having called in passing ; they present them with 5 pounds of powder, 5 staves of
lead, a dozen of knives, some awls and a roll of tobacco.
Letter from the Magistrates of Fort Orange to Director Stuyvesant;
PEACE negotiations AMONG THE InDIANS.
Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful Gentlemen.
The report brought by several savages of the Highland and Northern tribes concerning the
mortality at and around the Manhatans has created such a fear here, that we could get the bearer
hereof only with difficulty, to send him down according to the yearly custom. He comes therefore
so late.
The chiefs of the Maquas put in an appearance here on the 22'' inst. and made some proposals
in presence of both the courts, of which a copy is sent herewith. Your Honors will sec by it,
what must be done to mediate between them and the Northern savages, to bring about an armis-
tice or peace. We have tried to induce them to make one or the other, but their answer was, that
their children cried, because they had not revenged such treachery.
192 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The aforesaid Maquas go South with considerable presents, to make peace between the Min-
quas and the Sinnekus, pursuant to the wishes of the Hon"'" General.
No change in the affairs here has taken place, which it is worth while to report. The savages
keep quiet on all sides, but the Esopus savages are in danger of being attacked by the Maquas, if
they do not keep their tongues in check. That would do us no harm. We close herewith and
commend your Honors to the protection of the Almighty, while we remain
Your Honorable Worships'
I^ort Orange, hmnble servants
29"' January, A° 1661. La Montagne
Andeies Hekbeets
EuTGEE Jacobs
Feanz Barentz Pastook
Ehveet Jansen Wendel
Indian Deed for an Island in the Esopus.
(Fort Orange Records. "Vol. Notarial Papers, 1660-1676.)
This 25"' of January 1661 Yolckert Jansen and Jan Thomasen acknowledged and declared
to have made an agreement with the Indians called Syme, Capachik and Nachanan, acting for
themselves and for their blood relations and co-proprietors, in regard to the sale of one half or of
as much as they still have a right and title too in an island lying Eastwards in the Kil by afore-
aid Volckert Jansen^ s and Jan Thomasen! s bouwery, including the little island near by, called by
the Indians Nanoseck and by the Dutch Little Cupper'' s Island, etc. etc.
Deposition in regard to the Division of Land at the Esopus in 1654.
This 2'' of FeV 1661, appeared before me Dirck van Sehelhiyne Notary Public etc. Jan
Verbeeck and Francis Pietersen carpenter, who at the request of Evert Pets declared it true and
well known, that they had both been present, Avhen in the spring of 1654 Evert Pels and the late
Jacob Jansen Stoll divided the land, bought by them together from the Indians at the Eopus and
as by the survey it was foimd that Jacob Jansen Stoll had received 7 or 8 morgens more than said
Pels, Jacob Jansen said he would request the Director-General Stuyvesant and try to obtain in
place of it as much land more from the Indians for said Pels, where it was most convenient for
his lot. Thus done etc.
G. SwARTT Jan Verbeeck
Jan Dieoksen van Beemen Frans Pietersen
D V. ScHELLUYNE, Notary Public, 1661.
Nexo Yoj-h Historical liecords.
193
Indiak deed foe an Island in Hudson's eiver, opposite BExnLEUEM, caxled
Long or Mahicander's Island.
Copy.
Before me, Johannes La Montague, appointed by the Hon''''' Director-General and Conncil
of JVew-NetJierland as Vice-Director and Commissary of J^ort Orange and the village of Beuer-
wych, three savages and a squaw appeared, to wit : Machsapeen alias Macsac/i Niemanau, Sanse-
wanou, Pamenseen and the squaw Nipapoa, who are together owners of the island called Pucho-
nahellich, and declared in presence of Aepjen and JVita.morit, both Sachems of the 3[ahicam.ders,
that they have sold, ceded and conveyed, as they herewith sell, cede and convey as real and actual
property to and in behalf of Andries Herhertsen and Ruiger Jacohsen, inhabitants of the village of
Beverwyck, the aforesaid island Pachonahellick, situate in this river opposite Betldelietn and called
Long or Mahicander'' s Island by the Butch, together with all the rights and privileges, which they
possess, in consideration for a certain sum paid to them in goods, which they, the sellers, acknowl-
edge to have received to their satisfaction. This done in the village of Beverwyck in presence of
Gerrit Bancher and Johannes Proovost, called as witnesses, this S"* day of Fe1iruary A" 1661.
It was signed : This cT^z/w-v— is the mark of Macsach Nieilinou, this '__ is the mark
of Sansewanou, this is the mark i/\/\/\^ of Pamenseen, this the mark j I of Nipapoa, this -f of
Aepjen, this !?; of Nitamoeit, Geerit Banckeb, Johannes Provoost.
Agrees with the original.
A Patent for the T To my knowledge
above was issued
on the 10'" March 1661.
Nota : For the above island the following was paid.
6 rugs
10 coats of duffel
a 30 pounds kettle
60 strings of wampum
10 hatchets
8 adzes
z guns
12 lbs of powder
30 lbs lead
3 dozen knives
12 cans of brandy
1 half barrel of beer.
La Montagne, Commissary
at Fort Orange.
10 pounds of
tobacco.
Letter from John Stickland to , requesting him to ascertain,
whether the place called Achtee Cull be open to settlement, etc.
"Worthy Sir : After my due respects p''sented vnto you these few lines are to request a keind-
ness of you, taking you to be my spetial frend and know no other like yourself to intrust in such
a case as this : that you woulde be pleased to take the first and moste sutable oppertunity to speake
with the honered gouernor deziring him to resolue in these parteculars first, whither or no that
place vpon the mayne land, which is called Arther Cull bee free from any ingagements : secondly
if free, then whither or no he will be plesed to grant it to a company of honest men that may de-
ziere to sit doune ther to make a plantasion vnder his gouemment and that you would be pleased
hauing so done to return an answer by the first, which we shall waight for, and hauing incorage-
25
1^4 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Itlve?:
meat we shall forthwith adres oursehies to treate further with him aboute the matter thus not
doubting of your faithf ullues herin I take leaue and rest yours to couiaude John Stwklin : From
Huntington February 1 5"" 1660 : {old style)
Lett me intreate you to send the answer to Samuevell Mathies at Rusdorpe, that it maye be
conveied to me in safety : and that you woulde be pleased that it may be kept seerit houever itgoe.
(In another handwriting) . S' if you Can w'*" Convenience I would intreate you to send me an answer by
y" bearer of this, all convenient speede being requisite.
CONTKACT BETWEEN ThOMAS ChAMBEES AND OTHER INHABITANTS OF EsOPDS AND
Rev. Hekmanus Bloem.
The undersigned inhabitants of tlie settlement at the place, called Esopus, promise to give our
reverend minister Hermanus Bloem as salary for the first year (which salary has commenced with
his arrival here on the 5"' of September 1660) the sum of seven hundred guilders in corn, at
beaver valuation, in case his farm should fail and we promise further to put the farm in good
order according to contract, as soon as the land has been allotted and to raise that sum at the latest
for the coming farming season. This we, the imdersigned, promise faithfully and truly to do.
^'hus done, the 4'" of March 1661.
Thomas Chambers.
CORNELIS BaEENTSEN SlECHT.
The mark r£. of Gteetrdt Andeies.
KoELOFF SwABTWOUT.
Alaeedt Heymensen Roose.
The mark ^ of Juriaen Westvael.
Oedinanoe of the Dieectoe and Council of Renselaeeswyck forbidding the
teading with Indians in the woods. Passed 25"* March 1661 and appeoved
25"' Apeil 1661.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 394.)
Exteact feom a lettee of Dieectoe Stuyvesant to the Vipe-Director at Cu-
racao, EECALLING THE EsOPUS InDIANS, SENT THEEE ON A FOEMEE OCCASION.
16"' Apeil 1661.
******
As the Esopus savages have kept quiet and behaved well since the peace lately made, they sug-
gest, that we would still more oblige them and show our good will and favor, if we would release
now and then one of their transported friends. Your Honor will therefore please to send two of
them, of the better sort, liither by this or the first opportimity hereafter and with proper ti-eatment
give them hope, that if they behave well the others too shall be released and sent back iu due time.
New Yorh Historical litcords. 19!")
Leti'ek from John Stickland to (Brian Newton) asking whether the country
on the achter cull 18 open for settlement.
■Worthy Sir. After my due respects p''sented vnto you these few lines ar to iutreate a courtesi
of you, that you woulde be plcsed to speake with the honored gouernor and lorde Stevenson, to
know of him, if that place which is called Arthor Coll be free to be disposed of and whither or no
he will giue incoragement to a Company of the inglish nasion there to settle themselues, if vpon a
vew made they shall take satisfaction and when 3'ou know his minde herin, that you would be
pleased to return me a few words in answer by this bearer Samevell Matthews and accordingly my
self with sum other frends, who haue an I that waye will address ourselues : I shall trubble you
no fudder at p''seut, but to intreate to pardon my bowldnes and so rest your loving frend to comand
John. StiHarid from huntington April 29 : 1661 :
The foregoing request, made to Captain-Lieutenant Brian Nut07i, was handed in and com-
municated by him to his Honor, the Director-General, who produced the same to the Council.
After due consideration it was resolved, to reply to the said Captain-Lieutenant, that he might in-
form the petitioners, that they could safely come to view the piece of land in question and if it
suited them, further orders would be given on their request and propositions. 2* June 1661.
Allotment and distribution of lots in the Esopus.
Whereas his Honor, the Director-General, has been informed by several letters, that different
persons had come to the Esopus to build there and are now only waiting to have proper places
assigned, therefore his Honor and retinue proceeded thither in the galiot Neio-Avistel on tlie 26"'
of April and returned on the 5"' of May, after having enlarged tlie settlement and allotted and
distributed parcels of land to different parties imder the following conditions :
The lots were distributed by lot under the condition, that every one enclose its breadth on
the outside with good, stout and suitable pallisades. As the cross lots have a length of 14 rods on
the outside, which is too much to bear for one person, whose parcel might by lot fall on the border
of the garden, therefore the said 14 rods shall be enclosed by the owners of the four cross lots
together, each marking 3|- rods.
Subject to the foregoing condition the following persons drew lots :
Kept open No. 1 Willem Jansen 8
Hendrick Martensen 2 Pieter van Haelen 9"
Uarmen Hendrick 3 Matthys Boeleffs 10
Jan Jansen from Amesfoort 4 Jan Will£mse 11
Jacob Barentsen 5 Anthony C7'eupel 12
Jan Lootrnan 6 Gerrit Jansen van Campen 13'
Ja^ob Joosten 7
After the enlargement of the settlement had been completed, his Honor gave the following
notice, which was then published and affi.xed, to the inhabitants of the Esopus and those who
claim any land there.
Notice.
All Inhabitants of the settlement on the Esopus now called WiltwycTc and all others, who
have or claim to have land in that vicinity are hereby commanded and directed, to have their cul-
196 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
tivated and uncultivated land surveyed by tlie sworn surveyor within the time of six months, also
to liave it marked and divided by proper signs and to ask and receive upon showing a certificate
of survey, signed by the surveyor, a proper deed and j^roof of ownership under penalty of confis-
cation, so that the rest of the land, which might not be covered by the deeds after the survey, may
be distributed by Director- General and Council of New-Netherland for tlie accommodation of
others, as it is proper ; let every body be warned against loss and subsequent complaint. Done in
the village of Wiltwych, this 2" May 1661.
Appointment of magistrates for Wiltwyck and thfjr oath ; a house fob the
MINISTER ordered TO BE BUILT.
Whereas the settlement in the Esopus increases daily, it has been considered necessary to
establish there a small bench of justice, as Commissaries of which his Honor, the General, has
chosen Evert Pels, Cornelis Barentsen Slecht and Albert Heymanse Hoose, who took the follow-
ing oath as Commissaries :
We promise and swear in the presence of the Almighty and Everpresent God, that we will be
true and faithful to the Director-General and Council, now in office or hereafter to be appointed,
under the authority of Their High : Might : the Lords States-General, and the Lords-Directors of
the Incorporated West-India Company, Department of Amsterdam, as our Masters and Patroons,
that we will hold them and their orders in great respect and obey them, that we will administer
good law and justice to the best of our knowledge, prevent all mutiny, strife and disorder and
assist in preventing them by all our power, that we will maintain and exercise the Reformed
church service and no other, obey the instructions received or hereafter to be received and finally
do everything, which good and faitliful magistrates are bound to do. So help us God Almighty !
After the preceding had been aceomi^lished, his Honor, the General, gave also some orders
concerning the erection of the preacher's house, which done his Honor left speedily, as he had
received information of the arrival of two ships from Fatherland and returned to this place, as
before mentioned, on the S"" of May.
Instruction for the Court of Justice in Wiltwtck.
Petrus Stuyvesant, in behalf of the High and Mighty Lords, the States-General of the United
Netherlands, and the Lords-Directors of the Privileged West-India Company, Director-General of
New-Netherland, Curacao, Aruha, and Bonayro and dependencies, together with the High Coun-
cil, To all who shall see, or hear this read. Greeting. Be it known, that their Honors, hoping and
wishing nothing else but the prosperity and welfare of their good inhabitants generally, and par-
ticularly that of the residents in the village of Wiltwyck, situated in the Esopus ; and desiring
that this may be effected and preserved with more love, peace and harmony, and to show to each
inhabitant of the aforesaid village, and prove by deed its eiiects ; so is it, that the aforesaid Director-
General and Council, considering the increased population of said village, resolve to favor its inhab-
itants with a subaltern court of justice, and to organize it as far as possible, and the situation of
the country will permit, in conformity with the customs of the city of Amsterdam in IToUand,
but so, that from all judgments an appeal may be made to the Director-General and Council in
New-Netherland, who shall reserve the power to give their final decision.
New Yorh Ilistorical Hecords. 197
It is, therefore, necessary, so tliat everything may be effected with dne order and respect, that
there be chosen as judges, honest, intelligent persons possessing real estate, peaceable men, good
subjects to their Lords and Patroons, and the high administratiou appointed by them in this coun-
try, professors of the Reformed religion, as it is now preached in the United Netherlandish churches,
in confoniiity to the word of God, and the orders of the synod of Dordrecht ; which conrt of jus-
tice for the present time, till otherwise shall be ordained by the aforesaid Lords- Patroons in their
authorized administration, shall consist of a Sheriff, being in loco, who shall summon in the name
of the Director-General and Council, the appointed Schepens, and preside at their meeting ; and
with him three Schepens, who for the present time and ensuing year, beginning with the last of
May next, are elected by the Director-General and Council aforesaid, and confirmed after they
shall have taken their oath. Evert Pels, Cornells Barentsen Sleght, and Elhert Heymans lioose.
Before whom all cases relative to the police, security and peace of the inhabitants of Esopus, so
too all suits between man and man, shall be brought, heard, examined and determined by delini-
tive judgment, to the amount of fifty guilders and below it, without appeal. But on higher sums
it shall be left to the discretion of the aggrieved to appeal to the Director-General and Council
aforesaid, provided that he enters the appeal in due time, and procures bail for the prosecution and
expenses of the law-suit, according to law.
If there be a disparity of votes and opinions on any occurrent affairs, then the minority shall
coincide with the majority without contradiction. But it is permitted to those who adopt another
opinion or advice, to have their sentiments and advice registered on the roll or protocol. But they
shall by no means publish out of court their advice, or communicate the same to the parties, under
arbitrary correction, at the discretion of the bench.
The Sheriff shall, in conformity to the first article, preside at the meeting, collect the votes,
and act as secretary till further orders, or until the population is increased. But, whenever he
shall either act for himself, or in behalf of the rights of the Lords-Patroons, or in behalf of justice
in the place of the Attorney-General, in all such cases he shall leave his seat, and absent himself
from the bench, and in such cases he shall not have an advisory, much less a casting vote. In all
such cases, one of the oldest Schepens shall preside in his place.
Wliat in the aforesaid article is decreed with regard to the Sheriff shall take place, in a similar
manner, with respect to the Schepens, whenever, in the aforesaid court, any cases or questions
might occur between them as parties or others, nearly allied in blood to the appointed Schepens,
as when a brother, a brother-in-law, or a cousin is concerned, viz. : in the first and right line.
All inhabitants of the Esopus are, till further orders, either from the Lords-Patroons, or their
higher magistrates, subjected and may be summoned before the aforesaid Sheriff and Commissa-
ries, who shall hold their court, in the village aforesaid, every fortnight — harvest time excepted
— unless necessity or occasion might otherwise require.
To procure the good inhabitants oiWiltwyck a civil and easy administration of justice, the
Sheriff as President, and the Schepens of this court, shall, for the better conveniency of parties,
appear at the appointed day and place, on the fine of twenty stivers, to be disposed of by the col-
lege, when they shall have been informed by the court messenger, qualified for that pui-pose by
the Director-General and Council, at least twenty-four hours, of the sessions of the court, and
double this sum for the President, except by sickness or absence. If they arrive too late, or after
the stated hour, the penalty shall be six stivers.
No extraordinary sessions shall, at the expenses and burdeTis of the parties, be called, except
at the request of both parties, with submission to the costs, in case of the loss of the suit ; which
costs shall previously be secured by the solieitant or plaintiff, viz. : for each Schepeu, fifteen stivers;
198 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
for the President, three guilders ; besides a provision for the clerk, yet to be appointed, the court
messenger, and other necessary costs, agreeably to law.
All criminal cases shall be directly referred to the Director-General and Council in Neio-Neih-
erlandi provided that the court remains obliged to apprehend, arrest, detain and imprison the
delinquents till they have a proper opportunity to transport them with safety before the supreme
magistrate of the land, while in the meantime, they are holden to take good and correct informa-
tions with regard to the committed crime, at the expense of the criminal, or in behalf of the Attor-
ney-General, and transmit these together with the delinquent.
Lesser crimes, as quarrels, injuries, scolding, kicking, beating, threatenings, simply drawing a
knife or sword, without assault or bloodshed, are left to the judicature and decision of the aforesaid
court, in which cases the Sheriff may act as plaintiff before said court, with reservation of the
clause of appeal, if the condemned feel himself aggrieved by the decision of said court.
All criminals and delinquents guilty of wounding, bloodshed, fornication, adultery, public and
notorious thefts, robberies, smuggling or contraband, blasphemy, violating God's holy name and
religion, injuring and slandering the Supreme Magistrates, or their representatives, shall, with the
informations, aflidavits and witnesses, be referred to the Director-General and Council of Neia-
Netherland.
Should the situation of affairs be such that the President aind Schepens deem it advisable for
the security and peace of the inhabitants, during the absence of the Director-General and Council,
for the greater advantage and peace of the village and court aforesaid, to issue in said district any
orders, respecting public roads, enclosure of lands, gardens or orchards, and further, what might
concern the country and agriculture ; so, too, relative to the building of churches, schools, and
other similar public works ; as well as the means from which, and in what manner, these shall be
regulated, they are authorized to bring their considerations on such subjects in writing, support
these by argument, and deliver them to the Director-General and Council, to be, if deemed nsoful
and necessary, confirmed, approved and commanded by the Director-General and Conucil.
The aforesaid Sheriff and Schepens shall further take care, and are obliged to see the laws of
our Fatherland, and the ordinances and placards of the Director-General and Council, already pulv
lished, or which may be published, in future, carefully executed and kept in strict observance, and
not to jjermit that, under any pretext, anything shall be done contrary thereto, but that the trans-
gressor shall be prosecuted according to law.
The aforesaid Sheriff and court are not permitted to enact any ordinances, placards or similar
acts, or publish and affix these, except by previous consent of the Director-General and Council.
The Sheriff and Schepens shall further take care and be holden, to assist the Noble Lords-
Directors, as Lords and Patroons of this New-Netherland province, under the sovereignty of the
High and Mighty Lords the States-General of the United Provinces, and to aid to maintain them
in their high jurisdiction, rights, domains, and all their other pre-eminences.
Whereas, it is customary in onr Fatherland and other well regulated governments, that annu-
ally some change takes place in the magistracy, so that some new ones are appointed, and some are
continued to inform the newly appointed, so shall the Schepens, now confirmed, pay due attention
to the conversation, conduct and abilities of honest and decent persons, inhabitants of their respect-
ive village, to inform the Director-General and Council, about the time of tlie next election, as to
who might be sufficiently qualified to be then elected by the Director-General and Council. Done,
and given by the Director-General and Council, at their meeting in Fort Amsterdam, in New-
Netherland, this IG"- day of May, 1661.
New York Jlisioi'ioal Mecords. 199
PeTITIOM of i^ELOFF SwAKTWOUT TO BE APPOINTED SlIEEIFF OF WiLTWYCK.
To the Worshipful, Vahant and Rigorous, the
Right Honorable Director-General and High
Council of New-Netherland.
I, lioeloff Swartwout, request very respectfully their Noble Honors, the Worshipful Director-
General and High Council of J^e%o-Netherland, while I submit myself as a subject to your Honors'
wise government, that whereas the Hon'''" Director-General has been pleased to favor and provide
us hert in Wiltioyck with a lower Court of Justice for the safety of the pious inhabitants and pun-
ishment of evil-doers, so that we may now live in freedom and peace, your Hon'''^ Worships of
the High Council, not excepting the Right Honorable Director-General, or all your Hon""" Wor-
ships together will please to consider me worthy to serve here in the capacity of Schout and I
produce herewith the recommendation from the Lords-Directors of the Incorporated West-India
Company, my Lords and Masters, submitting obediently to your Hon''''^ Worships' order and asking
herewith for a short marginal decision.
Thus by me, your Hou"''^ Worships' humble and obedient servant
Actum Wiltwyck, Roeloff Swaetwout.
the 16'" May, Anno 1661. In haste
To the Valiant, Wise, Very Learned Governor-General and the High Council of New-Neth-
erland, at New-Ainsterdam.
Commission of Roeloff Swartwodt as Shekiff of Wiltwyck.
23 May.
The foregoing letter of Roeloff Swartwout was opened and read in Council, in which he sub-
stantially requests to be appointed and installed as Schout for the Esopus. Although Director-
General and Council do not deem the said Swartwout a fit person for that office for several reasons,
yet taking up again the order and directions of the Noble Lords-Directors, dated the . . . ,
they have appointed and installed the same as provisional Schout ou the £sqpus and have given
him the following commission:
The Director-General and Council of New-Netherland to All, who shall see this or hear it
read Greeting. Know ye, that in conformity with directions of the Noble Lords-Directors of the
Incorporated West-India Company, Department of Amsterdam, we have appointed and installed,
as we herewith appoint and instal Roeloff Swartwout as provisional Schout in the village of Wilt-
wyck on the Esopus, to serve there in the capacity of Schout in accordance with this Commission
and the Instructions, already given to him or hereafter to be given, as a good and faithful Schout
is bound to do. We therefore command and charge all and everybody, to acknowledge the said
Roeloff Swartvjout as such and to afford and give him any help and assistance, when called upon,
in the performance of his duties. Date as above.
200 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Council Minute. Coenelis Melyn's refusal to sureendee the soil of Staten-
ISLAND TO THE WeST-InDIA CoMPANY.
Carnelis Melyn was summoned and appeared before the Council. He was asked, upon taking
up the contract made between the Lords-Directors and the said Melyn regarding Staten- Island on
the 13"' June 1659, whether he had in his care any records or documents concerning said island
and whether he was willing to deliver the same to the Director-General and Council, agreeable to
the said contract and further to transfer the said island for the behalf of the Incorporated West-
India Company, Department of Amsterdam, except the land, houses and lots, which he has now
or may enter upon hereafter, on the aforesaid island, pursuant to said contract.
The said Cornells Melyn answers substantially, that he is willing to deliver the said records
and documents in his care to the Director-General and Council and does so directly, by handing
over the papers specified below and declaring, that he has no others concerning the aforesaid island.
He says in regard to transferring and conveying tlie said island to the Hon''''' Incorporated West-
India Company, excepted the land, houses and lots, which he has there etc'', that it has never been
intended by him, but only that he should give up, surrender, convey, cede and transfer all com-
mand, authority, jurisdiction, pre-eminence, prerogatives etc", which belonged to him in his capacity
as Patroon of the said island : he requests however, that a new deed of ownership for the said
island may be issued to him, as he has surrendered the deed given hira for it by Mr. Kieft.
It was replied, that, if it had been the intention to leave him in possession of the whole island,
it would seem not to have been necessary, to make the condition, that he should have and keep for
himself and his heirs as free allodial property the lands, houses and lots, which he has on the
aforesaid island and has used and cultivated heretofore or which he may want to enter upon etc" ;
further, if the whole island belonged to him, what had the Lords-Directors bouglit then from the
heirs of Baron van der Capellen, who have now re-transferred their share to the Hon''''' Company.
Cornells Melyn acknowledged then, that he had made over one third of the said island to
Baron van der Capelle, but that he had still great claims on the island, as far as tiie other two
thirds were concerned he did not intend to resign his title to them, but it looked as if the Hon'"'"
Lords-Directors had understood it so.
The aforesaid Cornells Melyn was then informed that he was charged for his own passage
and that of the servants, whom he had brought over, like all others, who come over at the expense
of the Company, as it says in the abovementioned contract, that he and his family shall be brought
over at the expense of the Company according to present custom, which means that the advanced
fare shall be refunded here in due time. Melyn contended, that he and the Lords-Directors also
had understood it to mean, that he and his people were to be brought over free this time, without
refunding the advanced fare, and that, as he was granted exemption from duties on goods valued
at 1000 guilders and has not brought so much from Holland, he may deduct the remainder here
in paying the duties.
It was resolved after divers discussions pro et contra, to send a copy hereof to the Noble
Lords-Directors and not to proceed any further in this matter, until a better explanation of the
aforesaid contract has been received from the Lords-Directors. Date as above. (23'' of May 1661.)
The papers, which Cornells Melyn surrendered as concerning Staten- Island, were :
A petition of Cornells Melyn to the Noble Lords-Directors and their reply to it, by which
he receives consent to establish a Colony on Staten-Island and is acknowledged as its Patroon,
dated 3* July 1640.
Another petition of the said Melyn to the Lords- Directors, of the 18"" February 16-11, sub-
Neio Yoi'h Historical Records. 201
mitted after his release, having been taken a prisoner by the Dunkirlcers, in which lie requests
permission, to go to New-Netherland with his wife, children, servants and some animals in the
Company's ships.
Two extracts from the Resolutions of the Lords Directors, dated IS"* and 25"" February IGil,
which renew the consent formerly given.
A title deed, which is the conveyance of Staten-Island to Cornelis Mehjn, issued in pursuance
of the aforesaid consent and signed by the IIou''" General Wille7n Kieft, dated 19"' June 1642.
Letter from Koeloff Swartwout, Sheriff, in the name of the Magistrates of
WiLTWYCK, in which HE ACKNOWLEDGES THE RECEIPT OF INSTRUCTIONS ETC. AND RE-
QUESTS COPIES OF ORDINANCES ETC.
To the Honorable and Valiant Director-General.
"We of the Court have received on the 9"" of June your Honor's letter, inclosing our instruc-
tions and orders ; the Schout has also shown us the document, which your Honor has sent to him
and henceforth we consider him our Schout and officer, as directed by your Honor and the High
Court or as will be directed.
This village is at present in a good condition, only when Claes de Ruyter came here, we do
not know on what errand, on the 13'^'' of this month of June about nightfall, about 120 savages
came into the village and as tricks were played on them by firing off the guns of the dischai-ged
soldiers some of them were found to be unfit for defense, we deemed it necessary immediately to
put some burghers on guard for the night for our security ; else we hear nothing, but that every-
thing is well with the Indians.
"We further learn, that your Honor has forbidden us in the instructions, to make in our capac-
ity as Commissaries any ordinances, placards or orders, we therefore request, that your Honor
will please to send us by first opportunity some placai-ds, especially concerning drunkenness and
others, which your Honor will please to send for the public welfare. Lastly my salutations and
be everybody commended to God's mercy.
Actum, 1-1"' June In the name of the Commissaries
iAWiltwyck^ A" 1661. by me, your Honor's obedient servant
To his Valiant Honor. Koeloff Swarfwout.
Director-General
Pieter Sttiyvesant
at Fort Amsterdam.
MuSTER-RoLL of the GARRISON AT WiLTWTCK.
List of the garrison on the Esopus, now called Wiltwyck, the IS"" June 1661.
Christian Niessen, at present Commander
Jan Pierssen, Corporal
Jonas Rantzou, Corporal
IlendricTc from Utrecht
26
202 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Hendrick the Rider
Hendrick Cornelissen
Hendrick Martensen
Andries Noorman
Gerrit AheUy, Cadet
Conraet Hayra, private soldier, desires his discharge. • . ■
Paulus Thomassen
Gerrit van Campen
Cornelis Hinssendorp These have been discharged :
Frederick Claessen Marten Harinsen, Cadet
Jacob Melone Jan the Brabanter, Cadet
Christian Andriesen Marten Warners, Cadet
Pieter Jellissen Thomas Thomassen, Cadet
Adriaen Vornier Jellis Bottien, Lance-pesade
Jan Hamelton Pieter van Halen, Cadet
Joannis Leblein Andries Barentz, private soldier
Ja7i Westhuysen Jan Broersen
Arriaen Yorbert Michiel Yerbrugge
Jan Gerritsen Paulus Paulsen
Jacob Biirhannsen These ask for their discharge :
Jan Lootman Joris Metzer, Scotchman (?)
Andries Booatz desires to remain in the service, while Wihn Croeger, Scotchman (^)
Hendrick Cornelissen desires to be discharged iu his stead. they are both here
RePOET made by ClAES JaNSEN DE E.UYTER OF THE RESULT OF HIS VISIT TO THE EsOPUS InDIANS.
Claes Jansen Ruyter, who had been sent out to the Esopus to ascertain, how the Esopus
savages behaved, reports, that they will not allow him to come to their village, but that some came
to meet him, who among other speeches said, that they had forgotten, wliat had passed during the
war, but they wanted their captured friends back, to see whether the heart of the Dutch was good
and they requested, that the savages, who had been recalled from Curacao, might be delivered at
their arrival to Oratatn. Done at Fort Amsterdam in New-I^etherland, 16'" June 1601.
Letter from Arent van Curler to Director Stutvesant, requesting authority
TO purchase and SEITLE A GREAT FLAT BACK OF FoRT OrANGE (SouENECTADY).
Very Worshipful Sir.
When I was last at the Manhatans, I spoke to your Honor about some friends, wlio are very
anxious to acquire and cultivate with your Honor's approbation and knowledge the Great Flat,
which your Honor knows ; there are already 6 or 8 families inclined to it. Your Honor consented
then and promised me a document from your Honor, which was to assist in the purchase of these
lands, but nothing came of it on account of the daily occupation of your Honor, so that your Honor
New Yorh Historical Records. 2 0.']
promised to send it to me. As I fear, that tlie daily business of your Honor's administration may
have driven it out of your Honor's memory and as the way is opened now and the savages are
quite willing to give it up for a small price, especially on account of the poor trade, which turns
out very bad, therefore the parties desiring to acquire it have resolved to send the bearer hereof,
Philipp Hendricksen Brouioer, as express messenger, to remind your Hon'''* Worship of it, for
it is high time (if 3-our Hon**'" Worship should please to give consent), that they provide them-
selves in due time with hay and food for their cattle and also make a road there. Your Honor
will please not to be in doubt about the population, as it is done here mostly by the poorer people,
and least of all that one piece of bread shall be eaten, before the next is earned. It would there-
fore be better to look out in time for getting there in a good manner, for afterwards it may be too
late. I do no doubt, as your Hon''''' Worship is also fond of farming, that your Honor will with
your Honor's inborn urbanity consent to the fair request of these people. They are quite willing
to furnish the money for the purchase of the said lands out of their own pockets, until it shall be
decided otherwise by your Honor. Closing herewith I pray your Honor's decision will please to be
favorable to these people in their good intention, as far as possible and conclude by commending
your Honor to the grace of God, wishing a happy, long and prosperous administration while 1
shall always be and remain.
Sir, Your Honor's most humble servant
Hens. Henselaersioych,
IS'" June 1661. . A. van Cuklek.
P. S. If your Honor should need 3 or 4 muds of oats for feed for your Honor's horses, please
to give me an order and I shall send your Honor some of my own.
Your Honor's servant
A. v. CUELEE.
23'^ June.
Received and read the foregoing letter from S'' Arent van Gorier, dated the 18th inst., con-
taining in substance a request made as well for himself as in the name of some others, to have
permission for the cultivation of a certain great plain, lying back of Fort Orar^ge inland, and con-
sent for the purchase of the same fi-om the lawful owners and the establishing of a settlement
there. After due consideration Director-General and Council gave their consent and granted the
request, provided that the lands, which the petitioners desire to buy from the lawful owners, be
transported and conveyed in usual manner to Director-General and Council aforesaid, as repre-
sentatives of theii" Worships, the Lords-Directore of the Incorporated West-India Company : what-
ever the petitioners pay out to the lawful owners for the aforesaid lands, shall be refunded to
them in due time or balanced against the tithes.
Done at the meeting held in Fort Amsterdam \n New-Netherland, the 23'* of June 1661.
Lettee feom Dieectoe and Council to the Commissaries at Foet Orange in an-
swer TO A EEMONSTRAliCE FEOM BeVEEWTCK (AlBANt) AGAINST THE SETTLEMENT
ON THE Geeat Mohawk flat (Schenectady).
Honorable, Beloved, Faithful.
Your Honors' letter of the 12"' inst. has been duly received by ns on the 24"" : we find therein
little worth answering, except what your Honors mention only with one word regarding the dam-
204 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Itiver.
age, which might be done to Beverioyck, if the settlement on the wellknown Great Plain near the
Mohwiok country should be undertaken and we are astonished by what follows, that the reasons
given to you cannot be repeated and that they must be deferred until the arrival of the Director-
General, who as yet is not sm-e, when he will come. "We think, that they can better be given in
writing, than by word of mouth ; this was also proposed before now to several persons of your
Honors' board, who made oral propositions especially concerning this matter. Your Ilonors may
easily imagine, that written propositions are better discussed and defended than oral ones and
your Honors are therefore once more requested to communicate to us in writing by next chance
the presupposed damages and grievances, in order that such a change or a continuation may be
ordered with so much more equity, as then shall appear to be for the best of the public welfare.
Honorable, Beloved, Faithful.
This serves only as invoice for the accompanying 100 lbs. of powder and the enclosed pla-
cards, which your Honors must publish on receipt thereof and affix properly ; the merchants must
also be informed, that they have either to come down themselves, or direct somebody, to see the
cases and packages opened, which they send away, so that the Company may not be defrauded of
the duties any longer. With cordial salutations we commend your Honors to God's protection
and remain,
Fort Amsterdam Honorable, Beloved, Faithful,
in New-Netherland Your Honors' affectionate friends
the 24:'" June 1661. The Director-General and Council of N. iV.
Extract feom a Lktter of Stutvesant to the Dieectoes in Hollajs'd : he
SUSPECTS the EsoPUS AND OTHEE InDIANS OF EVIL DESIGNS, NOTWITHSTANDING
THE PEACE LATELY MADE, DISCUSSES THE MILITIA QUESTION AND COMPARES jSTew-
EnGLAND INSTITUTIONS WITH THOSE OF NeW-NeTHEELAND ; SwAETWOUT IS AT
LAST APPOINTED ShEEIFF OF EsOPUS ; OONDI'nON OF StATEN IsLAND ETC. 21^'
July 1661.
******
We have informed your Honors in detail by our last letter of last year, what the result of the
war with the JS^-opus savages had been and under what conditions a peace had been concluded
with them. Although the aforesaid Esopus, as well as the Raritan and Nevesinck savages have
since that time kept cpiiet, we are nevertheless not without fears and anxiety, that when they see
an opportunity tliey will take advantage of it to strike a blow and revenge themselves; we are,
indeed, almost constantly warned against them by other savages and are made very uneasy and
circumspect ; we have nevertheless found ourselves obliged (as well by your Honors' urgent re-
commendations and absolute ordei's, as by our own inability to maintain so many soldiers without
a subsidy from Fatherland) to discharge a large number of them, God grant that it may turn out
to the best and without danger : the proverb says " Necessity has no law " and " Who obeys
orders, does well," therefore we hold ourselves blameless, if in consequence of the dismissal, as
ordered by your Honors and necessitated by our situation, some unexpected mishap slioukl befal
your Honors' territory and its inhabitants. In the meantime we shall not fail to make all possible
efforts to protect the same with the power and means, which God and your Honors have eiitrusted
to and left us.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 205
"We might reply miach to the motives and reasons, whieli your Ilonors quote (to wit, that in
time of necessity, soldiers might be enlisted here for a short time, as the Frencli and English
nation always have done, who never employed or maintained military in the estaijlishment of their
colonies), but will not do it to avoid unpleasant feelings and reproaches, while with your Honors'
permission we will state briefly in regard to the first, that the deplorable experiences have shown
us as well in the rencontres with the English as with the savages, that no or at least very few
soldiei-s can be enlisted and taken into service here in an emergency. As to the second point,
namely, that the French and English Colonies are maintained without military, it is well known,
that these nations are exempted from all duties and taxes to foreign masters and that they are
their own masters here in this country, they elect here their own chiefs, magistrates and what de-
pends thereon, settle their own taxes and are in consequence subject to being impressed here as
well as in their home countries, a proceeding which is not allowed by the Netlierlandish people
nor by your Honors' subjects, who have said regarding this matter and repeatedly say, the Com-
pany has engaged itself by the Exemptions to protect us and receives for it the export aiid import
duties and the excise. Aside from this the afoi'esaid the English and French colonies are continued
and populated by their own nation and countrymen and consequently bound together more firmly
and united, while your Honors' colonies in New-Nethei-land are only gradually and slowly peopled
by the scrapings of all sorts of nationalities (few excepted), who consequently have the least in-
terest in the welfare and maintenance of the commonwealth. In short, the English are too much
for us and the natives by their numbers and power. Experience shows, what the French colony
in Canada will come to through the absence of military. The French pi-isoners, brought away
by the Maquas savages from under their forts every year, and occasionally ransomed by our
people, declare unanimously, that if the French receive no assistance by soldiers from France,
they will shortly be obliged to leave the country ; the gracious God may grant, that the Maquas
will not begin with us, after they have destroyed and finished with the French. As far as we are
concerned, we wish sincerely, that we could govern and maintain your Honors' territories without
fear and military.
The second point which your Honors recommend us concerning the discharge of the soldiers,
who have served their time, is to animate them to remain here and to give them for that pui'pose
some good and suitable lands. We do not fail to do our duty in one or the other direction by
ofiiering them full payment, but on the other side nobody can be kept here against his will and
wish or be paid here, the more so as the major part of them reply, " We have not learned any
trade nor farming, the sword must earn us our subsistence, if not here, then we must look for our
fortune elsewhere ; " hence some discharged soldiers, enlisted in the Fatherland, will come back by
this ship.
******
Far be it from us. Most Worshipful Gentlemen, to slight your Honors' authority and to
disapprove the choice, made by your Honors, of Roeloff Swartwout for Schoiit at t\\e Esoj}us ;
we have only delayed his installation until a fit opportunity should offer and the arrival of your
Honors' further orders, for we mistrusted his capabilities and kept the place vacant so far. In
pursuance of your Honors' special request he is now appointed and we leave the result to his be-
havior and suitableness.
******
"We found in your Honors' last letter and the enclosures belongmg to it the contract made
with the heirs of the late Frederick van der Capelle to Ryssel concerning his claims on Staten-
Island and your Honors' order to deliver in due form to his attorne}' all buildings, implements,
206 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
cattle etc. Summoned before lis the attorney of the Late Baron, one Adriaen Post, said and de-
clared, that all the houses had been burned during the well-known affair with the savages Anno
1655 and that no other property had been left, except a few heads of cattle, which he himself had
hunted up after having been released from captivity. Most of these have died and a few have
been sold by him for means to maintain his wife and children. "We shall upon occasion inquire
further into the truth and the details and inform your Honors as in duty bound. But we meet
here a new and unexpected claim upon this island made by Cornelis Melyn, who pretends, that
although he has sold to your Honors the title and privileges as Patroon of the island, he has not
disposed of the land itself, so that the said Melyn claims, as your Honors will see by the enclosed
extract from our minutes, to be owner of two-thirds of the land on Siaten- Island, besides the
claims, which he has on the other third against the heirs. This is the reason, why these suitable
lands are not settled and cultivated and they will be settled and cultivated only slowly, as long as
the aforesaid Melyn makes claims to be owner of either the whole or part of it. What he says
regarding the money advanced by your Honors to him and his farmservants, your Honors will see
by the aforesaid extract from our resolutions and we await your Honors' explanation as well for
the one as the other.
******
The widow of Dirck Smith, the late Ensign, who died to our great regret towards the end
of last 3'ear, comes over by one of these ships. She requested our recommendation and interces-
sion with your Honors, that she might receive her late husband's monthly pay there. Consider-
ing the good and faithful services of the deceased, especially during the last affair with the savages,
we could not refuse to the widow, to request your Honors respectfully to favor her with as quick
a dispatch as possible.
PETrrioN OF Peter Billou, Claude le Maptre and others, all recently ar-
rived EMIGRANTS, FOR LAND ON StATEN-IsLAND.
The 22'^ August (1661), Monday.
Present in Council the Honorable Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Hon''"' mem
bers of the Council Nicasius de Sille and Johan de DecTcere.
Before the Council appeared Pieter Billou and Walrm'<€n Luten, wlio stated for themselves
as well as for some other persons, arrived by the last ships, that the locality of Staten-Island suited
them well and they requested therefore, that some of the lands on the said Staten-Island might
be allotted and given them as property for farm-land, meadow and pastures and that lots for houses
and gardens might be laid out at a convenient place.
The Director-General and Council heard the petition and after taking it in consideration,
they resolved to look up a convenient place on Statei\rlsland and lay it out for a village. Date
as above.
The persons, who asked for lots on Staten-Island, are, besides Pieter BiUou and Valrave
Luten, Harmen Bartels, Jacob Salomons, Jan Claesen, Johannes Christofels, Glaude U Metre,
Andries Jemands, Thys Barentsen from Leerdam, Ryck Ilendriclcs, Gerrit Mannaai, Myndert
Coerten, Gerrit Cornelissen, Teunis Cornelissen, Capt. Post, Gooert Loocquermans, Jan Jacobsen
from Reenen, Wynant Pieters, Paulus Dirck from Luxemhourg.
New Yorh Historical liecords. 207
Report of the State of Feeling among the Catskil and Esopus Indians.
(Not signed, but in the haudwriting of Roeloli Swartwout, the Sheriff at Esopus.)
Noble, Very Worshipful, High Council,
Honorable Director-General and Presi-
dent of the High Council in the City of
New-AmsUrdain in New-lVetherland.
Whereas to day, the 27"" of August, a letter from the High Council was received by the
Schout and the Commissaries, the matter was taken in hand and to heart, after learning its con-
tents, and we are still engaged with it as mucli as possible. The Maquas, who has been to the Cats-
kil with C'laes de Ruyter and seems to keep faith with us, has been afterwards requested to go to
the Esopus savages and inform himself of it, they pretended not to know anything about it, finally
being pushed to get information, the Maquas reported to us, that a Catskil savage, who had for
wife an Esopus squaw, travelled with an Esopus boy from the Esopus savages to the Catskils /
on the road they came across some horses and the Catskil savage is said to have offered his gun to
the Esopus boy and said, " Kill one of the Dutchmen's horses," and when the boy refused, the
CatskU savage said, " What are these Dutch dogs to me, I am not afraid to kill one of their horses."
Commission of TiELEiiAJSf vajst Vleeck to be Sheriff of Beegen (N. J.)
The 5"" of September 1661.
Petrus Stuyvesant, in behalf of their High : Might : the Lords States- General of theUnited
Netherlands and the Noble Lords-Directors of the Privileged West India Company Director-
General of New-Netherland, Curacao, Aruha, Bonayro and dependencies with the Honorable
Council Greeting:
Know ye, Wliereas for the promotion of justice in the village of Bergen, situate on the west
side of the North Piver of New-Netherland a suitable person is required, to attend there to the
duties of the Schout's office, for which place one Tieleman van Yleeck, Notary public in this city,
has been proposed. Therefore we have, confiding in his ability, piety and good parts appointed
and commissioned, as we hereby appoint and commission the same to be Schout of the aforesaid
village, to hold, have charge of and serve in the said ofiice at the aforesaid place and the district
thereof, pm-suant to the instructions, which he has already received or may hereafter receive, to
bring to justice accordingly all breakers of all political, civil and criminal laws, ordinances and
placards, to fine, execute and punish them with the punishments ex]3ressed therein, to demand
that upon his direction and accusation all criminal matters and abuses shall be corrected and
abated and all sentences speedily and without delay be executed and to do further, what a
good and faithful Schout is bound to do in this I'egard, on the oath taken by him. We charge
therefore the Schepens and inhabitants in the district of the aforesaid village to acknowledge the
said Tieleman van Yleeck as our officer and Schout, as aforesaid, and to give and cause to be given
to him, upon request, all necessary and possible assistance in the discharge of his duties, for we
have concluded, that this is necessary for the service of the Hon*'^ Company and the promotion of
justice. Thus done at the meeting of the Noble Director-General and Council, held at Fort Am-
sterdam in New-Netherland, the 5"" of September A" 1661.
208' Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Okdinajjce erecting a Court of Justice in Bergen, N. J.
(See Laws of New-Nether!and, p. 403.)
Letter from Mathew Gilbert to the Director-General, informing him that
A COMMITTEE HAD BEEN APPOINTED ON THE PART OF A COMPANY IN NeW-EnG-
LAND, WHO DESIRE TO SETTLE AT AcHTER CuLL.
To the much honored Gouerno' of the New-Netherlands humble salutations.
Seeing it hath pleased God to order it in his p'uidence, that a companie of Considerable per-
sons, that Came into N. E., that they might serue God w"" a pure Conscience and enjoy such
liberties and priueledges both Civill and Ecclesiasticall, as might best aduantage vnto, and strengthen
them in the end and worke aforesaid, w* also thorough the mercy of God they hauve enjoyed for
more then seuentie yeares together and the Lord hauing blessed them w*"" posterities so that their
numbers are increased and they being desirous to p'uide for their posterities, so as their outward
comfortable subsistance and their soulles welfare might in the use of sutable means thorough the
blessing of the almightie be attained, In order hereunto they haue appointed some to view some
adjacent parts of this Amerrican wildernes, who haue bin Curteously & encom-ageingly enter-
tained by Y Hono'', w'*" the Companie doeth acknowledge w"" all thankfullnes — And haue now
sent some of our honor'^'* trusties and well beloved friends, to wit, M'' Benjamin ffen, 'W Robert
Treatt, MJ Lawes & Deacon Gun in the name of the Committee empowred by the Companie and
in y'= behalf of the Companie to treat and Conclude as they shall see cause with your hono'' or
whom it shall eoncerne About the tearmes upon w* they may be encouraged to begin to plant and
so from time to time as they are able to proceed yearly by some of themselues and by some of
their posteritie or their friends that may hereafter desire to joine w"" them for the enlargm' of the
Kingdom of Christ Jesus in the Congregationall way and all other meanes of Comfort in subord-
ination heervnto. And seeing that this Designe if sutably encouraged may hopefully be more for
the glory of God and benefit & welfare of the D^iteh nation In Amerrica and the hono"' of their
principalis in Europe then any yet hath bin by planters vnder their shaddow in these parts. The
Companie doeth therfore desire that neither any queries or p'^positigns made by our hono"''^ messen-
gers betrusted and Instructed might be in the least measure greiuous or offensiuo to your hono'' or
any Intrest w"" you, for we are true men and noe spies, but to p'uide good righteous and honest
things for o'selues posterities and friends like minded : As we haue alreadie for many yeares en-
joyed and are come by these our messengers to you And therfore in order to p''posaUs wee desire
that w"'out offense wee may haue as plaine and cleare an answer as may be to these following en-
quiries and p''positions.
ffrom Milford Dated the 8"" of Mathew Gilberte in the name of
November 1661. In New England. the Coraittee impouered by the
Companie.
N^ew Yorh Historical Records. 209
Peopositioxs agreed upon by the Committee in the name & BEnAi.FE of the
COMPANIE TO BE PRESENTED TO THE MUCH HONOr'^'' GoUERNO" OF THE NeW-
Netheelands by those, whose names are subscribed.
1. That if a Church or Churches of English shall be planted in the place p'pounded they may be
allowed by the Authoritie of the high and mighty Lords & States General of the United P'uinces
in the Netherlands in Europe And w"" the app'bation of the Bewindhebbers of the West India
Companie to enjoy all such powers priuiledgcs and liberties in the Congregationall way as they
haue enjoyed them in New- England aboue twentie yeares paste without any disturbance Impedini'
or Imjjositions of any other formes, orders or customes to be obserued by them'; And that therein
they be Allowed and Ajjproued churches by some publique testimonie vpon Record.
2. That if the English Churches planted vnder the Dutch Gowernement shall consent to conso-
ciate together for mutuall helpfullues : They may be allowed by the Authoi-ity & with the appro-
bation aforesaid soe to doe and to call a synod and therein to establish by common consent such
orders according to scripture as may be requisite for the suppressing of haeresies, schismes and false
worships and for the establishm' of truth w"" peace in those English churches. And that the
Gouernor & Courts at JVew-Amsterdam shall protect the said English churches and Synnods from
any that oppose them or be Injurious to them.
3. The English planters doe desire that they may haue libertie and power by y" Authority &
w"" y"" approbation aforesaid to haue the ordering of all Judicature and of all their civill affaires
within themselves, to chuse their owne magistrates and all other officers and Constitute and keep
Courts and make all such lawes and orders as they shall find most sutable to their condition and
weKare in that place And that all persons, planters and others, for the time they are amongst them
w"'in their p''cincts, shall be bound to acquiesce in all their lawes, orders, sentences and appoint-
m" of any of their owne Court or Courts and officers determinately according to such orders and
lawes as are or shall be from time to time agreed vpon & enacted by them and unto their senten-
ces made & verdicts declared without apj)eales to any other Authority or jurisdiction. This power
the English in Amerrica within New-England have had and exercised in all causes by the graunt
of the late King of England, Charles the First, as is to be seen in his Majesties letters pattent
aboue twentie years together. And it is much more necessary that they haue it vnder the Dutch
(whose lawes they know not nor vnderstand their language and the way and manner of their ex-
erciseing this their sole power). "We purpose according to the fundamentalls receiued in New
Hauen Collonie w'^'' are in print to be seen (or the Most of them) so far as wc shall finde it will
alike suite Christ's ends and our conditions there.
4. That all the lands agreed for, be clearly and vndeniably purchassed of the Indians by an
Athentik lustrum' or lustrum'^ and that wee may haue one of them in our Custody and that the
hands of those Indians that haue y° naturall and ciuill right be subscribed and soe owned by them
In the p'sence of English Duch and Indians as lawfully bought and sould and that then these
lands shall be made y° p''p' Inheritance of the English Planters and their posteritie for euer bj'
the Authoritie and pow' w"" the approbation aforesaid according to all p'sent and future ordere,
graunts and agreem'' or deuisions of all such lands so bought as shall be made by the English alone
amongst themselues by p'sous Intrusted and empowred by them for such afaires.
5. That noe Inhabitants be put vpon vs by the Duch but that we have the sole power of dispose-
ing our lands and entertaineing or rejecting all Inhabitants according to agreem'^ that shall from
time to time be made amongst ourselues,
27
210
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
6. That tlie English Planters in the aforesaid places by Authoritie and w"' approbation afore-
saide may haue equall liberties of tradeing with the Duck in all resjiucts, they payeing all lawfull
dues and custonies as the Duch doe or w"" any other whom so euer.
7. Our humble desire is that the p'mises being graunted by those in Uolland or to whom the
Pattent and power of such graunts appertaineth, may be declared and ratified by an Authenticall
Instrum* signed and sealed by the Pattentees in Enrope, if it remaines witli tliem And that a
coppie of it so signed sealed and Authentically Attested may be procured for the English Planted
vnder the Duch to be by them kept among their publique Records for y" benefitt of Posteritie.
Dated this 8"" of November 1661 Beniasiin ffex
ffrom Milford in New Eyigland. Kobeet TREAxr
Rich: Lawe
Jaspek Gun.
Answer of the Directoe-Geneeal and Council to the foeegoing propositions.
Extract ontli of the Recordes and Resolu-
tions of the Lord Director-General and
Counsels of the N. Nederlarids, taken in
their Court vppon
Monday, the 28"' of Novemb' 1661;
The Director Generall and Counsells off the iV^. Netherlands haveing perused the Commis-
sione and Propositions, produced by Benjamin Fenne, Robert treat. Hitch : Lawe and Jasper
Gun, Deputies of a greather Conipanic English People, propoundinge vppon Certaine terines to
be admitted as Inhabbittens and subjects vnder this Govcrnement, Doe judge the matters off a
hevier Consernement as to give soo full and satisfactory answer vppon Every pertieull,
Nevertheless, Consideringe the abovementioned Deputies are very desirous to obtaine any
Answer for to Relate vnto their principals, is Resolved to give this followeinge provisionate An-
swer:
Because there is no difference in the fundamental poincts of the "Worship of God betwixt tliese
and the Churches of New England, as onely in the Ruelinge of the same
The Director Generall and Counsell doe make noo Difficulte to give way & Consent vnto the
twoe first Propositions, because in our natyff Country, alsoo here was never practised restraint of
Conscience. In the meane tyme wee wish & hope that by a neerer meetinge and Conference be-
tween oure & theire Ministers further Obstructions in this poinct shall be remocved and that all
Lovinge Vnity shall be observed.
Uppon the Thirth Proposition vnto the petitioners shall be graunted in the waye of Magis-
trature. Judicature and Sivill affaires, all such power, Authoritie, Priveledge and Liberty as all
other townes & Collonies of N. Netherland have obtained, to wit, the Komination off theire owne
Magistrates within herselfes yearely in a dabble Number to be present vnto the Director Generall
and Counsell for to be Elected out of the same the Magistrates for that yeare and to Contirme
them, the which shall be qualified with sufficiant power tt authority for to make and to see appro-
bated and confirmed by the Director-Generall & Counsell all such Ordinances as they shall finde
good for the benifitt of theire townes or plantations, Accordinge to the same to doc Right it
Justice, the Appelle beinge Reserved vnto the high Court, in Conformite of the Generall Order
and E.xemptions graunted vnto all the Inhabitans of the N. Netherlands.
New Yorh Hi dor ical Records. 211
Tlic fourth it Sixt propositions were granted.
Conseriiinge the fifte proposition, none of the Townes in the N. Netherlands are troubled
with Inhabitanee, tlie which doe not Lyke her or her Magistrates, beinge reserved that they doe
not adniitt any Inhabitanee without approbation and acknowledgement of the Dirocf Generall &
Counsell and give their oath for the AfRrinatioii of Fidellyty. Thus enacted in the Fortres named
Amsterdam att the Court kept by the Lord Director Generall & Counsell of the N. Netherlands,
a dij ut supra.
Signed
P. Stdyvesant.
Agreed with the foresaid Recordes.
Subscryved C v. Ruyven Secretary.
Translated by me
Salomon La Chaie, Notary pub.
His Honor, the Councillor Johan de Dechere refused to give his opinion on the foregoing
propositions of the Emjlish Committee, because the said propositions were addressed only to the
Hon^"' Director-General of New Netherland and not to the Noble Director-General and the Hon-
orable Council, as it ought to have been done. A dij ut supra.
Ordinance of the Dieector-General imposing a land tax at Esopus to de-
fray THE EXPENSE OF BUILDING A MiNISTEe's HOUSE THERE.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, pages 413 and 448.)
Ordinance foe the obseevance of the Sabbath, peeyention of fires, con-
struction OF FENCES and HOUSES, AJ^D FOB KEEPING IN EEPATB THE PALISADES
AT WiLTWTCK, PASSED IS"" NoVBE. 1661.
(Ibidem page 415.)
OeDINANCE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW EOAD AT EsOPUS, PASSED 22^ NoVBE. 1661.
(Ibidem page 420.)
OeDINANCE FOE THE SPEEDY COLLECTION OF THE AEEEAJtS DUE ON THE HOUSE AJTD
8ALAEY OF THE MtNISTEE AT EsOPUS, PASSED NoVB. 24, 1661.
(Ibidem page 421.)
212
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Account of the excise in the village of Wiltwvck, with the names of those who paid it.
Excise of the wine and beer, recorded in the vil-
9.
lage of Wiltwyck since the 24""
9"" 1661.
9.
fol
9.
1. Uendrick Jochems
fi. 75-7
10.
1. Pieter Hillebrantz
2
10.
1. Aelbert Gyssbertz
12
10.
2. Jacob BurJians
71 14
10.
2. Gerrit Forcken
12
10.
2. Walraeff du Mont
24
10.
2. Jan Barentz Timmerman
1
11.
3. Barent Gerritzen
65
11.
3. Gritiez Westerkamps
1
11.
3. Jam Jansen Brabander
14
11.
3. Jan Lamhertz
3
11.
3. Joannes Leblein
2
11.
4. Jan Barentz Snyder
14
11.
4. Michiel Verhruggen
1
11.
4. Jan Pierssen
12
12.
4. Wouter AeThertz
24
12.
4. Thomas Swartwout
12
12.
4. Pieter van Halen
6
12.
4. dejonge Gesellen
2
12.
4. Theunis Vooeht
1
12.
5. Cornells Barentz Slecht
70 7
12.
5. Arent Jacobs
4
12.
5. Aelbert Heimans
65
13.
6. Mathies Capita
4
13.
6. Dirck Ariaens
1
13.
6. Hendrick Cornelissen
3
13.
6. t7a«, Barentz Backer
6
13.
6. Dom. Herm. Blom
58
7. Juriaen Westphalen
33
7. Matthies Roeloffs
16
7. Michiel Verre
3
7. t/ffiTi t)a74 Bremen
4
8. Gertruyd Andriesen
14
8. e7a«, ^(ST-teew /Swi^
17
8. Cornelis Jansen, sawyer
13
8. TFiZwi Jansen
12
8. Pieter Bruyn
2
fl 670. 8
441. 7
fl 1111.15
•
Dirck Wilmssen
Evert Pehen
Thomas Chambertz
Sohout Swartwout
Hendrick Hendrix
does Pietersen
Pieter Martensen
Sergeant Christiaen
Andries Barentz
Jonas Eantzou
Ariaen Huyberts
Cornelis Brantz
Maryken Huygen
Tiarck Claesen
Pieter the miller
Kerst Kerstensen
Bart Siebrantz
Gerrit van Campen
Uuybrecht Bruyn
Hendrick Jansen JLooman
Arent Pietersen Tack
Matthies Pr^incen
Wilm Jansen Stoll
Jan du Parcq
Wilm van Vredeiiborg
Marten Harmsen
Gyssbert Gyssbertzen
Matthies Blanciau
Lewis Dubo
Pieter Jellissen
f 9
40
84
32
4
2
2
23
9-
5
1
2
2
2
22
2
3
20
6
2
4
2
16
17
)-7
51
11
2
fl 441 7
To the 15 9"" incl.
New Yorh Historical Ilecords. 213
Extract from a letter of Vice Director La Montagne to Stuyvksant, re-
garding BRICKS purchased FOR AND SENT TO DojIINE BloM AT EsOPUS. FoRT
Orange, lO"" November 1661.
* * * * * *
la pursuance of your Honor's order I have called upon Anderies Ilerhcrtsen, the Constable,
for 5000 bricks ; he stated, that he had none and could not get any, so that I have been obliged
to purchase them to fill your Honor's order : I bought 3000 from Master Jacoh de Ilince at 10
guilders in beaver the thousand, which lions'" Cousseau was to take for himself to the Manhatans ;
I have given a receipt for these bricks and bought 3000 more from Jan Verheech for 22 guilders
in wampum to be paid here, which lieyndert Pietersen was to take to the Manhatans ; I ha\e
sent these 6000 bricks to Dom" Blom together with a letter to the same by Jan van Bremen.
Ordinance of the Director General directing the fencing and improving of
THE Lands and Lots at Esopus. November 25"' 1661.
(See Laws of New Netherland, p. 387.*)
Names of persons who supplied wheat at the Esopus.
Received wheat from the following persons and shipped it in the yacht of Flodder.
Received from Sergeant Christian Nisen 29 schepel of wheat
from Thomas Ghatribers • 70
from Cornells Slecht 30
from Jacoh Hap 28
List of those who have bubscribed for the support of the preacher Haemanus Bloom.
Thomas Siamher (Chambers) il 100
Jacob Jansen Stoll 100
Cornelis Slecht 50
Willem Jansen 50
Jacoh Jansen Stoutenhergh 50
Jan de Brabander ^ 15
Juriaen Westvael 50
Pieter Dircksen 60
Dirck de Goier 20
Hendrick Sewantryger 20
* The date there is erroneously given as 1660, but Stuyvesant was not at the Esopus in November, 1660, and
this ordinance was made simultaneously with the preceding ones on page 211. — Ed.
21-1: Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Matys 20
Marten Harmensen 25
Jan de Backer 12
Jan Broerisen 15
Wilhm Jansen 30
AUtert G&iiertsen 20
fl 637
Order on a petition of Willem Jansen, ferryman between Eergen and the
Manhatans, for the establishment of rates of ferriage.
Thursday, the 22'* of December (16G1.)
Present in Council his Honor the Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and the Hon''' ° Coun-
cillors Nioasius de Sille and Johan de Deckere.
The petition of WiUem, Jansen was taken up and read, which substantially states that the
Sellout and Schepeus of the village of Bergen had given him a provisional permission to work a
ferry between Bergen and the Island of Manhatans. He requests, that their Honors, the Di-
rector-General and Council will please to ratify it and to order, what he shall ask for ferriage.
It is answered.
The petitioner is referred back to the Schout and Committee of Schepens of the village of
Bergen., who are hereby authorized, to enter into a provisional agreement concerning the ferriage
with the petitioner to the best advantage of the inhabitants of said village and until further orders.
Date as above.
Petition of the inhabitants of Bergen for additional land.
The 22'* of December.
The petition of Tielma/n van VleecTc, Harmen Smeeman and Casper Steimits, proprietors of
land in the village of Bergen, was taken up and read, in which they demonstrated, that their
bouweries in the said village cannot be larger than 10 or 12 morgens and they request therefore,
that a corner of land, situate back towards the woodland, about 8 or 9 morgens, might be given
and granted to them, so that with the help thereof they may make convenient bouweries.
It is answered,
As the statement of the petitioners is correct, the surveyor is authorized to survey the desired
piece of land for the petitioners and to make a pertinent report to the Director-General and
OouncU. Date as above.
New York Historical Records. 215
Judgment in a suit of Dirck Jansen of Oldenburg against Thomas Chambeks,
foe expenses incueked in caeeyino dispatches during the late war with
THE Esopus Indians.
Dirck Jansen from Oldenhurgh, plaintifi" against Thomas Hal, attorney for Thomas
Chambers, defendant.
January 5, 1662.
The plaintiff states, that he has shown to their Honors, the Director- General and Council on
the 29"' of June 1660, that he was sent by Thomas Chamhers and Jacob Hap hither with letters
from the Esopus, as the emergency and condition of the country, arising from the troubles with
the savages, required it and that he was sent back by the Hon''"' Director-General with orders.
He requested, that he may receive a fair compensation for it, whereupon at that time he was sub-
stantially told, tliat the petitioner must make it appear, that he had been employed by the chief
officer there or upon his order, else he must apply to them, who had engaged him.
And whereas the defendant, in his aforesaid quality, had undertaken to carry out the orders
of their Honors, the Director-General and Council, concerning this matter for account of Thomas
Chambers, therefore the plaintiff believes, that defendant ought to be condemned to pay him,
plaintiff, for the journe^^s made six bevers.
The defendant answers, that the journeys were made for the service of the country and main-
tains, that they must therefore be paid out of the public funds, any way not by Thomas Chambers
alone, as Jacob Hap had given orders about it as well as Thomas Chambers.
The reply hereto was, that then this ought to have been done with the knowledge of the offi-
cer there and not upon his own authority.
The defendant answered, that the situation undoubtedly did not allow it, else it would most
likely have been done.
The Director-General and Council heard the parties and after considering again the petition
made by plaintiff and his partners on the 29"" June 1660 and tlieir answer, both recorded in the
Register of Resolutions of that date, they condemn the defendant in his aforesaid quality of agent
to pay to plaintiff three beavers or the value thereof, without prejudice to any claim, which he
believes to have upon the widow or heii-s of the above mentioned Jacob Hap. The balance of
three beavers are to be paid for reasons to the plaintiff by the Company. Date as above.
Letter from the Magistrates at Albany to Director Sjuyvesant ; the grant
MADE to AeENT VAN CuRLEE OF THE GeET FlAT ON THE MoHAWK RiVEE (ScHE-
nectady).
Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful Gentlemen.
These two savages are dispatched according to custom, to keep up the communication between
the two places during the winter. We salute your Worships by them and wish a happy and
blessed New-Year, prosperity to your Worships' administration and health to your Worships' per-
sons, may it so be for the honor of God, the welfare of the country and our souls and sahation
Amen!
We have been expecting the Hon'''* Director-General during last autumn, according to reports
of several people and had resolved to speak to bis Honor about the document given to S' Arent
216 Colunial Settlements on the Hudson River.
van Curler regarding the great Flat, lying between this place and the Maqxias eountiy, which was
granted to S'' Curler, but whereas his Honor, the Director-General, did not come here and the
interests of this place cannot well be explained in a letter, we shall leave it till the arrival of the
Hon""' Director-General, who, we hope, will come here next spring.
No change has occurred here during the winter, which it is worth while to write, everything
is in good order, wherewith closing we coumieud your Worships to the protection of the Almighty
and remain
Your Hon''"' Worships' obedient
Fort Orange, servants
12"' January A" 16G2. La Montagne
RUTGKR JaCOBSEN
Feanz Barents Hastcoeen
Evert J ansen Wendel
Abeam Staats
Philipp Pietersen Schuylee
Adriaen Geeeetsen.
Ordinance of the Court of Bergen for the construction of a public well in
THE village, passed 28'"' January 1662, ratified 12'"' Febe''.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 424.)
Purthee answer of THE Dieector-General and Council to the peoposals of
Messrs. Fenn and others, of New PIaven Colony, stating the conditions,
on which they may settle a town on acutek cull.
John Gregorie, arrived here yesterday from
New-Migland, requested further answer to
the propositions of some Englishmen, which
are recorded in the Register of Resolutions
under date of 28'" November 1661. The fol-
lowing answer was given to him :
Worthj' and Lovinge friendes
Wee doe Conceave, that our Scriptuall answer more largly declared by words of mouth and
mutnall discourses are such as possybely can be Expected and as is Answcrabel to our Superiore
in Europe : it is known (Honnor and thancks be given for it to the BountifuU God), that there is
no at the Least difFerency In the fondamentall points off Religion, the differency in Churches
orders and gouvernment so small that wee doe not stick at it, therefore have left and leave it still
to the freedom off your owne Consiences.
In Civil matters which doe not Schruppel the Consicncy, It is a Common Proverb, in Strainge
places, we may finde, but must make noe Lawes ; Conferringe our Common Practis in matters of
Civil Justice with your Printed orders we find soo little difference, that it wil not hinder the
buissenis in hand, only the Appeale and Confirmation of Magistrates out a dubbel Number (: as a
token of an acknowledgement to a higher authority :) must be Referred to the Gouverneur General
New York Historical Records. 217
& Counsel in tyme beeinge ; but if tlie summe wheereof a party may appeale & the Feynes before
he may Appeale (beinge Coiuinouly hundert gilders and the feynes twee Pound Sterlinge) to j'oiir
judgement is to Smal both may be exalted to a heyer Summe.
The Confirmation of Magistrates out a dubbel Number is in several Respects requisit & need-
ful, more for the good of the township, as for the Authority of the Government ; the Reasons
Shortenes Sake, wee shal deferre to more Convenient tyme & Place, the Common practis of the
Govern our & Counsel before they proceed to the Election & Confirmation of the New Magistrates
is to advyse with the deputy of the old Magistrates presentinge the nominations before them,
which the most fitted men are for that office, wliereout in part the premisses may be deducted.
These twoe poincts beinge amongst your Propositions the Principals, whereabouts at the last
meetiuge the diflerancy (to our Remembrance) was left &, the Bearer your Present messenger ife
agent John Gregorie beinge not further Instructed, wee shall breake off for the Present, only wee
thought it meete for the Furthei-ance of the matters in hand to acquaint yow & those it may Con-
serne with the oath of Fidellity which in the first place all Inhabitants, secondly all Magistrates
and military officers, every one in his place are to doe, Soe after our love & Respects wee shal Rest
Amsterdam in the N. Netherlands Your Lovingo friend,
this 11"^ of March 1662.
A Coppie of the Oath of Fidelity to be done
and Subskrybet by those that are to Come and
to Settel vnder the Governement of the Prov-
ince of the N. Nethiirlands.
Wee doe in the Presence of the Almighty God heereby acknowledge, declare and sweare,
that wee shal be true and faithful vnto the high & mighty Lords the States Generals of the Vnited
Belgicq Provinces, the Right Honnourable the Lords Bewinthebbers of the West-India Comp?,
theire Governour & Counsel in tyme Beinge all fittinge & due obediance accordinge as other
Inhabitants of this Province in duty are Bound to doe ; that wee shal not acknowledge any other
Prince or State to have dominion over vs, Soo longe as wee shal live and Continue in this theyre
Province and Jurisdiction off the N. Netherlands.
Soo help my (or vs) the God Almighty.
Oath for Magistrates.
I, N. N., doe wel & truely sweare in the Presence of the Almighty and Everlivinge God to
be true & faithful to the high and mighty Lords the States Generals of the Vnited Belgicq Prov-
inces, the Right Honnourable the Lords Be-^inthebbers of the West-India Comp?, their Governour
General & Counsel in tyme Beinge, that I as Choosen and Confirmed Magistrate for the towne of
N. N. shal maintaine the true & Protestant Religion, soo as the same accordinge to the word of
God is declared and in this Province is Professed, that I shal vse my best and vtmost Endeavor
for the Supression off Mutinis, Sedition, Conspiraces or Invasion whatsoever I shal heare, may be
Prejudical to the abovementioned high & mighty & honnourable Lords & their Government here
Established, as also to the welfare of this Province in general as to the Particular Towne, whereof
I was Chosen ; that I accordinge to my best Skil as one of the Magistrates Chosen by the afore-
said Towne Shal vse & Exercyse good and Equal Administration of Justice, without favour or
affection, hatred or malicy to the Persons or Partys, and not be a Counselar in Privat in any Cause
dependinge before mee — ,
Soo help me God Almighty.
28
218 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Oath for Military Officers iu the Townships.
I, N. N., Captain, Leiftennant, Eynsen, Sergiant & all the Compagnie before this Present
Coulers, doe well & truely Sweare in the Presence of the Almighty and Everliveinge God, that
we shal be trne & faithful to the high & mighty Lords the States Generals of the Vnited Belgicq
Provinces, the honuourable Loi-ds the Bewinthebbers of the "West-India Comp? & their Gouver-
neur & Government heere Established, that we Shal Shew them and alsoo our Subalterne Magis-
trates al due Kespects and obediance not Bearingh any Armes against them in wath Kespeet
soever —
So help my (or vs) God Almighty.
Here follows a private letter of his Honor, the Director-General, sent concerning the forego-
ing matter to Mr. Eobbert Triatt.
Worthy and Loveinge Friend.
By Mr. John Gregorie was our answer to the Compagnie in general and therefore sent open,
■where out may be deducted, that all the Points of your propositions where graunted, Except the
Appeale, Election and Confirmation of Magistrates, from the first wee kan not declaine, the
Reasons of the other wheerefore it iu a dubbel Number ought to be Presented to a heyer Author-
ity ware to my opinion soo just and waithy that I see noe Reasons how to Answer the denyal,
notwithstandinge if any to the Contrary Can be brought forth, which may give more Light and
Satisfaction to our Court after due Examination, I wil and shal by al possible meanes endeavor
both heere and if need Requires by our Superiors in Europa, that the Corapanie in that point and
in Sum other grevances may obtaine al Reasonable Satisfaction : I hope not, that such a smal dif-
ference wil Cut off the buissinis in hand, therefore I shal Request you wil Be Pleased to send me
word by the Bearer, your & the ConipS final Resolution, that we in Buyinge and disposiiige of
that trackt of Land may order our Occasions as the Present tyme for the Common good of this
Provincy shal offer, so after my love & respects I shal Rest
Your lovinge friend.
Post Schript.
The Bearer Dirch Johns desyred my a letter of addres in the behalfe of his Cause, depend-
ingh before the Governour & Court of New-Haven Jurisdiction, my Request is yow will be
pleased to be helpfull vnto him, if Securitie should be Required, for his goods Layinge vnder
Arrest, if yow wil be Pleased to become his Security for itt, these shal oblidge me to save yow
harmles, so after my love I Rest as before. —
Amsterdam in the N. Neth-erlands
this 13'" of March 1662.
Waeeant empowering Oeatam, chief of Hackingkeshackt, and Mattano, an-
other CHIEF, TO seize any BRANDY FOUND IN THEIE COUNTRY AND TAKE IT WrTH
THE PERSONS SELLING IT TO NeW- AMSTERDAM.
Whereas Oratam, chief of Jlachinghesahy, and other savages have complained several times,
that many selfish people dare not only to sell brandy to the savages in this city, but also to carry
whole ankers of it into their country and peddle it out there, from which, if it is not prevented iu
time, many troubles will arise, therefore the Director-General and Council of N ew- Netherlands
not knowing for the present a better way to stop it, authorise the said chief together with the Sa-
Hew York liidorical Recorch. 219
diem 2rattenoticTc, to seize the brandy brouglit into their conntry for sale and those offering to sell
it and bring them here, that they may be punished as an example to others.
This is the document, given to the Sachems pursuant to the foregoing resolution :
The chiefs Oratam. and Mattano are hereby authorized, to seize the brandy brought into their
country for sale, together with those, who bring it and conduct them hither. Done at Fort Am-
sterdam in N. NetJierland, the 30'" of March 1662.
PETmoN OF Aeent van Curlee for a survey of the great Flat behind Fort
Orange (Schenectady).
The 6'" of April (1662.)
To the Noble, Very Worshipful, his Honor the
Director-General and the Honorable Council of
New-Netherland.
Shows with due reverence Arent van Curler, that he cum, suis (and his friends) had received
permission by a certain resolution of their Honors the Director-General and Council of Neio-Neth-
erland, dated the 23'' of June 1661, to buy from the lawful owners the lands on the well known
Great Flat, situate behind Fort Orange inland and whereas by virtue thereof the said lands were
bought by the petitioner cum suis and are now owned by them and whereas the same are also
busy now erecting houses, mills and other buildings and whereas petitioner cu7n suis wish to cul-
tivate and sow some of these lands during this season, which cannot well be done, unless tiie said
lands are surveyed, therefore the petitioner request in his and his friends' name, that yom* Hon'''^
Worships will please to authorize the surveyor Jacques Corteljouw that he survey and partition
the land and that he proceed thither now with the petitioner. Awaiting hereupon your Hon'''''
Worships' favorable decision, he remains etc etc.
Your Hon''''' Worships' servant
Arent van Curler.
The foregoing petition was taken up and read and the following reply was given :
Before the village is laid out and formed, as desired, the persons, who intend to go there as
settlers must be of a sufficient number, at least twenty families, and must report their names to the
Secretary of the Director-General and Council. They must engage themselves and promise, not
to carry on any trade with the savages under whatever name or pretext it might be, neither dii-ectly
nor indirectly. Date as above.
PETrriON OF Philipp Pietersen Schuyler and others foe leave to plant a vil-
lage AT THE Great Esopus.
To the Noble, Worshipful, his Honor the
Director-General and the Honorable Coun
cil of New-Netherland.
Show with all respect Philipp Pietersen Schuyler, VolcJcert Jansen and Goosen Gerrltsen
van Schaick, together with Jan Thomas and Andries Herhertsen, inhabitants of the village of
220 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
BeverwycJc rear Fort Orange, that it is evident that the prosperity of this province of New-Neth-
erland rests principally on agricultnre and commerce ; therefore the petitioners are very desirous
to establish ■with many more people a new village at the Great Esopus, where a great deal of
uncultivated land lies and the petitioners and other people are very willing and resolved, to begin
farming in earnest and continue in it ; they address tliemselves therefore to your Hon'"'^ Worships
with their humble request, that your Hon"'^ Worships will please for the benefit of the province
to order a survey for a new village and farmlands on the Great Esopus, in the most convenient
locality, which may be found and to have it laid out in as many lots as the area of the land may
admit and whereas the abovenamed petitioners are the first undertakers and settlers, to enter upon
and cultivate the aforesaid lands on the Esopus, they respectfully request, that your Hon"'* Wor-
ships will please to give and grant to each of them forty to fifty morgens of land, at and near the
spot, where the new village on the Esoptis shall be laid out : the petitioners promise, each for
himself, to enter upon their allotted lands immediately, to fence, plough, sow it, to build on the
lots "in the village houses, barns etc" and to furnish the cattle, necessary for such bouweries ; that
the petitioners may also receive title-deeds in dehita forma for the lands and house lots, which
doing etc they remain
Your Hou'''^ Worships Very obedient servants
PlIILIPP PlETEESEN ScHUTLEB
VOLCKEKT JaNSEN
GoosEN Geeeitsen
Andeies IIekbertsen.
The 6'" of April (1662).
Aiter the foregoing request had been taken up and read, it was i-esolved, to lay out a new
settlement on the Esopus and to accommodate the petitioners, as much as occasion shall permit.
Date as above.
Lease of Lot ISTo. 4 in the New Village at the Esoptts.
(Fort Orange Records. Vol. Notarial Papers, 1660-1676.)
This 4"" of May 1662 appeared before me Dirok van Schelluyne, Notary Public etc. Jan
Thomassen and Volckert Jansen, partners, parties of the first part and Gerritt Tooche and Jan
Gerritsen of Oldenlnirg, farmers and partners, as parties of the second part. The said Jan Thom-
assen and Yolckert acknowledge to have let and Gerritt Toocke and Jan Gerritsen to have rented
the lessors' lot of land No. 4, situate at the Esopus in the newly opened village, known to the les-
sees, under the following conditions :
The lessees are to enter upon, use and cultivate the said land from now to the first of May
1663 without paying rent therefor.
The lessors promise to furnish to the lessees during this season as much oats for seed, as the
lessees can conveniently sow upon the land, on condition that the same quantity of oats shall be
returned to the lessors at the end of the terra of rent.
The lessors shall deliver to the lessees free of charge at the landing of the Esopnis one hun-
dred boards to build a convenient house, which house, barn, stacks, fences around the land, made
for their convenience, are to belong at the end of the term to the lessors according to a valuation
by impartial parties, likewise a bridge, which must be built over the Ivil running by the land.
New Yorh Historical Records. 231
In accordance witli such valuation the price shall be refunded to the lessees, wlio however shall be
held to pay the full price of the above said boards at the end of their term.
The lessors also give now to the lessees the below stated animals to be used during their term,
viz. three mares and one gelding, a stallion and a young stallion, two cows, two heifers, two sows
with pigs, two young boars, six hens and a rooster. The lessees shall keep all these animals on
half share of the increase according to the custom of the country.
The lessors will supply the lessees with the following implements, a plow and a cart with all
things belonging to it except a plow-chain, to be furnished by the lessees, who shall return these
implements in good order at the end of their term.
The lessees shall have the use of the said land, horses and other animals for the time of four
consecutive years, beginning on the 1" of May 1GC3 and ending on the last of April 1667.
The lessees promise to pay as rent during the said four years 450 fl a year in beavers at 8 fl
or in grain at the market price beaver valuation or else in wampum, calculating a beaver at IH fl,
payments to be made each year and not to run from one year to another.
At the end of their term the lessees shall have the preference before others in case the land
is to be let again and if they are willing to pay as much as others.
All expenses and costs, arising on account of the village during the term of this lease, also the
working on and repairing of the fortifications shall fall on the lessees. Etc. etc.
Jeremitts van Rensselaer \ ^j^-^ggggg Jan Thomassen
Abram Staats ) Volckeet Jansen
Geerit Tockkn
The mark -K of Jan GEERrrsEN
of Oldenberg.
D. V. ScHELLUYNE, Notary Public 1662.
Like leases are made by Philipp Pieterse Schuijler owner of lots 1 and 5 with Barent Har-
Tnense, Septbr SG"" 1662, by Goosen Gerritsen, owner of lot 3, with Pieter Helbrantse, Octbr 21,
1662 and Novbr 17, 1664, by Ja7i Tamassen and Volckert Jansen, as owners of lot 5 (bought from
Ph. P. Schuyler ?) with Gerrit Toocke and Jan Gerritsen, Febr^ 9, 1663, also for lot No 5 at
Schenectady by Willem Tailler with Claes Frederickse van Petten and Isaac Cornelise June 16,
1664.
FUETHEE ANSWEE TO THE PEOPOSALS OF RoBEET TeeAT, PhiLIPP GrAVES AND JoHN
Gregoet of New-Haven concerning the settlement on Achter Cull.
30"" May (1662)
At the house of his Honor, the Director-General, present the Director-General and the Coun-
cillors, Messrs. Nicasitos de Sille, JLa-Montagne and Johan de Peckere.
Vppon the propositions made by the English deputies Bohhert Triatt, Philip]) Groues and
John Gregoi'y the Gouernour & Counsel of the N. Netherlands doe stil Remaine by that answer
as formerly in Schriptis was given and Sent vnto them and for further Explanation of Sum par-
ticulars, which they thincke to be doubtfull, this presents may serve.
First Conserninge the twoe former Propositions about the Churches orders and government
wee Referre that vnto themselves, that they not any way shal lie molested therein and iff need
should Require that advyce should be taken with Sum English Ministers or Churches within these
222 Colonial Settlements on tlte Hudson Hiver.
Province of the N. Netlierlands that shall be left to theyre owne liberty, But in Case iff a Synode
therevnto most be Kequiered the approbation and Consent of the Governour and Counsel then
beinge.
Conserninge the Third Proposition the Governour & Counsel doe give Consent that the afore-
said English Nation beinge setlet vnder this government shal have power by the most vote of the
Churches members, to nominate their owne Magistrates in such a quantity as they shall thinck
most meete and needfull for their towue or Townes, which Magistrates with the freemen shal be
Impoured, to make such Lawes and Ordinances, as occasion slial require, which lawes and ordi-
nances after Examination beinge found not oppugnant to the general Lawes of the Vnited Belgieh
and tiiis Provinces shal by the Governour & Counsel be Ratified and Confinned vnto them, only
the Governour & Counsel doe Reserve the Appeale of Criminel and Civil Sentences above the
Sum of fifty pound Sterlinge, without Reformation or appeale to that Sum, for all such Inhabitans
as therevnto shal Subschrybe and y'' Confirmation of the Magistrates out of dubbel Number jearly
to be presented vnto them, out of which dubbel Number with advyce or Communication of the
old Magistrates or their deputies the foUowinge Magistrates by the Governour & Counsel then
beinge shal be Confirmed.
Conserninge the further propositions, they are by these presents graunted. Actum in Foi't
Amsterdarn iu New-Netherland, the 30"' of May 1662.
Minute of Council, kejecting the petition of Jueiaen Teunissen to keep a
TAVERN AT EsOPUS.
June 15, 1662.
The petition of Juriaen Teunissen was taken up and read, who requested permission to live
and keep a tavern at the mouth of the Esopus Kil, at the northside of it, where his foster father
Kit Davitsen had formerly lived
Whereas this would tend to debauch the soldiers and other inhabitants there and whereas it
is also to be feared, that strong liquor might be sold there to the savages
Therefore it is decreed :
The request is denied for pregnant reasons. Date as above.
Petition or Sergeant Christian Niessen at the Esopus for an increase of pat.
To the Noble, Worshipful Director-General
and the Honorable Council oi New-Netheiiand.
Shows with all due reverence Christian Niessen^ chief sergeant in the service of your Hon*"'*
Worships, that I have had charge in this quality for some time of the garrison at the Esopus and
find that my pay is not suflicient for my subsistence, to attend duly to my position and therefore
I request, that your Hon'"''' Worships will please to consider, that I need a little higher pay and I
do not doubt, that after your Hon'''* Worships have taken it into consideration, they will favor me
with higher pay. Which doing I remain
Yonr Hon''''' Worships' servant
Christian Niebsen.
New Yorh Hisloricvl Records. 223
The Director-General and Council considered the expenses, which the petitioner must now
and then necessarily incur in the discharge of his duties and as the same have been attended to
with great diligence and vigilance since his appointment, it is decided,
That the petitioner shall henceforth receive 20 guilders monthly pay. Date as above (29"'
June 1G62).
Extract feom a letter of Director Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland :
ON the militia question ; TUREATS OF Esopus Indians. 15'" July 1662.
******
To avoid your Honors' displeasure we hardly dare to write anything fiu'ther in reply to wliat
your Honors say about discharging of more soldiers and that the inhabitants are bound to defend
themselves, after what we have formerly in detail explained regarding this, but we must remark
with submission to your Honors' wiser judgment, that if your Honors persist absolutely upon this
principle, namely total abolition of .the military and reliance on the inhabitants alone for the
offensive and defensive maintenance of this territory, it must not only be feared, but may undoubt-
edly be expected, that it will come to as bad an end with this acquisition as with others. As to
that the inhabitants are bound, to defend themselves, nature and necessity compel everybody to
do it and further (as your Honors continue) that at extraordinary occasions they must bear uncom-
mon imposed burdens and be subject to the guarding of their own and other frontier places, in
that we agree with your Honors. We promise ourselves and in behalf of their subjects to your
Honors, that they will not be found unwilling to do their best herein according to their powers,
when necessity and the circumstances require, that the military pursue the barbarians : our former
letter on this subject intimated only the reluctance and unwillingness of the inhabitants, to attack
the savages in the open field, and in relieving or bringing help to other outside places : we do
not remember, without desiring to contradict your Honors' better information, that citizens and
inhabitants in the Fatherland were held or compelled to it. It is desirable and would cause us
less anxiety, if this your Honors' territory could be governed and maintained without military, at
least with less, than we are keeping now, but it must be presumed, that the parties have little
dealings or interests in this country, who inform and report to your Honors otherwise, and that
they care less for the keeping or loss of it. Your Honors have seen from the list sent over last
year, how many soldiers remained then in the service and how they were distributed, namely pur-
suant to your Honors' former order 10 or 12 at Fort Orange, 12 to 14 at Fort Altena on the South
river, indeed few enough in our poor opinion considering the multitude of barbarians, who visit
the distant places dayly, 25 men at the Fsoj>us, whom we have reinforced while writing this by 6
or 8 men fi"om the garrison here, on account of warnings from other savages, that the Esopus sav-
ages had threatened to attack some of our people there during seeding time in revenge for the
savages sent to Curacao, 6 men on Staten- Island for the safety of the few inhabitants there, the
balance of about 70 to 80 remain for the reasons, given in our former letter, here in gan-ison :
some of these have been discliarged since and several more will be sent home discharged by the
ships, now about to sail, so that not more than 60 or 70 remain here in garrison as a reserve troop
for any arising emergencies ; all together they do not number over one hundred and twenty five
military persons. We leave it to a farther seeing judgment, whether this present distribution of
soldiere or sometimes agreable to circumstances a still greater scattering (especially when the
potash maker shall come to get the number, promised to him, from this garrison) is not more a
bravado, than a necessity. If your Honors had from your own experience a perception of the
224 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liiver.
interests, losses, sudden attacks, unexpected murders, manslaughters, different incendiary fires, hap-
pened to the inhabitants before and during our time, as we, your Honors' faithful othcers and good
inhabitants have experienced them and if your Honors knew, that the wild barbarians have so far
only been held somewhat in check by the dread of the few soldiers, then we trust, that your Hon-
ors would with us deem it better for this their territory and its inhabitants, to think of some con-
venient means, whereby for their greater security a larger number of soldiers could be maintained,
than to reduce and discharge the small number at a greater risk. Twenty five men more or less
will not make the public treasury richer or poorer by „ fl, which if drawn and collected from the
peojile will add little to the taxes, considering that the same ■will give us respect and advantage in
times of need. Anyway 7 years ago, when the reduction of the Swedish forts on the Southriver
was undertaken a great deal of damage by fire and otherwise on Staten-Island, at Gemoenepa and
elsewhere could have been prevented, if 25 or 30 enlisted soldiers had then remained in garrison
here. We will not go farther in these inferences, but rather await your Honors' further delibera-
tions and orders, to be governed by them.
******
Your Honors' orders and instructions regarding the pretensions of Melyn are strictly obeyed.
It must be presumed, that the lands, formerlj^ cultivated by him, will remain abandoned, as since
he has been driven from them now 7 years ago, he has not troubled himself about the land. We
hardly believe, that for the present he will again take possession of them, for he has taken up his
residence at New Haven in New-England for a few years past, where he still lives.
MiNDTE OF Council on the eeceipt of lettees feom John Endicott, Governor
OF Massachusetts and Thomas Bredon, Governor of Nova Scotia complain-
ing OF AN ATTACK MADE BY THE MoHAWKS ON ONE OF THEIR TRADING-POSTS IN
THAT QUARTER.
Two letters were read in Council, one from the Governor of Boston, John Endecott, dated
the 27"" of June, the other from the Governor of Nova Scotia, T. Breedont, dated 30"* June last,
wherein they state, that the Maquas have been there in May last and plundered one of their trad-
inghouses, killing also a number of Indians and cattle, contrary to the treaty of peace made be-
tween the Maquas and the Northern savages at Fort Orange last year. They request in substance,
that we assist their agents Capt. Gardner and Walker to get satisfaction for the sustained damages
and that the peace between the said Maquas and the Northern savages be renewed. It was
resolved,
To contribute everything to accomplish this and to carry it out. Date as above (24"' July
1662).
A Copt of Propositions Made vnto the Maques August the 1'* 1662. By
Thomas Gardner & Nathaniell Walker with the Answers to the same
THE DAY AND TIME AbOUESAYED AT FoRT OrANGE OR FFORTT VerINAH.
1. Q. The first Proposition made vnto the Maques was wheather the English had not always bin
theyre frinds which had more Espeshaly Apered in three pirticulars.
New York Historical Hecoi'ds. 225
first wlieather that thes Thirty or forty yeares past the English had not bin thcyr friuds not
wronging them any way.
secondly theyr frindship had Appeared in deniall the ffrench A passage through the English
Country to light with the Maques
thirdly it had Appeared in laboring to make A Pease for the Mowhohs with Northern In-
dianes not helping the Northern Indiaues though the Maques wares with them wear to the Eng-
lishes great Lose.
An. The Maques or Mohoks Answer was it was tiiie the English had so bin theyr frinds as
Abouesayed.
2. Q. The second Proposition made vnto the Maquas was why they did then so breake the Pease
with the Northern Indianes that was made for them by the English After the Indian was rune
away, that Came to make Pease and that the sayed Pease wase made at the Englishes Cost.
2. An. To this they Answer it was fals theyr was no pease made for the Indianes at All but the
pease wase made with the English & that they had good ground to war with the Northern In-
dianes ; who at two severall times had helped the Canide Indianes : that by theyr meanes thay
had lost near 100 men & that som of the Dutch should tell them thay might fall vpon the North-
ern Indianes Notwithstanding the former Pease, the Dxitch in the meane time denieing the same
& Afirming as by theyr Records was made to Apeare that ther was an absolute & firm pease with
the English in behalf of the Northern Indianes made the last year hear at Eartt Orange att A
Solemn meeting with the names of Severall men to the same that wear Comanders at Fortt Orange.
Vnto this Answer of the Maques the Dutch reply is farther that likewise the Maques sayed
the English had betrayed the Northern Indians into theyr hands because they had killed ther
Cattle & that the English brought them to the fortt, which was A truth, the Maques had so
sayed.
3. Q. The third Proposition was why thay did take the Northern Indianes vnder the Protection
& Comand of Penobscott fortt itt being Contrary to the former peace & Contrary to the Customes
of Nationes & very Predgidishall to the English
An. To this Nothing is Answered butt as before they wear ther Enymies & thay had ocasion so
to doe.
4. Q. The fourth proposition was why thay did so falsly and Perfidiously breake the pease with
the English at Neagers house & at Penobscott fortt most Solemnly made & giufts being both
given by them & requited by the English, yet Imeadeately that thay killed the Englishes Cattell
& Robed the Abouesayed house to the value of 400 lb Sterlinge & afterwards they Biult a strong
Fortt by Neagers house tarieing ther A fortnight which we supose wase for nothing else but to
surprise the English Coming for ther goods.
4. Ans. To this they Answer, it is true they killed some Cattell, though not so many as we say
it being dun by youths & because the Cattell did Run so wildly when they ran after the other In-
dians & that it was but A smale mater that which they did Usually to the Dutch & for wrong dun
to the house they p''ferred a p^'cell of wampum denieing ther was so much goods as we sayed ther
was, it likewise being dun by youths and if the English would not so be satisfied they could not
helpe it.
5. Q. A 5"" query was why they did threttn to Cutt of the English that live Eastwards in the
fall of the year vnder the Notion of French men.
5. An. Theyr Answer was it was false thay did not so thretten the English for our men wear in
29
226 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
theyr hands & thay had power to have killed them if thay had hirx freneh, but thay had jealousies
we vfe&Y frenck it was true and our bands were Vike freneh mens bands.
6. Q. To A 6"' query which was wheather thay would now Returne the prisoners that wear by
them taken of the Northern Indianes & giue the Northern Indianes satisfaktion for those thay
had killed it being Contraiy to Articles of Peace made the last year
6. An. Theyr Answer was we should then bring these men of theyrs the Northern Indianes had
killed both heartofor and now of late and that the Prisoners wear giuen by them to theyre frinds
who formerly had lost theyr frinds by the wares.
These Abouesayed things being thus propounded & thus Answered the Indianes Brake of in
A Snufe & went and told in the towne we weare no better then Hogges & that thay Cared not
for the English & if thay ■would not now manifest theyr satisfektion in thre weaks time they would
set vpon the outmost plantations of Connitiqett & burns them and that thay would go ten or 12
men in A Company fiering remote houses & destroy what thay could. These things being dun in
the forenone.
The Aftemoone we meett Agayne the Dutch Gouernor hauing propounded this to them in
the Morning wheather they would Kefrayne from fighting with the Northern Indianes vntil the
Spring next year that some Northern Indianes might be brought to make Pease with them ; theyr
Answer was thay would ; we Considering of All things tooke hold of this opertimity to preuent
theyr present Incurtiones &. to gayne time to proceed farther with them. Therefore we made
them this 3 folde Reply, first that we had Considered of theyr Answers to the former pirticulers
& theyr Peage proferred in satisfaction & that •we should one & the other to the Gouernors of the
Bay.
Secondly we had Considered of theyr Resolution not to fight with the Northern Indianes till
some might Com to Conclude A peace the which Resolution wo liked well & therefore gaue them
A parsell of Peage.
Thirdly we told them it was our desier, thay shoidd do theyre best to let vs haue the prison-
ers thay had in hold and therfore to Ineoridge them hearin we gaue them Another p'sell of Peage.
The Mohohes liked very well this present & told vs thay would performe the first and do theyr
best to performe the last
That this is A true relation we ar witnesses whose Names are vnderwritten.
Thomas Gardner.
Nath. "Walker.
A True relation of the Maques Coming to Penobscott ffortt and what
THAT DID, BY ThOMAS GaEDNER, ComANDEE OF THE SAME.
The last of Aprill one Thousand sixe hundred sixty twoe the Maques Came to Neagew house
belonging to the sayed flFort & sent thre men before them to tell the English that the Maqxies
theyr frinds wear Coming and desiered to Trade with them but whilst thay wear Speaking About
two hundred & sixty men of them had Incompassed the house pulling downe the fence, entered
into the sayed house & filled it fuU of men : thear being but fowar English men in the house (&
then as the three men thay sent) so now these desier Trade with the English & promis that thay
would do them no harme nor theyr goods or Cat tell & gave vnto the Truke Master fowar or fiue
girdles of Peage, telling him that thay weare theyr Asured frinds & After A fayer Trade of what
thay desired Contrary to theyr former promises Compeled the Truke Master to go downe the
New Yorh Historical liecords. 227
River witli them, the tliree men then left in the iiouse fearing to stay when theyr Master was
Caried Away in the Niglit thouglit to hauo Come downe to tlie fortt to haue Informed vs of tlieyr
Coming but wear surprised by tlie way of the Maques & kept thre dayes prisoners.
The Tliird of May sixty two the sayed Maques Came to P'enobscott fortt bring the Aboue-
sayed fowar men and setting them vpon a Roke in the Riuer it being in the twilight in the morn-
ing whilst thay themselues went and surprised the Indianes that wear vnder the Protection of
sayed fortt and wear Com ther to Trade which wear to the Number of one hundred men women
and Children and haueing Ended theyr biusnes About the Indianes in theyr surprissall : thay Came
and desiered Trade of vs as thay had done Aboue at the house : haueing before sent home our
men thay had taken prisoners: Thoug with great discord About them Amongst themselues.
Now although we well know thay had broken the pease made the last yeare at Fortt Orange
by the Duches helpe we ouerlooked the same & knowing that we could not recouer the prisoners
thay had taken & that All our goods vp the Riuer was at theyr dispose thought it not fitt to ofend
them Anye waye but to preserue the sayed house & Tradeing goods & therfore According to the
Maqueses desier we Traded with them for prouision & goods in frindly maner the Maqnes Sagi-
mores in the mene time promising great frindship to vs and glueing vs a present of Moose Skins
& Peage & we in requitall gaue the Maques the valine in Cloth Bread & pruenes, fflower & Pease
& Corne, Butt in most fallse & Perfidious maner thay no sooner went of the fortt in Pease but
Killed ten of our Cattell that wear of sight of the fortt & went vp the Riuer & Robed our house
of All wase in it to the valine of 400 lbs & Builtt A strong ifortt in A quarter of A mile of the
sayed house & Tarid ther A forttnight as we suppose by what had pased before to surprise our
men when thay should Come vp to fetch our goods.
This is a true relation by me Thomas Gardner
Edward Nay lor, Truke
(5'" August 1662.) Master at the house.
Ordinances regulating the Trade with the Indians, passed 5"^ August 1662.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, pages 425-6.)
Letter from Roeloff Swartwout, Schout at Wiltwyck, to Director Stutvesant
concerning a recent alarm at the esopus and its cause.
To their Honors the Noble Director-
General and the High Council of the
City of New-Amsterdomi.
I report to your Hon*"'' Worships by this my letter, that on the 11"" of August one of YolcTcert
Jansen^s horses has been found dead in the M-oods, about half an hour's way into them, just back
of the newly made fort. I rode there on horseback with two Commissaries and eight or ten inhabit-
ants on the IS"", turned the dead horse over and found, that it was shot with a bullet in or near
the heart. It created great consternation among the inhabitants, for it is presumed, that the sav-
ages have done it. We had thought of making a verbal report of it to his Honorable, the Director-
General, but as the wind was not favorable, we had to give it up. The Maqua was here to ask
228 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
me for his piece of cloth and as no cloth can be obtained here, I hardly could pacify the Maqua.
I told him that it would come from the Manliatans by the first opportunity. ,
The Schout and Commissaries request, that your Hon"'" Worships will please to send one
hundred pounds of gunpowder and two hundred pounds of lead, we shall pay for it in time.
Wiltwyck, Your Honorable Worships always
16'''' August obedient and faithful servant
A" 1662. RoEI.OFF SwAETWOUT.
In haste
To the Valiant, the Noble Director- General and the Hon"'^ High Council of Fort and City
JVew-Amsterdam.
Lettek fkom the same to the sasie ; affairs at the Esopus ; evils arising from
THE UNLIMITED SALE OF LIQUOR TO THE InDIANS.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful
his Honor the Director-General
and the High Council.
Tour Honors' servant Roeloff Swartwout reports in behalf of his Magistrates and in their
absence from this place with the assistance of some inhabitants.
We could not omit to inform your Hon''"' "Worships, that the situation here is such, that if no
precautions are taken we are in great danger of drawing upon us a new war. The cause wiU be
the selling of liquor to the savages, \vhich, God better it ! begins to increase, notwithstanding that I,
your Honors' servant, do my best as well by watching day and night as sometimes with the assist-
ance of the Commissaries and good will of many citizens, who try to prevent it with all their
power, but the experience of stricter inquiries has proved, that we are nevertheless often imposed
upon, we as well as the Sergeant of the garrison here, for it is well known and customary, that
soldiers are called upon for assistance, when it is necessary, upon whom we rely and trust, but we
are very much deceived by them, they even say upon being questioned
* * * (iUegible) * * *
to sell liquor ; others with the small still of Jacobsen Backer are of the devil, who has taken hold
of several soldiers not much to the advantage of the inhabitants.
Jonas Rantsou has taken special liberties, after he had been examined by the Court in the
presence of the citizens' military counsel and the Magistrates to show cause, whereas your Honors'
servant had seen him, Hantsou, come out of a citizen's house, where some beavers were traded that
evening for brandy ; we could get no information from him. Rantsou went the same night or early
next morning without permission of the Magistrates in company of a dumb* savage to the newly
made village of the savages, to trade among them ; he took with him some few little things, men-
tioned below. When they came to the fort of the savages, the dumb savage went in first, a little
while later Rantsou was conducted into the fort by a savage and arrived inside, he was asked,
whence he came ; he answered that he came from Wiltwyck and during the night
he wanted to leave of the savages , believing
that he had come there to spy upon them, in consequence of what several southern Indians had
reported to them, that his Honor, the General, was angry and would come with two hundred
♦ One who could not talk Dutch. — Ed.
New Yorh Historical Records. 229
soldiers to make war upon them and this seemed to confirm it. The savages strengthened their
fort immediately and put a good breastwork around it ; they also sent out three messengers, one
to the Highlands, another to the MinisincJis and a third to the Catskils, with the latter one was
sent to go further to the Mahicanders, to inform them all that the matters were, as before stated
and that they had put more reliance into the negotiations, which the savages had had with the
Director-General at the house of D° Blom, when the peace was renewed and a present promised
to them to be given next year. Rantsou was again asked by the savages on the next day whence
he had came and he answered, that he had come from the Fort at Wiltwyck. He was once more
asked on the third day, from where he had come and said, that he had come from the new village
and after having found him willing to testify, they let him go and quickly sent a savage after him
to get information from us, whether we had sent him, but as soon as Rantsou arrived home, after
having been absent six days, he was immediately arrested by the Magistrates. The savage messen-
ger informed us, that he had had as large a package of things as one man can carry ; in it were
two pieces of cloth, gunpowder and lead, with a roll of tobacco and pipes and according to the
savage's statement he has received for it some beavers and other skins and some wampum. They
had intended to keep him a prisoner until spring. Another savage said in going by, to Jam the
smith, whom he met in the woods, that Rantsou had been killed, when he came there with brandy.
We do not know by whom he was sent and I despair, that anything will be done in this matter.
The greatest mischief, which we have to ex-pect herefrom, is caused by the contraband-traders,
who try to swallow up this place and sell a pint of brandy for a schepel of wheat.
* * * * * (a sheet missing)
By close examinations of the boy by the Esopus Sachems this has been brought to light. The
Esopus savages are still busy to get at the truth and we do not know, what the evidence of the
other savage will be. In the meantime it is said of them, that the Esopus and Katskil savages
will each pay one half. The Esopus have informed us through the Maquas, that they are willing
to give ten strings of wampum, but that they are innocent of killing the horse. The opinion of
the Sellout and Commissaries is, that we are confident, the Esopus savages have done it and we do
our best to bring it out. As soon as we have further details, we shall take the first opportunity
to inform your Honors.
May the Triune God keep you in his protection.
Wiltivyck, Written in the name of the Schout and
5"" Septr 1662. • Commissaries, which certifies
ROELOFF SwAETWOUT.
The piece of cloth, promised to the Maquas by the Hon''''^ General, has been given to him
and he was very well satisfied with it. Another piece was promised to him for his further trouble.
In haste.
Kevenue and Expenditure of the village of Wiltwyck, including the build-
ing OF the minister's house.
Income of Wiltwyck Village. The outlays for the Minister's house.
From 525 morgens. Bricks, tiles, lime, boards, wainscoting, slat-
The land pays fl 2.10 st. per morgen in gen- ing, iron, hinges, locks and nails
eral, which computed gives a total of fl 1313.10 coin and every thing required for it
The house lots, not paying land tax, in wampum 680. 5.
have brought in in coin 958.13.
230
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
in wampum
in coin
272 fl
136
In Coin
The excise on wine and beer, farmed out, has
fetched so far, that is to the 31" Novbr.
1662
In wampum
In coin
The revenue is altogether
Remains a balance of
1003.18.
1505.17.
2117.16. 6
889.11.10
All reduced to coin
Paid for wages of the carpenters and masons,
hod carrier, for freight of bricks,
tiles, boards to this place,
in wampum 1387.5.
in coin 570.
Reduced to coin
Board for the carpenters, masons and the hod
carrier altogether
in coin
Total in wampum fl 2067.10
Total in coin 1973.13
The wampum reduced and added to the
coin makes it t
1263.12.8
Besides the above there must be paid to the Court Messenger, for the making and keeping in
repair of the gates, to Juriaen Westvael for hire of the house of D° Hermanns Blom, who lived
in his upper room, 80 florins.
No 1 Hendrich Jochemsen
2 Hendrick Martensen
3 Harmen Hendricksen
Jan Jansen Timmerman
Jacob Barentsen
Jam de Backer
Jacob Joosten
8 Willem Jansen
9 Pieter van Alen
10 Mathys Roeloffsen
11 Jacob Boerhans
12 Gerrit van Campen
13 Anthony Cruepel
14 Albert Oerretsen
15 Meerten Oysbert
16 Dirck Adriaen
List of the lots newly laid out.
No 17 Mathys Capita
18 Jan Lammersen
19 Carsten de Noorman
20 Barent Gerretsen
21 the Churchyard
22 Jan Barensen
23
24 Albert Heymansen
25 Juriaen Westvael
26 Nicolaes Willem Stuyvesant
27 Albert Gysbertsen
28 Tjerick Claesen
29 Aert Jacobsen
30 Jan Schoon
31 Aert Pietersen Tach.
List of the old lots, before the place was laid out.
No
1 Thomas Chambers
2 Evert Pels
3 Balthasa/r Laser Stuyvesant
4 Preacher's house and lot
5 Mrs. de Hulter
6 Jacob Map's little bouwery
7 Jacob Map's second bouwery
8 Henry Zeewant ryger (Wampuramaker)
No 9 Andries the Weaver
10 Jan the Brabanter
11 Jan Brouwersen
12 Michiel the first
13 Michiel Verre
14 Jan the Smith
15 Andries van der Sluys
16 house and lot of Gertrey Hansen, lying
opposite to Nos. 6 and 7.
New York Historical liecords. 231
Contract to do faem woek at ScnENECTADT.
(Fort Orange Records. Vol. Notarial Papers, 16G0-1676.)
This 26**" of September 1662 Jan Barentsen Wemp and Ifartm Mouvei^ensen engaged Ilen-
dnk Arentsen, sugarbaker, to serve them in cultivating, ploughing, sowing, mowing, thrashing,
winnowing, chopping wood and every thing else connected with it, also in doing all other duties,
which may be assigned to him at their bouwery, lying at Schenechtede, which Ilendrik well knows,
for the time of one year beginning on this day. Jan Barentsen Wemp and Martin Mouverenseri
promise to pay him for his services 300 fl in beavers at 8 fl the beaver or else in grain or other
merchandise at beaver value, deliverable to said Hendrick here at the " Fuyck " or to his order.
Jam, Barentsen binds himself personally for the payment of the aforesaid hire, as if it were a per-
sonal debt. Date as above at Colony Rensselaerswyck.
The mark A^^ of Mahten Meuverensen The mark I R An of Jan Barentsen Wemp
Hendeik Arentsen.
Appointment of Magistrates for the Village of Bergen.
16"^ October 1662, Monday
Present in Council their Honors, the Director-General Stuyvesant and Mr. Johan de Deckere.
The nominations made and delivered by the Schout and Schepens of the village of Bergen
were received with the request, that the Director-General and Council will please to select from
them the Schepens for the said village for the coming year.
The Director-General and Council have therefore selected and confirmed as Schepens for the
said village Engelbert Steenhiiysen, Gerrit Gerritsen and Casjyer Steinmets is continued as first
Schepen. Done at Fort Amsterdam. Date as above.
Ordinance against the burning of straw and other refuse combustibles in
the Village of Wiltwtck, passed 16"" October 1662.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, page 430.)
Petftion of the Magistrates of "Wiltwtck foe a supply of powder and lead.
To their Honors, the Noble Director-General
and High Council of New-Netherland.
The Schout and Commissaries of the village of Wiltwyek request, tliat their Hon"'" Worships
will please to send by the bearer hereof, Albert Hymansen Roose one hundred pounds of powder
and two hundred pounds of lead, because we have only little of it on hand in case the times and
necessity should require it, for we find that the citizens have none, because there is none to be had
232 Colonial Settlements on the Hitdson River.
here and if we should receive this supply, we will pay for it specially. In expectation of which
we remain
Wiltwyclc, Your Honors' obedient servants
ll"" Octbr 1662. The Schout and Commissaries.
That this is done in the name of the Commissaries attest your Honors undersigned obedient
and faitliful servants Roeloff Swaetwout
Alerdt Hetmansen Roose.
OeDINAJn'CE against SELLraO GEAIN AT THE EsOPUS BY THE UNSTAMPED MEASUEE,
PASSED 27'^" NOVEMBEE 1662.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 431.)
OeDINANCE AOAINST EECEIVING in pawn AEMS, clothing etc. BELONGING TO BOLDIEES
STATIONED AT WlLT^VYCK, PASSED 2V^ NoVEMBEE 1662.
(Ibidem, page 432.)
Ordinance against making openings in the palisades at Wiltwyck, passed 27''°
November 1662.
(Ibidem, page 433.)
Petition of the Magistrates of Beegen, asking to be peovided with a cleegyman.
To the Noble, Yery Worsliipful, his Honor, the Director-General and the Honorable Council
of New-Netherland.
Show with due reverence the Schepens of the village of Bergen, that having observed and
considered the fatherly direction and care of your Hon''''^ Worships in erecting churches and school-
houses, they request, that they may have a God fearing man and preacher, to be an example to
and teach the fear of God in the community of Bergen and its jurisdiction. The Scliepens have
found it advisable, each for himself, to propose it, to learn what every man would be willing to
pay yearly of his free will, affection and love for God's holy and blessed word, to liave a good
teacher, till such a time, when the Noble Lords-Directors of the Incorporated West-India Com-
pany shall begin, according to the custom of the country, to levy tithes. After the Schepens had
made these propositions, the below named persons have vohmtarily declared, that tlie}^ will give a
yearly contribution ; the sum to be paid by such voluntary offerings may be calculated at 417
guilders in wampum, but there are among these people some, who have expressed themselves will-
ing to do more according to their abilities if God our Lord would bless them and increase their
prosperity ; among the others, who stated no sum, there are some very willing, some very dull,
New Yorh Historical Records.
233
those, who are willing, are the majority and declare, that when a preacher comes, they too would
do their best according to their circumstances, like the others. Whereas the petitioners do not
know, whether the people of Haersimons* come under this jurisdiction ; therefore the petitioners
cannot report, what they would do, but the Schepens find it advisable and very necessary, that the
village be provided with a preacher and submit to the mature consideration and decision of your
jjQjjbie Worships, that it might be notified to the Noble Lords-Directors, our Patroons, by the next
ships. Your Hon''''' Worships know, with what courage the village of Bergen has been established
by the community and that the same has maintained itself at great expense to the inhabitants, with-
out any trouble to the Lords-Directors. The community is therefore of opinion, that their Noble
Honors should take that into consideration and therefore assist the village of Bergen so much
readier according to their discretion and to send one over for one or two years at their expense ;
during that time the land will with God's help have increased in value, so that then that which
the good hearted community will liberally give, can be taken for assistance. Awaiting your
Hon*"^ Worships' decision hereon the petitioners remain
Your Noble, Honorable Worships' humble servants
Tielraan van Neeck
Machghyel Jansen
Herman Smedman
Casper Steinmets.
List of the voluntary contributors,
Tielman van Neeck
Michielsen Jansen
Harmen Smedema/n
Casper Steinmets
Jan Schulten
Michiele Teunissen
Jan Luhhersen
Dirck Qerritsen
Jacob Leendertsen
Jan the Englishman
Paulus Pietersen
Willem Jansen
Joost van Linden
Adrian Post
with the sum promised by each.
fl 50 Pouwe Sarmens
25 Jacob Sergiant
25 Arent Louwrens
25 Jan Cornelis
25 Jan Cornelis d'' ryeck
6 Thomas the cooper
6 Cornelis Abrahams
20 Claes Pietersen Cos of Gemoenepa
25 Evert Coertsen
6 Dirck Classen
25 Jan Loserechi
10 Gerrit Qerritsen
10 Cla£s Arentsen
20
10
3
10
3
6
50
13
10
fl 417
List of those, who are willing, but give no specified sum, keeping it at their discretion.
Lourens Andries
Claesje Teunissen, the widow of Romein
Teunissen
Refused have
Tyes Lubbersen, Hendrick
Jansen Spyer, Frerick the cobbler.
Jan Swaen
Hendrick Teunissen
Dirck Teunissen
Engelbert Steenhuysen
Widow Pieter Rudolphsen
Harmen Edwards
Nicholas Varlet
* Ahasimus.
30
234 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Petition of Inhabitants of Bergen and Comunipaw against fencing in cer-
tain LANDS and order THEEEON.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful their
Honor, the Director-General and Coun-
cil of New-Netherland.
Show with due reverence the inhabitants of the villages of Bergen and Gemoenepa, that they,
the petitioners, have seen, that the Sellout van Vleeck, Caspar Steinmets and Harmen Smeeman
have fenced in a parcel of highland, situate at the south end of the village enclosure, in the best
part of the pasture, which they appropriate to themselves : it is also said, that Mr. Nicholas Var-
leth desires a piece of highland, situate at the north of the aforesaid village back of Hohoocken,
which, if it is done, would tend to the ruin and destruction of this village, because they would be
entirely deprived of an outlet for their cattle and nothing but a marshy underwood would remain
to them, where already three or four animals have been smothered ; hence there would hardly be any
pasture left for the draught beasts, for the Mincqkaghoue people are also fencing in their land,
so that this village will be enclosed in a fence all round. They therefore respectfully request, that
your Hon'''^ Worships will please to make some provision and guard the common interests of the
aforesaid village and of Gevioenepa. Awaiting hereupon your Hon'''^ Worships' favorable decision
etc.
(Signed) Adolph Haedenbrooch, Adeiaen Hendrick, Adriaen Post, La0eens Andeiessen,
DiECK Geeeitsen, 'A-r the mark of Dieck Te0nissen, Maghiel Jansen, Jan Scholten, Tomas
Feedeeicks, Douwe Haemensen, j^^.T! the mark of Hendrick Teunnissen, -p- the mark of
Paulus Pietersen, Harmen de Vos, ^j^ the mark of Jan Lubbeesen, p the mark of Egh-
beet Sandees, Baeeent Lott, /\ tlie mark of Claes Coeesen, Cheistiaen Pietersen, C the
mark of Jan Swach, Jan Coenelissen, Engelbeet STEENHtrrsEN.
It was answered :
The petitioners or a committee of them shall appear with Tielman van Vleeck, Casper Stein-
mets and Hannen Smeeman, mentioned in the foregoing petitions, personally before the Director-
General and Council. Date as above (28"' Decbr 1662.)
Summons of the Sheriff and Magistrates of Beegen to answer a complaint
MADE BT WiLLEM JaNSEN, THE FEEEYMAN.
28'" December 1662.
W hereas Willem Jansen, ferryman at Bergen over the Worth River, has informed us in a pe-
tition among other points, that Tielman van Vleeck the Sellout and Engelbert Steenkuysen, Com-
missary in the aforesaid village, had told the community there, that every inhabitant of the place
could keep a barge and ferry over whom he pleased, therefore the said van Vleeck and Steenkuy-
sen are hereby ordered and directed to appear before their Honors, the Director-General and
Council of New-Netherland, on next Court-day, to give an account of their action. Date as above.
JVew York Historical Records. ■ 235
Order for the survey of a certain tract of land in dispute at Bergen.
4"' January 1663.
Pursuant to the appointment made the 28"" of December 1662 at the request of some inhabit-
ants of the village of Bergen, Michlel Jansen, Adriaen Post and Jan Scholten made their ap-
pearance as deputies of the said viUage on one side and Tielman van Vleeck, Caspar Steinmets
and Harman Smeeman on the other side.
The said deputies state, tliat it would cause great damage to their village, if the other party
continued with the fencing in of the high ground in question, granted to them 22'^ X*" 1661.
The aforesaid van Vleech and Company maintained on the other side, that no obstacle what-
ever could arise therefrom to the said village.
After hearing the parties, it was ordered, that the piece of land in dispute, granted to the said
van Vleeck upon his petition by the order of the 22'' December 1661, should be surveyed and that
the surveyor shall make a report of its situation and area to their Ilonors, the Director-General
and Council. After that directions will be given upon the petition. Date as above.
Order m the case of "Willem Jansen, the Bergen ferryman, against the
ScHouT VAN Vleeck.
Pursuant to the order of the 28"" Decbr. Willem Jansen, ferryman at Bergen, appeared on
one side and the Schout van Vleeck and Engelhert Steenhuysen on the other ; the said ferryman
stating in his complaint, that the Schout van Vleeck and Engelbert Steenhuysen had given per-
mission to all and every one of the inhabitants there to carry over goods for others etc.
"Whereupon the said Schout and his companion answered, that they had not done it without
reason, as the ferryman had refused to carry over.
The ferryman says, that he left nobody behind, except those who would not pay him etc.
After hearing the parties, the Schout was directed to assist the ferryman, that he may obtain
the ferriage earned by him and if he should forget himself and act unbecomingly, to report it to
the Director-General and Council, who will then issue such orders, as occasion may require. Date
as above (i"" January 1663).
Letter from Thomas Chambers and other militia officers to Director Stuy-
VESANT, complaining THAT THE CIVIL MAGISTRATES OF "WiLTWYCK HAD PULLED
DOWN AN ORDINANCE PUBLISHED BY THEM.
Noble, Honorable, Very "Worshipful, "Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Honor-
able Director-General and Council of New-Netherland.
We, the undersigned militia officers of the village of WiltioycJc respectfully report to your
Hon*'" Worships, that on the SO''' of May of last year we have been appointed officers of the militia
by the president of the Court for this village. Evert Pels, in the name of Director-General and
Council of New-Netherland, not knowing, whether this appointment was approved by the Director-
General and Council. After the savages have had several gatherings here with their kinte keying.
236 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
while we did not know, what they might attempt, we have not dared to omit calling together the
people on the 1^' of January of this year and tried to keep good order to the best of our knowl-
edge ; we send herewith a copy of an ordinance passed by the militia officers, which we published
on the following day, the S"*. The Court here has been pleased to pull down the published ordi-
nance on the Q'"" without our knowledge and we do not know for what reason, but they have sum-
moned us on that account on the IS"" and we appeared, requesting them, that they would please
to put up again our ordinance. This they refused to do and we can therefore not carry out our
plan, to make use of it in time of need. The consequence is, that some people begin to banter
and say, that we publish ordinances to be pulled down by the Court. Therefore we respectfully
request your Hon''"^ Worships to be sustained in this matter, else we shall not be able in time of
need to acquit ourselves of our duties. Awaiting your Hon*'^ Worships' further orders we remain
Actum in Your Noble, Honorable Worships' humble servants
Wiltwyck Village, Thomas Chambers
this IS"" of January 1663. Hendrick Jochemseji
Cornells Barentsen Slecht
The mark y^ of Pieter Jacohsen.
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet, their Honors,
the Director-General and Council of N ew-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam in New-
Paid. N eilierland.
Okdinance to be observed in time of need, made by the officers of the trainband.
1. Whoever appears for training at the appointed place of gathering without proper side and
handarms, powder and lead, shall be fined and pay the first time twelve guilders, the second time
double that sum and the third time he shall be punished according to the judgment of the Court-
martial. Everybody must be provided with at least ten charges of powder and lead in the car-
tridgebox besides his full side and handarms.
2.
Whoever does not appear unless excused or comes too late, shall pay a fine of two guilders ;
who remains away from contumacy or willfuUness, without sufficient excuse, shall be fined and
corrected arbitrarily by the Courtmartial in addition to the above fine of two guilders.
3.
Sergeants, Corporals and Lancepesades, who are too late or remain away, shall pay a double
fine.
4.
In case of alarm or fire the members of the Captain's squad shall assemble at the place near
JBarent Gerritsen, the brandy distiller, the members of the Lieutenant's squad near the wheel-
wright's Albert Cysbertsen, the third squad under Sergeant Pieter Jacobsen Molenaer at Hen-
drick Jochemsen^s, under a penalty of five and twenty guilders.
5.
All officers are forbidden to exchange with others, every one must appear personally under a
penalty of four and twenty guilders.
New York Historical Records. 237
6.
It is ordered, that every one, who mounts guard or reports at the place of rendezvous, must
have his own side and handarnis, under penalty of confiscation of the arms, which he may have
borrowed from another and he shall besides pay a fine of twelve guilders.
7.
Nobody shall in being relieved from or mounting gnard or marching, be allowed to load his
musket with ball, wadding or paper, nor to discharge it at any window, gable or weathervane
under a penalty of six guilders and reparation of the damage done ; but in discharging their mus-
kets, they shall raise it above man's height under a like penalty, to prevent thus all mishap.
8.
If an^'body desires to remove from here to do his business elsewhere, either at the Manhatans,
Fort Orange or some other place, he shall uotity the Mustermaster of his departure, under a pen-
alty of twenty-five stivers.
9.
Nobody shall be allowed to mount guard or appear at the rendezvous, while intoxicated, and
having reported nobody shall curse or swear or profane God's holy name and sacraments, under a
penalty of twenty-five guilders.
Thus enacted at the meeting of the Citizens' Council of War in the Village of Wiltwyck, the
first day of January Anno 1663. (Signed) Thomas Chambers, Hendrich </ochemsen, the mark
^? of Pleter Jacohsen, Cornells Barentsen Slecht.
This was also published.
Evei'ybod}' is hereby informed, that muskets, powder and lead may be bought at Wouter the
baker's and further, if no more is to be had at Wouter the baker's, people may come to the officiers
of the trainband, who will inform them, where they may buy it for money. Done at Wiltwyck^
the ^^ of January 1663.
(Signed) By order of the officers of
the trainbands of Wiltwyck Village
Matheus Capito, Mustermaster.
Lettee from the Magistrates of Wiltwyck to Directoe Stdtvesant ; dastgee
OF selling liquok to the Indians ; the new village ; seasons fob disappeoving
THE PEECEDING OEDINAifCE.
To the Noble, Vei-y Worshipful High
Council of the City oi Amsterdam in
New-Netherland.
Show with proper salutations and wishes for every bodily and spiritual blessing both the
Commissaries of the village of Wiltwyck the good order and well being of this village so far.
The Almighty, the God of us all, may grant peace to this country, but it is to be feared, that
unless provisions are made for it, especially at this place, the abuse carried on here in the sale of
liquor to the savages will prevent it, for it has come quite in vogue now at the new village, so
that the savages have thrown each other into the fire and upon the report of it we inquired and
238 " '/Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
found at the house of Loweys Dubo, a "Walloon living in the new village, half an anker of distilled
water, which had not been reported at this place and had been made by his father Mathew
Blanchart. For the reasons given before the court confiscated it, because some mischief might
result from it. We request, that your Hon"''^ "Worships will please to assist us, that we may obtain
some ordera for the welfare of this country, so that, if some one from the new village should
happen to purchase some wine or strong liquor, he is to declare and pay the duties for it to the
Receiver Jacob Boerhans, for the liquor distilled here is not to the taste of the savages, which is
for the advantage^of the savages and to the loss of the country and although the citizens do not
pay any attention, nevertheless through the declaration it can be ascertained, what liquors are
removed and whereto. It is the further request to know, whether those, who are caught selling
liquor to the savages, shall be sent to the High Council in charge of his Honor the Fiscal or
whether this court may sentence them to the pecuniary tine, as fixed by law ; if so please to send
the placards regarding it.
A pint of smuggled brandy has been sold here for a schepel of wheat to and among them to
the great disadvantage of the inhabitants. We hope, that herein also some arrangements will
be made, one or two inns would be quite sufficient and application ought first to be made to the
court to find out the fitness of the person.
The trainband has been under arms on New-Years Day and they were well entertained by
some citizens, but everything went well. Then the officers met in Council of "War and made some
ordinances for the regulation of the trainband containing ten articles, which they published by
affixing it without acknowledging the authority of any magistrate. The Magistrates therefore had
the placard pulled down on the S"", to review them, and they saw in the eighth section, that no
one shall mount guard with a borrowed musket, else he shall forfeit it and pay a fine of 12
guilders. "We, the Commissaries of WilhoycJc, disapprove this abuse of making ordinances and
request your Hon*"' "Worships' advice. Closing herewith we wish to your "V^ery "Worshipful High
Council a happy and peaceful New- Year and remain
Your Hon"'* "Worships' obedient
Actum Wiltwyck, servants
the 24''' of January, The Commissaries of Wiltwyck,
Anno 1663. Evekt Pels
Tjeeck Classen de "Witt.
This is the mark +^ of Albeet
Gysbeetsen.
"Which attests your Hon*"" Worships
always obedient servant
ROELOFF SwAETWOUT
To the Valiant, Honorable High Council at their office in New-ATnsterdam in New-Nether-
land.
Nomination and appointment of Magistrates foe Wiltwttck.
Conform to the ordinances and common custom, the Commissaries of the village of Wiltwyck
proposed at the election the below-named inhabitants of this village
Thomas Chambers Jan Aersen Smit
Mr. Gysbert van Imbrogh Cornelis Barentsen Slecht.
New York Historical Records. 239
The Commissaries await liereupon a short rescript from his Honor, tlie Director-General and
remain
Your Hon''"' Worsliips
Actum Wiltwyck, faithful servants
the . . March A" 1663. Evert Pels
Alaerdt Heymansen
TjERCK Classen de Witt
This is the mark ^ of
Albert Gysbertsen
Witness: Roeloff Swartwout.
MnsruTE of Director Stutvesant's visit at the Esopus.
His Honor the Director-General left here for the Esopus on the 22'' of Marcli and returned
on the 3'' of April. His Honor published there the following :
Ordinance for the perfecting of titles to land at Wiltwyck and for the
more speedy settlement of the same.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, page 437.)
Extract from a letter of the Directors in Holland to Director Stuyves-
ant ; they approve of the proposed English Colony on the Achter Cull :
WAR BETWEEN THE MoHAWKS AND NeW- ENGLAND AND NoVA ScOTIA ; NECESSrTY
of the acquisition of the mohawk country ; immense beaver trade of the
Senecas. (26"" Maech 1663.)
******
Thus far in answer to the two letters, signed by the Director-General and Council and we
come now to Director Stuyvesanfs private letter, wherein we note above all the requests, made by
some of the English neighbors, for permission to settle in considerable numbers under the Com-
pany's jurisdiction back of Staten- Island on the Maritan^s Kil ; we have likewise seen from the
enclosures, what your Honors have answered. We are well pleased with it, considering especially,
that it will serve us as a strong outpost against the Raritan and Nevesinh savages. We could
have wished therefore, that the project had been carried out and every effort to have it continued
must be made. As we understand the matter, the principal obstacle was the appeal in criminal
and capital cases, as adultery, fornication and similar offenses, which they punish according to the
law and word of God ; we do not object so much against this principle, although the laws of our
Fatherland close their eyes to them, as against giving them absolute disposition of all criminal
cases without appeal to us, which right we do not like to surrender entirely ; however, in case
the coming in and settling at the aforesaid place by these people is of such an importance to our
nation there, then we would allow, to facilitate the matter, that in such offenses, where extra-
ordinary proceedings are taken and where consequently the crime is confessed, the appeal be
waived, but this cannot be allowed in cases of ordinary proceedings and where the testimony makes
240 Colonial Settlements on the Hvdson Hiver.
it dubious and uncertain, as your Honors will easily perceive ; besides that their laws in punishing
such offenses are against the maxims of our Fatherland and s/wuld therefore only he practised
among their own people and not 07i such of ours, who should happen to settle among them. Your
Honors will do well to insist upon this point in further negotiations with them, but only so far,
that the project may not he hindered in its progress. Your Honors are therefore hereby author-
ized to treat upon this matter with the English people in such a manner, as shall be found most
advantageous for the welfare of this State and its inhabitants.
The dissatisfaction of our English neighbors in New -England and Nova Scotia with the
Maquaes savages and the consequences likely to arise therefrom, in case they should attack each
other and the Maquaes should be vanquished, together with the speculations on such events, arc
well understood by us and we can therefore easily fall in with your Plonors' advice and opinions,
which consist principally in that we ought to try to persuade the Maquaes by all possible means,
that they give the English the satisfaction, demanded by them, even though some goods and mer-
chandises must be sacrificed for it, provided that by such an occasion the Maquaes country could
be acquired for and conveyed as property to the Company, whereby the English and other neigh-
bors could be prevented and estopped from the great beaver trade, which our people carry on
there with the Sinnehus savages. If the dissatisfaction and the probability of aggressive move-
ments between the English and the savages continue, which we do not believe, anyway not hope,
your Honors must carry this out and these lines may serve as rules.
Appointment of Magistrates for "Wiltwtck.
S'l" of April 1663, Thursday.
Present in Council the Hon*'*' Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and Councillors Nicasius
de Sille and Johan de Deckere.
******
The Director-General and Council took up and read the nomination made and sent in by the
Schout and Commissaries of the village of WiltwycTc on the Esopus and from the nominees
selected and confirmed as Commissioners there
T7wmas Chambers
Gysbert van Imhurgh
Actum at Fort Amsterdam, in New-Netherland. Date as above.
Deed to Hendrick Cornelissen from Holstein for land at Esopus.
Petriis Stuyvesant, Director-General of New-Netherland etc etc. and the Council testify and
declare, that we have on this day, date underwritten, given and granted to Hendrick Cornelissen
from Holstein, a piece of land situate at the Esopus in the village of Wiltwyck, bounded on the
East by the Kil, on the "West and South by the meadows lying under the village, containing in
these bounds between the Kil and the meadows two morgens and five hundred and sixty rods.
Under the express condition, that he, Hendrick Cornelissen, or his heii-s and assigns shall acknowl-
New Yorh Historical Itecords. 241
edge the aforesaid Lords-Directors as his Masters and Patrons under the sovereignty of their High:
Might : the Lords States-General of the United Netherlands and obey their Director-General and
Council here in every respect, as it is the duty of all good inhabitants; also that he further shall
agree to pay after the expiration of ten 3'ears from the date hereof a tithe for the benefit of the
LordsPatroons and such other taxes and imposts, as shall be deemed necessary to levy upon all
inhabitants for the revenues of the country. We constitute the said ITendrich Cornelissen here-
with as the real and actual owner of the aforesaid parcel of land in our stead and place and give
him full power, authority and special charge, to cultivate, take possession and make use of the
said parcel, as he would do with his other lawful property, without retaining for us, in our quality
as aforesaid, any claim or pretense thereon, but relincpiishing the same for ever, promising further
to keep this conveyance inviolably and to carry it out according to law and equity and sign it with-
out subterfuge or reservation, affixing thereto our seal in red wax. Actum J^hrt Amsterdam in
N. Netherland April 25''' 1G63.
P. Stuyvesant.
By order: C. v. Ruyven, Seer''.
Herewith we grant to Hendrick Cornelissen from Holsteiu or his heirs and assigns besides
the laud granted and given in the foregoing patent and on the same conditions another small par-
cel of land situate at the Esopus contiguous to the parcel described above containing together with
the swamp, meadow etc about six morgens.
Fort Amsterdam in N. JSetherland, the 7"' 9'"' 1663.
P. Stuyvesant.
Py order : C. v. Euyven, Seer''.
PETrnON OF CORNELIS pAEENTSEN SlECHT FOE A GEANT OF CERTAIN LANDS AT THE
ESOPUS AND OEDEK THEEEON.
To the Noble, Honorable, Yery Worship-
ful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet,
their Honors the Director-General and
Council of New- Netherland.
Humbly shows with due reverence the undersigned Cornells Barentsen Slechi, an inhabitant
of the village of Wiltwyck, that your Hon"'" Worships have graciously granted and given me last
autumn a certain parcel of land at the JE'soj^us, Ij'ing near the New Dorp (new village)*, which said
piece of land is really good soil, but too far for my convenience and as we are now old people, we
would prefer living near to the church, the more so as my wife is the midwife for the village of
Wiltwyck. I therefore humbly and respectfully request, that yom- Hon''''' Worships will graciously
give and grant me as my own the remainder of the lands, which are laid out for Thomas Cham-
bers to complete his number of acres out of the land, formerly bought by me from the savages,
for which I have been obliged to pay the tax to build the minister's house : a little piece of land
is lying close to it, called in the savage tongue Wichquanis. I would like to get during the year
out of this remainder of the land, bought by me, my subsistence for next winter by breaking and
* Now Hurley. — Ed.
31
242 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
cultivating it and from the other piece of land, called Wichquanis, the hay and fodder for my
cattle. If your Hon'''^ Woi'ships should be pleased to grant me for the benefit and advantage of
my children the aforesaid piece of land lying near the new village on the Esojjus, then I would
accept it gratefully, while I have no doubt, that your Hon"'^ "Worships will please to grant me the
foregoing petition, whereupon awaiting your Hon''"^ Worships' decision I remain
Actum Wilttoyck, Your Honorable Worships' servant,
this 31°' of March 1663. Cornelis Baeentsen Slecht.
The foregoing petition was taken up and read and after the question had been put, it was
ordered.
That disposition shall be made of the aforesaid land, as requested in the petition, after the
same has been surveyed and a report niade by the surveyor. Actum at Fort Amsterdam in New-
Netherland, the 12"' of April 1663.
Taking up again the preceding order, it was decided to direct Thomas Chambers and he is
hereby directed, not to take possession of or use the land, j^etitioned for by petitioner, without
our special order and consent. On the 19"* of April 1663.
Petition of the Overseers of the new village on the Esopus, praying that
MEASURES MAY BE ADOPTED TO PACIFY THE InDIAXS AND A MILITARY FORCE BE
SENT FOR PROTECTION AGAINST THEM. '
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worship-
ful Director-General and Council of Wew-
Netherland.
Show with great humility your Hon'''^ Worships' petitioners, the Overseers lately appointed
by his Honor, the Director-General, for the early fencing and enclosing of the newly made village
and lands on the Esopus, the progress of which they, as interested parties, desire sincerely and
would like to see promoted, that they have repeatedly considered the threats of the savages, who
say, that they are willing to allow the erection of buildings, but that no fortification must be made,
which, if it should be done, would show that we had evil intentions ; these barbarians say also,
that the second large piece of land was not included in the treaty of peace made with them in the
year 1660 and they will therefore not allow, that we should plough and sow it nor that our cattle
and horses shall pasture upon it, before they are not paid for it. Your Hon"'^ Worships' petition-
ers are therefore compelled to address themselves to your Hon'''® Worships and to petition them
most humbly, that your Hon"'' Worships will, as before this in the cases of Wiltwyck, New-Har-
lem, New- Utrecht and other places of less dangerous location and less consequence, also graciously
please to assist this new place and village with a few soldiers and ammunition of war, at least un-
til the settlement has been put into a proper state of defense and inhabited by a good number of
people. We also request, that the gifts promised last autumn, when his Honor the Director-
General and the Secretary were here, may be given to the savages and that they receive some
satisfaction for the second large tract of land, so that your Hon"'" Worships' humble petitioners
and faithful subjects may remain without fear and molestations from tliese barbarous people and
with some assurance for the peaceful, undisturbed and unhindered continuation of the work just
Nexo YorTc. Historical Records. • 243
begun, for if rumors and warnings may be believed, it would be too anxious, if not too dangerous
an undertaking for your Hon""' Worships' humble petitioners and faithful subjects to continue and
advance their work otherwise. Awaiting hereupon your Hon"''" Worships' favorable decision we
are and remain bound to pray to God for your Hon"'" Worships' good health and praiseworthy
administration and rest
Your Honorable Worships'
Actum WiUwyck, humble petitioners and faith-
the 7"" of April f ul servants
A" 1663. Alaerdt Heysiansen Roose
Jan Joosten
The mark ^ of
Jan Geeeetsen.
Petition of the peopetetoes of the new village to the same effect as the
preceding and for free passage to the new village through wiltwyck,
which the latter now effuse.
This petition is word for word the same as the preceding, except the following addition at the close :
We also request, whereas there is no convenient place in the settlement to cultivate garden-
fruits, the fields being too far and inconvenient, that to each of the petitioners a convenient lot
may be granted for a garden in the lowland on the Kil, also that they may pass and repass free
and unmolested, without hindrance or obstacle with their cattle, baggage, wine, beer and other
effects to and from the strand tlu"ough the village of Wiltwyck, for the Wiltwych people have
already dared to make a search in the aforesaid new village. Awaiting hereupon your Hon"''^
Worships' favorable decision etc" as above.
Beverwyck, Tour Hon"'* Worships humble
the XXMI April petitioners and faithful servants.
A° 1663. VoLCKEET Jansen*
Philipp Pieteesen Schutlee.
Jan Thomas.
GOOSEN GEERETSENf.
The 10"^ of May 1663.
The foregoing petitions were taken up in Council and read and it was resolved, that to pre-
serve the peace a considerable present shoiild be made to the Esopus savages at the first oppor-
tunity, to wit, three or four pieces of duffels, some muskets, powder, lead and some mercer's or
Nurembergh wares. Actum at Fort Amsterdam in New-Neiherland on the 10'" of May A° 1663.
P. Stutvesant.
NicAsius de Sille.
* Douw. ■ t Van Schaick.
244 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
Letper from Director Stuyvesant to (Vice-Dieector La Montagne at Fort
OrAJSGE) ; A SURVEYOR GOES TO SIJEVEY AND LAY OUT LOTS ON THE GrEAT Mo-
hawk Flat (Schenectady) ; a pledge to be signed by settlers, before they
can obtain lots.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Sir.
Tour Honor's favor without date has been duly received by us and we have seen from it,
how far the proceedings against the fugitive delinquent Andries Herhertsen have progressed.
Yoiir Honor will please to send over hj first chance the ofScer's complaint and the proofs and
documents relating to it, that we may make use of it and decide upon according to the circum-
stances of the case, as it shall be found necessary.
Tour Honor will learn from the enclosed extract, who has been selected and confirmed by us
as Commissaries there for the ensuing year in place of the outgoing ofBcers.
Tour Honor is hei-eby authorized to discharge the outgoing Commissaries with proper
acknowledgments for their past services and to instal the new ones after they have taken the oath
and to inform the citizens thereof.
The enclosed ordinances must be published by your Honor immediately after receiving them
and affixed at the usual place, so that nobody may have reason to plead ignorance in this regard.
Upon the request of some friends there the sworn surveyor Jacques Gorteljou comes up now,
to survey and lay out the well known Great Flat, but as we have been informed fi-om another side,
that a few new beginners have taken the liberty to sell strong liquor to the savages there, contrary
to our express order of the O"" of April 1662, which we again send herewith for your Honor's
information and observation, we have directed the said Corteljou, not to survey any land for any
one, unless he signs previously in presence of the Commissary and two deputies the enclosed
pledge ; the pledge signed and a report thereof made by your Honor to the surveyor, the same
shall survey and lay out the land. 9"" May 1603.
"We, the undersigned proprietors of land on the Flat, called promise here-
with that we shall have no dealings with the savages, whatever name they may have, on the said
Flat or thereabouts nor will we permit them under any pretext soever, neither directly nor indi-
rectly, under penalty, that, if we or one of us should hereafter happen to forget this our promise,
we shall pay as fine without any resistance whatever the first time fifty beavers, the second time
one hundred and the third time forfeit the land allotted to and obtained by us on the aforesaid
Flat. This we attest by our signatures at Fort Orange the Anno 1663.
Extract from a letter op Vice-Director La Montagne to Director Stuyve-
sant ; the settlers on the Great Flat (Schenectady) refuse to sign the
ABOVE pledge. 19^" May 1663.
******
As to the proprietors of land on the Great Flat, we sent upon receipt of the aforesaid letter
an express messenger thither, to warn them of the surveyor's arrival and that they must come to
Fort Oran.ge, pursuant to your Hon"'" "Worship's order, to sign the pledge. They refused this and
sent a written answer, which we send herewith and to which we refer.
New Yoi'h Historical Ilecorth. 245
Letter feom the Magistrates at "Wiltwyck to Director Stdyvesant ; massacre
AT the Esopus ; the village destroyed.
Noble, Honorable, Very "Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Tour Hon*'® Worships' favor of the 30"' of May last has been duly received by us on the d**"
of June and we have according to your Hon"''^ Worships' order contained therein, informed the
Sachems of your Hon*'" Worships' opinion on the 5"". On the 7"" following an unexpected, sud-
den attack was made by them and pitiful, lamentable murders and arson has been committed by
them against us. They took a good time to strike, for the village was almost bared of men, who
were pursuing their necessary occupations in the fields. They have burned 12 dwelling-houses in
our village, murdered 18 persons, men, women and children and carried away as prisoners 10 pei-
sons more. The new village has been burned to the ground and its inhabitants are mostly taken
prisoners or killed, only a few of them have come safely to this place, so that we find about 65
persons to be missing in general, either killed or captured, besides these 9 persons in our villasre
are severely wounded. We are compelled to inform your Hon"'" Worships hereof, your Hon'''"
Worships may judge in what misery and need we are. We doubt not, your Honors' utmost pity
shall be extended to us and we will speedily be succored by soldiers, with ammunition and cloth-
ing, for the inhabitants have been mostly robbed of it and are almost naked in consequence of the
fire and the robberies. Kelying hereupon we will in the meantime do our duty for the preserva-
tion of ourselves. We commend your Honors to God's protection and remain
Your Honorable Worships' obedient and faithful servants
Actum in Wiltwych, Tjerck Classen de Witt.
this lO**" of June 1663. Thomas Chambers
Gysbert van Imbrogh.
ROELOFF SwARTWOUT
your Honors' faithful Schout.
List of the soldiers and settlers, killed, wounded or taken prisoners by the
Indians at Wiltwyck on the 7"" of June 1663.
Men.
Barent Gerretsen murdered in front of his house.
Jan Alberts " in his house.
Lichten Dirrieh " on the farm.
Willem Jansen Seha " before his door.
Willem Jansen Hap " in Pieter van UaeVs house.
Jan the Smith " in his house.
Uendrick Jansen Looman " on the farm.
Thomas Chamher^ negro " on the farm.
Hey Olferts " in the gunner's house.
Soldiers.
Uendrick Martensen on the farm.
Dominicus in Jan Alberts' bouse.
Christiaen Andriesen on the street.
246 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
"Women.
Lichten DirrecT^s wife burnt, with her lost fruit, behind Barent GerritserCs house.
Mattys Capito's wife killed and burnt in the house.
Jan Alhertseti's wife, big with child, killed in front of her house.
Pieter van HaeVs wife shot and burnt in her house.
Children.
Jan Alberts^ little girl murdered with her mother.
Willem Sap's child burnt alive in the house.
Taken Prisoners.
Master Gysberfs wife. Hester Douwes.
Sara the daughter of Hester Douwes.
Grietje, Dommelaer's wife.
Femme^e, sister of Hilletje, being recently married to Joost Ariaens.
Children.
Tjerck Claessen de Wiifs oldest daughter.
Dommelaer's child.
Ariaen Gerritsen^s daughter.
Two little boys of Mattys Roeloffsen.
Killed in the New Village :
Men.
Marten Harniensen found dead and stript naked behind the wagon.
Jacques Tyssen beside Barents house.
Derrick Ariaensen shot on his horse.
Taken prisoners :
Men.
Jan Gerritsen on Volckerfs bouwery.
Women. Children.
Of Louwis du hois 1 3
Of Mattheu hlanchan 2
Of Antoni drupel 1 1
Of Lamhert Huyhertsen 1 3
Of Marten Harmensen 1 4
Of Jan Joosten 1 2
Of Barent Harmensen 1 1
Of Grietje Westercamp 1 3
Of Jan Barents 1 1
Of Michiel Ferre 2
Of Henderich Jochems 1
Of Henderich Martensen 1
Of Albert Heymans 2
Women 8 Ch'n 26
Neto Yoi'h Historical Records.
24^
Houses burnt in Wiltwyck.
Of Michiel Ferre. . . .
Of Willem Hap
Of Maitys Roeloffsen
Of Albert Gerretsc7i .
Of Lichten Dirrick. .
1 Of Hans Carolusen 1
1 Of Pleier van Ilael 1
1 Of Jacob Boerhans 2
1 Of Barent Gerretsen 2
1 Of Mattys 1
Houses 12
The new village is entirely destroyed except a new uncovered barn, one rick and a little stack
of reed.
Wounded in WiUwych
shot in the woods.
" in his house.
" in front of his house.
" in front of his house.
" in front of his house.
" in the house of Aert Pietersen Tack.
Henderich the Director-General's servant in the street in front of Aert Jacohsen.
Paulus the Noorman in the street.
Thomas Charabers
Henderich Jochemsen
MicJiiel Ferre
Albert Gerretsen
Andries Barents
Jan dto parck
PETmoN OF Cheistophee DAvros foe peemission to ee-entee on land on the Eso-
PUS, EEOM WHICH HE HAD BEEN DEIVEN BY THE InDIANS.
Monday, the 11"> of June 1663.
Present in Council his Honor, the Director-General Petrus Stnyvesant and tlie Honorable
Councillors Nicasius de Sille and Johan de Deckere.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful, the Hon
orable Director-General and Council of
New-NetTierland.
Shows with great reverence Christoffel Pavids, that the Commissary and Vice-Director Jo-
hannes Dyckman granted to petitioner in the year 1653 a parcel of land measuring about five or
six morgens, situate on the Esopus and that this grant was approved by your Hon""^ Worships,
as may be seen by the records. This parcel of land has been inhabited and cultivated until the
time, when the savages began their war against the Christians ; then petitioner's dwelling on the
said land was burned by the savages and he was compelled to fly with wife and children, to save
their lives, and to abandon everything: since that time he has very poorly subsisted himself and
family on a sterile, scantj"- place in a barkhouse and whereas petitioner cannot support and pro-
vide lor his family there, he addresses himself to your Hon'"'^ Worships with the humble request,
that your Hon""' Worships will out of commiseration allow and grant to petitioner to take again
possession of the aforesaid piece of land, to inhabit, cultivate and plant it and that a title-deed foi
the same may be issued to petitioner in communi forma., doing wliicli he remains etc
Your Hon""' Worships' humble servant
In my husband's name
Maeia Meeetens.
248 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Tlie foregoing petition liaving Leen read and the question put, it was ordered,
That petitioner lias to govern himself according to the judgment pronounced against him on
the 9"" June 1659. Date as above.
ClRCULAKS TO THE TOWNS AROUND NeW-AmSTEEDAM, NOTIFYING THEM OF THE EsOPUS MASSACRE.
Worthy good friends.
We have just been informed by a letter from the Esopus, that the savages have suddenly
attacked our people there, burnt some houses and killed and captured a number of people. You
are therefore hereby requested and directed to be on your guard and to keep good watch, not
doubting which I remain .
Fort Amsterdam in N. N. Your friend
the 12'" of June 1663. C. v. Rutven.
A letter of the foregoing contents has been sent to all the neighboring villages.
Worthy, good friends.
This is to inform you, that according to trustworthy reports the neighboring savages have had
no part in the Esopus affair, but they desire to continue in peace with us, upon which we thor-
oughly rely, because they have been already scared by the Sitmekus, who long ago have threat-
ened to make war upon them and therefore they will not draw two enemies upon themselves at the
same time. Hence we cannot believe, that they will molest us, but in the meantime we will
nevertheless recommend you to be on your guard and keep good watch. If you do this, you need
not fear, with God's assistance, any danger from their side. For greater safety we send herewith
two soldiers and commending you to God's protection we remain with greetings
Actum Eort Amsterdam Your good friends
in Nexo-Neiherland, the Nicasius de Sille
IS"" June 1663. C. v. Euyven.
The foregoing letter was sent to the people on Staten-Island.
Instruction for the Magistrates and militaet officers at Wiltwyck.
Provisional orders, by which the Commissaries, the officers of the trainband and the Com-
mander of the military have to govern themselves.
First they shall keep on a good footing with each other and live in harmony and take no steps,
except sanctioned by the majority and if time allows it, recorded in the book.
2.
Whatever they decide upon by a majority of votes, the community shall be held to carry out
promptly, recusant parties shall be arrested immediately and either be punished or sent off by next
chance.
3.
They shall immediately with the assistance of the community and the Company's officers
repair the palisades around this stronghold and close all gates, except the two sally-ports and the
cattle-drift.
Neto York Historical liceords. 249
4.
They imist not go far off into the woods in snuiU parties, but take good care, that of the few
people left no more are killed or taken prisoners.
5.
"Whenever they decide, to send out a party either to look for and save their cattle or to con-
vey something to the strand, it is left to their own discretion [how to do it], but a few men on
horseback must always keep near them, so that they may capture some savages, but until further
orders and succor are received, in no ease must they leave the high woods or the open field and
go into some underwood, narrow passages or defiles, even though they might see or hear there
some savages, that they may not be deceived and taken in by an ambush or ti-eachery of the savages.
e.
In order to induce the freemen as well as the servants of the Company to do their duty, they
are hereby promised, that as soon as delivered from this trouble, they shall receive a fair compen-
sation, to be decided by impartial men, for the horses, which might be killed in the military service
or in an attack ; all free people, who may have been wounded or maimed in an aggressive attack
or in the defense of this place shall be cured at the public expense and in case of mutilation receive
such relief, as if they were Company's servants.
7.
Until further orders the following persons are hereby appointed to deliberate and decide upon
what has been stated above and what else may be necessary, namely the Commander of the mili-
tary company, Christiaen Niessen, Thomas Chambers, one of tiie Commissaries and Captain of
the trainband, further the Schout and the three Commissaries together with the Lieutenant of the
trainband UendriGk Jochemsen. Whatever these may decide upon and project and carry out for
the welfare of the community shall be considered by us, that it was well and maturely weighed
and considered and resolved upon and carried out either unanimously or by majority of voices.
The inhabitants are hereby commanded and directed to obey them and execute their orders. Thus
done in- haste at the village of Wiltwyeh the 14"' of June 1663.
P. Stutyvesant.
At the request of the Court his Honor the Director-General has consented, tliat Jlatheus
Capita may serve as Secretary here and directed us to record it.
In presence of the Commissaries
Witness Roeloff Swaetwout.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Fort Orange ;
AFFAmS AT the EsOPUS.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
The murderous deeds committed by the barbarians on so many men, women and children
at the Esojni'S, they having killed, wounded and captured about six or eight and seventy persons
according to the list handed to bearer, was first communicated to me by your Honors' messenger,
for the previously dispatched three yachts have missed me coming up in the night from Tuesday
32
250 Colonial Settlements on tJie Hudson River.
to Wednesday. I arrived in the village of Wiltwyck at about G o'clock and after having issued
some orders suitable to the time and circumstances and seeing that I could do nothing for the
service or advantage of the community or of the place, I resolved with some of our friends there
to come and visit your Honors, to see whether the forty-five captured women and children
cannot be ransomed with the assistance of either the Maquas or the Sinnekus. It was my fixed
intention to go up river only for this purpose, but when I came to the strand I did not find
there the yacht of Claes Bordingh nor that of Claes Tyssen, which I had sent off upon my
arrival at the Esopus after Claes Bordingh, who had sailed from the Manhatans about an liour
or an hour and a half after me, and was still missing much to our fear, as he had only a small
crew, who might have run away. This not only made me resolve, but in fact compelled me to
give up my intention of visiting your Honors, to make some arrangements there, and deliberate
the best means with our friends ; in going down the river .... Long reach upon Claes
Bordingh .... the fourth tide having now run down this
increased my cares and anxieties regarding a surprise, whereto in the meantime came my very
uneasy thoughts that the first three yachts having missed me and bringing the pitiful tidings to
the Manhatans, M'ould throw everything into dismay there and cause much anxiety and care for
the yacht, its cargo and the small crew, which I had with me and whereas the necessary relief
for the afflicted people on the Esopus must have been on its way from the Manhatans and as
according to the report of your Honor's messenger, many volunteers, who to the number of 50
or 60 had offered themselves were by your Honors' measures prevented and held back from
assisting their friends at the Esopus, therefore I was the more obliged to change my first plan
and to go with Claes Tyssen^s yacht and some of the men, sent by your Honors, to the Man-
hatans, to make there arrangements as well for relief as for protection. This letter is only to
inform your Honors hereof and to recomniend further very earnestly, that your Honors will
do everything possible to induce the 2£aquas and Senecas to help us get the poor women and
children out of the hands of the barbarians. For this purpose we send your Honors the articles
of the peace made with the Esopas sa.vs.g&5, which they have broken so murderously and villain-
ously. Your Honors must further have as good a care of the safety of those places and the
surrounding bouweries as possible and as we are informed, that Fort Orange is bared of soldiers
and destitute of proper means of defense and hard to rejjair, we would consider it advisable, that
the Company's stonebuilding only be fortified and all miserable huts be broken off with the least
expense and the greatest sj^eed, which we leave to your Honors' better experience and discretion.
Your Honors will have been taught, I trust, by the example of the Esopus not to rely on any
savage and not to let them come into their houses in large numbers, much less provide them with
strong liquor or ammunition of war, except for saving and ransoming the captive women and
children, for which end every possible exertion must be made. Henceforth no yacht must sail up
or down the river by itself, unless well manned, to prevent possible surprises or at least troubles
and they must on their up and down voyages call at the Esopus, to get news now and then, by
which we may govern ourselves. Your Honors will send there one hundred pounds of fine gun
powder by the first sailing yacht, I have pi-ovided them pretty well with coarse powder and lead ;
this is written in haste on board the Jersman's yacht and as I have no time to copy it or have
it copied, your Honors are requested to send down a copy hereof by first chance, that we may
make use of it, when necessary and with my cordial greetings I commend your Honors to the
protection of the All-good God.
Actum 15"' June 1663. Your affectionate friend
in the Lons; reach P. Stuyvesant.
Neiv York Historical Jiecords. 251
As I liavo left one half of the 6 soldiers, sent down, at the Exopus and taken the other three
to protect Claes 2'yi<se)is yacht, your Honors are hereby authorized to enlist others for the main-
tenance of justice and the safety of the place, if they can be engaged at a fair monthly pay.
To the Honorable Members of the Courts for the village of Beaverwyck and Colony
Renselaerswyck.
Letter from the Magistrates at Wiltwyck to Director Stuyvesant ; report
. on the progress of affairs.
Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen, Hon-
orable Director-General and Council of New-Neiherland.
Your Hon*'* Worships' favor of the lo"" of June has been received by the undersigned to-
day and we have well understood its contents, which we shall carry out as far as possible with the
Lord's help. We send herewith according to your Hon*'* Worships' order the desired three copies,
informing your Hon*''" Worships further, that we have lost to-day Michiel Ferre, one of the
wonnded, and yesterday a soldier has been M^ounded near the redoubt, while fetching water;
otherwise we are still in the same situation, except that the savages rove all around the fort and
show themselves occasionally. We request humbly and earnestly, that your Hon*"'" Worships will
remember, to send saddles and bridles, pistols and saddle bags, because they can be of great
service to us. We thank your Hon'''* Worships for the present assistance and trust that j'our
Hon*'* Worships will continue in their help by further succor, that we may above all harvest our
grain with safety, if the Lord God will let the same prosper on our fields and take care of it and
that we may carry on farming in greater peace after the pursuit and defeat of the savages, which,
we trust in God, will be done. In the meantime we shall do our best, as the opportunity for it
may offer remaining
Your Honorable Worships'
Actum at WilticycJi, humble and very obedient servants,
the le"" of June 1663. The mark ,A of Albert Gtsbertsen.
Tjeeck Classen de Witt
• Thomas Chambers
Present Hoeluff Swartwout, Gtsbert van Imbeough
Christian Niessen
Hendrick Jochemsen.
Resolution to make war on the Esopus Indians and to employ the Mohawks
in the recovery of the captive women and children.
The Director-General and Council of New-JVetherland repeatedly and seriously considered
the bad situation of the country, caused by the treacherous attack upon and massacre of the
inhabitants of the village of Wiltwyck and of the new settlement in that neighborhood by the
Esopus savages.
252 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The following important points connected with this subject came up for discussion, viz. :
whether to resent the injuries immediately by force of arms, which was thought necessary for the
reputation of the country and of the Christian nations, but the Director-General and Council found
their hands bound, because about 45 captured women and children and one man were prisoners
among the barbarians ; or whether and how to get these prisoners first out of their hands, whether
it should be a direct attack, which could not be made and carried out so quickly and secretly,
that the barbarians would not receive information of it and then without doubt they would
murder all their prisoners to the extreme sorrow of the parents and kindred and consequent blame
of the Director-General and Council, unless they first made attempts and endeavors to release
them by ransom. Concerning the ransoming them from the barbarians, it had to be considered,
that it could not be effected without great presents and an excessive ransom and doubtless not
without stipulating for a thu-d or fourth uncertain peace, each time broken by the savages and
dishonest men and it was to be feared that the new peace would also be broken again under this
or that trumped up pretext.
After having discussed all these points 2)ro et contra, the Director-General and Council re-
solve for the safety of the country and its good inhabitants, not to make peace with the deceitful
and treacherous nation, but to revenge with the help and blessing of God these and all former
injuries by force of arms, to enlist the earlier the better for that purpose here and elsewhere,
wherever they can be got, as many soldiers as shall be found necessary and required ; to request
in the meantime the Maquaes to release and ransom our unhappy captives, if by offering to theni
a suitable present they might get the said prisoners out of the hands of the Esopus savages and to
advise the husbands, parents and relations of the abovementioned women and children, that each
of them do his best to ransom his people without knowledge of the Director-General and Council
and all will be assisted secretly with some merchandises. Actum Fm't Amsterdam in New-
■Heiherland, the IT'" of June 1663.
Appointment of Commissionees to foetift Communipaw.
Monday, the IS'" of June 1663.
Present in Council their Honors Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and Councillor Nicasius
de Sille.
They listened to the verbal request of Harmen Smeeman, Nicholas Backer and Fytje Har-
vnetis, Widow of Michiel Jansen, to enclose in consideration of these dangerous times their settle-
ment at Gemoenepa with long palisades for the safety of their houses and barns and that for this
purpose one as well as the other should be compelled to contribute pro i-ata. The Director-Gen-
eral and Council praise and approve the request and appoint herewith as commissioners to hasten
this necessary work Gerrit Gerritnen, Harmen Smeeman and J)irch Claesen, ordering and em-
powering them, to compel every inhabitant to contribute, as they shall judge it equitable and in
proportion to the area and location of the lands and lots. Date as above.
Neto Yorh Historical liecords. . 253
Okdinance against cakuyino on any Indian trade at Schenectady, passed IS"' June 1GG3.
(Laws of N. Netherlaud, p. 443.)
PeITTION of the SE'ITLKKS AT ScHANECTADE FOK PERMISSION TO CULTIVATE THEIR
LANDS ETC AND ORDER THEREON.
Copy.
Arent van Curlaer communicated and read to tlie unaersigned proprietors of land at Scha-
nectade on the IS"" of May 1663 the order of their Honors, the Director-General and Council of
New-Netherland, dated the 7'" of that month, and proposed to them, that they sign a pledge,
added to that resolution, which had heen communicated and a copy whereof had been given to him
by the Hon"'" Vice-Director La Montague and the Commissaries. The nndei-signed proprietors
unanimously agree and are willing to obey the Hon"'^ Company and the authorities of New-
Netherland in every respect, like others, their subjects and vassals, to paj'^ the taxes and duties
and not to do nor attempt anything against the published ordinances and placards of their said
Honors, the Director-General and Council ; we trust and do not doubt, that your Hon*'' Worships
shall treat us not less nor otherwise nor impose any other duties, than upon other inhabitants of
this province. We feel assured that your Hon*"® Worships will be convinced, that in consequence
of their resolution of the 23'* June 1661 we bought the land with our own money for behalf of
the Company (to be repaid at a convenient time), took possession of it with great expenses, erected
buildings on it and provided it with horses and cattle and if neveitheless ti °! proprietors are to be
treated in a different manner or with less consideration, than other inhabitants, then all their work
has been done to no purpose and they are themselves completely ruined, which God may 'beware
them of! We request very instantly, that your Hon'''* Worships will please to allow us to culti-
vate and till the land in our possession, as your Hon'"'^ Worships have already given a patent to
Jan Barentsen Wemj) and Jacques N. JV. without such an obligation or burthen, as proposed in
the aforesaid pledge. Finally, whereas the surveyor is here now, but has no order to survey the
land, unless this pledge is signed, we request, that the surveyor be authorized, to survey the land
in order to prevent differences and disputes among us, else we shall be compelled to help our-
selves, as best we can. Date as above. (Signed) A. van Cuelaer, Philipp Hendricksen,
Sander Leendertsen Glen, the mark of Simon Volckertsen, Pietee Sogemacklie, the mark
of Teunis Coenelissen, the mark of Maeten Coenelissen, Willem Teller, Geeeet Banckee,
Bastian de Wintee authorized to sign in the name of Cateletn, the widow of Arent Andeie-
SEN, Pietee Jacobsen Boesboom, Pieter Danielsen van Olinda, the mark of Jan Baeentsen
Wemp, the mark of Jacques Coenelis.
After having received and read the foregoing petition, the following decision was made :
As some of the ]ietitioiiers pretend not to have anything else in view, than agricultural pur-
suits, they are allowed, to cultivate the said Flat. We would not have given peiTnission other-
vdse on account of the perils, which are likel}' to arise there, if trade with the barbarians were
allowed and tolerated at such a distant place and whereas we have already been authoritatively
informed, that some people hare dared and are daily taking the liberty to trade there with the
254 Colonial Settlernents on the Hudson River.
savages, tlierefore the Director-General and Council adhere to their order, made at the request of
the petitioners on the 6"" of April 1662, for they do not intend, to establish one place, to ruin
thereby another or even the whole country, and Director-General and Council refer tlierefore to the
ordinances made regarding this matter. Thus done in Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the
18'" of June A" 1663.
Letter feom Director Stityvesant to Vice-Dieector Lamontagne at Fort
Orange; means adopted for the release op the captured people.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Sir.
Your Honor was informed by my last hasty and therefore badly written letter of the terrible
condition of our people at the Esopus, especially of the women and children in captivity, whose
release and ransoming out of the wild barbarians' hands we not only pray and demand of our good
Lord, but would also like to see accomplished and promoted by all conducive means. We have
deemed it necessary for that purpose, not only to recommend it most earnestly to your Honors by
the foregoing letter, but also to depute for its better promotion from our Council the Hon''''' Johan
de Deckers, who with your Honors or what we tliink still better with two deputies from each
Court shall do his best towards it, push the matter and accomplish further, what we have recom-
mended to his Honor per memorandum, given him in writing. We have no doubt, that your
Honors will allow him to make use of your Honors' aid and advice, relying upon which we com-
mend your Honors to God's gracious protection and remain with cordial salutations
Honorable, Dear, J'aithful Friends
ig"" June 1663. Your affectionate Friend.
To both the Courts of the village of Bevenoyck and Colony of Renselaerswyck.
Postscript.
I mentioned in my last, leaving it to your Honors' discretion, tlie repairing of Fort Orange
or its destruction, to enclose the Company's stonehouse as a place of retreat with less expense and
for the greater security. I still leave it to your Honors, but we desire to recommend and direct
our deputy to send us by first opportunity 8 or 4 of the lightest cannons, to use them at distant
outlying places here, where they are much needed.
Date as above. Your Honors' affectionate friend.
Honorable Gentlemen.
These few lines are simply to say, what was forgotten in tlie preceding letter, namely, that
yachts, coming down from above, must touch at the Esoj)us, to get news from there, under a
penalty of 50 guilders. Done at Fort Amsterdam in JS ew-Netherland, the IQ"' of June 1663.
To the .... at Fort Orange.
New Yoi'Tc Historical litcords. 255
Instructions for Councillor Johan de Decker, sent to Fort Orange on public business.
Memorandiini foa his Honor, Johan de
Deckere, Councillor of Neio-Netherland,
commissioned by the Director-General
and Council to make a journey to Fort
Orange.
■ 1.
With the advice and knowledge of the Commissary La lloniagne and the deputies of the
two Courts he is to try in pursuance of our former letters, whether the release of the captured
Christians can be brought about through the Maqiiaes, but if possible without making engage-
ments for a new peace with the treacherous Ksopus savages or promising to give the least presents
on behalf of the Director-General and Council, except to the Maouues or Sinnekus after deliver-
ance of the pi'isoiiers.
2.
To inquire of both Courts what number either of volunteers or perhaps for continued service
might be obtained in the village of Bevenoijck or the Colony of Renselaerswyck, if the oppor-
tunity should come, to make an expedition against the Esojpus savages.
If he can get a dozen resolute men for that purpose, his Honor is authorized and qualified
hereby to engage them at the usual pay of 8 or 10 guilders per month at the usual rate of 16
pieces of wampum for a stiver, to provide them with the necessary weapons and , send or bring
them to the Esopus.
4.
If the release of the prisoners, either of all of them or the greater part, cannot be effected by
either the Maquaes nor Senecas, he shall with the aforesaid ad\ice try to induce the Maquaes or
Senecas to capture some of the Esopus savages and surrender them to us, that we may recover
our prisoners, or at least a few of them by these means, on condition that they receive for each
prisoner such a present, as his Honor shall agree upon in presence and through the mediation of
the aforesaid deputies from the Courts.
5.
To get as much information as possible, either through the Maquaes or through the Senecas,
of the situation and condition of the prisoners as of the strength of the Esopus savages, the loca-
tion of their forts etc".
6.
To consider with the aforesaid Courts or the deputies therefrom, as his Honor shall deem ad-
visable, whether 10 or 12 faithful Maquaes would be willing to enter the service of the Director-
General and Council for 2 or 3 months and make an expedition with our men against the Esopus
savages, to get some prisoners by these means.
7.
To report and give information as quickly and exact as possible upon every occasion as well
of his doings, as of the state of affairs at the Esopus and what our people there may require.
S.
Finally to request the Courts, or with help of the deputies of the same, some merchant to ad-
256 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liiver.
vance a sum of three or four thousand guilders, half in goods, haK in wampum, cither in form of
a loan or perhaps at a fair rate of interest, if it cannot be returned within a year, for which the
Director-General and Council ofi'er to give as security not only the Company's property, but also
their own private ones. Actum Fort Amsterdam in New-JS etherland, the 19'^ of June A° 1663.
Report of the Magistrates at Wiltwyck on the massacre coMMrnED by the Indians.
Noble, Honorable, Worshipful, AVise, Prudent and very Discreet.
We, your Honors' faithful subjects have to report, pursuant to the order of the R' Hon''"'
Director-General, in the form of a Journal, that in obedience to his Honor's order, received
on the 30^'' of May last, we caused the Indian Sachems to be notified on the 5"" of June, to be
prepared to expect the arrival of the E' Hon*''^ Director-General, to receive the promised
presents, and to renew the peace. This notification was communicated to them through Capt.
Thomas Chamiers, to which they answered — " If peace were to be renewed with them, the
Hon*''^ Dii-ector-General should, with some unarmed persons, sit with them in the open field,
without the gate, as it was their own custom to meet unarmed when renewing peace or in other
negotiations." But, unmindful of the preceding statement, they surprised and attacked us between
the hours of 11 and 12 o'clock in the forenoon on Thursday the 7"" instant ; entering in bands
through all the gates, they divided and scattered themselves among all the houses and dwellings
in a friendly manner, having with them a little maize and some few beans to sell to. our inhabit-
ants, by which means they kept them within their houses, and thus went from place to place as
spies to discover our strength in men. And after they had been about a short quarter of an hour
within this place, some people on horseback rushed through the Mill gate from the New Village,
crying out — " The Indians have destroyed the New Village !" And with these words, the Indi-
ans here in this Village immediately fired a shot and made a general attack on our village from
the rear, murdering our people in their houses with their axes and tomahawks and firing on them
with guns and pistols ; they seized whatever women and children they could catch and carried
them prisoners outside the gates, plundered the houses and set the village on fire to windward, it
blowing at the time from the South. The remaining Indians commanded all the streets, firing
from the corner houses which they occupied and through the curtains outside along the highways,
so that some of our inhabitants, on their way to their houses to get their arms, were wounded and
slain. When the flames were at their height the wind changed to the west, were it not for which
the fire would have been much more destructive. So rapidly and silently did Murder do his work
that those in different parts of the village were not aware of it until those who had been wounded
happened to meet each other, in which way the most of the others also had warning. The greater
portion of our men were abroad at their field labors, and but few in the village. Near the mill
gate were Albert Gysbertsen with two servants, and Tjerck Claesen de Wit • at the Sheriff's he him-
self Mdth two carpenters, two clerks and one thresher ; at Cornelius Barentsen Sleghfs, himself
and his son ; at the Doraine's, himself and two carpenters and one labouring man ; at the guard
house, a few soldiers ; at the gate towards the river, Menderick Jochemsen and Jacoh, the Brewer ;
but Henderick Jochemsen was very severely wounded in his house by two shots at an early hour.
By these aforesaid men, most of whom had neither guns nor side arms, were the Indians, through
God's mercy, chased and put to fiight on the alarm being given by the Sheriff'. Capt. Thomxis
Chambers, who was wounded on coming in from without, issued immediate orders (with the Sheriff
New YorJc Historical Mecoi'ds. 257
and Commissaries,) to secure the gates ; to clear the gun and to drive ont the savages, vcho were
still about half an hour in the village aiming at their persons, which was accordingly done. The
burning of the houses, the murder and caiuying off of women and children is here omitted, as these
have been already comnmnicated to your Honors on the 10"" June. After these few men had
been collected against the barbarians, by degrees the others arrived who, it has been stated were
abroad at their iield labors, and we found ourselves when mustered in the evening, including those
from the new village who took refuge amongst ns, in number 69 efficient men, both qualified and
unqualified. The biu-nt palisades were immediately replaced by new ones, and the people distrib-
uted, during the night, along the bastions and curtains to keep watch.
On the 10"" inst., 10 horsemen were commanded to ride down to the Eedoubt and to examine
its condition. They returned with word that the soldiei-s at the Eedoubt had not seen any Indi-
ans. They brought also with them the Sergeant, who had gone the preceding morning to the
Eedoubt and as he heard on his return of the mischief committed by the Indians in the village,
he went back to the Eedoubt and staid there. In addition to the Sergeant they brought the men,
who had fled from the new village.
On the IB"", towards evening. Sergeant Christiaen j}^iessen went with a troop of soldiers, sent
us by your Honoi's, being 42 men, and three wagons, to the Eedoubt, with letters for the Man-
hafans, addressed to your Honors, and to bring up ammunition from the Eedoubt. On their
retm-n, the Indians made an attempt at the first hill to take the ammunition from these troops.
The Sergeant having divided his men into separate bodies, evinced great courage against the Indi-
ans, skirmishing with them from the first to past the second hill and defending the wagons so
well that they arrived in safety in the village. He had, however, one killed and six wounded.
The dead man was brought in next morning, having been stripped naked, and having had his
right hand cut off by the Indians. Some of the Indians were also killed, but the number of these
is not known. This skirmishing having been heard in the village, a reinforcement of horse and
foot was unmediately ordered oiit, but before they arrived the Indians had been put to flight by
the above named Sergeant.
This, your Honors, is what we have deemed necessary to commxmicate to you in the
form of a jom-nal as to how and in what manner the Indians have acted towards us and we towards
them in the preceding circiimstances. And we humbly and respectfully request your Honors to
be pleased to send ns hither for the wounded by the earliest opportunity some prunes and linen
with some wine to strengthen them, and whatever else not obtainable here your Honors may think
proper; also, carabines, cutlasses and gun flints and we request that the carabines may be snap-
haunce, as the people here are but little conversant with the use of the arquebuse (v-i/er roer) /
also some spurs for the horsemen. In addition to this also some reinforcements in men inasmuch
as harvest will commence in about l-t days from date. Herewith ending we commend your Hon-
ors to God's fatherly care and protection. Done, Wiltwych this 20" June 1663.
EoELOFF SwAETWOUT,
the mark of ,JL, Albert Gtsbeetsen,
TiEEECK Classen DEWnr,
Thomas Chambers,
Gysbert Yan Imbroch,
Christiaen Ntssen,
Hendrick Jochemsen.
83
258 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Letter from the Magistrates at Fort Orange to Director Stdtvesant ; lit-
tle PROSPECT of the RELEASE OF THE PRISONERS AMONG THE EsOPUS.
Honorable, Valiant Petrus Stuyvesomt, Director-General of New-Netherland.
Your Honor's letter of the 15"" inst. has been received by us on the 20"^ ; we will say in an-
swer, that we shall do our best for the release of the unhappy captives on the Esojnos, but we see
little prospect for it at present, because it is rumored, that the Maquaes are hard pressed and sur-
rounded by their enemies.
Your Honor will please to inform us, who the volunteers are said to have been, whom we
have prevented from helping tiie Esopus people, then we shall answer in detail, trusting in the
meantime, that your Honor will believe our principles to be only friendly and brotherly according
to our sincere and plain judgment.
Pursuant to your Honor's order we send herewith a copy of your Honor's aforesaid letter.
May God in the meantime give to your Honor and the Hon'''" Councillors permanent health and
prosperous administration, with which we remain
Your Honor's obedient friends and servants
Done at Fort Orange, La Montagne
the SS"" of June A° 1663. J. V. Renselaeb
By order of the Courts of Beverwyvk Village
, and the Colony of Renselaerswyck.
Johannes Provoost, Clerk.
D. V. ScHELLUTNE, Secretary
of the (Jolony of Reriselaerswyck.
To his Honor, the Valiant and Noble Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant oi New-Netherland.
Letter from Vice-Director Lamontagne to the same ; the defenceless con-
dition OF THE FORT OrAIJGE.
Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful Sir.
Whereas your Honor's letter to the two Courts mentions the disabled and defenceless con-
dition of Fort Orange, which is indeed a fact ; it ought to be repaired and put in a proper condition
in a short time. The Courts did not say anything of it in their letter, yet they have with me
concluded to let the old houses and huts stand and merely to repair the angles at the least ex-
pense and with the greatest speed, for it would hardly be convenient to everybody to pull down
their houses now and to remove ; it would also be disadvantageous for the Hon''''' Company, as
the people would have to be bought off, while my hands, with which it would have to be done, are
closed to my great regret : hereto comes the people's scoffing at the Hon'''* Company on account
of the fort, which cannot be borne any longer. I have tlierefore undertaken to make a beginning,
as the posts and the outside covering are ready and the burghers offered to turn out daily 8 or 10
men, but plancks for the platforms and sills with rails for anchors, spikes and especially two car-
penters are still needed. As I have all this not at hand, I hope Your Honor and the Council will
come to my assistance and provide the money, to pay for the aforesaid articles and feel assured,
that I for my part shaU keep good and faithful account and supervision of the whole. I commend
New York Historical Hecoi'ds. 259
herewith your Honor to tlie protection of God, who may gi-ant your Honor strength in this un-
happy time and a prosperous administration, remainmg meanwhile
Fort Oraiuje Your Honor's humhle and
23'' June 1663. obedient servant
La Montagne.
To the Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-General of New-
Netherland.
Letter from the AUTHOErriEs at "Wiltwtck to Jan Tomassen anb others,
INTERESTED IN THE " NEW ViLLAGE " ON THE EsOPUS ; STATE OF ATFAIRS THERE.
Honorable, Good Friends.
Your letter of the 20"' June has been handed to us and we understand its contents well.
Our answer is, that the horses, belonging to you, had to be taken by us out of the enemy's very
hands with great danger ; we require them now with our own for our defense and have some of
them already under the saddle. Your request is therefore refused for the present and if you
are not satisfied with it, then we inform you, that the horses, used for our defense, which may
have been shot or killed by the enemies in an attack, shall be paid for according to the appraise-
ment of impartial men, pursuant to an order given us by his Honor, the Director-General. We
consent to let the cows go and shall endeavor in your behalf to convey them to the strand, for we
do not deem it advisable to send them to you overland, not wishing to drive them again into the
enemies' hands. In the meantime we thank you for your kind care and intentions for our captives
and do not doubt, that you will further do your best for their release. Closing herewith with
many greetings we commend you to God's protection.
Actum at WiltwycJc, By order of the Court and the
this 23" June A° 1663. Council o^ War at Wiltwych
(Signed) Matheus Capito, Secretary.
To the Honorable and Yery Discreet Jan Tmnassen, Yolckert Jansen, Cornells Wynkoap
and partners at Beverwyck.
Extract from a imniTE of the Director-General's visit to Hempstead 23'' June 1663.
* « * * -:■:• *
To induce some of the English to take part in the expedition to the Esopus, the Director-
General promised them free plunder and all the savages, whom they could capture ; this was pro-
claimed by a handbill.
Proclamation calling out volunteers for the war against the Esopus Indians.
Whereas the Director-Genei-al and Council of New-Neiherland, after having suffered many
massacres, affronts and unbearable injuries, committed by the Esopus savages* from time to time,
* The English proclamation calls them " Warynawoncks."
260 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
are compelled for the maintenance and protection of their good inhabitants to begin an offensive
and defensive war against the said Esojnts savages, therefore all inhabitants of this province,
Dutch as well as English, are hereby informed, that all, who are willing and resolved to assist in
this necessary and honorable affair and to take np arms against the said Esojpus savages for a year
or a year and a half or longer, until the same shall be destroyed with the help of God or all those,
who will send one of their farm laborers or ser\'ants, able to carry arms, in their places, shall have
and enjoy above the usual soldier's pay :
1. Free plundering and all the barbarians, who are captured.
2. Exemjition from tithes for 6 years and those, who are not yet subject to tithes, shall enjoy
the same exemptions, when they become subject thereto, of which a document shall be issued to
them for their assurance.
3. If somebody should be hurt or wounded, he shall be properly treated by the surgeon with
good remedies and such persons, as may be maimed or deprived of their health in the service
of the Hon'''* Company shall have the following indemuiticatious :
for the loss of the right arm fl 800
« " " of the left arm " 500
" " " of a leg " 450
" " " of both legs " 800
" " " of an eye " 300
" " " of both eyes " 900
" " " of the right hand " 600
" " " of both hands " 1000
« " « of the left hand " 400
If any of the citizens or inhabitants of this or other places within this government are
inclined to go themselves or to send somebody in their places, they shall further be exempted
for the time of one year :
From guardmounting, firewatch and chimney-tax and besides that the owners of bouweries
shall be exempted from tithes for 6 years ; those, who have no bouweries now shall enjoy this
exemption besides the 10 years commonly allowed, whenever they should go into the country and
establish bouweries, for which they shall receive a proper warrant. Thus done at Fort Ainster-
dam in New-Netherlcmid. the 25"" of June A° 1663.
Letter from Councillob de Decker to Dieectok Stutvesant; efforts for the
release of the prisoners at the esopus.
Sir.
I arrived at the Esnpus at break of day on Thursday the 21^* inst and landed immediately.
I ordered a soldier of the Redoubt to fire a shot with a blank cartridge as signal for the garrison
of Wiltwycl; that they should come and convey me thither and after waiting about an hour and
a half I let him fire another shot, but understanding in the meantime from the Corporal that
since Saturday he had received no information nor tidings and had seen not a single man ; after
having waited about half an hour after the second shot, while the wind was very favorable and I
did not like to delay the yachts and retard my own voyage, I came to the resolution to march on
with five men to Wiltioyok, I myself carrying a musket. Arriving there, the people were aston-
New York Historical Records, 261
ished, when they saw nie with such a small force and when I had learned, what had happened
and in how great a danger I and my companions had been, then I saw no reason to be astonished,
but rather to be glad and grateful to God.
Your Honor will see bj' the enclosure and judge of the attack and what a pitiful result it
would have had, if it was cai-ried out so well, as they had intended it, but the Almighty has ruled
differently.
I enclose also Hantsou's answers, although not quite pertinent.
I had the two Courts together yesterday, but could not obtain upon Za Montagne's proposi-
tion the selection of deputies, which caused the usual and apprehended confusion. Finally they
resolved to send Jacques the Mestis savage, to the Maquas country to fetch some of the Sachems
and as he was not at home and could not be found, they got the savage, called Smith's Jan, who pre-
sented himself and offered his services, saying, that he felt himself driven to it by his conscience,
to go with a Dutchman, 2 or 3 savages and a Mahikander to the Esopus, to ask for the prisoners
first on the gromid of conscience ; if that did not avail anything, then with threats and after that
to wring the prisoners from them by war. The Dutchman, who went with him is Jan Dirck,
who offered himself voluntarily for the expedition ; the directions, given to him, will be. seen by
your Honor in the enclosures ; we wish and pray to God for a good success.
Some Catskil savages came here to-day in the name of the Esopus savages with the intima-
tion, that the Dutch at this place should keep quiet, else all the houses on this side of the Sagerskil
would be burned.
I send herewith a list of medicaments, required by the soldiers' surgeon at the Esopus for
the prisoners, I mean the wounded.
The quartermaster-sergeant requests some smith's utensils and the Commandant some cara-
bines, short bandeliers, pistols and holsters, all of which I wish to recommend to your Honor's
attention.
On accoTint of the good wind the yachts' people and others are so pressing, that I can find no
time to copy this nor to refine it nor to add some more details. I shall therefore close and
remain.
Sir,
Beverwyck, Your Honor's affectionate servant
the 26«'' June 1663. J. de Deckeee.
Proposals communicated to the Sachems of Hackensack and Staten-Island wixn
THEIE ANSWERS.
27"" June. Propositions made to Oratamin, Sachem
or chief of Hackinkesaky and Mattanoa,
Sachem of Nayeck and Staten-Island the
27"" Jime 1663.
1st proposition, that they had been called hither on account of the difficulties with the Esopiis
savages to prevent misunderstanding in the future and to ask them, how they were inclined ; as
to our side, we were inclined to keep the' peace, made with them, if they too were willing.
They answered, it is well and they too on their side are willing to keep the peace.
2d. It is necessary, in order to uphold and keep the peace between them and us, that they
should have no intercourse whatever with the Esopus savages, that they allow none of their people
262 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to go amoug them nor Esopus savages to come here, for oue or the other would be cause for a war
between them and us.
They answer and promise, that they will not meddle with the war, they promise also, that
they will not allow any Esopus savage to hide among them and if any of their people should run
to the Esopus, that they will not receive him again among them.
3d. Whereas we are now at war with the Esopus savages and we and our people, living in
the villages, can hardly tell, which are Esopus and which other savages, especially if they come
armed, therefore we inform them herewith, that we have given orders in all our villages, not to
trust any armed savage nor to allow any armed savage to come into their places, that they may not
be suddenly attacked and killed, as it happened at the Esopus, but to be on their guard at all times
and not to trust an armed savage. They must therefore warn all their savages and all their and
our friends, not to come with arms into our villages and houses, that no difBculties may arise and
likewise we \vill not allow any of our people to come armed into their settlements, unless one or
two men were sent ahead to say, why they come and where they want to go.
They answei", that it is very good and that they wiU comply with it, but they want to come
to this place with their muskets, to have them repaired.
4th. Whereas we have now renewed the old peace and they have promised not to have any
intercourse with the Esopus savages, we now request of them, whether they could not get one or
two Esop>us savages and surrender them to us, to employ them as guides ; we are not only willing
to give them a present for them, but promise also not to kill them nor do them any harm, but to
return them, when the war is over.
They undertake to inform and show us, where some Esopus savages may be found.
5th. That we are good friends not only of them, but also of all other savages surrounding us
and that we are quite willing to keep the peace with these too, if they will not assist our enemies,
the Esopus savages. They are therefore requested herewith to tell us, who has helped the Esopus
savages in this plot and further to please and inform tis, whether they knew of any tribe of sav-
ages, willing to help them.
They answer, that they do as yet not know, who will join the Esopus savages, but they will
tell and inform us as soon as they have heard.
In confirmation and proof, that we are their friends, each of the Sachems received for the
trouble, which they have taken to come hither upon our call, the following articles :
a piece of cloth for a coat a shirt
a small piece a knife
The other savages, who had come with them, 5 in numbers, were given each a small piece of
cloth, a shirt and a knife, with the request to inform the other tribes, their friends, that they too
should send their Sachems hither to renew the peace.
After the foregoing was over, Oratam said, he was very glad, that we would keep quiet here
and that the war would only be made at the Esop^is ; he had not a single spark in his heart, that
was bad and thus they left the Council chamber. Actum at Eart Amsterdam in New-NetKerlcmd
on the day as above.
New York Historical Records. 263
Notice, that the Esopus Indians are on a war-expedition and warning all peo-
ple TO BE ON THEIR GUARD.
27'" June
Dear, Good Friends.
These few lines are to inform you, that we have just been told by the savages, our friends,
that about 20 to 25 Esopus savages have left their fort 3 or -4 days ago, with the intentions, as the
savages say, to come down here and get prisoners or kill some Dutchmen. You are therefore
warned to be cautious in going into the fields or along the roads, that is always in company and
well armed according to the published orders. If further news are received, they shall be com-
municated to you in due time, wherewith after our salutations we commend you to God's protec-
tion etc.
Letter from Volckert Jai^sen and others to Director Stfyvesant, respecting
THE LOSS of their CATTLE AT THE EsOPDS.
Noble, Very Worshipful, Honorable Director-General and Council of New-Netherland.
We, your Hon*"'" Worships' undersigned humble subjects are very distressed on account of the
loss of our goods and .blood on the Esoj)us, which has brought us nearly to the door of ruin, anyway
has done us great damage, considering that we cannot recover it in years without God's blessing.
We cannot restore to our farmers the horses and cattle to continue our farming at the Esopus,
except some old cows, of which IS in number, young and old, arrived here yesterday at great
expense and danger ; three of them belonging to the late Jan. Barentsen Wernp and we do not
know, what else is missing, except that the Hon""' Com-t at Wiltwyclc has written us a letter on the
23* inst, of which a copy is enclosed, in which among others it says : "We inform you, that the
horses, used for our defense, which may have been shot or killed by the enemies in an attack, shall
be paid for by the Hon'''^ Company according to the appraisement of impartial men, pursuant to
an order given us by his Honor, the Director-General."
Your Hon"'* Worship may well conceive, that we need our property much more now, than at
the time, when we sent it for the purpose of carrying on our farms there. Our affections are, as
your Hon"''* Worship may perceive, for our distressed friends at the Esopus, but we hope not to
suffer any more troubles and losses, since among others the harm done to our horses under the
saddle and otherwise, as we are informed, can give us little advantage in the appraisement ; besides
that we cannot submit to it and wait for the scant remuneration by the Company. We trust
therefore, that your Hon"''' Worship will not tax and trouble us any more, at least not now, in our
distress and losses, for we can indeed bear no more. We could have wished, that your Hon'''''
Worship would have satisiied the savages in time, as we humbly requested last April in the peti-
tion sent by Pieter Jacobsen Marius to your Hon"''' Worship, concerning the claims of the savages
at the Esopus and their threats ; then our good and blood would have been saved. God save us
from further harm and troubles and we hope, that next to God your Hon"'" Worship will take
good care to prevent further destruction and bloodshed. Expecting to receive your Hon""
264 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Worship's favorable reply by first opportunity, we coniiueud your Hon''''' "Worship in the mean-
time to God's grace and remain
Your Hon''"' Worship's hmnble
Beverwyck, subjects
the 28"' June 1663. Volckeet Jansen
Jan Thomassen
Philipp Pieteesen Schuylek
GoosEN Gaeeetsen
COENELIS WtNKOOP.
Letter feom Yice-Dieeotoe Lamontagne at Foet Oeange to Dieectoe Stuy-
VESAKT ; EEPAIES ON THE FOET DELATED ; EEFOETS TO EECOVEE THE ChEISTIAN
PEISONEES; NEW FOET BUILT BY Me. VAN KeNSELAEE AT GeEENBUSH.
Honorable, Valiant, Worshipful Sir.
Since my last of the QS*", by which I informed your Honor of my intention to begin the re-
pairs of the fort at the four corners and to take advantage of the good will of the burghers, who
were willing to assist, trusting, that some friends would help me with money, necessary for the
work, which would not cost much more than 500 guilders, Mr. de Decker has come here to the
meeting of the two Courts and declared, that lie has no orders, to decide in such a matter or to
procure money for such a purpose, therefore I have been obliged to let the occasion pass by, in
which the fort could have been put into as good a state of defense, as it has ever been during my
time, at least against the attack of some savages and I could have done it in 8 days.
On the 26"', when both the Courts were together to consider with Mr. Decker upon suitable
means for the release of the prisoners at the Esopus and I had sent for that purpose for AJcus,
the savage, to dispatch him to the Maquas country and induce them to come here, thei-e arrived
suddenly Smits Ja7i, a chief of the said Maqiias, with three others of his people and two Mohicans,
whom I had asked by the Maquas Sassiadego eight days ago, to come here and by Jan Dareth
and Aepien, chief of the Mohicans, to induce them thereto. They went on their journey the
same day in good spirits, that they would recover the prisoners and they sailed in Claes Bor-
dingKs yacht on the 27"' together with Jan Dareth. We shall know shortly, what they have
accomplished in the matter.
The ordnance, for which your Honor calls, is ready, at your Honor's pleasure, but I have no
men to put it aboard a vessel nor money to pay the laborers. I pray, your Honor will consider,
that there are not more than eight pieces on the foiir corners and one 12 pounder, which has never
been mounted in my time. Mr. Rensselaer claims three of these pieces and demands them imme-
diately, to place them at the Green Bush in a little fort or fortification, which they build there
and if your Honor takes four from the balance, not more than two would be left to us. It is true,
there are yet three light pieces, which the Commissaries had brought in from Mr. Bensselaer^s
place in the year 1656 and placed on the church : these, the Commissaries say, his Honor had
given to them to use in the defense of the planck enclosure. I dare not take these away from
there, without his Honor's express order.
While I write this, four yachts have sailed past the fort, to whom Mr. Decker had told me
not to give a pass, before he had spoken with me ; in the meantime he has given them passes with-
New Yorh Historieal Records. 265
out my knowing of their departure. I do not know, whetlier they are to touch at the Esopus or
not ; tliey left behind also this my letter, written in great haste. Closing herewith I commend
your Hon''''' Worship to the protection of the Almighty and remain meanwhile
Your Honor's humble and
Fort Orange, obedient servant
the 29"' June 1663. La Montagne.
The Maquaes have just now
cut off two fingers of an Esopus
savage and keep him here at the
house of Jem Mangelse7i in the
Colony : it is a sign of bad feeling
against them.
To the Honorable, Valiant and Worshipful Petrus Stuyvesa/nt Director-General of New-Neth-
erland.
Letter from Councillor de Decker to Director Stutyesant ; the Christian
PRISONERS IN the HANDS OF THE EsOPUS InDIANS ; COMPLAINTS AGAINST THE
Esopus magistrates.
Sir.
I had forgotten in my last letter by Claes Bordingh, written in great haste and amid much
noise, that some friends here had dispatched Christoffel Damits to the Esopus savages on the 20""
inst., to learn and see, whether he could not get Mons'' La Montagues daughter and some other
prisoners out of the hands of the barbarians. He took his way directly through the country and
strayed from the right road at a Kil about 4 leagues from Wiltwych inland, when the friends
hearing of his intention advised against his proceeding further for peace, as they say, that the
rascals may keep him also ; he is consequently returned here yesterday, without accomplishing
anything and without having met a savage on the road. We are in the meantime waiting here
and hoping for a good result of the expedition of Jan Daret and the savages with him and there-
fore the Messieurs judge it most advisable and best, to delay my sojourn here until his return, to
which I am obliged to consent, as I have hardly carried out one half of the designs of my com-
mission.
I find the calumnious and injurious reports, which your Honor knows well as having heard
them and by reports, that I had persuaded your Honor not to make the voyage to the Esopus and
on the other side, that I was the cause of the discharge of the soldiers, are carried hither and
thither ; some people accept them as true, although not in their exorbitant extent, others not ;
meanwhile it looks suspicious to me, as I have been shown by a friend here a letter from a certain
friend tliere, saying among others, that I was much blamed and scolded at the Manhatans and
running much danger, in case more misfortunes should happen to spring up. Whereas I have
had as little to do with the delay of your Honor's journey to the Esopus, as my child in Holland
and with the discharge of the soldiers as much as your Honor and others of the Council and whereas
nevertheless the contrary is believed by the majority and the most ignorant and therefore worst
canaille, whereby the person of John de Dechere is placed and exposed as m colluvione rerum
contumelie, therefore circumstances compel me to believe, that the source of these infamous reports
34
266 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
is to be found in the midst of onr Board, for how conld people think and speak the same, as has
been thought and spoken of there ? unless one or the other member of the Boai-d had divulged it
and done it with palpable honorability, to make out himself pure and white and me foul and black.
Truly it is the act of dull and cowardly souls, which strive more for vain and unstable glory and
the applause of the jjopulace, than for the solid consolation of a good conscience before God and
themselves. Therefore I request your Honor once more, to inform all the world in one way or
the other, as I have asked by word of mouth and in writing, that I had nothing to do with the
first and with the second not more, than you yourself and others about there.
Your Honor will show thereby, that your Honor has not been in favor of these calumnies
and insulting rumors and besides do an act of distributive justice. Otherwise I should feel obliged,
to keep away and absent myself from the meetings and the public affairs connected therewith and
furtlier give a satisfactory explanation of it to my Masters by the first oj)portunity.
Pliilipp Pietersen Schuyler, Jan Tomas, Goosen Gerritsen, Volohert Jansen and Cornells
Wijnlvop have complained to me, that the Schout and Commissaries at the Esojyus have refused
to give up their horses with the cattle, which latter arrived here yesterday in the barge, making
difficulties under the pretext stated and mentioned in the enclosure. I remark, that the com-
plainants or at least some of them are very much dissatisfied, they have therefore requested me to
write about it to your Honor and to send the enclosure ; as far as I am concerned, I am of opinion,
that every one ought to be master of his own property, any way, that the Commissaries had no
authority to undertake retaining the horses, unless they were ordered to do so by your Honor,
which however I doubt. Although I explained to them the conditions proposed by your Honor
to the inhabitants of Wiltwi/ch concerning the loss and wounding of their horses in military ser-
vice, which might befal them and must be expected, they nevertheless demanded to have their
horses here at home ; Wynlcooj) said besides, that he would be satisfied, if he could get of his six
horses only the three mares. It is my opinion therefore that these people ought to be satisfied
and trusting that your Honor will make the proper arrangements I close on account of the urgency
of the skippers, while I remain with cordial greetings
Beverwych, Your Honor's obedient
the 29'" June 1663. J. De Deckere.
His Honor Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-General of Neio-JS'etherland at the Manhatans.
Letter from Robert Treat of Milford, Conn, to Director Stuyvesant in
REGARD to THE PROPOSED EnGLISH SETTLEMENT ON THE KiL VAN KoL.
After my humble p'sentation of many thanks to yo' Lo'''' for all yo^ former expressions of
you' Lone and kindnesse doe sende greetings : And being thereby encouraged to p'sent you w""
these leines intreating so much fauo'' of yo' Lo**" when yo' leisure wil by the first p'mit and if you
se cause any longer and further to encourage the companie or such of them as haue been waiteing
for M' Winthrops coming to put to an end all p'tended claims to y'^ lands vnder treatie w""
yo'selfe & Hono^'* Counsell that o' neighbo" thereby seemed to hinder and obstruct y'' matter what
they could. And also to hear what encourageing answers or returnes you may haue Receaued
from yo'' Lo'"' in Holland after which they haue been and are still muclj waiteing to see if you
haue receaued any further liberty and power to encourage And will be pleased to let them
vnderstand the same, w'ch if they may obtaine this request of you they wil acquaint one another
New York Jlis.to rival liecordn. 267
therew*"" & promise to returue vou and answer vpon what teannes they will pi'oceed if they do at
all speedily Aud whether or noe it is uot within your couipasse to graunt them free liberty as
vnder your Authority & Province payeing all dues & duties as sliall be agreed vpon they may
not be a free people of theraselues to act subordinately for themselues both in all Civill & Ecle-
siasticall Respects And not further at present to trouble saucing my humble desire to pardon my
boldnes and obruptnes and to fauo'' me with an answer heerto by this bearer Jo. Alsup and to
take leaue to subscribe myselfe
As I am your loucing freind to Connnand
Milford, y" 29"' June 1663. in what I may
lioBEET TeeATT.
Letter from Matheits Capito, Secretary at Wiltwtck to Director Stuyve-
sant; uis wife killed and burned with all his effects; requests a supply
OF clothing.
Noble, Honorable, Yery "Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Gentlemen Whereas I, your Hon'"''^ "Worships' humble petitioner, have also been brought to
ruin during these late troubles in the village of Wiltwyck, caused by the savages, not having lost
only my dear wife, who was killed by the barbarians and then burned with the house, to which
they set fire, but in the same fire also all my movable effects, that nothing else is left to me, but
my honest name. Now, as I need during my further life for covering my body and keeping it
clean some linen and cloth, which at present cannot be obtained here and which even if it were
to be had here, I cannot pay for, therefore I am compelled to turn to your Hon'''° "Worships with
my humble and respectful petition, that your Hon"''* Worships, in pity of my distressed circum-
stances and misery, will please to assist me and provide me with low-priced clothing, to wit, some
cheap, plain cloth for a suit of clothes and what is needed for it, two or three store-shirts or linen
to make them, one or one and a half els of linen for handkerchiefs and nightcaps, a blanket and
enough coarse linen for a straw tick and a pillow, two pair of Icelandish socks and a pair of shoes
and charge these goods according to their prices to my account ; I promise to make it good to
your Hou*''" Worships, as soon as I can and as with God's blessing I shall have again prospered
somewhat. Not doubting I expect to receive them by the first opportunity, because my needy
circumstances require them. Closing with ni}^ greetings I commend your Hon""'" Worships to the
Almighty's protection, wishing and praying sincere!)', that the good God will save your Hon'"'^
Worships and us all from all such and similar misfortunes and troubles, while I remain
Actum at Wiltwyclc, Your Hon'"'' Worships humble
the 29"" Jime 1663. subject and obedient servant
Matheus Capito m. p.
To the Noble, Honorable. Yery Worshipful, Wise Prudent and Yery Discreet Director-
General and Council of New-Netherland at Fort Atristerdam in New-Netherland.
268 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
Lettek feom Councillor de Decker to Director Stutvesant ; information
RESPECTING THE PRISONERS ; NO VOLUNTEERS TO BE OBTAINED AT FoRT OrANGE.
Sir.
If we might rely on uncertain and vague rumors, then our prisoners have been distributed
and scattered and there since the last attack at the Esopus. Anyway Mons' Gorlaer reported to
nie yesterday, that he had learned from a savage, who had been peddling brandy towards the
Uatskils, that he had seen and spoken with deaf Hester, her child and two or three other women ;
he had advised Hester to try and escape, while the savages lay intoxicated, but that she had had
fears and did not dare to do it. The same savage was willing to go again on the same errand to
the Catskils with the daughter of the said Hester, who lives here, persuaded thereto by the
promise of a musket and some trifles, if he should endeavor and try to carry away and bring
hither mother and daughter, after having made the savages drunk. Time will show, what will be
the result of the undertaking.
There is little prospect here, to enlist a dozen soldiers or to obtain volunteers, and your Honor
must therefore not rely much upon it. De 2>resentibus non de futuris gaudet ecclesia. Closing
with hearty greetings I remain.
Sir,
Beverwyck, Your Honor's affectionate friend
29"" June 1663. J. de Deckbre.
1663.
To His Honor, Petriis Stuyvesant Director- General of New-Neiherland at the Manhatans.
Appointment of MiLrrAEY officers foe Beegen and Gemoenepa.
30'" June.
The Director- General and Council of New-Netherland selected from the nominees proposed
by the Sehout and Schepens of the village of Bergen and its neighborhood and contirmed for the
village of Bergen
Adriaen Post as Ensign
Jam, Swaen as Sergeant
for Gemoenepa as Sergeants
Harmen Smeeman
Gerrit Gerritsen
Actum at Port Amsterdam. Date as above.
Commission of Martin Ceeqiek to be Captain-Lieutenant and Commandee of the forces.
Petrus Stuyvesant, in behalf of their High : Might : the Lords States-General of the United
Netherlands and the Lords-Directors of the Incorporated "West-India Company, Director-General
of New-Netlierland and the Honorable Council Greeting !
Whereas we have deemed it necessary for the greater security and protection of this province
and its good inhabitants, to engage and keep in service besides the old soldiers a considerable
number of uew ones, for which we required a good and experienced person, to command under
the orders and in the absence of the aforesaid Hon'"'^ Director and Captain-General Petrm Stuy-
vesant as Captain-Lieutenant over his company and all other military officers, therefore relying
New York Historical Records. 269
upon tlie piety, fitness and the good management of Marten Crieger, Burgomaster of this city,
who has ah-eady served tlie Hon''"^ Company under our directions in several other military capaci-
ties and whose services have well pleased us, we have engaged, appointed and commissioned the
said Marten Crieger, as we hereby engage, appoint and commission him as Captain Lieutenant over
all our military, to command the same agreeably to the instructions already given or hereafter to
be given, to drill, to march them up and down and have them commanded, drilled and marched
up and down by other, his subaltern officers, as the situation and circumstances of affairs shall
require it for the best of the Company and the greater safety of the country ; and to do further
in our absence everything, which a good, pious and faithful Captain-Lieutenant is in duty bound
to do, conform to the oath to be taken in our presence. After he has taken the same we summon,
order and command herewith all and everybody, whom this concerns, and especially all our officers
and private soldiers to respect, accept, acknowledge and obey the said Marten Crieger as our
Captain-Lieutenant, each in his position and rank, because we have thus deemed it necessary for
the benefit of the Hon'^'^ Company, the better protection of the country and the better employment
of the military'. Thus done and given at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 30"" of June
1663.
Capt. -Lieut. Cregier took the following oath •
I promise and swear, to be faithful and true to their Noble High : Might :, the Lords States-
General of the United Netherlands, to the Noble Lords-Director of the Incorporated West-Lidia
Company and their Hon''"' Director-General and Council, to serve them honestly and piously, as
it behooves a good, pious and faithful Captain-Lieutenant to. So help me God Almighty- !
Nota : The foregoing oath was also taken by the Lieutenants Pieter Wolphertsenvan Couwen-
hoven and Nicolas iStillewil.
Instbuotions roR Captain Ceegiee.
Provisional instructions for the Captain-
Lieutenant, Marten Crieger and the Coun-
cil of War.
1.
The Council of War shall be composed of the said Captain-Lieutenant, Lieutenant Nicolas
Stillewel, Pieter Wolphertsen, Captain-Lieutenant of a detachment of natives and volunteers, the
oldest Sergeant Christian Niessen and to their decision are left all matters of war as well in send-
ing out parties as concerning the expedition in general, which are to be decided by plurality of
votes and in case of a tie, Captain-Lieutenant Crieger shall east a double vote.
If one or two members of the said Council should happen to be absent, it is left to the dis-
cretion of the Captain-Lieutenant to associate with himself such persons, as he may think most
able and fit.
3.
It is also left to the discretion of the Captain-Lieutenant and Council to associate with them-
selves in grave and unexpected events some persons, selected either from the magistrates of Wilt-
wych village or other civil officers, whom the Captain-Lieutenant and Council shall judge most fit.
270 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Whereas the Director-General and Council have as yet no certain and sufBeient reports and
knowledge, what assistance by other tribes the Esopus savages may have received and what their
strength may be in their fort and also in the field, they can hardly give any further orders, how
and with what forces the savages must be attacked. They leave it therefore to the better and
surer experience of the said Captain-Lieutenant and Council, but the Director-General and Council
are in the meantime of opinion, that, if the savages should make, resistance iu their fort, as their
intention is said to be, they must not be attacked and fought with less troops, than they them-
selves are reported and thought to have inside, so that we may not be compelled to give it up with
losses and without having accomplished anything.
5.
For the benefit of the Christian captives and in order to gain as much time as possible, they
may hold parleys with the Kmpus savages, also make an armistice for as long a time, as they shall
think best for the public welfare and the Christian prisoners, but they must iu no case enter upon
peace-negotiations without special order of the Director-General and Council.
6.
It is further left absolutely to the discretion of the Captain-Lieutenant and his Council of
War to act, if an opportunity should present itself, that with good information they might make a
successful attempt on the fort of the savages, perhaps by a surprise or if they have reason to hope,
that they wUl become masters of it.
7.
The aforesaid Council is finally directed, to use all possible precautions in sending out parties
for the protection of the coming harvest and the cattle, to send out as frequently and in as good
order and with all precautious as many parties, as they may think fit and as circumstances require,
especially if no general attack is made on our fort ; by every chance, which presents itself, they
must report in detail to the Director-General and Council, what has taken place and Avhat else is
required and necessary. Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in New- Netherlands the SO"" of June
1663.
Report of Lieutenant Cotjwenhoven and others of their ill success in rais-
ing VOLUNTEERS ON LoNG-IsLAND AND DECLARATION CONCERNING IT.
Before the Council appeared Pieter 'Wolphcrtsen van Coinoenhoven, Nicolas Stillioell and
Saviuel Fdsal, who had been to the English villages He7nsteede, Vlissingen, Middlehorgh and
Bustdorp, to see, whether there were some volunteers willing to take part in an expedition to the
Esopus in the lion""" Company's service. Tliey report, that in the beginning some men showed
themselves willing, but that they were persuaded by some of the Magistrates and other persons to
remain and not to march out, so that they could not accomplish anything; not more than 5 or 6
men will come down from the aforesaid villages. (3" July 1663.)
Christian Jacdbsen Wolf son, declares, that he has heard, Witloch and James Grover, inhabit-
tants of Gravesend on Long-Island, had written to and been personally in several English villages
New YorTc Hutorical Iiecvr<h. 271
under this government, to dissuade the inhabitants from marching to the E^opus. Thns it was
reported and declared in our presence at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland the S** of July
1663.
P. Stuyvesant.
NiCASIUS DE SiLLE.
Letter feom the MrLiTART officees at Bergen to the Director-General ex-
pressing THEIR WILLINGNESS TO COMPLY WITH HIS REQUISITION AND SENDING
NAMES OF VOLUNTEERS.
The Council of War of the village of Bergen in JSfew-Netlierland inform his Hon''"' Worship,
the Director-General, that they have received his non""* Worship's letter and learned his request,
by which the Council of War find themselves heavily taxed, to contribute some soldiers notwith-
standing the weakness of the village, for tliey think, under correction, that it too requires assist-
ance, considering the dangerous location.
However, that your Hon''"' Worship may know the affection of the community on this side
and learn of its existence, the Council has read your Hon*'" AVorship's letter to the community and
encouraged some as much as possible, as the following list shows ; but only under such condition,
that, if our village is in need, we shall receive assistance from your Hon''"' Worship and the other
villages, upon which the request has been carried out, with the understanding, that the volunteers
are not to go any farther, than the neighboring villages, if they are in need and attacked and ex-
pressly excluding the Esopus and that the volunteers be provided with good arms as promised,
upon which a man may i"ely for his safety in such an adventure, the same to be delivered here
either in the oiBcer's or the Lieutenant's house and to be kept ready for every occasion, when
your Hon'''^ Worship shall need these men. We commend your Hon"'" Worship to the protection
of God.
Thus done at Bergen in New-Netherland, the •t"' July 1663 in the meeting of the Council
of War.
List of volunteers.
Arendt Lawrensen Evert Gerritsen Kesolution of the
Elias Jansen At Oemoenepa. Council of War
Pieter Hasselt Joost van der Linde of Bergen village
Claes Argansen Comelis L^dibersen. in N. N.
Jan Uagell Tielman van Yleeck, Seer''.
Information furnished by Rachel La Montagne, wife of Gysbert van Imborgh,
late a prisoner among the esopus indians.
Information given on the 4"" of July 1663 at Wildwyck by Rachel, the wife of Mr. Gysbert
va/n Imh&rgh, who has been a prisoner among the Esopus Indians, according to the instructions
given to Sieur Ja7i Daret from Fort Orange by Johan de Deckere.
To the first question, in what direction the fort of the savages was lying from Wiltwyck, she
says, towards the south at a distance of about 8 hours' march.
272 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson Mwer.
To the second, the road there is a good footpath and it is possible to get by wagon in about
one or two hours from WiUwyck to theii- fort, tliere are only one or two bad hills on the road.
Thirdly : on the road there 3 or i little creeks will be found, about one or two hours' march
from their fort, the creeks are almost dry and easily crossed, the largest is 5 or 6 paces wide.
Fourthly : their fort is situated at the foot of a hill and leans on to it on one side, on the
other sides the land is flat, a creek washing one corner of the fort.
Fifthly : the fort is fortified with palisades on the creek side and all around ; the palisades
could easily be pulled out ; the creek is not deep near the fort and at 3 or 4 places there are rocks
in it, so that it is easy to get across ; the creek is as wide, as the creek near Ehhingh^s land.
Sixth : there is a good view of the surrounding country from the fort.
Seventh : the fort is large, a little larger than the fort at Fort Orange, where his Honor, Mr.
La Montague lives ; it has two rows of palisades put up like chevaux-de-frise, through wliich it is
easy to pass ; they are putting up a third row of palisades close to each other, with port holes like
those in WiUwyck / the fort has two gates, one to the south, the other to the north.
Eighth : ten dwellings are in the fort and she has not seen more, than about 30 men, who
guard the fort and she says further, that they were in great anxiety about their wives and children
and that they lodge them outside or the fort during the night, sometimes with the prisoners, when
a startling rumor reaches them and they do not rely much on escape.
Lastly: (illegible).
Letter from Captain Cregier to Director Stutvesant ; reports his akrival at
THE EsOPUS ; ESCAPE OF MrS. VAN LuBORGH.
Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, "Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Sir.
I arrived here at the Esopus near the Eedoubt with the yachts on'the 4"' July and sent imme-
diately 40 men up to WiUwyck to get wagons ; they returned about one hour after noon with 9
wagons, we have loaded on them, as much as we could and towards evening I and my detach-
ment and the wagons arrived at WiUwyck. I found the people here in low spirits, but upon my
arrival their courage revived, for the day before my arrival they had sent three barges with cattle,
about 100 heads, to Fort Orange and everything is wanting here ; the soldiers here have received
their last ration ; nor have I found any hard bread, for it was consumed before they had arrived
with the yachts ; what I have brought with me will hardly be sufficient for a month, including
the troops brought along by me and those found here ; hence your Honor will please, to provide
these troops in times with victuals and ammunition, of which I send herewith a specification. I
have had no rencontre either in landing at the Fsopus nor in marching up, but during the dis-
charging and landing of the troops 3 savages could at all times be seen on a hill and while we
marched into WiUwyck the sentry saw also two savages ; for this reason I place some men in
ambush during the night at some convenient time, to try whether we cannot obtain some prisoners.
"We are now busy to bring our goods up from the strand to the Fsopus. When I arrived at the
Fsopus, I found there the Maquaes, who had been to see the Fsoj)us savages about the prisoners,
but they brought no one witli them, except Mr. Gysberfs wife ; the savages and Mr. Oyslert's
wife had been examined by the Magistrates here, the day before my arrival, as to her adventures ;
the Magistrates are sending the result of the examination to your Honor ; as the Maquaes and
Mr. Gyshert's wife say, the savages have never more than 30 men in the fort, but they are always
New YorTc Historical Records. 273
out on expeditions ; I shall try to verify this, as far as possible. Mr. Oysberfs wife says, the
savages were busy putting up a third row of palisades around their fort and that they had also
made a breastwork for the protection of their watering place, but they were nevertheless afraid of
the Dutch, so that they had taken all the prisoners out of the fort into the mountains during several
nights and had them guarded together with their wives and children and old men, only the men,
able to bear arms, remaining in tlie fort to guard it. A Maquaes chief, who brought away Mr.
Gysberfs wife, says, when he returns to the Maquaes fort, he shall ask the other chiefs, whether
they will go with 40 savages to the Esopus savages and carry off the prisoners by force. I am of
opinion, that we are able to take the fort of the savages, but as they bring the prisoners immedi-
ately into the mountains upon rumors and for fear, that the Dutch are coming, and leave only a
few savages in the fort, who, when they see us, will take to their heels, so that we could not
accomplish anything, therefore I propose, to await first the arrival of Pieter Wolphertsen and his
savages and to see, what they can do or to wait for the result of the Maquaes' attempt for the
recovery of the prisoners. I expect hereon your Honor's order and shall in the meantime do my
best, to inflict as many injuries to them in the woods, as we can. I am not able to send your
Honor a complete list at present, for I have now too much to do to bring the goods np from the
strand, but I will say, that we number here about 130 men bearing arms, all counted except the
negroes, nine of them are wounded and six are at the Redoubt and there are about 9 or 10 among
them, who cannot march out, so that we cannot bring much more than 100 men bearing arms into
the field. Your Honor will please to take care, that the ordered goods be sent by the first oppor-
tunity, for we cannot get anything here, it must all be brought from the Manhatans. I would
prefer bacon instead of meat, for it is better for expeditions, reconnoitering parties and ambus-
cades ; nothing or only little can be ground here on account of little water ; hence all the grain
must be groiind at the Manhatans and packed in good barrels, for the cooper had not looked well
after the baiTels, which I brought away ; the middle hoop must be better secured with nails.
Closing with my cordial salutations I commend your Honorable Worships to God's protection.
Actum Wiltwyck, Your Honorable Worships'
the S"" July 1663. obedient and faithful servant
Martin Ceegiee.
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Yery Discreet, the Director-
General and Council of New-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland.
Report of the Indians sent to negotiate with those of the Esopus (beginning lost).
they said, " where is the cloth, powder, lead and black wampum " and " no more than five bun-
dles of wampum?" and they refused the present, holding the Dutch not better than dogs and
would not hear one of them.
4.
Towards evening CunacTcquaeese said to the Esopus savages. Shall I not even bring a child
to my masters, having so many presents and having made such a long journey, and he offered
again the cloth, which had been given him as a present by the Court here, together with his own
strings of wampum, whereupon the Esopus Sachems went all to sleep, except one, called Pami-
rawachginck, who had Mr. Gysiert van lmbo)'gh''s wife as prisoner ; he touched his hand and took
35
274 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
the present, putting it away he said, I shall not keep a bead of this wampum, I shall have to
distribute it among the mischiefmakers, to satisfy them.
5.
After they had given to him the wampum, he consented, that they should take with them
next morning the captured woman, whereupon they requested permission to take another prisoner,
but it was refused.
6.
Next morning, at daybreak, the Sachem had left and he asked, where is she, whom I have
ransomed? The other savages then wanted to return the presents to him, but he said, Do you
mean to fool us ? If we had our arms with us, we would take her by force, for you have accepted
the presents and our custom is to keep a promise after having accepted a present.
7.
He says further, that both of them had as much to do with the Esopus savages for two days,
as it was possible in the above matter.
8.
He says further, that they were willing to keep at peace with the people of Catslcil, of Fort
Orange and the Mahicanders and Maquas, but not by any means with the Esopus people, against
whom they would make war with fire and sword to the last man and they add, that if the Esojnis
people do not leave the place and abandon the land, they will drive them out by fire and sword.
9.
They are weak now and have only a small castle, but they will spread from the Esopus to the
Manhatans, if the Christians do not obey their commands, whereupon they gave to them, the
Maquaes, a present of some wampum, to grease their feet, if they might hurt them against a
stone on theii* journey and thanked them for their troubles.
10.
< To prevent the bringing in of the harvest, they are said to lie in small detachments on all
roads and paths. Shall they be asked by our Masters for an armistice, to gather the crops and
shall the land then be deserted or purchased again from them in the presence of other tribes, as it
has been done before ?
11.
Smits Jan said especially this : If the Dutch will not abandon the Esopus nor make peace
with the Esojnis savages, what then about the release of the prisoners ? for he himself neither saw
nor knew any better means, than to go with 44 Maquaes, there being 44 prisoners still in their
hands, to the castle of the Esopus savages and thus to get each a prisoner and bring him away.
Jan Daeeth, interpreter.
Agrees with the original, as recorded by the Schout, Commissaries and Council of War at
Wiltwyck, which attests
Mati'heus Capito, Secretary.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 275
MrNTJTE OF THE CoUUT AT WiLDWYCK.
On tlie 5"' of July Sieur Jan Daret came to the Magistrates here at WiUioi/ck and stated that
the Ma<iuaes had forgotten to say in tlieir report as to the best way to release the prisoners in a
sensible manner, that the Esopus savages had told them, they cared not so much for the captured
savages, as for the payment for the large tract of land, called the New Village, but if the sum to
pay it should be brought there by the Maquaes or somebody else, they would liberate the prison-
ers and return them.
The Commissary Thomas Chainbers engages himself, to refute promptly all the propositions
which the Esojpiis have made to the Maquaes and Mahicanders, if it should be required by any
court.
Agrees with the minute, taken at the meet-
ing of the Schout, Commissaries and Council
of War, which is attested by
Mattheus Capito, Secretary.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the authorities at Fort Orange; the
Catskil Indians must not harbor any Esopus Indians.
Honorable, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
I am informed and told by good authority, that some JEsojjus savages, especially women and
children are staying in and near the Catsklls and liave also planted corn there, which would be
very easy to destroy. The officers of our military force have therefore requested our orders to do
it, but, although we consider it necessary, yet to add to the strength of our just cause also with
the Catskil savages, who set themselves up if not as our declared enemies, at least as protectors of
our enemies, and to keep free from blame and evil report, we have resolved first to inform your
Honors of it requesting, that your Honors will tell the Maquaes and Catskil savages in our behalf,
not to suffer any Esopus savages among themselves, because we shall bo obliged to liunt them up,
wherever we may find them and as it is difficult to distinguish one tribe from the other on such
an occasion we wish to clear us hereby beforehand, if during the search for and seizure of the
Esopus some Catskil or other savages should be attacked. Meanwhile your Honors may give such
information and warnings to the fanners in the coimtry, as your Honors should deem proper.
the 9"' July 1663.
To the Courts of Fort Orange and the Colony of Rensselaerswyck.
276 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Pkoposals made to Sachems of the River ajvd Staten-Island Indians and
theib answers.
On the lO"- of July the following chiefs
came summoned by Oratam, the chief of
HacJcinkesaky, pursuant to the conditions
made with him on the 27"" of May, to wit :
Sauwenaare, chief of Wiechquaeskeck, Met-
seivackos, chief of Kichtaioangh, alias
Sleeper's haven. Here follows the proposi-
tion made to them and what they answered
in the presence of Oratami, the chief of Ac.li-
kingkesacky, Waerhen Kastangh and several
other savages, Sara Kiersteede acting as
interpreter.
1. That now about 14 days ago there had been summoned by us and had also come, the chief
of Staten- Island, Matteno, and the chief of Achkingkesaky, Oratam, who had renewed the peace
with us and upon that occasion we had requested them to inform, to warn or to ask the other
Sachems, that they too should come here and declare, what their opinion was in regard to the
troubles with the Esojpus savages and whether they would continue the peace with us, so that we
might know our friends to distinguish them from our enemies.
They answered hereupon, that they agreed with Oratam and Matteno and that, what OrOj-
tam and Matteno had said and promised was as much, as if they themselves had said and promised
it. They say, that they too are willing to continue at peace with us.
2. That the peace may be kept well, it is necessary, that they should pay no attention what-
ever to the Esopus savages, that they should not allow any of their people to go to them or to the
Esopus, that our people could not distinguish the savages and that we should take all the savages
found there as enemies, that they must not allow any Esojnis savage to come among them, for
that would be a cause of war between us and them.
They promise in regard to the second point, that they will not trouble themselves with the
Esopus savages and say, if some of their people should go to the Esopus savages, they will not
receive them again.
3. They are informed, that we have charged all the farmers in the open country, not to trust
any savage, coming with arms, nor to let him come into their places, so that they may not be
unexpectedly surprised, as it has happened at the Esopus ; they must therefore warn all their
savages and all their friends, not to come armed to our villages ; nobody from our side shall come
with arms to their settlements, without giving them previous notice and stating, where he
wanted to go.
They answered hereupon, that they would act accordingly.
4. Whether they know, what allies the Esopus savages have and who has helped them in
this attack.
Oratam answers, that ho has not heard yet, that other savages held with the Esopus, except
the Menessinghs.
As a sign of our good heart imd in confirmation of the renewed peace a coat, a piece of
cloth, a shirt and a knife was given to each of the chiefs of luchtawangh and Wiechquaeskeck ;
New Yorh Hidorical Records. 277
the eleven savages, who had accompanied them inchiding Oratam, the chief of Tlachinghesahj,
in whose presence the proposals were made, received
Each a piece of cloth and a knife.
They received these presents thankfully and the aforesaid chiefs were once more warned and
requested, to communicate to their savages, that they must not go to the Esopus nor allow an
Enopus to hide among them, for it is our intention, to pursue them, wherever they could be found,
even if it were way off in the Maquaes' country.
They promise not to allow any savage to hide among them.
After this had taken place, the chiefs complained, that the Dutch sold so much brandy to
the savages, that they even carried it into their country.
They were told, that we tried to prevent it as miich as possible, but that we could not very
well discover it, because the savages would not tell us, from whom they bought and who brought
it into their country, also that we had authorized Oratam, the chief of JIackinkesacky, a long time
ago, to arrest the Dutchmen, who came into their country to peddle brandy.
Their reply hereto was, that they were cheated by the Dutch, who say, his Honor, the Gen-
eral, was informed of it and had given his consent; tlva.t Pietet' Wolphertsen had been in their
country and showed them a letter, saying, it was written therein, that he might go into their
country to sell brandy, that he had been there and taken away with him a large quantity (heele
nootas) of wampum, whereby their savages were entirely empoverished, for they always wanted
it again, if they had had a taste of it.
We listened to thorn and took it into consideration and then authorized the savages, to an'est
all the Dutchmen, who brought brandy into their country and to bring them here in fetters.
We promised, that they should have a piece of cloth for a coat besides the brandy, which such
persons sliould carry, and he, who brought in the first, should have two pieces. Thus done at
Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland in the Council-chamber. Date as above.
OEOraANCE I"0E THE AKKEST OF HOSTILE InDIANS, PASSED 12'"' JdLT 1663.
(Laws of New Netherland, p. 444.)
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Fort Orange; he
OFFERS to pay A REWARD FOR THE RELEASE OF THE CHRISTIAN PRISONERS.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
Your Honors' favor of the 23* June has been received by us in due time, wherein M'e
found little requiring an answer, except your Honors' request to be informed, who the volunteers
are said to have been, whom your Honors were reported to have prevented from going to the
assistance of the Esopus people and who has told vis so. The names have not been given to us,
but the fact, that many, who offered their services as volunteers, have been prevented by your
Honors, has been reported to us not only by tlie men, hired and placed by your Honors upon Claes
TyseiiJs yacht, but also since by many others, so that we would not lack proof, if the cabbage
was worth the soup. We shall let the matter rest here, as far as we are concerned and say only
278 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
about it, that if jour Honors should happen to get into similar troubles there, against which the
Only good God may protect you as he has done until now, your Honors would wish to see
assistance come the sooner the better ; the golden lesson of Christ requires, Do as thou wilt be
done.
The efforts made bj' your Honors in the speedy dispatch to the Esopus of Jan Darett,
Smits Jan and some other Maquas to release the captive Christians from the hands of the Esopus
have pleased us very much, notwithstanding that so little has been accomplished by them. We
must infer therefrom, that as little reliance can be placed iipon this as upon other tribes of bar-
barians; we desire heartily to receive assurance and proof of the result oi' Smits JarCs proposi-
tion, to go with 44 Maquaes to the Esopus fort, to take each a prisoner by the hand and carry
him off, even if we had to promise a considerable present, say one hundred guilders or more for
each Christian prisoner, small or large, returned in that way. Your Honors must use all possible
means to bring this about, but, as we have stated before, without engaging us in any way for a
peace or an armistice with the Esopiis or any of their adherers and accomplices.
Although we have provided our Captain-Lieutenant Kryger with a considerable quantity of
gunpowder, when he left here, we are now however informed by him, that the same is a little
too coarse and not quite suitable for muskets and flintlocks. Your Honors are therefore requested,
to order for us 2 or 300 lbs. of good, fine musket powder, which we engage to return as soon as
we receive any by the next ships from the Fatherland. Please send it to our aforesaid Capf.-
Lieutenant, wherewith etc''.
the 12th July 1663.
To both the Courts of Fort Orange and of the Colony of lienselaerswyek. '
Letter from Director Stutvesant to Councillor de Deckbre at Fort Orange ;
Sergeant Niessen promoted for his successful attack on the Indians ; peace
with the Indians around the Manhatans.
Honorable, Prudent and Yery Discreet Sir.
Your Honor's favors of the 26"" and QQ"" June with their respective enclosures have been
received by us in due time. "We learned from them among others with especial pleasure and grate-
fulness to the good God the successful attack made by our people under the command of Sergeant
Niessen on the barbarians. For the encouragement of others and of himself we have given him
the ensign's place.
We are well satisfied with the expedition of Jan Darett and Smits Jan with some other
Maquaes to the Esopus savages, although we must regret, that they have accomplished so little.
Meanwhile we are very eager to learn, what has been the result of the second proposition of the
aforesaid Srnits Jan to go there with 44 Maquaes and take each a prisoner by the hand. It is
desirable, that the captured Christians should be released in this manner, even if we had to promise
a considerable reward up to one hundred guilders or more for each Christian captive, either young
or old ; all possible endeavors must be made, without however engaging us in any way towards
the Esopus for the slightest hope of peace or armistice. We see by your Honor's letter of the
29"" June, that since the last attack, made by our people upon the Eopi^is, the captured Christians
have been scattered here and there among the others tribes, as deaf Hester and her child among
N&w York Historical Mecords. 279
the Oatskil savages, a probable proof, that one or the other tribe has had a hand in the execrable
deed and nuist be considered and treated as enemies and it must be further presumed that neither
the Esopus nor their allies will make much resistance in their forts, notwithstanding their boast-
ings, but that they will disperse in small detachments here and there among other tribes. We
recommend and trust to your Honor's circumspection to gather as secret and exact infoi'niation in
regard to the one and the other as possible and to report the result to Captain-Lieutenant Knjger,
that he may make use of it upon occasion.
The shortness of time and necessary business do not allow us to arrange every thing as we
desire and as it ought to be done, especially what your Honor complains of in regard to the former
and still daily occurring affronts and injuries done to your Honor by this or that unreasonable and
evilminded person. Tour Honor will meanwhile please to feel assured and trust, that we shall
not leave your Honor nor anybody else without support in due time and place, much less that for
our own defense we shall refuse to testify to the truth concerning your Honor's innocence in pre-
venting the pretended present to the barbarians and in the discharging of the military ; but it is
well to remember here, that a word in season is like a silver apple in a golden peel.
More important matters and at present the urgent requests of the yachts people for permission
to sail prevent me to write to our friends Philipp Jr'ietersen, Volckert Jansen and company con-
cerning your Honor's and their request for their horses and cattle, which are not nor have been
detained there by any order of ours, if they are not already sent or delivered as we hope, for
Capt. -Lieut. Martyn Kryger reports, that on the day before his arrival there, about one hundred
heads of cattle and horses had gone in three barges from the Enojnis to Fort Orange. We agree
with your Honor's opinion, that everybody ought to be and remain master of his own.
Willem Bogardus reports upon his return, that the farmer of the excise there had about one
thousand guilders on hand and had offered to send them down with him, but that your Honor had
received the money and kept it until your Honor should come here ; this has astonished om*
Receiver van Ruyven very much ; in some necessary matters, especially the enlisting of soldiers
he is somewhat in arrears, anyway he has been compelled to boi-row wampum for the time being
and beavei-s, at 16 guilders for a beavei-, which, if he had had that sum, he might have avoided
up to that amount. Tour Honor is earnestly recommended to send down the same and what
other amounts may be on hand there.
We have renewed the peace with the savages around here; if the heart is as good as the
mouth, then we may hope for a good result. Affairs in the Fatherland are in statu quo prius.
No more herewith after our salutations than to commend your Honor to God's grace.
12"' July A" 1663.
To the Honorable, Prudent and Very Discreet, his Honor Johan de Deckere, Member of the
High Council of New-Netherla.nd, at present at Beverwyck.
Extract from a letter of Director Stdtvesant to the Vice-Director at
COEACAO ; THE WAR AGAINST THE EsOPDS InDIANS AND THE RESOURCES OF THE
COUNTRY ; ASSISTANCE IN MERCHANDISE ASKED FROM CuRACAO 20'^'' JuLY 1663.
******
Through the treachery of the Esojyus savages and their adlierents we are again involved into
an offensive and defensive war against them ; it is more properly speaking a defensive war for the
280 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
protection atid security of the apparently good crops, which so far have not suffered the least dam-
age, thanks to the good God, but it is also an aggressive war, for we have already attacked them
once or twice, whenever we could find them. The safety of the country and the desire to subdue
by legitimate means and with God's help and blessing this false and barbarous tribe once for all,
have compelled us to engage a considerable number of soldiers, in fact many more, than the
country can support in its present condition and the state of its revenues ; we are consequently
obliged to request of and recommend to your Honor, that your Ilonor think of all possible means
to send us at the earliest convenience the required and ordered negroes, salt, horses and other mer-
chantable goods, which your Honor may judge advantageous and suitable, whereby a considerable
service will be done both to the Hon''"' Company and their conquests here.
MmnTE OF Council. Acceptance of the offer of Eastern Indians to march
AGAINST the EsOPUS.
20"' July 1663.
Seventeen savages came into the Fort, who stated, that they lived on the East end of Long-
Island, and offered their services to go also into the fight against the Esopus savages. The offer
was accepted and they were asked, when they would come ; they answered, that they would first
wait for news, how matters stood at the Esopus. Adij ut supra.
Proposal of the Hackensack Indians to sell their lands on the Kil van Kul ;
efforts of the Esopus Indians to engage the Menessinghs on their side.
On the 20"' of July Oratam chief of
Ackinckesalty and WaerJien van Couwe
and the interpreter, Sara Kiersteede,
appeared in the Council Chamber at
Fort Amsterdam.
He says, he has come to bring an answer to the propositions made by his Honor, the General,
namely, whether the savages would sell us the hook of land behind the Kil van Kol etc., to which
he answers, that most of the young men of the tribe are out hunting, so that he has not been able
to speak with them, but he has talked with the old warriors, who say, that they would not like to
sell, preferring to keep a portion of it to plant, for they dare not go further inland for fear of
being robbed by their enemies. He says further, that there is land enough both for us and for
them divided by the Kil and that it is as good as the land on the Esopus.
It was resolved, to inspect the aforesaid land at the first convenient time.
The said Oratam made also a long report, that the Esopus savages had tried to involve the
Menissinghs into the war with the Dutch, but the Menissinghs had refused etc. He says the
present chiefs of the Esopus are Pemyrawech, Seweckenamo, Wajperononck, Caelcop, Neshahewe.
Date as above.
New Yorh Historical Records. 281
Concessions to be granted to the Englishmen, who desire to settle on the Kil van Kol.
The foregoing* letter of Mr. Robert Treat was read and thereupon tlie propositions, made bv
him and some other Englislt, neighbors and recorded here in the register of Resohitioiis the 28"'
November 1661, were taken up again. Pursuant to the letter of the Lords-Directors the follow-
ing answer was given to the propositions :
The twoe first propositions were absolutely granted.
Vppon the 3* proposition
1. "We doe graunt by these presents the English Townes shall have the Choyee off theire owne
Magistrates in quality and number as they See most expedient for the Towne or Townes benefit
and welfare only that the Chosen Magistrates annually shal be presented before the Gouernour
and Counsel for to be Confirmed by them and to Reuue the Oath ofE Magestracy.
2. They Shall have Consent & power to keepe Court or Courts and to make such Orders and
Lawes as they shal fynde most sutable to the Condition & Welfare off that place, only that the
Lawes and orders, made for the better administration off justice shal be presented vnto the Gov-
ernour and Councell and beinge found to Concure with the holy Schripture shall be Confirmed
vnto them and alsoo Standinge Lawes to be observed by all persons and Planters for the tyme
they are and Live amongst them.
3. Conserninge the appeels it is hereby graunted and Confirmed, that all Capitall sentences
wherein the partys are Convinced by owne Confession, Shal be put in Execution by the Court or
Courts with out appeel, but in dark & dubious matters, especially in Wich craft such Sentences
off Death shal not be put in E.xecution, as with approbation oft the Governo"" General & Counsel
in tyme beinge.
4. In Civill matters and qilestions all persons, planters & other Lihabitants shall accquesse in the
Lawes, orders, Sentences and appointments off theire owne Court or Courts officers to the valine
off hundred poimds vlaems without appeel.
The 4"' point is absolutely graunted.
The S"" point, noe Inhabitants shall be put or send in their Townes, w""" doe not lyke her or
her Magistrates, beinge Reserved that they doe not admit any Inhabitants without approbation
and acknowledgment off the Governo'' & Counsell and have given theire oath oflf fidelity.
The 6"' point is absolutely graunted and accepted.
Vppon the T"" propositions.
The former propositions and What thereunto is Belonginge beinge Concluded, the graimts
& Conditions thereoff Shall by a publicq Instrument Charter or pattent be Confirmed vnto them,
by the Governour & Counsel subscrybed and sealed.
Here follows the answer of the Hon'''* General to the preceding letter of Mr. Robert Treat :
Lovingh frinde, Mstr Treatt.
Jours off 29 Juny send bee Mstr Alsop I haue receaued the 18 off July Niew style. In an-
swer whereoff I kan and sal say thatt wie haue receaued from our lords and Masters in Ilolland a
ful and satisfactory Answer and consent to al wich haue beene done and agitated in the treatie stil
vTider hand and withal thyre advys hoe far to condescent att the points & questions the wych thatt
♦ See the letter on page 266. — Ed.
36
282 Colonial Settlevieiits on the Hudson River.
they miglifr te better bee examined conned over and vnderstanded, we have tought meet to copie
them from word to word, soo as they in wreytings were delivered and presented vnto vs
by you and the rest of the Compagnie and haue sett in the Margine our Clare and catecoricall answer
to each off them, wych beeingh Communycated to your Compagnie wee sal bee the bearer iff pos-
sible or else wyth the first opportunytie expect the Compagnys answer and resolution weyther they
are intend to proceed wyth the treatie iff thatt wee may order our occasions thereunto, soo after
my services I sal rest.
20'" July 1663.
Minute of Council. Attendance of the chief of the Wiechquaeskeck In-
dians TO NOTIFY THE CoUNCIL OF A EEPOET, THAT THE EsOrUS WEKE COMING.
26"' July, Thursday.
Sauwekaro, Sachem of WiechquaesquecJc, came of his own accord with his brother and said
he was warned by a Wappingh savage that the Esopus savages would come down with 40 to 50
men in about 5 or 6 days, to kill them and the Dutch of JVew Haerlem, Hasimxus, Hoboocken,
Gemoenepa and the new village. He says also, that therefore he has come to take refuge with his
people near New-Ilaerlem, he gives notice of it and why they come, so that the people of Neio-
Haerlem may not get frightened. He says further, that he has warned the inhabitants of New-
Haerlem and requests that we give notice to the people on the other side of it and on the General's
bouwery.
He says in regard to the two prisoners captured by our men at the Esojnis, that they are
Wappinghs and that the chief of the Wappinghs has been to see him on their account, being ver}'
distressed and that he is now gone to J^ort Orange to talk over the matter with the Sachems there,
how to get back his prisoners ; if he did not succeed there the chief of the Wappinghs would come
here to us.
Asked concerning his statement, that 40 or 50 Esopus were coming down here, how strong
the Esopus really were and who would guard their fort, he answered, that they numbered only SO
warriors, that they had abandoned their fort, so that nobody was in it, but they keep here and
there in the woods in such dense underwood, that it was hardly possible to look or creep through.
Upon the question, whether he did not know or had not heard, where our prisoners were, he said,
I won't lie, what I say is the truth, I have not heard anything of the Dutch captives.
Asked, whether he had heard, what the Maquaes chiefs had accomplished, he said only, that
three Maqriaes had fetched the daughter of La Montague and brought her home, but, he says, the
chief of the Wappinghs went with presents to the Mahicanders to get information of the Dutch
prisoners ; when he returns, he will hear where they are and he will inform me of it. Date as
above.
New Yorh Historical Records. 283
Letter from Yice-Director La Montagne and Jeremias v^vn Rensselaer to
Director Stdyvesant ; they defend themselves against the charge of re-
fusing VOLCTNTEERS ; EFFORTS FOR THE EELEABE OF THE PRISONERS.
Honorable, Valiant, Very "Worshipful Director-General and Council of New-Netherland.
Your Hon''''' Worships' letter of the 12"' of this month of July has been received by us on
the 20"" and having read it, we beg to state in reply, that we have examined before our meeting
and in presence of Mr. de Decker one Storm Alhertsen, who with others had gone aboard of Claes
Tyseii's yacht, destined for the Esopus, without our order and from his statement we have learned,
that it is not worth the trouble to concern ourselves about the accusation of having prevented
volunteers from helping at the Esoj>us ; we refer to the report of Mr. de Decker and to a personal
interview in due time, so that we too leave the soup with the cabbage. God and we ourselves
know best, how gladly we would see our neighbors and friends helped and what efforts we are
making in this direction and we are pleased by the satisfaction expressed by your Hon"'" Wor-
ships : we wish, that we could accomplish more, but we have to consider besides the golden lesson
of Christ, that we, who live here quietly surrounded by heathens and barbarians without being
able to get assistance from anybody, except God, in times of need, which God may keep from us,
are obliged first to take care of our own houses and especially not to get involved in quarrels
and troubles.
Concerning the enlistment of soldiers, authorized by Mr. ds Decker, we refer to his report.
The proposition of Smits Jan to go with 44 Maquaes and release and bring away the prison-
ers appeared to us too dangerous, first because he was tipsy at the time and coming in to our meet-
ing made the offer without knowledge of the older fellow-chiefs of the Maquaes, second, when he
returned hei-e with S'' Jan Dareih and had got the daughter of Mr. La Montagne {Rachel) by
stealth and thought the reward for it and for his troubles was given by Mr. de Decker in place of
what he had taken with him as present to the Esopus to get speech of them about the release of
the prisoners, he answered as Mr. de Decker knows, to whom we refer ; thirdly, when Jan Darcth
retiu-ned, he said that he had reported to Mr. ds Decker, what happened to meet him, to whom we
again refer. As to the required 2 or 300 pounds of fine gunpowder, we hope that your Hon'''*' Wor-
ships shall receive some with the arrival of the next ships from the Fatherland, ■^herewith after
cordial greetings we commend your Hon''''' Worships to God's grace and remain.
Tom- Hon'"'" Worships' affectionate
Fort Orange, friends
the 28'" July A" 1663. La Montagne
Jeremias van Rensselar.
By order of the Honorable Courts of Fort Orange and the Colony of Rensselaerswyck.
J. Provoost. Clerk, D. v. Schelluyne, Secretary
of the Colony.
1663.
284 Colonial Settlements on the Hudeon lliver.
Part of a letter feom Dieectob Stuyvesant to Capt, Ceegiee ; the Esopus
to be txneelentingly puesued ; mischiefmakees to be punished.
(The begiuuiiig of this letter is missiug.)
give them no rest, but the}' must be pursued and attacked upon every information received, as
much as possible, which we leave to yom- circumspection and prudence.
Your journal and other reports inform us of the unwillingness and bad beliavior of some farm-
ers, even of such, of whom M-e had never expected it ; M'e see among others, that one Tjerck Claes-
sende Witt\\AS, refused to furnisli his horses and wagon, to haul up the provisions and ammunition
sent there, also that one Albert Ileyviansen Roose has uttered and spolien several unsufferable
and tlireatening words against the Council of War and the Magistrates, he has even threatened to
shoot the two arrested savages, if they are released and set free by the Council of War or the
Commissaries. Tou would have done well either to punish such unwilling and mischiefmaking
people exemplarily there or to send them down innuediately after the deed and we recommend
you to do this, in case such unbearable threats and refusals shoidd be made again ; the two Marse-
pingh savages, sent down here, complain to us, that the captured squaw and three children ha\'e
been taken away from them unjustly and contrary to promise and have been exchanged for cap-
tured Christians ; altliough the matter in itself is praiseM'ortliy and becoming, it is nevertheless
said, that for this and other reasons they have become dissatisfied and have already expressed a
desire to i-eturu home. As we presume, that their stay there, if not of all of them, at least of
the greater part is necessary and advantageous, even if only for the purpose of assisting to hunt
up the scattered Esopus, for they know more about it than any one of us, thei'efore we would
like to see them persuaded by some presents to remain there so long and go on expeditions with
our soldiers, until some others are sent in their places. To accomplish this, we have resolved to
send our Secretary, the bearer hereof, to your place to deliberate with you and the Council of
War about this and some other questions and to report speedily to us. His Honor has been
recommended among others, first to advise with you specially, as it is not evident, that the Esopus,
having abandoned their present fort or being driven out of it, are making another stronghold,
whether the Company's negros and a few soldiers coidd not be spared for the better protection of
the people in tlie open country, whom to assist gives us great trouble, the more so as some savages
have several tunes warned them and us, that Esopus savages have been seen in this neighborhood.
Wherewith etc
Adij 30"' July 1663.
Instructions for Secretary vom
Rtiyven, to serve him as a me-
morandum.
30"' July.
Arrived at the village of Wiltinyck he is to inquire closely into the state of affairs, as to the
strength of the Esopus savages, who are their allies, where they keep themselves at present,
where their corn cribs are and where their plantations, whether some of them are not with or
without Christian prisoners among the Katskil, Iligliland or Menissingh savages or among some
Other tribes 3 he is also to make inqun-ies, liow and in what way these may be attacked and when
New YorJc Ilidorkul lie-cords. 28")
he has any, even the least hope of a success, to instigate and encourage in our name the ofiiccis
as much as possible to make quick and secret expeditions against theui.
2.
To consider with the said officers of the troops, when it is best and most convenient, either
before or after our harvest, to destroy the corn plantations of the savages. According to the
information, which we have so far heard and received, we would deem it proper, to defer the cut-
ting down of the corn until after the whole harvest has been gathered or at least the greater
jjart of it, unless they should come in their expeditions upon some small plantations, wliieli to
destroy a second expedition would not pay ; they are to destroy these small plantations whenever
time and occasion seems most tit.
3.
As it cannot be presumed, that the Esop^is savages, having been driven out of their fort,
will make another stronghold or settlement or gather in great crowds, but that they will scatter
here and there among other tribes or perhaps in the underwood of the forests, where they must
be harassed as much as possible upon the slightest information, he is to consider with the Council
of War for the purpose of carrying it on more effectually, whether it would be advantageous to
enclose with palisades and secure a savage village or house either in their abandoned fort or in
their cornfields or still further inland and garrison it for the time of 3 or 4 weeks with 50 to 60
men, so that they can make all possible sallies upon the savages with so much less trouble.
4.
To consider with the Council of War, whether it is not advisable, to go with a yacht full of
soldiers to the Catukll and thence to march overland back to tlie Ksopus, even if it were only to
discover whether any Jisojnis savages are staj'ing with that tribe, to learn their status and location
and in case hereafter some should come to hide there to warn the Catslils, that they must not allow
any Esojnis to come among them, also to ask them for guides and inquire after our prisoners.
5.
To satisfy the Marsepingh savages as far as possiljle and to persuade them, or at least the
majority of them to remain with our troops, until others are sent in their place by the Sachem
Tapausagh / they may be brought down for that purpose, to gain time.
6.
As we and the farmers in the country have at different times been warned against Ewpus
runners and as we are daily importuned for assistance, he is first to deliberate privately with Cap-
tain-Lieutenant Cregier on this matter, whether after the expeditious are made, 20 or 30 soldiers
and the Company's negroes could not be spared without detriment to the service and sent down
in parties of 3, 4 or 5 occasionally on different yachts for the better protection of the country
people here and especially for the repulse of the expected attack here. It could perhaps be done
by the Captain-Lieutenant alone without further commotion, but if the said Captain-Lieutenant
should raise difficulties and in case he saw an opportunity to do better ser\-ice with the soldiei-s
there or if the sending off should create a commotion among the savages, the English or the vol-
imteers, then the general Council of War must pass a resolution to that effect stating the motives
and reasons, why the garrison there ought not to be diminished.
7.
To establish with the Council of War and if it seems advisable to him and them, also with
some of the JVIauistrates associated with them, in the name of tiie Director-General and Council
2S6 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
some laws and fines against all unwilling farmers or farmlaborers, who should refuse to assist with
their horses and wagons for the general benefit, also against all foul mouthed speakers, against the
unnecessary waste of powder and lead and some other necessary orders, which are hereby ratified,
as if we ourselves had drawn them up and proclaimed them. Thus done at Fort Avbstcnlani in
New-Netherland. Date as above.
Letter from Captain Cregipir to DrRECTOR Stuyvesant, reporting an attack
ON AN Indian castle ; kexukn home of some Indian allies and Long-Island
volunteers.
Honorable, Noble, Very "Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Yery Discreet Gentlemen.
I have received your Hon'''^ "Worships' letter by Mr. Secretary van Rxiyven and noted its
content. The expedition against the castle of Esopus savages has not had the result, which we
wished and hoped for, but it was God's pleasure, that it should be so. To abbreviate the report
of what has taken place, I have entered it as a journal, which I send your Hon*" "Worships by Mr.
van Ruyven. We have had here also great difficulties with the Marsepinghs, who want to have
everything their own way; we have humored thein and given way, have spoken smoothly to them
and treated them well, but could not satisfy them ; we have also given them a part of the booty
beforehand, consisting in 4 kettles, a blanket, two bearskins, a linen coat, three basins and some
spoons and they have besides shared ■with our soldiers. We have earnestly reciuested them,
to remain and make some small expedition with us against some of the Esopus, but we could not
persuade them to do it, finally we asked them to leave at least 10 or 12 of their men, promising
to give each who remained 20 guilders in wampum and Mr. van Ruyven had the wampum
fetched from on board for this purpose, but nothing could be obtained from them, they pei-sisted
in leaving altogether, as my journal shows. They wanted also, that their Captain-Lieutenant
Couwenhoven sliould return with them to the Manhatans, to which all the ofiicei's agreed. Con-
cerning the prisoners of the Marsepinghs, about whom they have complained to your Hon'"* Wor-
ships, I can only saj^ that the savages never said a word here about the prisoners. An order and
fine has been established regarding the wagons and as to the unwilling people, I shall punish all
mischiefmaking and disobedient men or send them for punishment to your Ilon*'" Worships.
What regards some Esopus, who may be hiding among the CatsTcil or Wajypingh savages, I am
awaiting your Hon'"'* Worshi])s' order, how we shall act about it. Meanwhile we will see to bring
in the grain or the corn from the fields and when the harvest is over, then I shall see how many
soldiers we can spare here and will send them to your Hon''''^ Worships. The six volunteei-s from
New- Utrecht go lierevnih.; they have asked permission to go down for the bringing in of their
harvest, which was granted. With salutations I commend in the meantime your Hon''''' Worship
and the Hon''"' Council to God's protection and remain
Your Noble, Honorable Worships'
Actum in Wildioyck, obedient friend and servant
3" August 1663 Martin Kregier.
To the Noble, Honorable. Very Woi-shipfnl, Wise Prudent and Very Discreet, their Honors
the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland a.t Fort AiHstcrdam in New-Netherland.
New Yoi'h Historical Records. 287
Minute of a Council of War, held at WiLTwrcK on the proposed operations
AGAINST THE EsOPUS.
(Beginning lost.)
it was done because some Esopus savages are said to be planting
among the [Jiatslil-s], also because one of the Esopus Sachems, called Caelcop, with some friends
are said to live and have a plantation among the Highland savages. I have a great mind to attack
them, but am afraid, that in such an expedition some of the HighlaTid or Catskil savages might
be killed, for it is impossible for our people to distinguish them from the others, and then the
whole nation would be drawn into the war. I must add hereto, that the Maquaes have said, all
the savages above Sagertjen, among whom the Catskils are comprised, had engaged themselves for
their friends, that these should do no harm to the Dutch nor the Dutch to them. It was there-
fore and' for other reasons resolved to request, before making the sallies, the advice of the Hon"'*
Director-General and expect it speedily, meanwhile to send out a party and keep it constantly in
the field to see whether information might be obtained somewhere, further to promote with all
possible assiduity the bringing in of the harvest ; also to summon by the first upward bound yacht
Christoffel Davidts from above, to serve us as a guide, for he is well acquainted with the localities
of the Esojms savages and without him little or nothing could be accomplished.
It was further proposed, whether 20 or 30 of the soldiers stationed here could not be sent
down at some convenient time for the greater protection of the country people on Manhatans
Island and on the west side of the Northriver, because they have
been warned .... Esopus runnei-s. It was said hereupon, that only about 16 soldiers
were available, who were required for the guarding of the fort, so that none or only few could be
sent out, when Esopus runners shall come liere. After considering this, we concluded, that for
the above reasons none of the soldiers stationed here now could be missed for tlie present, for we
number not more than 155 men now after the departure of the savages and volunteers. It must
also be said, that it is necessary to keep ready constantly a detachment for the convoy of coming
and going goods and therefore it is resolved not to send down a soldier from the present garrison,
except upon special order of the Hon''"' Director-General and Council.
Actum at the village of Wiltwyck, the 3* of August A° 1663.
Martin Kkegier.
Letter from Director Stut^'esant to Captain Cregier ; directions to save the
nAitVEST AT THE EsOPUS.
Honorable, Valiant, Faithful Sir.
Your Honor's favor by the hands of Secretary van Jiuyven has been received in due time,
from which we note your request to know, how to act in regard to the Highland and Catskil sav-
ages among whom it is reported that some Esopus are hiding ; you will learn by the enclosed copy
of our letter to the two Courts above and tlie instructions given to Lieutenant Pieter Wolphei^tsen
van Couioenhoven, what we have deemed necessary concerning this point and before these savages
are attacked among other tribes. You must meanwhile take care and push with all possible dili-
gence and caution the bringing in of the harvest with the utmost safety and send out for this pur-
pose and put in ambuscade as many troops, as you shall think best.
We cannot imagine, that the Esopus will gather in any large numbers in your neighborhood,
288 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
but believe, they will rather scatter in small parties and make at some time or the other attacks
upon the country people here and elsewhere. We desire therefoi'e to submit once more to j'our
judgment, that you advise us by the first chance, whether 25 or 30 soldiei-s could not conveniently
be spared, to be stationed in the country places about hei'e and as some soldiers' wives importune
us, that they can hardly maintain themselves, as long as their husbands are there and as it is diffi-
cult for us to provision the husbands there and the wives here, we have provisionally consented,
that the men mentioned in the list, should be sent down by the first convenieuce, wherewith etc.
9"" of August, sent by Mr. de Deckere.
Instrtictions foe Lieutenant van Couwenhoven, sent to renew the peace with
THE WaPPINGHS and TO PROCCEE THE RELEASE OF THE CHRISTIAN PRISONERS.
9"" August. Instructions.
As we are informed, that some Esopus savages are hiding among the Wappinghs and
HigJiland savages, it is deemed best and necessary to send thither Lieutenant Pieter Wolphertsen
van Couwenhoven, to get information, how much truth there is in these reports. If he finds, that,
as the report goes, one of the Esoptis chiefs, Keercop, and his friends are planting among the
Highland savages, then he shall offer to the chief of the Wappinghs a continuation of our old
friendship (in order not to get into a war with him and his tribe) and shall present him a coat,
sent along for this purpose; he shall also request him in the best possible manner, without using
threats of war, that he will not allow any Esopus to live among his people, much less assist tliem
or provide them with corn or other victuals.
2.
He shall minutely inquire after the Christian prisoners and ask of the chief and the Wap-
pinghs, how and by what means the same could be released ; if he sees any hope or way, to
effectuate the release through wampum or goods, then he may freely promise for each prisoner,
be it woman or child, one hundred guilders, according to circumstances he may offer 20 or 30
guilders more or less.
If he sees no hope of ransoming the prisoners or getting them back, then to try by making some
promises about peace, as the Esopus have proposed in their last negotiations with the Maquaes ;
if he sees a sure hope of obtaining the prisoners by these and no other means, then he is hereby
authorized to consent to a provisional armistice, in case it should be proposed and asked by the
Wappingh chief.
As it must be presumed, that little will be accomplished regarding the release of the Christian
prisoners, unless the two captured savages and the squaw are first exchanged against some of our
prisoners, we willingly give our consent to it for the benefit of the captive Christians, if a
general release of all our prisoners has first been agreed upon, promised and executed. This is
judged absolutely necessary, that after the release of some of them the balance of our prisoners
may not be treated so much worse and placed beyond ransom by the release on our side of the
prisoners which we have already, while it is uncertain, how and when we may get others. Actum
Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 9'''' of August A° 1663.
New YorJc Historical Records. 289
Letier fkom Dieectok Stuyvesant to Lieut, van Couwenhoven at Wappinghs Ivil.
To Pieter Wolphe?-tse)i, lying on the
NortJiriver before the Wwppinyhs Kil.
Honorable, Valiant, Faithful Sir.
Tour favor of yesterday by Mr. Willefs yacht has been received to-day, the 13"" ; we are well
pleased with what you have done so far, only Capt. Willefs son tells us, that the Wajjpingh sav-
ages are very bold and come on board 10 and 20 at a time ; you are therefore hereby directed and
warned, to be well on your guard and not to trust them much, if you should remain there much
longer, to look out for the Wappinghs or perhaps for some Esopus, to which we have no objec.
tion, should yoii see any hope of getting some prisoners, but my advice is and I recommend it
hereby most earnestly to you, that you make a quick trip to the Esopus and take there 6 or 8 men
more for the protection of the yacht and people. If the wind does not serve, do not remain at
anchor with the yacht, but keep sailing even if it is only from one side of the river to the other.
I believe, that by so doing j'ou will have fewer savages on board and run less danger ; still I think
it advisable to get 6 or 8 men from the Esopn,s / if you get again some prisoners, do not send them
down here, but bring them directly to the Esopus and report to Capt. Creyier your adventures,
wherewith etc.
IS'" August A" 1663.
Letter from Director STurvESAJstT to Captain Cregier at Wiltwtck ; further instructions.
Honorable, Yaliant, Faithful Sir.
Our last letter was of the Q"* July {sic !) by Mr. de Deckere. We have not heard since from
you nor of the condition of the prisoners, except that Pieter Wolphertsen van Couwenhoven has
reported to us, the Wappinghs Sachem had gone to the Esopus savages and hoped to bring back
some prisoners, which we pray and wish from our hearts, that God will grant. In place of going
to you according to the letter, Kits Davidts arrived here yesterday with Capt. Willefs yacht and
says, the letter reads, that he was first to come here ; although we do not believe this, yet to pre-
vent mistakes in future, I give this to him to hand to you. You may employ him as you think fit ;
according to my opinion you will not be much benefitted by his services, except to send him
hither and thither ; all possible efforts must first be made to get information of the prisoners and
to ransom them as well as to gather the harvest. Closing herewith etc.
li"-" August A" 1663.
Proposals offered by the Minissingh Indians on renewing the peace wfth
THE Dutch and answers.
To-day the IS"" of August appeared
before the Council at Fort Amster-
dam, Oratamy, chief of Hacking-
Tcescahy and with him Weswatewchy,
Meninger, Wemessamy, chiefs of the
Menissinch savages.
37
290 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
1. The Menissinch chiefs say through Oratamy, they have come here to tell us, that they have
no connexions with the Esopus savages regarding the present war.
2. They say, that all their savages, young as well as old men, have determined not to do any
harm to the Dutch, not even as much as to kill a chicken or take a piece of bread, because they
desire nothing better, than to live in peace with the Dutch, for they are afraid, that the Sinnekus
might kill them.
3. They ask for a small piece of ordnance, to use it in their fort against the Sinnelcus and protect
their corn.
4. He says, that some of his friends have planted among the Esopus a long time ago, who would
like to return to the Menissinchs now and he asks permission for them, because it is said, that
they should not allow any one of the Esopiis to come among them ; he expresses his hope, to
obtain thereby some of the Dutch prisoners.
5. They say, that they have inquired for our prisoners, but that none of them has been brought
to them nor to the Southriver, nor to the Wapjpinghs ; but that there is a horse among them,
which one of their young men had bought from the Esqpus.
Answer to the preceding propositions.
1. It is well, that they have come to inform us, they had no connexions with the Esoptis in this
present war and that they would have none we are inclined to continue in peace Muth them, as with
Oratara, as long as they keep quiet.
2. That we likewise would not harm any of their jaeople, biit that it is necessary for the main-
tenance of the peace, that none of their savages should come armed into the neighborhood of the
Dutch plantations : because our people not being able to distinguish the savage tribes one from
another, might take them for Esopios and kill them ; they undertook to inform their savages
hereof.
3. That our small pieces of ordnance had altogether been sent off and the others were too large,
to bring them into their country and that the Sinnekus were our friends as well as they ; they
would be angry and would figlit against us and against our people at Eort Orange.
4. The answer to their 4"' point was, it is well, that they inform us, we are pleased, that they
wish to have their friends back among them provided they have not had a hand in the late
massacre.
5. "Whether they could not give us two of their people, to show, where our prisoners are and we
would make them a good present, if led to them or if they could not or dared not do it, that they
should buy our prisoners for us, we would return the advanced money.
They answered, that they would first try their best to get the prisoners by kindness or to buy
them from the Esopus, if not successful herein, they will then bring us information, where they are.
"We gave hereupon four coats and pieces of cloth. Actum at Fort Amsterdam in New-
J^etherland, date as above.
Letter feom Director Stutvesant to Lieut, van Couwenhoven ; no individual
Indian prisoners to be released or exchanged.
Valiant, Faithful Sir.
"We learn to our regret from your letter of the 25"" iust., that the savages, Wappings as well
as Esopus, have put you off from time to time, so that until now you have been able to accom-
Neto Yorh Historical Ixecurds. 291
plisb only little or nothing, except to ransom three children and a woman, whose release you could
only obtain by liberating the captured squaw. Tliis was, however, not according to our inten-
tions, as you were not only charged verbally, but also by written instructions, not to make any
promises to any of the captured savages nor to release them, except under the condition, that first
and above all au agreement should be made for the exchange of all the prisoners. "We direct you
once more to follow the instructions closely and so does the Council of War at the Esopits.
We are pleased to learn, what you further write in your letter, that the chief of tlie Wap-
pinghs has given you hope and promised to release all the prisoners within four days and that
you have to wait until then. We wish and pray, that the good God may give his blessing to it
for the benefit of the poor and misei-able captives. If it should not turn out according to your
wishes and intentions, you say, you hoped to get the better of them in a manner, which they will
not like much. You must use in this regard the precaution, that they must be the first to show
signs of hostility, by refusing either to drive the Esopus from them or to turn over to you such
of our prisoners as are among them or in their country. In case of such a refusal you must
inform them, pursuant to your instructions and as we have done with all other tribes, that we
shall be compelled to look up and kill our enemies, where we may find them, in order to obtain
our prisoners and that it will not be our fault, if then some of their people, whom we cannot
distinguish from the Esopus, should be captured or killed. If you can gain an advantage over
them, after they have thus been warned and informed, we sliall bo much pleased, but we doubt
very much, whether you shall be able to accomplish it with the small force under your command.
We would think it for the benefit of our prisoners, who as we learn are mostly hidden among the
Wappinghs with the Esopvs savages, if you could strike a blow at both the tribes, who accord-
ing to your letter and the reports of others still keep together ; you should do it with the
knowledge and assistance of the Council of War at the Esopus, for the first blow must be, with
God's blessing and help, a sure one, else it would do more harm to us and especially to our poor
prisoners.
The requested brandy and powder, also some provisions are sent herewith. The Only-good
God may provide you, the officers and soldiers, engaged with you in this undertaking, with pru-
dence and courage and grant a good result for the honor of his nanie and the best of our poor
prisoners. No more herewith, than to commend you to God's grace with our salutations.
Your affectionate friend.
Actum Eort Amsterdam Sent to Pieter Wolphertsen, who lies in the
in N. Netherlands 27"" Aug. 1663. Northriver at the mouth of Wcqyjnng Ed.
Letter from the Fort Oraj^ge authorities to Director Stutvesant on Indian affairs.
Noble, Very Worshipful Gentlemen, tlie Director-General and Council of JVew-
Netherland.
We beg to say in answer to the letter of the 9"' of this month of August, that the warning
or something similar has been given us to our regret long ago. May God save us from more
trouble. Some Maquaes chiefs have agreed in their last propositions to sail down the river in a
yacht and bring presents to the southern and northern savages, with whom we are allied. Our
neighbors are the Maquaes, Sinnekics, Mahicanders and Katskd savages. We have answered to
292 Colonial SettlemenU on the Hiulson River.
tlie propositions of the savages several times lately or since the troubles in the Esopus, that they
must not suffer any Esopus savages among them nor let any of their people live among the
Esopus. They have promised to remember this warning and accepted j^resents on it. Their
propositions and our answers to the same shall be sent soon to your Hon""' Worships. As to the
warning of the country people, they have been informed of it long ago ; some fly, some remain :
Eldert dc Oojer himself has been aided in the harvest by the savages at EatsTcil and we have
so far no information, that Esopus savages are staying in Katshil or in this neighborhood.
Closing with cordial greetings we commend your Hon"'" Worships to God's grace.
Eort Orange, Your Hou"'" Worships affectionate friends
the 27"' August 1663. La Montagne
Jeeemias van Rensselaer.
By order of the two Courts of Eort Orange & Rensselaerswyck
Johannes Provost, Clerk, D. V. Schelldtne, Secretary.
Letpers from Director Stutvesant and Council to Captain Cregier ; comments
AJND instructions RESPECTING THE EsOPUS CAMPAIGN.
Honorable, Valiant, Faithful Sir.
Your letter of the 24:"" inst. with the continuation of the journal has been handed to us by the
Rev. Harrnanus Blom. We have read your diary and seen among other things some ordinances
made regarding the militia and concerning the mowing and bringing in of the harvest and the
running into the country by small parties ; we willingly coniirra them all, only we see under date
of the IS"" and 19"" inst., that Ensign Niessen has been sent out with fifty-five men to some
corn-plantation of the savages about three leagues from Wiltioyck, but it is not stated in which
direction, whether up or down the river or inland ; next day about noon the Ensign returned
without finding any savages and you do not say, whether he destroyed the corn or not and for
what reasons.
Coming now to your letter of the abovesaid date, you give us therein hope of a so good and
bountiful harvest, as we have not had in three years, but you say in your diary of the 22* inst.,
that tlie grain is spoiling in the field through rain and the lack of mowers and that the farmers
shall hardly be able to bring in one fourth part among themselves ; this seems to be a contradic-
tion, at least to us, who do not know, what to hope and to believe.
We shall order the required necessities as quickly as possible and send them you. There are
no shoes or at least only few in store here. We have ordered fifty or sixty pairs from the shoe-
makers and will send them as soon as made.
We understand the necessity of a good surgeon perfectly well, but you know as well as we,
how difficult it is to obtain one ; ]\Iaster Hans* is a burgher and besides cannot be spared here with-
out detriment to the whole place and all the inhabitants. You and we know, what the other two
are. We see for the present no better expedient, tlian that the sick and wounded, whom the
sawbones there can neither help nor cure, be sent down by every chance.
What Lieutenant Fieter Wolphertsen has reported to us, that he will try to gain an advantage
over the Wappinghs and Esopus, who still keep together, if he does not accomplish concerning
* Kiersted, the son-in-law of AnneTce Jans.- — Ed.
New York Historical liecards. 293
the release of the prisoners, what he intends and hopes, what he writes about it and our answer,
you will learn by the enclosed copy of his letter. If you and the Council of War have any hope of
a considerable advantage over tlie Esopus and Wappinghs benefitting our poor prisoners, then we
leave it to you and the Council of War to do your best for the benefit of the public welfare and
the poor prisoners with every precaution and courage, to ask God's blessing for a good result and
await it. If for the carrying out of the plan one or more yachts might be necessary; then you may
employ the one, which brings this letter ; I have ordered the skipper to wait for your orders and
answer. Should you and the Council of War know better means and have a better plan for the
release for the prisoners, than what Lieutenant Coutvenhoven proposes, then carry it out, the
heaviest must weigh most. Please do your best according to your information and judgment.
When after failing to recover our prisoners the design against the Wappinghs is taken in hand
and the same results as we desire or as we do not desire, then you and the Council of War are
hereby expressly counnanded and charged to send inmiediately after having made the attempt 60
soldiers under Lieutenant Coinoenhoven, to be stationed here in the villages of Neio-Tlaerlem,,
Bergen and elsewhere, for it must not be overlooked that iinder such circumstances the country
people in this neighborhood will suffer some hardships and in consideration hereof the attempt
must not be made lightly and on uncei'tain grounds, but with hope of a good result as we said
before ; we must leave it to your better information and judgment. Closing witli cordial greetings
and commending you and your soldiers to God's protection we remain
27"" Aug. 1663. Your affectionate friends
the Director-General and Council
of New-Netlierland.
Honorable, Yaliant, Faitliful Sir.
As tlie yacht has remained here until to-day on account of contrary winds and we have as yet
heard nothing from Lieutenant Kouwenhoven, which makes us feai-, that the Wappinghs have not
kept their word and jiromise to bring our prisoners within four days and that consequently Lieu-
tenant Koiiwenhoven has, in accordance with his letter, undertaken one or the other exploit, but,
we hope, not without calling upon you for aid and advice, or at least not without having made
every effort to obtain our prisoners from the Wappinghs by consciencious means and in friend-
ship, therefore you and the Council of War are once more warned, if they should refuse and you
shoidd on that accoimt resolve to strike a blow at them and we think, that it would be better at
present not to attempt anything against them, but to wait for a better opportunity, unless you had
eveiy chance and opportunity to get hold of some Esopus savages or our prisoners among the
Wappings and you could catch one or the other by surprise or otherwise and take a good number
of prisoners. We leave this to your judgment, but desire to recommend herewith again most
earnestly and to command, that the 50 or 60 men, ordered down before, be sent on by the first
yacht and chance, for we consider this necessary for the welfare of the country etc.
29'" Aug. 1663.
Tomos Lodewjck and Claes Look are hereby commanded and required to tarry before the
Redoubt until they receive the answer and orders of our Captaiu-Lieutenant Oregier and obey his
orders promptly.
294 Colonial SeUlements on the Hudson River,
Minute of Coctncil. Information given concerning an intended massacre of
THE whites on THE NoRTHEIVER.
30'" Aug. 1663.
Sara Kierstede, the wife of Mr. Ila^is, says, she has beeu informed b}'^ a savage yesterday,
that 8 tribes of savages had united to kUl all the Dutch on the Nortliriver^ Fort Orange included.
Ady ut supra.
The wife of Michiel Jwnsen reports to have been warned by a savage, that some tribes of
savages had united for the purpose of getting more Dutch prisoners etc. Ady ut supra.
Information furnished by Oratam, chief of the Hackingkesackt, respecting
THE Esopus Indians.
Oratam, chief of Hac'kin'kesa'ky , was asked, whether after having taken his leave, he has
heard or sent for information of our prisoners, where they are, how they fare and whether they
could be ransomed or not. He answered, that the chief of the Menissmghs had gone to the
Esopus about 8 days ago to see, whether he could not ransom some prisoners and that he would
give us information, as soon as the said chief had returned ; he says also, the Esopus savages were
making a new castle at a distance of a few hours inarch from their old castle and that they had
there another coru-plautation etc. Date as above (30"" August 1663.)
Order directing the survetoe to lay out land near Bergen N. J.
SO'" August.
The petition of Tlelman van VleecTc, Caspar Steynmits, Adrian Post and Geurt Gerritsen,
inhabitants of the village of Bergen on the west side of the J^orthriver, asking for some lowlands
was taken ujd and read.
The answer was :
The surveyor is directed to proceed as soon as he can to the village of Bergen and to lay out
the valleys petitioned for the best accommodation of the petitioners and other interested parties ;
and then to make a report of his proceedings to the Director-General and Council. Ady ut supra.
Information brought by a Hackinkesacky Indian of the defeat of the Esopds
and recapture of the christian prisoners.
To-day t-he 10'" of September a savage, called by the Dutch Pieter of HachinghesaTcy,
came here to the Fort and reports, that a savage arrived at Eachingkesaky yesterday, who brought
the news, that our people had made an expedition against the Esopus four days ago, that 30 Esopus
had been killed together with some women and children and that our men had also taken fi-om
them our prisoners, who were with them.
A new coat was promised to the bearer of the news, if they are true. Ady ut supra.
New Yorh Historical Records, 295
Letter feom the Council to Captain Cregiee; the victoey over the Esopus
Indians ; reinforcements sent.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
"While bis Honor the Director-General was on the ca'c of leaving for Boston, we received your
letter, from which we principally learn the confirmation of the report, made to us by Oratam a
few days before the receipt of your letter, regarding the success and the advantage, gained by you
and your troops over the barbarians. We let this serve us as a reason to thank God the Almighty
from the bottom of our hearts and to pray that his divine kindness may bless our further exploits
and designs more and more. We have cursorily spoken with his Honor, the General regarding
the destruction of the fort of the savages, especially of their corn, which we understand must
necessarily be done sooner or later. "We shall send messengers to-day and to-morrow to the Eng-
lish villages, also to the Marsepinghs, to get as many men from fhera as possible. Lieutenant
Couwenhoven also informs us, that he is about to send down 20 men by the first yaelit ; but we
judge, that this would cause delay and obstacles to our aforesaid design, anyway would put it
back, therefore we desire hereby to direct and recommend yon to send down no more military
until further orders, but keep all the soldiers there and as it may already have been done before
receipt of this letter, therefore we have given to the bearer hereof an open order, by which the
skippers and barquiers, on board of whose vessels the said soldiers might have been embarked, are
directed to return with them directly or if it can be done conveniently to transfer them to the
barge of the bearer. According to your request we send you herewith for the present 412 lbs of
bacon, several hundred pounds of meat will follow by the next yacht, also socks and shoes and
whatever else circumstances will allow to send. Closing herewith we commend you to God's
protection and remain
j3th -^bre ig63_ Yq^jj, affectionate friends
the Council of JSew-Netherlcmd.
Here follows the order mentioned in the preceding letter :
The skij^per or bargeman, to whom these presents are shown, is commanded and ordered, to
carry the soldiers aboard his vessel back to the Esopxhs or if it can be done conveniently to debark
or transfer them, for we have considered it thus necessary for the public welfare. Actum in Fort
Amsterdam, this 13 T^'^ 1663.
Peoposaxs of the chief of the Marsepiijghs and answer thereto.
Anno 1663 on the 20'" September the
chief of the Marsepinghs made the
following propositions and received
answers as follows in the Council
Chamber in Fort Amsterdam.
1. He says, he has not yet received his share of the horses, retaken from the Esopus savages.
Answer : The horses have been sold to the highest bidder and as soon as the money is paid
he shall have his share. Should he not be paid at the Esopus, then we will do it here.
2. He says, he has no intention to fight against any other tribe, than the Esopus.
Answer : Nor are we willing as yet to fight against other tribes.
3. He says, he would not like to be absent longer than a montli.
296 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Answer : He and his men shall be brought back, as soon as the new castle of the Esojms and
their corn has been destroyed.
4. He requests, that all his savages, who are to go with him to the number of 44, receive im-
mediately a piece of duffel each and he himself a coat besides.
Answer : It shall be done directly.
5. He requests, that the savages may keep the booty made by them, without dividing it with
the Diiteh and that the Dutch too may keep their booty.
The request was granted this time for divers reasons, also because they showed a disinclination
to go, if it was not conceded.
Letter feom Dieectoe Sttttvesant to Captain Ceegiee at the Esopus with
EEmrOECEMENTB.
Honorable, Valiant, Faithful Sir.
Your letter by Thomas the Irishman has just been received ; we have given orders, to satisfy
your request concerning gunpowder ; meat, hard bread, socks, shoes etc. has been sent yesterday
by the yacht of the Spaniard. Herewith come under command of Lieutenant Pieter Wolphertson
forty Marsepingh savages : witli these and your soldiers there, we think, you will be able to make
another march against the Eaopus savages and besides that, against all, who should wish to attack
you. You are hereby directed, to make all possible efforts, that this expedition may have tte
desired result ; as we however believe, that the savages shall have been made more careful and
cautious by the last rencontres, keeping their rmmers and outposts all around to be warned against
an unexpected arrival of our people, so that in all probability we could not sm-prise them or gain
anj'thing, therefore you must at least destroy their newly begun castle and ruin their corn, leaving
ther est to God's blessing and your own circumspection ; if our situation had allowed to bare our
place of the few soldiers still here, we would have sent some of them to you ; the aforesaid Marse-
pi7ighs have protested against and expressly stipulated for no further employment, than during
the present expedition against the Esoptis alone ; you will have to bear that in mind and to send
them off directly after having made the exploit, also so many men under Lieutenant Couwenh&ven,
that you keep the number of seventy without forgetting the two negroes. Wherewith etc.
21=' Septbr A° 1663.
Lettee feom the Council to the authoeities at Foet Oeajstge ; Indian affaies.
Honorable, Dear, Beloved Friends.
This serves as cover for the enclosed copy of a letter sent by Colonel Temple'^ to Capt.
Willett and delivered by Capt. Willett to his Honor, the Director-G-eneral, while on the point of
leaving. After having read it, we found it necessary to send the same to your Honors by the
first opportunity, that its contents might be made known to the Maquaes, but we have had no prior
chance, until now, as since that time no yachts have left. "We must request your Honors most
* Sir Thomas Temple, Proprietary and Governor of Nova Scotia.
New York Historical Records. 297
earnestly hereby, to inform the Maquaes at the first opportunity of the complaints of our English
neighbors and to use all possible persuasion and other means, that a permanent peace be made
between them and the Northern savages ; we do not doubt, that if they can be disposed for
peace, it will be accepted by the other side, as your Honors can infer from the enclosure, although
the most injury seems to have been done to them. But if it is not possible and matters remain
as they are, then we are sure, the Maquaes will be shortly attacked by the Encjlish neighbors and
the savages. Should your Honors see any hopes to bring about a desirable result, then we leave
it to your Honoi-s' own deliberations, how and by which means the parties might be persuaded
first to an- armistice. "We should think, it would not be strange, if the Maquaes sent some mes-
sengers; opportunity to send them by water could easily be found here. "We expect your Honors'
answer and report of what has been done. Meanwhile we commend your Honors to God's pro-
tection and remain with cordial greetings, Honorable, Dear, Beloved Friends.
Actum Fort Amsterdam, Your Honors' affectionate friends
the 21^' 7"" 1663. the Council of New-Netherland.
ExTKA-CT FROM A LETTER OF DiRECTOK StUTVESANT TO THE ViCE-DlRECTOR AT
Curacao with details of the defeat of the Esopus.
******
I had informed your Honor by Capt. Lord among others of the troubles, in which we were
with some savages and the expectations, which we had of a good result. So far the good God
has wonderfully blessed the means, which we have employed. On the day of my departure, 14
days ago to-day, I received a sure and detailed report, that our troops had again surprised the
newly made castle of the savages, 27 remained dead on the field, besides the men, who were
wounded or shot while swimming across the Kil or little river and whom the current took away,
22 captured christians were retaken and 19 savages fell alive into our hands. To the Lord, our
God, is here for due our praise, honor and thanks.
******
Boston in Nem England
the 2i"' Septbr. 1663.
Minute of proceedings at Fort Orange with the Mohawks regarding Col-
onel Temple's remonstrance against their making war on the Indians m
his government.
Extraordinary Meeting held
by both Courts at Fort
Orange the 26"" September
Extract. 1663.
The letter of the Hon'''^ Council of New-Netherland dated the 21='* Septbr 1663 was opened
and read, also the copy of a letter written by Colonel Temple to Capt. Willett under date of the
6"" of July A° 1663 and received by us through Gerrit Visheeck. The meeting was then adjourned
to the next day, the 27"'.
38
298 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
On the 27"" September A" 1663 we summoned before our meeting Saheda, chief of the
Maquaes and he appeared in company of some of his tribe. The letter of Col. Temple was read
and translated into the Maquaes tongue by the Commissaries Gerrit SUchtenhorst and Jan
Tomassen.
First we stated to them the complaint of Col. Temple, that the Maquaes had attacked his
people near their fort last summer and wounded some of them, according to the aforesaid letter of
the 6'" of July A" 1663.
Secondly we have urgently requested them to make a permanent peace, agreeably to Col.
Teinple's request, and we warned them at the same time, that not only the English savages, but
also the English themselves would fall upon them ; the peace was further earnestly recommended
to them and the difficulties, which would arise from an English attack, were explained. Saheda,
the Sachem of the Maquaes answered ; that in regard to the first he requests Col. Temple to leave
him and his people alone and not trouble himself about the war between them and the Nmthern
or else Onejagese.
Secondly, they do not consider tliemselves as at war with the people of Onokonquehaga
while they have fled to the Onejagese j they request therefore, that they may be allowed to make
war against the Onejagese, also called Soquachjck, and their adherents.
Thirdly he says, next summer he intends to sail in a Dutch vessel to the OnaTconque, also
called KinneiecJi', unless the Hon"'^ General consented, that these savages were summoned to the
Ma/nhatans to treat there of a permanent peace.
Fourthly they complain, that they cannot travel over their roads without fear and that they
must provide themselves with arms, for the English savages lie upon the roads and paths and
attack them and have already beaten some of them. They are therefore astonished, that they will
not keep an armistice, while asking for peace. Besides this they say, that they have built a castle
in this neighborhood about one or two days' travel from here.
Agrees with the original.
Attested by us
Johannes Provoost, Clerk
D. Van Schellutne, Secretary
of the Colony of Hensselaerswyck.
Lettee from the authorities of Fort Orange to Director Stutvesant, trans-
mitting THE PRECEDING MINUTES.
Noble, Worshipful Gentlemen.
Pursuant to your Hon''''' Worships' written request of the 21^' September last past, delivered
to us by Gerrit Yisbeeck we had spoken with the Maquaes and made every effort to bring about
a peace ; they have given us the answers, which will be found in the enclosed minutes. We know
at present not what else to do in this matter, of which your Hon''"' Worships might make use, if
it was thought proper and recommend, that your Hon'''° Worships will also promote everything,
Neio Yorh Historical Records. 299
required for a peace, as much as possible among the English and their neighbors. Meanwhile wc
commend yoiu' Hon'''' Worships to God's protection and remain with cordial greetings.
Yoiu" EEon''''* Worships' afEectionate
Fort Orange friends
the 2'' Oetbr 1663. La Montagne
Jeeemias van Rensselaer
By order of the two courts of
Fort Orange and the Colony
of HensselaerswycJc.
J. Pkovoost, Clerk
D. y. ScHELLUTNE, Secretary
of the Colony of Rensselaers-
wyck 1663.
To the Honorable and Worshipful the Council of Neto-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam.
Menute of Council. Pkoceedings on receipt of intelligence, that the Indians
were about to make a descent on the dutcii settlements at hoboken,
AhASIMUS ETC*.
On the 15"' of October ui the morning S'' Cornells Steenwyh reported : Last night at abo^^t 9
o'clock Secretary van Ruyven was with me at my door to tell me, what a Northern savage had
related at Jan de Schilder''s house, namely, that the balance of the Esopus savages had fled with
their prisoners to the T\^appinghs, where also the Mahicanders, Kichtawangh, Wiechquaeskech
and other River savages had gone. There they Mntekoyed and deliberated and made a plan to
make common cause after having gathered the corn and come down, 500 or 600 men strong, to
destroy first all the Dutch plantation over the River at Hoboocken, Hasimus, the corn-land
and then the Manhatans Island, to bm-n, to kill everybody or take prisoners, whom they could
get and that it should be done in a few days.
About noon, before the meeting broke up, the Company's yacht an-ived from the Esopus
with letters from Capt.-Lieut. Creyier, which with letters fi-om Fort Orange confirm the above
report, as may be seen from them and the daily annotations made there. The matter being of
very great importance, it was resolved to defer deliberation upon it until afternoon and to have
some of the City-Magistrates join the Council, to hear also their advice and to inform them of the
very dangerous situation of the country, the low state of the treasury, the want of provisions,
clothing and other necessities for the troops and what is connected with it.
In the afternoon the foregoing information was also communicated to the majority of
the Burgomasters and Schepens, the advices received from the Esopus were read to them
and then a frank statement was made of the present situation of the country and its perillous
state, of the impossibility to redress it, unless either by subsidies or by negotiation of drafts
on the Fatherland money could be raised for the maintenance of the too small military force,
but neither counsel nor help could be thought of or proposed by them ; however it was resolved
for the present to send some troops to protect New-Haerlem^ situate at the end of this island and
two yachts, each manned by 10 or 12 men up the Northriver to prevent the designs of the savages
and divert them as much as possible ; meanwhile also to warn the villages in the country around
300 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
here, that they miist be on their guard ; 16 or 20 men were sent in the City's lighter to New-
Haerlejn, to remain there in the river and to prevent as far as possible the savages from crossing
over to Long-Island.
Two yachts, namely the Company's and that of the Spaniard, each with 10 men under Lieu-
tenant Couwenlwven were sent up the Eiver to the Wapjjings. Actum Fort Amsterdam in
New Netherland, on the day as above.
Instructions fok Lieutenant van Couwenhoven to ascertain and PREVEirr the
MOVEMENTS OF THE EsOPUS, WapPINGS AND HIGHLAND InDIANS.
Instructions for Lieutenant Pieter
'Wolphertsen van Couwenhoven.
1.
He shall proceed as c|uickly as possible to the Wappings or Highland savages and make
every effort to get information either from the Kichtowanghs or from the Wiechquaeskecks sav-
ages regarding the plans of the Esopus and Highland savages.
2.
After he has received information of their plans and that they will carry them out in as ^hort
a time as we are told, which they will in canoes according to their custom and if they have not
already dropped down the river, he shall constantly cruise from one side of the river to the other
in the Higlilands or elsewhere, where it is narrowest, especially at night, to prevent the coming
down of their canoes, or at least to discover them.
3.
Should he hear that they have passed, then he must speedily return to inform us or if he
thinks it more advantageous, he may follow them to hinder their plans or at least divert them.
4.
If he obtains information among tne Kechtawangh, Tappaen or other savages, that the
Esopus and Highland savages are not coming down so soon, then he must sail up the river with
both yachts to the Wappings and send one or the other savage after them and try to make the
chief or some of the Highland tribe to come on board and treat with them about the ransoming
of the rest of the Christian prisoners, in default of other things for the captured savages, of whom
we hold a like number.
5.
While engaged in the negotiation he shall closely inquire into the condition and state of the
savages, how strong the tribes are together, where they lie and what their intentions are.
6.
If he could make an armistice for some time with the expectation of peace with them, then it
would be well, so that we can in the meantime get ourselves in better condition to resist them.
7.
The savage prisoner, whom he takes along and who is, as we are told, a Wapping and brother
New Yorli Historical Records. 301
of the chief must not be released, unless 3 or 4 captured Christian children can be obtained for
him.
8.
If he should not be able to get speech of the Ilighland savages, then it is a sure sign, that
their intentions are bad ; he shall then, whenever convenient, take most of the soldiers from the
Spaniard's yacht over into his and, as was said above, constantly cruise in the Highland or where
the river is narrowest especially at night and send down the Spaniard's yacht to inform us of every-
thing and meanwhile be always on his guard. Actum Fort Amsterdam in New- Netherlands the
16'" of October 1663.
P. Stutvesant.
Instbuctions fok Mr. Verbeaagk A^fD Sergeant van den Bosch, sent with Lieu-
tenant COUWENHOVEN.
Instructions for S' Verhraack
and Sergeant Harmen Mar-
teTisen van den Bosch.
1.
Coming up with the Company's yacht at Kichtavmngh they shall take 8 men out of the same
into theirs and go up the river as soon as the Company's yacht makes sail.
2.
During the night they must never or at least as httle as wind and weather permit, remain at
anchor, but as long as they are out they must cruise with the other yacht from one side of the river
to the other, where it is narrowest, to prevent the coming down of canoes.
3.
Daj' and night they must keep close together, so that they can assist each other, if necessary,
and they must at all times look well to their arms.
4.
If they get some savages on boai'd, they must especially inquire as much as possible after the
Esopus and Wajppings, where they are, what other savages have joined them, how strong they
are and what their force is.
5.
Sr. VerhraacTc is requested to assist Lieutenant Couioenhoven in the writing and noting down
of what the savages say and what they themselves hear and to enter it all correctly.
6.
If Lieutenant Couwenhoveji should think it proper to remain cruising in the Highlands, the
Sergeant shall turn over to him 4 or 5 men and come down with speed, to make us a report of
every thing.
They shall read and communicate to Lieut. Couwenhoven the preceding as well as these
instructions, as soon as they reach him.
Actum IG'" October A° 1663.
302 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Letteb from Director Stutvesajsit to Lieutenant Couwenhoven ; instbuctions
FOR EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS WITH THE InDIANS.
Valiant, Faithful Sir.
I understand from the verbal and the written report of the bearer, that the chiefs of the
Stnsinchs, Kichtawangs and Wiechquaeskechs solicit very earnestly the exchange of the captive
savage against a girl ; considering that he is himself a Sachem and brother to the chief of the
Wappings, we ought to have at least 2 or 3 for him, but if they promise, that, if we release this
prisoner for the girl, the aforesaid four Sachems will come down with you, to speak with us and
renew the old treaty, and if you believe, that any reliance can be placed upon their promise, then
we consent and authorize you to let go the savage prisoner for the girl and to come down here
with the chiefs the sooner the better, for I would like to go to J^ort Orange before the winter and
speak with the Magiiaas, to see whether peace can be made between them, the Mahicanders and
the Northern savages, so that each tribe may go quietly hunting beavers. You must impress this
on the minds of the chiefs, who are with you, to induce them to come down sooner and get every-
thing quiet. I recommend you in the meantime once more to inquire after everything and to
find out where our prisoners are and where the Esapus savages. That this may be the better
understood and explained I send herewith, in company with the Sargeant, the son-iu-law of Pau-
lufi, tlie guardian, namely Andries, who well understands and speaks the savages' tongue. You
can take him with you, when you speak with the savages. No more for the present, than to com-
mend you with our salutations to God's grace, from whom alone a good result must be asked and
expected. Done at Fort Amsterdam, in New-Neiherland, the 21'' of October 1863.
To Pieter Wolphertsen.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to Capt. Cregier ; the peace with the Wap-
pings, just made, violated again by them.
Honorable, Valiant, Faithful Sir.
"We are informed to our great regret, that Lieutenant Pieter WoVpliertsen, van Couwenhoven,
after having made and renewed the peace with the Wappings about 12 days ago and stipulated
for an exchange of prisoners according to his written and verbal report, went there yesterday a
week ago in Put JacohserCs yacht ; on the 3* inst., last Saturday, he was surprised by the TF«/)-
pings, the yacht was captured and burnt and the 6 or 8 men with him were murdered and he him
self taken as prisoner to the Waj}j)itig castle. We deemed it urgent to acquaint your Honor of
this affair by the bearer and at the same time to request and command, that your Honor come
down, to consider, after having put everything in good order, but we leave it to your Honoi-'s and
our friends' discretion, if yoiu- Honor should in the meantime see a chance, in consequence of
good information, to gain an advantage over the said Waj)pings with the assistance of some vol-
unteers and the force under your command. We send herewith a quantity of meat, about 2000
pounds, for the garrison. Wherewith etc".
The 7"" November 1664: {sic far 1663.)
New YorTc Historical Records. 303
Ordinance fok the bettek secukity and settlement op Bekgen, N. J., passed
15th Novembek 1663.
(See Laws of New-Netherland, p. 449.1
Mmui'E OF Council. Permission granted to several Indians to fish near Haerlem.
IS"" November.
To-day Schanwenaer-ach, chief of Wiechguaeskeek, came into the fort and requested for
himself and his people permission to fish unmolested near the village of New-Haerlem. It was
granted to him on condition, that they shall not come armed into the neighborhood of the Dutch.
And that people might be quite sure, that it were no Esopus, but his men, he was given tlie seal
of the Company impressed in wax on little cards, which they can show meeting some Dutchmen.
Ady ut supra.
Nota : He received altogether 12 such card? or seals, namely
for the Wiechquaeskecks, whose chief is 8auwenaar-ach 4 —
for the Kichtawanghs, whose chief is Meghtsewakes 4 —
for the Heweghjioncks, whose chief is Currispin i.
the -Kis Kightkonck and Shisincqs have no chief now, but are counted among the foregoing
savages.
Letter from Vice-Director La Montagne to Director Stutvesant ; repair of
the fort ; FLIGHT OF THE MoHEGANS.
Honorable, Valiant and "Worshipful Gentlemen,
Gentlemen.
Tour Hon""' Worships' letter of the first of November has been handed to us by William
Bogardus on the IS"" inst. After having read it in our meeting we called together the principal
men of the place and conununicated the contents to them ; they were satisfied with it and made
the advances to the Hon"'" Company as entered on the enclosed list, to which we refer.
His Hon''''' Worship the Director General [has explained to us in his letter] of the IS"" of
June last past [the necessity] of repairing the now decayed fort here, [leaving it to our judgment]
whether it would not be better, to strengthen the stone-house here and break off all the old huts
around it, but we found that all the houses were in the fort and that it could not be done without
great expenses, therefore we let the matter rest so far, expecting that the Hon"''' General would
come here, to give his opinion on it ; however on the lO"" of October a certain rumor reached us
that several tribes had gathered behind the Keesienweyshoeck {Mallowsmeadowhook) and that
they would come in 2 or 3 days to attack the country-people, in consequence of which some fled
and we resolved unanimously to repair the comers as before with the least expense and the greatest
speed and leave the old huts to stand altogether and it was done so that the corners are now more
solid and stronger, than ever before and there remains only to make the sally-port and the gun-
carriages for which the material is ready and which they will begin to do to-morrow.
The flight of the Mahicanders, who have left their land and corn, as well as the strange and
304 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
unheard of disposition of the other savages takes away our hope to write to your Hon"'^ Worships
during this winter. Meanwhile we commend your Hon""^ Worships to God protection and remain
Your Hon*'* Worships' affectionate friends
The Vice-Director and Commissaries of Fort Orange and the
village of Beverwyck.
La Montagne, Yice-Director.
Fort Orange Jan Thomassen
the 15"' November 1663. Goosen Geeeettsen
Stoffel Jansen.
To the Honorable, Valiant, and Worshipful Gentleman,
his Honor Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-General and
Council of New-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam.
Letter from Director Stutvesant to Captain Cregier : the Wappings have not
BEOKEN THE PEACE, CaPTAIN C. OEDERED TO THE ManHATANS.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
Our last letter to you was expressly sent in the Company's yacht 12 days ago on receipt of
the distressing news, which we had heard about Pieter Wolphertsen, namely that he had been
attacked by the Wappings under a simulated friendship and the pretext of negotiating about the
release of the prisoners and that he and all his men had been murdered. We had proposed to
you on that occasion and left it to your judgment and better information, to take revenge for it
of the Wappings and strike a heavy blow at them with your soldiers and some volunteers. We
have since been informed by Mr. Abraham Staats to our great joy and delight, that it was not
true and that he had spoken with Pieter Wolphertsen and Put Jacohsen near the Esopus river.
We are very much astonished and displeased, that during all this time not a letter nor a word of
news has been received from either Pieter Wolphertsen or you and that the yacht is detained
there contrary to our verbal and written orders, we cannot imagine for what reasons, the more so,
because we had so plainly commanded you to come down with the yacht for the purjDose of con-
ferring with us over the matter for the best of the country. We repeat the order herewith and
wish it done upon receipt of this letter with all possible speed and direct that the design upon the
Wappings be deferred until then, if it cannot be caiTied with prospect of a good success and in
safety or if it is not done. Wherewith etc''.
19'" November 1663.
Instructions for Lieutenant van Couwenhoven and two others to ascertain
THE disposition OF THE EsOPUS AND WaPPING InDIANS TOWARDS A PEACE.
Instructions for Lieutenant Pieter Wolphertsen van
Couwenhoven, Sergeant Pieter Ehel and Uarmen
Douwesen, all three well versed in the savage tongue.
Whereas we are informed by Thomas Hall, that the chief of the Wappings has sent one of his
savages, whom the aforesaid Thomas Hall has seen and heard speak, to the Governor of New-
New Yorh Historical Records. 305
Haven and requested him to act as mediator and advocate for a continuation of the peace between
lis and his tribe and to bring it about, asking for this purpose a letter from the said Governor to
this government and gi^^ng as reason to tlie said Governor, that his chief and his tribe had never
done anj' ill to the Dutch nor tried to do, but desired to cdntinue in peace with them, to which
must be added, that on the 17"' of this month the chiefs of Hachinghsahij and Staten- Island
appeared before our board, bringing with them some of the most prominent matrons of this
place, through whom t\\&j asked for peace not only for the aforesaid Wappings but also for the
£sopus savages, declaring frankly, that they had been requested and directed by both tribes to do
it: And whereas we have yesterday, the 20"", received and heard the written and verbal reports
of Lieutenant Couioenhoven, sayitig in substance, that on the 6"' and 7"" inst. the Esopus chief
called ..... came to him on board and declared frankly, that he was ashamed to
speak, that he neither could nor would continue at war with us any longer, but sued for peace,
Therefore, all this having been considered by the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland,
they have resolved, with the advice and consent of the Burgomasters, to send the above-named
three persons, who undei-stand and speak the savage language very well, to the Wappings, that
they may inquire for themselves, whether they are so minded, as we are informed and if they find
it correct, to tell them in our name, that we are willing to continue and renew the peace with
them on solid and good conditions, also to make peace with the Esojnis, when the balance of our
prisoners shall have been released in exchange for those, whom we have of their people.
2.
If they find the Wappings and Esopus so disposed, as they are said to be, they are to tell
them, that they must be quick in their resolves, as the winter is before the doors and the yachts
cannot go much longer, that they speedily must come down to conclude the peace with ns, coming
either in this yacht or following in a short time in their canoes.
3.
If the Wapping and Esopus chiefs and savages should be afraid to come down to this place,
the aforesaid messengers are authorized to appoint time and place with the savages either on the
end of this island, at HohoocJcen, on Staten^Island or elsewhere between Staten-Island and the
end of Manhatans Island.
4.
Should however the Wappings and the Esopus savages be found not quite or absolutely
inclined to make a firm and inviolable peace according to their request and propositions, which
they will be able to learn and find out soon and in the first place, then they must quickly return
and report to us.
5.
They may forgive the Esopus their last attempts on the " corn land," but the six captured
Christians must also be exchanged and delivered, before we can make peace with that tribe. If
the Esojyus savages are inclined hereto, then they shall go up to the Esopus, to fetch the squaws
and children, still held there and to surrender them upon receipt of the Christian prisoners.
If compelled to go to the Esopus for the above stated reasons, then they must inform us
minutely in wi'iting of their proceedings by a savage sent either overland or in a canoe. Pieter
Jansen van Kuyck is sent with them for this pm'pose, to note and write down ever^'thing properly.
39
306 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
7.
They shall bring away from the Esopus the three bronce pieces with their appurtenances, the
saddles and bridles, which have mostly been borrowed from other people and are being called for,
also the powder carts and the large' rope, sent up there, so that they may be laid away here until
better use and service.
S.
Finally as the winter is before our doors the greatest speed as well in their upward trip as
comino- down is recommended to them. Actum in Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the
21=' 9"" 1663.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the magistrates at Wiltwtck : collec-
tions FOE THE CHURCH AND FOR THE POOR ; SUPERINTENDENCE OF INTESTATES'
ESTATES.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
Yon will learn from the enclosed copy what we have written to the reverend Consistory of
Wiltwyck and we do not doubt, that snch abuses will be prevented in future. We have also been
informed from that side and we shall learn in due time, whether it is true or not, that you have
arrogated the disposal of what is collected in the community either for the church or for the
poor. If it is so, then it is our opinion and we comnjand, that the disposal and the distribution
of it shall only concern the Consistoi-y and remain until further order in its hands. Therefore you
must in no way presume, but one side and the other must remain within the boundaries of their
respective positions and confer with each other in love and friendship, which, we hope, will be
done. We commend you to God's grace and protection and remain with cordial greetings
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
Fort Amsterdam
in N. N. 21^' 9"" 1663.
Postscript.
As we have referred to you, because it was proper for the avoidance of further difficulties, and
now do it again, that a good and strict attention and care should be given to the goods and effects
left behind by such persons, as should die without lawful heirs or testamentary-disposition, therefore
we have also for pregnant reasons resolved, that the money-proceeds from such estates shall be
placed in charge of the overseers of the poor, after the liabilities and assets have been adjusted ;
so that the same may be better taken care of, until it is proved who has a right to the money.
Relying hereupon we commend you again to God's protection and remain with cordial greetings.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful friends.
Actum Amsterdam
in N. Netherld, 21" 9"'=' 1663.
Ne^o Yorh Historical Records. 307
Lettee from the same to the Consistory at Wiltwyck they- aee not to inter-
fere IN matters concerning intestate estates.
Reverend, Pious and Very Discreet Friends.
You will see by the enclosed copy, of what the magistrates of the village of Wiltwyck have
complained to us. It appears strange to us, that you oppose the magistrates in matters of such
a nature, for upon them falls the duty properly, to appoint administrators and to have the estates
inventoried; the'Consistory has no direction in it, much less, should it pronounce any interdict
through the Court messenger against rendering an account to the Commissaries or the ad-
ministrators appointed by them for the estate left behind by this or that person without heirs
or testamentary disposition, for they are bound by their official duties to take care of the
estates through orphanmasters or curators, that after tlie liabilities and assets have been ad-
justed, absent heu-s may obtain their own. In case the overseers of the poor or the Consis-
tory should have or pretend to have some claim upon an estate for advanced money, given
either for funeral expenses or on interest or as a loan to this or that person, then they could not
be their own judges, much less arrogate the estate on their own authority, but they must proceed
according to law and get an order of attachment, when it is required. You are therefore hereby re-
quired not to make any opposition to the inventory of some intestate estate, much less to order
anybody through the Courtmessenger or forbid him, to give a specified account or reliquat to the
Court or the guardians appointed by it, nor to forbid or prevent the payment of a debt in any
other manner, than by attachment and other such legal proceedings before the Court. You may
aj^peal in behalf of the deacons or the church if you find yourself wronged.
As renewed complaints have been made in this regard by the Magistrates, we trust that the
error committed by you will be promptly corrected and avoided in future ; but we are also in-
formed and shall hear in due time, whether it is true or not, that the Magistrates tried to arrogate
the disposal of what is collected in the community for the church or the poor. If it is, as we
are informed, then we are of opinion and direct, that the disposal and distribution of it properly
concerns and shall remain in the care of the Consistory. We recommend you, the one side and
the other, before closing each to remain within the boundaries of your respective positions and
to continue as well ofiicially as privately to live together in mutual friendship and harmony ; we
inform you both hereof in love and friendship and rely upon its proper observance. "We com-
mend you all to God's protection and remain with greetings,
Honorable, Pious and Very Discreet Friends.
Fort Amsterdam,
21" November 1663.
Letter from Vice-Director LaMontagne and Jeremias van Rensselaer to
Director Stuy'vesant ; letters received from Col. Temple and General
PiNCHON ; the Mohawks on the war path.
Honorable, Very Worshipful General and Council.
Since your last letter of the 21" September with a copy of a letter from Col. Temple, dated
the 26"' July and his letter to Captain Willett, sent to us by the Hon"'" Council an open letter in
English from General John Pinchon who lives at Springfield* in New-England has been brought
* Massacliusetts .
308 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River'.
us by ' savages, which we have answered, as the enclosure will show. After
a party of Sinnekus and Maqiiaas has left, to march against their enemies , they took
their course above the Oahoose* that neither the Dutch nor the Mahikanders should know or
get information of it. They are still out and we have no news nor information of their plans
and adventures. You will have heard by this time, that, God be praised, there is no truth in the
report of the capture of the yacht and Lieut. Pieter Wolphertsen van Couwenhoven. Concerning
the warning to be on our guard and keep good watch, we hope that the good God will save us ;
as to the Mahihanders and Kat&kil savages, Aepje and Eeesien Wey came here to-day, with
whom we transacted what your Hon"'® Worships will see by the annexed proposals and answers.
Your Hon''''^ Worships will find among others, that the Katskils do not concern themselves about
the Esojpus^ as we urgently recommended to them and they promised to act upon it. They are
also satisfied and pleased, that they may live in Katskil, therefore we request, that your Hon'''''
Worships will please not to molest the Katskil savages. We hope, his Honor, the General, has
again recovered his good health. Whereas it seems evident, that we shall not be able to write to
your Hon''''^ Worships before winter sets in fully, we hope yet to receive your Hon'''" Worships'
answer. We commend herewith your Hon'''® Worships to God's protection and remain
Your Hon''''^ Worships' affectionate friends
Fori Orange, . La Montagne
the 24"" 9''" 1663. Jeeemias van Rensselaee
Br OEDER of both the Coijets
D. V. ScHELLUTNE, Secretary of the Colony of Rensselaersxoyck.
Johannes Peovoost, Clerk.
Message of the Indians of Agawajvi to the Dutch and answee to it by the Mo-
hawk chief Adogodqtjo.
This is written to your Honors at the request of the Indians of Agawam, Pajassuck, JVal-
wetog Pacomtuck and the Wissatinnewag, to inform their friends, the Dutch, that they are very
mucu put out, because the Sowquackick Indians had killed and murdered some of the Maquaas ;
all the above named Indians request herewith, that the Dutch Commissai-ies will believe, that only
Sowquackick Indians had been kiUing the Maquaas.
As to the other Indians of the Caneticot river, as Pacomtuck, Nanatan, Agawam and further
down, they deplore it exceedingly, repudiate the deed and s^ ear at the Sowquackick, because they
have killed the Maquaas and they will have nothing to do with them, for they axe resolved
to keep up their intercourse and friendship with the Maquaas as before. The Indians of
the several places mentioned before request the Sachems of the Dutch to assure the
Maquaas and inform them how the matter is ; they assure the Maquaas that they had no
knowledge of it, they were at too great a distance, to prevent the proceedings of the Sowquackick
and tell the Maquaas, that they will remain their friends. The Sowquackicks\\scv& indeed broken
the friendship with the Maquaas and we will let the Maqxuias act according to their pleasure.
The Sowquaekicks live at the head of the river of Caneticot and they are the ones, who fell upon
the Maquaas and the Indians beyond them to the North and Northeast as far as Nolongewock,
* Cohoes.
New YorTc Historical liecords. 309
but the Southern Indians of Pacomtuclc and Agawam and fai-ther South assure, that they will
remain friends witli tiie Maquaas and hope, that they will live in peace with theni. It was signed
SpHnsfield, July 28'" 1663.
John Pynchon.
This is the answer to an open letter of the 28"" July, written in EncjUsh by Mr. John Pyn-
chon and lianded to us by two Northern savages yesterday the 21'' of October. AVe have trans-
lated the contents of this letter to a Mcujtuias, called Adogodquo alias the Big Spoon, who
answered, It was well, that other savages, their friends, would have nothing to do with the Ono-
coricquehagas or Sawquachiclcs, their enemies. But if the savages, their friends, would send
hither some of their people with presents, then the friendship and peace would be so much tinner
and he says, that he will then do his best. The Dutch, too, must make every possible effort to
have the peace maintained. This was interpreted into the Maquaas tongue to the said Adogodquo
by the Commissary Ja7h Thomas at Fort Orange the 22'' October 1663.
In presence of D. V. Schelluyne,
Secretary of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck.
CoDNCIL-MlNUTES. PeOCEEDINGS WITH EaTSKIL iNDIAifS.
Extract. Extraordinary Session held by both Courts
at Fort Orange, the 10"' October 1663.
We have heard to-day a certain ominous rumor, namely, that the Esojptis savages intended
to come up here in 2 or 3 days, to do harm to the country people. We have therefore gath-
ered information from the Mahilcanders, who thought we knew of it and informed us, that
more than 15 days ago some Fsopus had been at Keessien Wey''s hook who wanted to come up,
but had been prevented this time and in order to get at the truth of the matter, we have unani-
mously concluded, to send for 2 or 3 Sachems of the Katskils with Keesien Wey, and to see,
whether they can give further news.
Flhert Gerhertsen Cruyff.
Whereas a rumor is circulated, that troubles with the Fsopus and other savages are about to
arise here, therefore the Courts both of Fort Orange and the Colony of Rensselaerswyck have
resolved and found it necessary, to dispatch the bearer hereof Jan the weaver with a savage called
Tomas to you, that you will please to take care as quickly as possible, that 2 or 3 of the principal
savages in KatshU, especially Macsachnimanau and Saf2>agood, also Keesien Wey come hither,
upon which we rely and we sliall expect your early arrival here ^rith the aforesaid savages.
Actum Fort Orange, 10"" October Anno 1663.
Extraordinary Session held by both Courts
at Fort Orange the 23* November 1663.
The letter of the Honorable Director-General written by his Honor's Secretary van Ruyven
of the 7th inst. was opened and read and the following answer given :
On the aforesaid day Eldert Gerhertsen Cruyff appeared in the Court with the Indians from
Katskil, namely MaGsachnimanau, Sacsamoes, Keesien Wey, Sichano alias Teunis, and Aepje
and reports, that he has several tunes sent word and requested them to come to the Fort, but they
310 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
excused themselves, because tliey had to look out for their livelihood by shooting and hunting and
the aforesaid savages say it also. The Commissary Jan Tomassen then asked Keesien Wei/,
whether they were concerned in the war of the Esojjxis, whereupon he answered, that he lias pre-
vented the Esopus five times, who wanted to do harm at Katskil and further up to the bouweries,
dissuading them every time and making them presents of wampum. He comj^lains, that, when
he comes here, the Dutch pull him by the ears and call him an Esopus rascal.
Hereupon the meeting was adjourned until to-morrow and four strings of wampum, amount-
ing to 20 guilders, were presented to the savages, on condition of coming again to-moi-row.
Pkoceedings at Fort Orange wnn the Mohawks and Mohegans.
Extract. Extraordinary session of
the two Courts at Fort Orange
.... 1663.
The Honorable members of the two Courts (say to) Keesien Wey, in presence of the above-
named .... savages and of ... . and of Saghwiha, two chiefs of the Maquaas
and Mahicanders. {Ae^^e . . . WeTcepe not being present.)
(Translated as before.)
1. The Catshils and Mahikanders for what the Esopus and their adherents
done up here, but that They give herewith ten strings of
wampum.
:i. \i you, Keesien Wey or any (of your tribe) our brothers up here have (been injured) by the
Dutch, then tell us, we shall (redress it). We gave them hereupon ten strings of white wampum.
3. Warn the Esopus and their adherents against doing any harm to the Dutch from Catskil up
to this place or to the yachts and vessels sailing up and down, for we have done no harm to them.
Keep no Esopus or other bad savage among your people nor allow your men to go among them,
for, as we have told you before, it might be detrimental to you and that would grieve us. We
gave hereupon twenty strings of white wampum.
4. As you are our brothers, promise, that you will warn us and resist those, who will injure us,
giving them ten strings of black wampum.
5. Brothers, you receive these presents now, on the condition, that, according to your custom,
you keep your wora and be and remain our friends. We gave them then ten strings of black
wampum.
The Catshils answered then through the mouth of Keesien Wey : We have now made a
firm alliance with our brothers, the Dutch, and can now come up without fear. We shall keep
the peace firmly and inviolably for us and them and both our descendants.
In testimony hereof we also give to the aforesaid Ilagioaas ten strings of white wampum and
to the Mahikander Wekepe ten strings of white wampum, whereupon the Maquaas Adogodquo
answered, I shall bring this present to the Maquaas, my brothers, and inform them of all that
has been concluded and confirmed here by handshaking.
Neio Yorh Historical JRecords. 311
Answer of Rev. Heemanus Blom to Director Stdyvksant's letter, concern-
ing CLERICAL AFFAIRS AT WlLTWYCK.
Yeiy Worshipful, Prudent and Very Discreet Sir.
Sir.
Your letter of the 21^' November has been received by us as well as the enclosed copy, sent
by your Honor. We should have answered the same properly, but cannot do it now on account
of the hurried departure of the yachts and defer it therefore to a better opportunity. In regard
to tlie estates of deceased pereoiis we have done no more, than to send our clerk to Cornells Slecht
and Juriaen Westval, that they should not give up the surplus of the estates into the hands of
the Magistrates, before we have examined whether the overseers of the poor or the village were
authorized to receive it and we maintain that position, nntil we ai-e better informed ; that is the
whole of the matter, while they write so amply about it, that we do it judicially and trouble our-
selves with their business and assume their duties and other things. Your Honors may see now,
what it amounts to ; methinks, we are not so wrong in the matter, if we want to examine the case
ourselves and discover who has a claim to the money, when there are no heirs, for it is our duty to
take care of the poor and we have at present a heavy burden laid upon us ; much less we meddle with
matters of this nature in opposition to the civil authorities, to compel the same to appoint curators
of the estate, nor have we ever thought of it, much less even to forbid them through the Court
messenger, while it has only been done by our clerk, who simply spoke to the aforesaid persons :
we leave them to attend to their duties and have enough to do with ours, but they do not the
same, as the following will show.
We also learn from your Honor's letter, that they have made several complaints, while the
Magistrates have not yet heard the Consistory, except Albert Ilayinensen, whom they call the
Consistory and him they heard whimsically at their meeting instantaneously summoned, while he
is only a member of the Consistory, for the Consistory consists in the country, where the number
of elders is only small, of the preacher, the elders and deacons, according to the order of the
Synod of Dort, as your Honor knows
The Magistrates summoned, as your Honors know, the preacher and I answered, that they
must not let me wait, but they say, the messenger had given as reason, because it was a day of
prayer the next day and I had to preach therefore; then I had to come immediately with Albert
Heymansen, one of the Consistory, so that the matter was not delayed ; we will show your Honor
in due time, how they have treated us in regard to other ecclesiastical matters etc. as well as to
the house of Claesje?i Teunis, also how they have compelled us by some documents to , . .
before the church in the afternoon. ********
(Parts of this letter are gone . ) Hekmanus Blom.
Wiltwick, Dec"' 3^ 1663.
InSTEUCTIONS given to MaETIN CeEGIEE and GovEET LoOCKEEMANS FOR THE PUR-
CHASE OF THE NeVESING COUNTET, FROM BaENEGATT TO THE RaEITAN.
e"- December 1663.
Whereas the Director -General and Council of New-Netherland have been several times in-
formed by the Newesingh as well as by the Staten Island savages, that the English have repeat-
edly tried to buy the country of the Newesmgks and that for that purpose some Englishmen went
312 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
there in a barge last night, therefore to hinder and prevent this and to anticipate all such preten-
sions the Director-General and Council have resolved to send there with all possible speed Capt.
Lieutenant Martin Cregier and Sr. Govert Loockermans, who are not only to look at and view
the country of the Newesvnghs, but also to purchase the same from the lawful owners, as far as
the same has not been previously bought and paid for by the agent of Baron van der Capelle, or
at least persuade the savages b}^ cogent reasons not to sell much less to convey the unbought por-
tion of their land in future to any Englishmen or other strange nation, according to their promise.
If they wish to sell the land, they may come here with the aforesaid persons, to make with the
Director-General and Council an agreement of sale. The few following rules are given for their
direction :
FiEST. They must endeavor to get speech of the Newesingh Indians and advise them by all
imaginable reasons against selling their land to the English or to strangers, the more so as tlie
greater part of the lands has been sold and conveyed to our people a long time ago.
2.
The owners must be requested, to go with them and point out the lands, which they desire
to sell, unless the Sachsms and other owners of the Newesingh lands, as far as they have not been
sold and conveyed to the agent of Baron van der Capelle, wish to sell to nobody else generally,
but the Director-General and Council the land from Barnegatt to the Raritan river, which would
obviate much tramping over the country and inspecting ; if they are willing to do this, then the
Sachems and owners must be persuaded, to come hither and agree upon the price and conditions.
3.
In order to persuade them the easier, the aforesaid agents are hereby authorized to state, that
all former acts and claims shall be forgotten and forgiven, if the Newesingh savages \vill sell the
land to nobody, but the Director-Genei-al and Council.
4.
They are to inquire for the Englishmen, who went there last night, as it is reported, to view
and purchase the lands from the Newesingh savages. "When they find them, they shall protest
against the English in the most polite manner, prove to them by the placat, which they will
take along, that nobody is allowed to purchase lands within this province without the consent of
the Director-General and Coi;ncil and therefore, if the purchase has been made, declare it null
and void. Adij ut supra. P. Stuyvesant,
NiOASIUS DE SlLLE.
Complaint AGArasT Fredeeick Philippsen, Nicholas Meter and others for
DRIVING FROM WiLTWTCK TO THE KeDOUBT WITHOUT A CONVOY.
To their Noble, Very Worshipful Honors, the Du'ector-General and Council of New-
Netherland.
Shows with due reverence Nicasius de Sille, Fiscal, that according to a letter from Ensign
Niessen, Nicholas Meyer, FredericTc Philippsen, Jeronimus Ehhingh, and Lvycas Andriesen
have presumed to drive with six wagons, loaded with grain, to the Redoubt without a convoy,
as they were not willing to wait for the letters to the Director General and Council and for the
escort, which is contrary to orders and in derision of the placards, because great danger was im-
Neio YorTc Historical Records. 813
minent ; a heavy reproacli would have fallen upon tlie officers, if an onslaught had heen made
upon them, as it has happened before and it was further in disobedience to the orders of the Di-
rector-General and Council. To prevent such proceedings in future, these people ought not to
be allowed to go impunished as having done well, but must be punished. Therefore the Fiscal
has come to the conclusion, that the aforesaid persons ought to be condemned to a fine of twenty-
five guilders, pursuant to the order of the l"" August last past, if they will promise not to do so
again, but to obey such orders, as the officers appointed by the Director-General shall give.
Fort Amsterdam, the S"" X"" 1663.
Your IIon*''° Worships' servant,
NlCASruS DB SiLLE.
The foregoing complaint of the Fiscal was read to the accused, who answered, that not only
had the convoy been ready, to go with them, but the soldiers were also already outside of the gate
and whereas the wagons with the grain were already ahead, as it is the common custom, they, the
defendants, followed their wagons, supposing the escort would go with them ; they do not know,
why the Ensign held them back.
It was decided :
Eefore sentence is pronounced in this case, it is resolved, to send a copy of the defendants'
excuse to Ensign Christian Niessen and to await his further report and verification of their
reply. Date as above.
Petition of CoENELnrs Bakentsen Slecht for a lot neab the mill gate at
WlLTWTCK.
To the Noble, Honorable, "Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Director-
General and Council of New-Netherland.
Shows with due reverence Cornelis Barentsen Slecht, inhabitant of the village of Wiltwyck,
that by a petition to the Hon*'^ Court at Wiltwyck he has asked for a lot to build upon, which is
situate in the village of Wiltwyck and is a small corner of land west of the mill gate against the
lot of Aert Otter S])oor ; the petitioner would like to erect a dweUinghouse upon it before winter,
as he is about to move from EhhinclUs bouwery and whereas he has been referred with his petition
by the Hon'"'' Coiu't to the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, that they should
decide upon it, he requests humbly and respectfully, that your Hon"'*' Worships will please to
give and grant him as his property the aforesaid corner of land convenient for a dweUinghouse, a
brewery and a bakery, in consideration that the petitioner is an old inhabitant of the place, upon
which relying he awaits yom* Hon''"' Worships' favorable decision. Actum in Wiltwyck, the 17""
November. (It was signed.)
Tour Hon^'" Worships' humble and obedient servant,
COENELIS PaEENTSEN SlECHT.
It was decided on the foregoing petition :
If it can be done without considerable prejudice to anybody, the Court at Wiltwyck is
authorized to let the piece of land in question be laid out for the petitioner, considering that he
IB an old inhabitant. The S"" December 1663.
40
314 Colonial Setilements on the Htidaon River.
Minute of Council. Information communicated by Oeatamy, chief of the
Hackinkesaky, that the Wapping and Esopus Indians aee coming to conclude
a treaty of peace.
10"" December.
To-day Oratamy, chief of Hdehinghsachy , came into the Council chamber at Fort Amster-
dam and reported, that the two savages, sent b}^ bira according to the agreement of the 14"" 9*"" to
the Wapping and Esopus Sachems, liad returned and brought the information, tliat the Wappings^
Esopus and other savages were very ghad, that the Dutch were willing to make at their request a
peace with them. To promote it the said Sachems had promised to come down here with the 5
captive Christians, who are still in their hands, within 8 days. He requests a blanket for the sav-
ages, who had been to the Wappi?igs and was told, that they should receive a present, when the
said Sachems should arrive here, as they report.
Present the Hon''"= General, the Fiscal and Lieut. Pieter Wolpliersten as interpreter. Date
as above.
Journal of a voyage to the Newesinghs by Captain Ceegier.
1663. Voyage to the Newesiiighs, made in the Hon"" Company's yacht and what has hap-
pened during the same, on board of the yacht having been M. Kregier, Goovert Loochermans,
Jakes Cortdjiou and Pieter Evel with ten soldiers, two sailors, the Sachem and another savage of
Staten-Island.
6"" December.] About three o'clock we left the Mamhatans under sail and arrived behind
Staten-Island at about 6 o'c. in the evening, where the Sachem of this island and the savage
went ashore ; they remained about one hour on land and then came again ou board, the tide coming
in we set sail and sailed through the Kil van Kol, we came past the Schutters island into the
shallow water and dropped anchor, to remain here until the tide should go out.
T"" December.] About three hours before break of day we heaved the anchor again and
went with the ebb down the Kil behind Staten Island. In the morning we put on sails and
tacked until the ebb had run out, when we again cast anchor. The tide having run out at about
two o'clock of the afternoon we raised the anchor and tacked again ; toward evening we saw a
sail, with which we came up in the evening and we hailed her, for it was Pieter Lowrensen with
his sloop, having on board Jacob Coiowenhoven. They said, they were going to barter for deer
meat. We tacked with our two yachts the same evening as far as the end of Staten-Island and
then came to anchor just at the mouth of the Ra'ryian Kil, where two houses of southern sav-
ages stand. The said Couioenhoven told us, the English, numbering nineteen men had gone in
an open sloop up the Rari.tan on the day before, to where the Newesinghs and Raritans were
camping together about 3 long leagues up the Kil. The savages reported to us the same. "We
remained before the Raritan Kil over night, to go up the Kil also next day and follow the
English, but as it began to blow very hard from the northwest during the night, we had to remain
over night.
8"".] It still blew very hard from the Northwest, so that we could not go up the i?ar^
tan Kil, we had to remain through the day and resolved to send the savage, Hans, overland to
the Newesingh savages, who were camping 3 leagues up the Kil. It was done directly. "We
sent him off immediately with verbal orders to inform the Sachems of the Newesinghs and Rari-
Nev) Yovh Historical Hecords. 815
to/w, that we were laying with tlie yacht before the Kil and that we desired thein to eomo down
to us at onee to speak with them. We directed Hans also to tell the Sachems, that if some
EiujUshnieii should come there or were there already and wished to purchase from them some
land, they must not sell the same to the English, for they had not asked tlie Dutch Sachems at
the Manhatans and had stealthily gone here and if the Sachems of the Mewesinghs wished to
sell some land, they should come liere to us, we would then speak together. Hans left directly
at sunrise, to tell this to the savages, while we remained before tlie Kil.
9"^.] At about 9 o'cloclc in tlie morning we saw tlie English vessel come down the Kil, where-
upon we raised anchor immediately and sailed towards them to hail them. This done and come
up with them, we inquired, whence they came, tlie skipper Stoffel Elswort answered, Down the
Kil, upon our question, what they had done there, he said, I carried the English tliere. I told
them, that it was unbecoming and contrary to the laws of the country to proceed in this manner
and that they would be punished. Thereupon Willem Golden called out, 'Tis well, 'tis well.
In the boat were Caerels Morgen, Jan Bou, Jeems Hobbert, Willein Galdert, Rendel Huyt,
Dirrick Staut, Jems Grover, Jan Rotman, Sam Sjjyser, Tomas Wittock, Sergeant Gybhincks
from Oysterbay, a man called Kreupelhos, one from Vlissingen and 2 from Jamycke and some
otliers, whom we did not know, about 20 altogether. At about three o'clock in the afternoon of
the same day Hans, the savage, whom we had sent on the 8"" to the Neioesingh Sachems, camp-
ing some way up the Raritan Kil, came back and brought with him 6 or 7 savages, who told
us, the English had come to them the day before Hans the savage arrived and had given them
some wine, 2 strings of black and 1 string of white wampum, asking, whether they were willing
to sell some of their lands to them. Meanwhile Ha7is the savage arrived and nothing came of it,
so that the English left again.
lO"".] "We left the Raritan Kil again and two savages came with us, who knew the country
towards the 'Neioesinghs. We went down the bay, came to the mouth of the Kil which empties
into the sea between Renselaer's Hook and the Sandpoint and found there Stoffel Elswort with
his sloop and all the Englishmen aground in the Kil. We could not enter the Kil with our sloop
and landed in a boat ; we went along the strand towards them and when we came near, we
saw them standing under arms. The Schout Carls Morgen and Jan Bou came without anns
towards us. Jack asked them, what business they had here, to which they answered, they had come
to trade, we told thein, why are you come in sucii numbers, if you only go to trade and they
replied, the savages are rascals and cannot be trusted, therefore we have come in such numbers.
We then said, we had been informed, that they had gone out to buy land from the savages, to
which they replied, we only go to look at it. Said we again, they should not undertake to buy
any land from the savages, as it has mostly been bought by the Hutch already. Jan Bou answered
me, Under what government do you consider us to be. I said, that they stood under the jurisdic-
tion of the States General and under the Hon''"= Director-General and Council here, to which he
replied, Why may we then not go out to trade and look out for land just as well as you do.
I answered, they must not undertake to buy land from the savages, unless they had proper per-
mission from the Director-General and Council. Jan Bou said then, It is well, and Stoffel
Elswort called out, I told them the same before, that they should not do it. Govert Loock&rmans
then told them, you are a pack of traitors, for you act agamst the laws of the country. They
said, the King's patent covered the whole of America and Loockermans answered, from whom
have you your patents, to which they said, from the Manhatans. Loockermans replied, Why
then do you act against this state, to which Carls Morgen said. Take notice of it. The English
had with them a savage, who was from the Neioesinghs and had taken part in the murder at Mcs-
316 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
path Kil ; so onr savages, whom we had on board of our sloop and who had come with us, told ns.
His name is Suckkurus and he lives beyond the Newesinghs KU on the land called Romsingh.
"We then left the English and went along on the west side of the strand up the Kil for about one
hour, where the land is very mountainous, but, as the savages said, on the other side of it the land
was level and good and much of it ; there was much old corn land and some savage corn
plantations, which Jacques Corteljou has visited and inspected formerly. We then went across
the mountains again and came back on board at about 3 o'clock. "We saw, that Stoffel Elswort
with his sloop and the Englishmen had gone into the Kil and we remained before it overnight,
ll"".] The wind being S. W. we resolved to return to the Maiihatans, which we did.
Ageeement made by the Newesestgh Indians to sell to the Dutch theie
LANDS, not already SOLD.
We, the undersigned, thoroughly conversant with and speaking the language of the savages,
certify and declare, that there appeared before the Director-General and Council of New-Nether-
land, the Burgomasters of this City being present, the chiefs Matanoo, Barrenach, Mechat,
brother to and deputed by Pajpemoor, empowered by Pasachynom, MenarJiohondoo, SycakesTca
and the aforesaid Pojpemoor, all chiefs and owners of the lands in the Newesinghs., which have
heretofore not been sold and conveyed to the Dutch according to tlie bill of sale and deed of con-
veyance made for it, called Arromsinok, Potpocka, Narowaikongh. They declared, that they
were herewith conveying all the aforesaid lands to the Director-General and Council of New-
Netherland, under promise and condition not to sell or convey the same to anybody else, but their
Honors aforesaid. The price of the purchase and the mode of payment have been deferred, until
the aforesaid chiefs and some other owners of the said unpurchased and not conveyed lands shall
have appeared here before the Director -General and Council, to close the bargain completely and
then to receive the payment for it. Meanwhile the aforesaid chiefs declare the said lands con-
veyed to the Director-General and Council and to have received and accejited in confirmation
thereof each a red blanket, to wit
Mattano Passachynmn Sycakeska
Barrenach Pojpemoor Pievjecherenoes
Mechat Menarhohoncla alias Hans
and a coat of duffels was given to their great chief Passachynom and a piece to Barrenach under
the above conditions.
It was repeated, that they should not now nor never sell or dispose of the said lands to any-
body else. In testimony and confirmation thereof, the contracting parties have signed this with
us, the undersigned, after the above specified goods had been given to them in our presence, at
Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 12'" December A° 1663.
The mark ) made The mark A. made
by / 7 MATTAifo by Lx Baeeenach
The mark \ made In our presence
by x" Mechat . Peteds Stuyvesant
Director-General of New-Netherland.
New York Historical Records.
317
As ■witnesses and interpreters :
Maeten Keegiek
govekt loockekmans
Ja. Cokteljou.
The mark fjr- of
PlETEE T L- EbeL.
The mark 4- of
PiEWEHEEENOEs, alias Hans the
SAVAGE.
The mark L, of
Inteeenemont,
X
NiCAsius DE SiLLE, Couucillor and
Fiscal of N. W.
P. L. VAN DEE Geist Presiding
Burgomaster.
O. Stevenson van Coetlandt
Burgomaster.
In my presence :
C. V. RuYVEN, Secretaiy.
Letters feom the Magistrates at Wiltwyck to Dieectoe Stdtvesant on
GENEEAL MATTEES AND THE QOAEEEL WITH THE ChUECH.
Nohle, Yery "Worshipful, Honorable, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
We trust your Hon''''' Worships have received our last letter of tlie 3'' of December with the
■journal of daily occurrences. We inform your Hon'*''^ Worships herewith, that since the 3'' of De-
cember we have not heard of any hostile rencontres, we i-emain in the meantime on our guard
and shall continue so. We send your Hon"'*' Worships some old pieces of property in Meijntje
Pieteri yacht, namely six muskets with five locks and eleven cutlasses and sabres. We hope to
receive from your Hon'''° Worships the necessary provisions for the military in the Company's
yacht before winter and the heavy frost ; most of the soldiers are ill provided with clothing for expe-
ditions and standing on guard and as to eatables for their subsistence, they cannot very well get
them here, because peas and other victuals cannot be obtained here in WiltwyGk except with
great trouble and at excessive prices. With God's help, our o^wn good information and other
reports, we shall do our best during the winter, to do as much harm to our enemies, as we can
and wherever it might be, with detachments of 15, 20, 25 or more men from the military or resi-
dent volunteers, whom we think fit thereto, unless your Hon"'*' Worships should give us other
orders. The book !N"o. 4 kept in Wiltwyck has been closed and only half of it has been copied,
it can therefore not be sent down unless during the winter by a mail from Fort Orange or next
spring. Closing with our salutations we commend your Hon""" Worships to God's protection and
remain Your Honorable Worships' faithful and obedient servants
Wiltwyck,
December 12"" 1663. Thomas Chambees.
To the Noble, Honorable,
Yery Worshipfnl, Wise,
Prudent and Yery Discreet
Gentlemen, the Director-General
and Council of New-Netherlcmd
at Fort Amsterdam
in New-Netherland.
318 Colonial Settlements 07i the Hudson JRiver.
Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Tour Hon'''' Worships' letter was thankfully received by us on the 26"^ of November last past
and we have accepted most of its contents with pleasure, but we are highly astonished, that your
Hon'"" Worships as our supreme authority here in New-Netherland should have taken away the
small privileges of this village and destroyed the authority of the Commissaries, for we see by
your Hon''"' Worships' order, that the surplus resulting from estates left behind by this or that
person shall be placed into the hands of the overseers of the poor, that it may be better and more
safely taken care of by them. The Magistrates of this village are therefore much dissatisfied,
unless your Hon""' Worships had appointed orphanmasters for this place or mistrusting us had
required security, as it is done in Court when guardians are appointed. If your Hon"'" Worships
should think fit to persist in this first order, then we request, that your Hon'"" Worships will
transfer not only part, but all the duties and rights of the Commissai'ies to Dotn' Hermanus
Blom and his Consistory Albert Ileymansen, for before or during our time no deacon has
been elected, who could either read or write, except the Domine alone, who sides with Alhert
Heymansen, who has shown himself more than once as an instigator of quarrels.
Finally the Court of this village is amazed, that your Hon"'" Worships have given us no an-
swer to our request concerning the farming of the beer and wine, as we are dunned by several
parties on account of the arrearage on the Domine' s house and have no revenues, while the ex-
penses of the village increase daily. Closing with salutations we commend your Hon'''" Worships
to God's protection and in the expectation of further orders we remain
Actum Wiltwyck, Your Honorable Worships'
the 12'" Decbr 1663. obedient and faithful
KOELOFF SWAETWOUT.
The mark ^ of Albert
Gysbertsen.
TiEECK Classen de Wrrx
Thomas Chambers
Gtsbeet van Imborgh.
To the Noble, Honorable,
Very Worshipfid, Wise, Prudent,
Very Discreet Gentlemen,
the Director-General and
Council of New-Netlierland
at Fort Amsterdam.
Petition of the Schout aito Magistrates of Bergen, that Engelbeet Steen-
hdtsen shall perform his contract as schoolmastee.
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful Director-General and Council at Fort
Amsterdam in New-Netlierland.
Show humbly the Schout and Commissaries of the village of Bergen^ that, as your Honoi-s
undoubtedly know, before the going out of office and the election of new Commissaries, Michael
Jansen Sail has been before your Honors and requested, that we might have a precentor, who
could also keep school for the instruction and education of our young children and that your
New York Historical Record's. 319
Honors proposing one Engelbert Steenhuysen as a suitable person the Schout and Commissaries
repeated tliis proposition more than a year ago to the commnnitj, which resolved to employ him
not only as precentor, but also, this was expressly stipulated, to keep school. The said Steenhuij-
sen accepted this and has now served for more than iifteen months, for which he was allowed a
salary of 250 guilders in wampum annually and some other emoluments, besides the school fees,
considered proper and fair. Now being the owner of a liouse and lot and of a double bouwery
in the jurisdiction of the village of Bergen the said Engelhert Steenhuysen has upon the com
plaint of the majority of the community been directed to maintain a soldier like the other in-
habitants ; his has aggrieved the said Engelhert Steenhuysen so much, that lie has resigned his
office, asserting that a schoolmaster should be exempt from all village taxes and burden, as it is
customary, he says, everywhere in Christendom. The Schout and Commissaries interpret this to
be the case, when a precentor has only the school lot, but not when a schoolmaster owns a lot
and a double bouwery ; the community is also opposed to his being exempted for his lot and lands,
for he receives a salary as precentor and is bound to serve not only as precentor, but also to select
himself and provide a fit and convenient place to keep school in, which he has failed to do until
this day, pretending the community must designate and provide such a place fit for a schoolhouse.
The petitioners are of opinion, that Engelbert Steenhuysen caimot resign his office, without giv-
ing a notice of six months of his intention so to do and therefore the petitioners address them-
selves to your Honors with the humble request, to direct the said Engelhert Steenhuysen that he
must continue his services during the second year now commenced, and to decide whether he is
not bound to maintain on behalf of his lot and land a soldier like the other inhabitants. Await-
ing your Honors' decision we remain
Y^our Honors' very obedient servants
Caspar Steinmets, Tielmajst van Vleeck.
December IT"".
The Schout, Commissaries and Engelbert Steenhuysen, mentioned in the foregoing petition,
having been summoned before the Council and heard, the parties were made to agree after divers
debates and it was arranged, that Engelbert Steenhu/ysen should duly serve the rest of his term
according to contract, as mentioned above.
Lettee from Dieectoe Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at "Wiltwtck ; he
censures them foe theie insolent letter of the 12"" december ; schout
SwAETWOUT SUSPENDED AND THE REMOVAL OF THE MAGISTRATES THREATENED,
IF THET CONTINUE CONTUMACIOUS.
To the Schout and Commissaries of the village of Wiltwyck.
We shall not reply for the present to the insolent expressions in your last letter of the 12"'
inst., much less correct them on account of the unfavorable season and the approach of winter,
for without doubt this will be the last yacht going up or down before the frost sets in. But in
the meantime the Schout Roeloff Stvartwout is hereby suspended from this position and duties,
subject to the Fiscal's proceedings against him, and we appoint in his place until further orders
and provisionally, that the course of justice may in no way be delayed, Mathys Capito, who shall
at the same time act as before as clerk in all civil and military sessions. As to the present Com-
missaries, who, we trust, if not all, at least the majority of them, were either misled or not well
320 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
informed, we do not intend to continue tlieni any longer in ofBce, if they persist in their unbear-
able expressions and proceedings except on the condition intimated in their last insolent answer,
which we cannot as yet agree to. All and every one in particular, who should persevere in this
insolent obstinacy are hereby informed, that they in resigning their office (subject as before to
the action of the Fiscal) nmst leave and remove from the village and its jurisdiction within the
time of six months and the bearer hereof, our Captain Lieutenant Martin Cregier, is hereby au-
thorized to fill the places of the obstinate and e\'il minded officers by others, selected from the most
pious and honest inhabitants, so that the necessary administration of justice and all official pro-
ceedings may be attended to. We direct also hereby the provisionally appointed Schout and the
Commissaries, who either are continued in or newly appointed to the office, to administer and
execute the laws and justice promptly without delay and regard to persons, as it behoves. That
this may be the better carried out, we have further resolved, that, if it should come to pass, that
our aforesaid Captain Lieutenant is compelled to winter there, which is simply left to his judg-
ment to decide, he shall have the direction of all civil and military matters and fn law proceed-
ings. Relying hereupon we close with our greetings and remain
Actum, Fort Amsterdam Tour well-meaning friends
in N ew-Netlierland, The Director-General and Council
the 19'" December 1663. of Mew-Netherland.
Letter from the same to Ensign Niessen, censuring him for disobedience of
ORDERS.
Honorable, Valiant Sir.
"We are very much surprised by your improper disobedience in not carrying out our so plainly
expressed orders and directions to sent back the saddles, the surplus hand and side arms, not in
use, the three bronce pieces and the old rope. Although we cannot, on account of the unfavor.
able season, correct at present your disobedience and disregard, as it ought to be done, yet we
warn you not to disobey henceforth any of our orders upon so unfounded presumptions and
made-up pretexts, but to execute and obey them, as it is projier, else we shall be obliged to pro-
ceed with cashiering or otherwise according to circumstances. Meanwhile we command you here-
with to send down the required tilings promptly, if the state of the weather permits, which is
left to the judgment of the bearer. Closing herewith etc*
Actum Fort Amsterdam,
19'" December A" 1663.
To Ensiffn Christian Niessen.
Conference ■with the chiefs of Hackingkesast and Staten-Island respecting
A continuance of the armistice with the Esopus.
28'" December A". 1663.
To-day appeared before their Honors, the Director-General and Council, at Fort Amsterdam
Oratainy and Matteno, chiefs of Haekinghesaki/ and Staten-Island, who came in company of a
savage, called Neshewetsim, a brother, as they say, to the chief of the Wappings. They report,
Neto YorJc Historical Records. 32 1
that Seweclcenamo one of the cliiefs of the Esojjus had come to them at IlacJcingJcesaJfy, and that
the same was very anxious for peace, but that ho was ashamed to come hither, because he could
not bring with liim the 5 Christians still in captivity, because the savages were out hunting here
and there. But he promised to do his best and get them as quick as possible, but whereas it could
not be done, before the savages had done theu* hunting, which will be souie time yet, he requests
two months more of armistice.
The answer was substantially, that such subterfuges appeared very strange to us, after they
had promised, to bring us our prisoners without fail : they had disappointed us now so often, that
we could no longer rely upon their word and we must have our prisoners, before we can think of
peace.
This was told to Oratamy and 2[atteno by the intei-preter and they made excuses, that it
was not their fault, but that the other savages had disappointed them also, but what the other sav-
ages stated Avas in so far true, that they could not come together so quickly, because they were out
hunting. "We answered. If Seioeckenamo desires peace and really means it, let he himself come
here ; should he be afraid, we will send one or two hostages in his place. They undertook to tell
hini so. Done at Fort Amsterdam, adij ut supra.
Proposals op the above chiefs foe an armistice with the Esopds for rwo months
AND CONSIDERATIONS, WHY IT IS GRANTED.
29"' December.
Oratamy and Mattetw, the chiefs of TIacMngkesacky and Staten-Island, came into the Council
chamber, Pieter WolpJiertsen and Trientje Evertsen being present as interpreters, and declare, as
they did yesterday, that the Esojnis chief Seweckenamo is anxious for peace and asks for it through
them, but that he is frightened and ashamed to come himself, because he could not get together
the five Christian prisoners, for the Esopus savages are obliged to make their living by the chase,
as they have no corn and every one with his prisoner is scattered here and there, so that the chief
could not gather the jjrisoners. Meanwhile they ask once more for peace and for two months'
time to bring together the prisoners ; they will then surely come and bring them and make peace
and summon all the cliiefs of the savages to witness it. They promise, that during the time no
harm shall be done, but that everybody may freely go upon his land to work or on the chase or
wood chojjping. Matteno then made a long speech saying, that if the Esopus meant well and
had a good heart, they could have come here, even if they could not bring all the prisoners ; the
chief might have brought one or two, to show, that his heart was good ; he added, the Esopus
savages had now disappointed them so often and not kept their promises, that he himself was
quite ashamed to speak any more for them , he did not wish to live any longer amidst such ani-
mosities, if no peace was made, he would remove to the South and live there.
After Matteno, the chief of the Nayack and Staten-Island savages had spoken, as above
stated he and Oratamy talked together and then Oratamy made through the interpreter the fol-
lowing propositions and said :
He knows, that the heart of Seweckenamo is good and that also the other savages have
agreed to make peace ; he only requests two months' time and an armistice to bring the prisoners
together and if \)ivi, Esopus do not come then with the prisoners and conclude a firm peace and if
in the meantime any injury is done, then he promises to help us with all his people to defeat the
41
322 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Esopiis and take our prisoners by force, in confirmation whereof he gave a string of wampum
and received from our side a gun, which he promised to return, if his promise was not kept. It
was further agreed, that not only the Dutch, but also all their friends, especially the Marse-
ping and liechowachy savages, must suffer no harm.
After the foregoing statements and promises had been heard the present very dangerous situ-
ation of the country was also taken into consideration and duly weighed in regard of the neigh-
boring and subordinate English, w-ho do not only threaten to bring this province under ^n^^an.(i's
Majesty, but have already debauched for that pui'pose the majority of the English inhabitants in
the English villages on Long-Island and the whole English village of Westchester, by us called
Oostdurp and have made them revolt against the obedience and fidelity, which they owe to the Hon''"'
Company according to their oath and duty. Not satisfied herewith, some Englishmen, number-
ing about 20 men from several villages, have been to inspect the land of the Newesinghs, back
of Renselaers hoeck, on the west side of the North river and tried to buy the same from the
natives, which is all made evident by the minutes and letters already sent to the Lords-Directors,
but especially by the journal of Captain Lieutenant Cregier, who was expressly dispatched to
discover the plans of the English in tlie Newesinghs. And whereas we have been since informed
daily, that the English, not only of Long-Island, but also from other quarters, make all possible
preparations to take possession of the Nexoesinghs country, therefore the Director-General and
Council of New-Netherland have with the advice of the Burgomasters of this City found it
necessary for the public welfare, to accept the foregoing propositions and promises and to consent
to a cessation of hostilities with the Esopus savages for the time of two consecutive months, that
meanwhile a part of our military force may be drawn from the Esopus and be used for occupy-
ing the territory of the Newesinghs, where it has been resolved, to erect for their greater safety
a bloclvhouse or stockade in the most convenient place and to put into it against the coming of
the English a garrison of 30 or 40 men, more or less, as the situation of the country shall per-
mit. This would be impossible, if the whole garrison were left at the Esopus and for this and
other reasons we are compelled (notwithstanding that for many reasons it may be thought neces-
sary to follow np during this winter our advantages over the Esopus savages), to agree, pursuant
to the above stated propositions, to an armistice and temporary peace and to recall Captain Lieu-
tenant Martin Cregier with 25 or 30 men from the Esopus, to employ, as above said, in the
Newesinghs. Actum Foi't Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 29"" of December A" 1663.
P. Stuyvesant,
NiCASinS DE SiLLE,
P. L. VAN DEE GeIST,
O. Stevenson van Coetland.
"Whereas an armistice has been made with the Esopus savages for the time of two months, be-
giiming to-day, therefore all inhabitants of New-Netherland, especially the officers and soldiers
at the Esopus and in the Redoubt are required and directed, to let pass and return unmolested the
bearers hereof, two savages, to wit Kastangh and Neshetvetsim, with our letters. Actum Fort
Amsterdam in N. Netherland, 29'" December 1663.
iS^cio Yorh HiHtorical Records. 152."}
Letter fkom Dieectok Stuyvesant to (Captain Cregiee); aeshstice wmi the
Esopus.
Honorable, Yaliant, Faithful Sir.
The chief of the Esojyus, Syokanamo, has come to Oratam and Mattano at Hackinckesaky
and coni]ihiined bitterlj^, that since tlie Esopus savages are deprived of all means of subsistence
through the destruction of their corn, they have scattered hunting for provisions and he has there-
fore not been able, to bring together the Christians still in their hands as captives, he is conse-
quently too frightened and ashamed, to come to us, but he is still inclined to make peace and still
asks for it and for time, till they had done hunting and catching deer and till he could gather his
people -vrith the Christian prisoners. "We have taken it into consideration for weighty reasons and
have at the request and upon the promise and assurance of Oratam and Mattano resolved, to
continue the period of the armistice for two months, that we may meanwhile obtain all the
prisoners and then conclude a final peace if possible. You are therefore hereby directed and
ordered, to communicate this to the inhabitants of the Esopus and especially to the military there
and to come down here by the Company's yacht as soon as you have put everything in good order,
leaving 30 or 40 soldiers there as garrison and bringing the rest with all the surplus arms, the
bronce cannons and other war-materials with you. Direct and order the Ensign and the Council
of "War, the Commissaries and all the inhabitants of the Esopus not to commit acts of hostility
against the savages until our further orders, but to remain well on their guard against an attack,
not to allow a savage to come into the settlement under any pretext whatever, but to keep them
outside the gates and handle with them there, should they bring deer-meat or other things for
sale. Tou must put these two into one or the other house and not allow them to examine the
place ; also if possible dispatch them immediately with an answer, before you march out with the
soldiers as ordered. Wherewith etc''.
29«> December A° 1663.
Postscript.
Should the yacht have left before receipt of this letter on account of the frost or drifting ice,
then we expect you and the soldiers overland as soon as the weather admits.
The above was returned to us on account of the frost, for the yacht could not go to the
Esopus for tlie ice.
JoTTRNAX OF THE EsOPUS War, BY CapTAIN MaeTIN CrEOIEE.
(Translated and annotated by Dr. E. C. O'Callaghan.)
On the 4"" July we entered the Esopus Kill in front of the Eedotibt with the two yachts,
and sent the Sergeant Pieter Ebel with 40 men up to the village Wildwyck to fetch wagons ; he
returned to the river side about 2 o'clock in the afternoon accompanied by Sergeant Christiaen
Ifyssen, 60 men and 9 wagons ; they loaded these and departed with them to the village where
I arrived towards evening. 'Saw nothing in the world except three Indians on a high hill near
the Redouht.
5"' ditto. Keturned to the water side with 60 men; 10 hoi-semen, and 9 wagons to bring up
supplies, but saw scarcely anything on the way.
O'" ditto. Made another journey to the shore with 10 wagons and brought up the remainder
of the supplies, but did not perceive anything. In the evening went for grass with 12 wagons,
324 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
30 soldiers and 10 Lorseraeii ; then Saw 10 or 13 Indians calling to each other but nothing further
transpired.
T"" ditto. "Went again twice for grass with 50 men and 12 horsemen but saw nothing. Two
Indians arrived at the fort about 2 o'clock in the afternoon with a deer and some fish. Said they
came from the river side and that they had been at the Redoitht wliere they had traded some fish
for tobacco ; that they had left their canoe at the Jiedouht, and that they are Wappinger Indians.
Meanwhile detained them and conveyed them to the guard house.
8"' ditto. Sunday. About noon came 5 Indians near our fort — they called out to vis to know
if we had any Indians in the fort ? To which we answered, yes : They asked, why we detained
them as they were Wappinger Indians ? To which we answered, they ought to keep at a distance
as we could not distinguish one tribe of Indians from another, and if we found that they had not
done any injury to the Dutch, we should release them. We told them also, that they must keep
away from here, and go home, for if we should meet them in the woods we would kill them as
well as the other Indians — if they were desirous to come here to speak to us, they must stick up
a white flag. Whereupon they answered, ' Tis well, adieu ; and thereupon went their way. Im-
mediately after their departure, sent out 40 soldiers and 10 horsemen to look after the cattle,
whether they had not been near them, but on reaching these they did not remark any mischief — ■
they, therefore, returned with the cattle to the fort. After the afternoon sermon we examined
the oldest Indian as to whether he was not acquainted with some Esopus Indians and whether he
would not lead us to them — gave him fair words and promised him a present ; for the Dutch at
tlie Esopus had told us that some Indians dwelt about two miles from there, wherefore we were
I'esolved to go in search of them the same evening with 50 men. But this Indian said to us —
go not there, for the Indians have gone tlience and dwell now back of Magdalen Island* on the
main land in the rear of a Cripple bush on the east side of Fort Orange river, and number 8 men,
9 women and 11 children; and he even offered to guide us thither if we had a boat to put us
across the river. Whereupon it was resolved by the Council of War to despatch two parties that
same evening to procure some craft to put us over the river. I, therefore, sent Sergeant Christiaen
Nyssen and Jnn Peersen, each with 16 men, to look up a boat. The same old Indian betrayed
his companion who had come with him on the preceding day into the fort — stating that he had
assisted the Esopus Indians against the Dutch, and for so doing had received in hand 5 fathom of
Sewan [wampum] ; that 9 Wapjjingers and 30 Manissings were with the Esopus Indians and
aided them — also that he said they were together about 200 Indians strong.
9"" ditto. Monday I marched very early, [with 40 soldiers] and 10 horsemen to the water
side to ride up and planks to construct a cabin to store the provisions and ammunition.
About o'clock the two detachments, I had sent out in the evening, to look for craft, came to
me at the Redoiibt, but they saw neither Indians nor boat. They were marched all together to
fort Wildwgck and arrived there about 12 o'clock. Then sent 30 men with 10 horsemen out scout-
ing, who returned about 4 o'clock ; had seen nothing. About 6 o'clock Dieter Wolpherts€7i\
and Lieutenant Stilwil arrived here with their troops ; I then immediately called a Council of
War and it was resolved unanimously to set out in the evening with 20 soldiers and 12 Indians
under the conmiand of Christiaen Niesen and Peiter Wolfertsen in order to visit the East shore
near Magdalen Island, to see if they could not surprize the Esopus Indians who were lying there ;
they took the old Indian along as a guide, who well knew where they lay.
♦Magdalen Island is situate between the Upper and Lower Red Hook Landings. These Indians must there-
fore have been in the town of Redhook — Dutchess county.
t Van Couwenhoven.
ISfew Yorh Historical Records. 325
10"" ditto. I have gone again to the river side with 40 soldiers and 10 horsemen to fetch
plank. In returning, the horsemen on the right flank rode too far from the foot soldiers and
alongside the mountain on which 12 to 1.5 Savages lay in ambush who simultaneously fired at the
horsemen, one of whom they shot through the boot, and grazed a horse. On hearing this, we
immediately reinforced the cavalry with 25 men, pursued the Indians through the moimtain a good
half hour, but they would not once make a stand ; we therefore returned to the wagons where
I had left 15 men and marched together to the village of Wildwyclc. In the afternoon, the scout-
ing party went out again ; I sent therewith Lieutenant Stilwil with 15 men of his company and
Sergeant Pieter Ebel with 28 men and 20 Indians with 10 horsemen. They discovered nothing
except a path which the Indians foiind by which savages had recently passed to their fort ; they
followed this a long way, but saw nothing. Meanwhile, they returned all together.
11"' ditto. Again sent out a party to the mountain near the water side, but they saw nothing,
they returned in the evening.
12"" ditto. Pieter Wolfertsen and Sergeant Niessen returned with their troops, bringing with
tliera one Squaw and three children whom they had captured ; they killed five armed Indians
and a woman ; the &qpus Captain ( Veldove?-ste) was among the slain ; they cut off his hand
which they brought hither. Had not the Indian led them astray and missed the houses, they
would have surprized all the Indians who were there to the number of 28, with women and
children. For through the mistake of the Indian, our people first came about midday where
they found the Indians posted and in arms. They immediately fell on the latter and routed and
pursued them. In the chase one of our soldiers was slain. Meanwhile the huts were plundered
wherein they found 19 blankets, 9 kettles, a lot of Sewan, and i muskets belonging to the Indian,
who were killed. They returned on board with the plunder and four prisoners, and arrived safe
except one of our soldiers who was bit in the leg by a rattlesnake. About 5 o'clock in the after-
noon, I went with 60 men to the river side, to bring up the booty and prisoners ; returned to the
fort in the evening ; encountered no harm.
13"" ditto. Examined the squaw prisoner and enquired if she were not acquainted with some
Esopus Indians who abode about Iiere ? She answered that some Cattskill Indians lay on the
other side near the Sagers Kill, but they would not fight against the Dutch ; says also that an
Indian on the preceding evening before our people ffttacked them, had brought news from the fort
of the Esopus Indians that many Dutch, English and Indians had gone from the Manhatans to
the Esopus and that they should be on their guard, for the Hackinsach Indians had brought the
news to the fort of the Esopus Indians. Then Long Jacob, the chief who lived there with the
Indians, demanded, What should they do ? Should they fly toward their fort or not % They then
concluded to remain there, for the chief said, Were the Dutch to come to the fort and we also
were in it, we should be all slaughtered ; ' tis best for us to remain here on the opposite shore ; the
Dutch, would not learn much of us ; states also further, that the Indian had said that 40 Manis-
sing Indians had ari-ived at their fort, and that 40 more were to come on the next day ; further
says, that each night they conveyed the prisoners always to a particular place without the fort and
remained themselves tlierein; says also that they were resolved to make a stand in their fort, and
that they had, moreover, in their fort 9 horses with which they draw palisades, ai\d had sold a
horse to the Mannissing Indians ; that the Indians had also three houses in which they reside,
these were 4 hours farther oil ; says also, that one sachem in the fort would advise them to negotiate
peace, but the other sachems would not listen to it ; says also, that the fort is defended by three
rows of palisades, and the houses in the fort encircled by thick cleft palisades with port holes in
them, aud covered with bark of trees ; says that the fort is quadrangular but that the angles are
826 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson liiver.
constructed between the first and second rows of palisades and that the third row of palisades
stands full eight feet off from the others towards the interior, between the two first rows of pali-
sades and the houses, and that the fort stands on the brow of a hill and all around is table land.
Sent also for Mr. GysberCs wife * and asked her if it were so ? She answered, it was true,
and said they had built a point near nnto the water to secure it. Then again examined the
Wappinger prisoner and asked, why he had aided the Esopus Indians? Said it was not true and
that his mate, the old Indian, had belied him. Asked liim if he would guide us to the fort of
the Esojnis Indians ? Answered, Yes ; and says the Esopus Indians are about 80 warriors strong,
but does not know how many have come there belonging to other tribes. Says also that the fort
is defended with triple rows of palisades, as the squaw had stated. Whereupon the council of
war decided, firstly to await news either from above or below as to what the Moliaiol's had resolved
respecting the prisoners — whether they could have them restored before our troops should proceed
against the fort to achieve the self same thing. On the same day two detachments went out ; one
to scout, the other on an expedition, but they returned in the evening, having seen scarcely
any thing.
M"" ditto. Fifty men were out again in the woods behind the new burnt village and a
scouting party, but hai'dlj' any thing occurred, nor was any thing seen.
IS"* ditto. The Ilee.r de Decker arrived here with Jan Davets and 5 Moliatoks ; had them
conducted from the river side by 50 men and 10 horsemen. Nothing else transpired.
16"" ditto. The Heer de Decker assembled the Council of War and it was resolved that Jan
Davets accompany the 5 Mohawks to the fort of the Esopus Indians to see on what terms the
Christian prisoners will be restored, but after divers discourses Jan Davets declined going with
them, although the Heer de Decker had, the day before, drawn up and prepared an instruction for
him, but before the time appointed he refused to go. Meanwhile it is resolved that the Mohawks
should go thitlier, and they requested of us that they might take with them some of our prisoners
to present them to the Esopus Indians as a suitable introduction to obtain some of their prisoners
in return, or to induce them to surrender them. The council concluded that a captive girl should
be given to the Mohawks and about 63 guilders in sewan in order to ascertain what they could
accomplish thereby ; for it was reported at Fcn't Orange, as the Heer de Decker informed lis, that
the Esopus Indians had said — If they could olitain payment for the land, named the Great Plot
{het groote Stuck), then they should give up all the prisoners. Now, it is impossible to determine
whether tliis be so or not. Meanwhile, the 3Iohaujks who were going thither were directed to
inquire about it, and they promised us to bring us an answer the next day about noon. Had 3
parties out in the interim ; one to the shore to bring cattle, another for wood and a third, scouting.
They returned all at the same time ; experienced no difficulty.
17"" ditto. Three parties were out in ambush, but saw nothing.
IS"" ditto. Six sloops arrived here from the Manhatans in which Juriaen Blanclc brought
up provisions for our troops ; had them conveyed up under a guard ; a party was also in the field
to protect those reaping the barley and a party lay in ambush. They returned towards evening;
saw nothing.
19"' ditto. Sent out 40 soldiers and 10 Indians scouting, they did not meet any one. In the
evening about 7 o'clock, the three Mohaivks returned from the Esopus Indians. They had
brought three Indians and two Dutch women and two children whom they left about two hours
from Wildwyck ; said, they had been freely given, and had they not been so tired, they should
* She had been taken prisoner as before stated by the Indians on the burning of the village of Wildwyck but
had effected her escape. — O'C.
New Yoi'lc Historical Records. 327
have brought them with them to the fort ; said the Esojnis Indians had abandoned the fort, and
had retired to the mountains where they were mostly dispersed liero and there hunting.
20'° ditto. Sent Jan Davets with 2 Mohawlcs to the 3 Esopus Indians who were in the
woods with the above-named prisoners, to see if he could get, and bring with him the four
prisoners from here, and have a talk with the Indians relative to the other prisoners ; whether
tliey will not restore these to us ; returned about noon with a woman whom one of the Moliawks
liad fetched ; but he, himself, had not been with the Indians as one of the Mohawks had been
taken sick and he was obliged to remain with him. In the afternoon one of the Mohawlcs
returned thither, he took with him half a loaf for the prisoners who remained with the above-
mentioned Esopus Indians. Being come there, he asked the Esopus Indians whether they would
not entrust the 3 prisoners to him to convey them to the Dutch ; whereupon they allowed hiiu to
take the 3 prisoners, with whom he arrived at the fort about 11 o'clock at night, but under promise
as they informed us, that they should have in return their three prisoners whom we held. The
prisoners told us that the Esopus Indians had fled to a high mountain through fear of the Dutch,
and that they lay here and there in small bands, and that the prisoners were also distributed and
dispersed among them here and there, and were not together and that they would not trust them
in their fort, and that the Indians daily threatened them — Should the Dutch come thither, we
will give you a knock and kill j-ou all at once. "Were thus a long time in terror. Meanwliil& we
had some scouting parties out, who returned having seen nothing — had also a party to cut barley ;
came back safe.
21"' ditto. Three Sloops have come from the Manhatans, with which a supply of provisions
for this garrison has arrived at Rut JncobserCs Yacht. Sent three convoys to the water side and
parties to cut corn ; but they saw nothing. Sent for the 5 Mohawks and Jan Davets acting as
Interjjreter, informed them what insults the Dutch of Esopus had from year to year experienced
and suffered from the Indians, and that they now even this last time, had murdered and carried
off our people, when we had given them no provocation. Whereupon they answered. Come,
give US a piece of duffels; we shall afterwards go with it and see whether we shall not be able to
recover all the prisoners. It was accordingly resolved by the Heer de Decker and Council of
War, that a piece of duffels should be brought up from the river side and given them ; which
being done, they took the piece of duffels, cut it into three parts, and thus departed with it about
11 o'clock in the forenoon ; with them went Jan Davets with the Squaw and 2 children who had
been captured by us and were released in exchange for the 2 Dutch women and 2 children whom
the Indians had brought back.
22* ditto. A scouting party went out but saw nothing.
23'' ditto. A Party went to the river side to bring up supplies, and three, to cut and draw
grain. They experienced no interruption.
21"" ditto. Sent for all the wagons to make a journey to the river side to bring up the pro-
visions which had been sent hither by the Executive government ; but only 4 wagons came. As
I required ten, I excused these ; Some refused to work for the Company ; some gave for answer,
if another will cart I also shall cart ; some said, my horses are poor, I cannot cart ; others said,
my horses have sore backs, and other such frivolous answers that 1 was thus unable, this time, to
bring up the Company's stores. Wliereupon it was resolved by the Council of War, that the
farmers should not be furnished with any men for their protection in the fields, unless they would
assist in bringing up the Company's Supplies from the water side. Nay, further — one Tjerck
Claesen de Wit, himself a magistrate, would turn Lieut. StUwil's soldiers out of a small house
they occupied — he said, he had hired it, though he had, notwithstanding, neither possession of
328 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
nor procuration for it, I gave him for answer, that I should remove them on condition that he, as
a magistrate, would have them billetted in other houses as the men could not lie under the blue
sky, and as they had been sent here by the Chief government for the defence of the Settlers
But he made no answer to this ; and so there are other ringleaders and refractory people in this
place. Meanwhile the convoy which was ready to conduct the provisions, was dismist each to its
own post until further orders. At noon I went with a troop of Dutch and Indians to the New
Village where the Heer de Decker himself was ; met with no interruption. A party was also
out with the reapers. In the evening Jan Davets and the 5 Mohawks returned from the Esopus
Indians — they brought with them a female prisoner ; they would not at present release any more
prisoners, evinced great fierceness and repeatedly threatened to kill them, both the Mohawks and
Jan Davets — told them they should not release any more prisoners unless they should secure
peace thereby, and that Corlaer and Rentslaer should come to their fort, and bring goods with
them to conclude peace and to redeem the prisoners ; said that they must be within ten days in
their fort to conclude peace ; said, that they demanded a truce during that time. Jan Davets also
informed us, that he had seen but -i prisoners in the fort, and that the others were scattered far
and wide ; says, there are about 30 warriors in the fort, and that the others dwelt without here
and there; they also said they were determined to make a stand iu the fort, whereupon we have
resblved to go in search of them on the first opportunity.
25"" ditto. The Heer de Decker leii to-day for the Manhaians in the company's yacht,
taking with him two of the wounded, and Jan du Parck, Surgeon and two soldiers to take care
of the sick ; two sick Indians left also ; sent along with them a convoy and 9 wagons to bring up
the remainder of the goods. They returned and saw nothing. Also sent out two detachments
with the reapers ; they did not remark any thing. Convened the Council of War and it was
unanimously resolved to send out an exposition against the Esopus Indians, which should start the
next day, if the weather were favorable.
Se"" ditto. The following troops set out against the Esopus Indians, having as a Guide a
woman who had been prisoner among them, to wit ^ of Captain Lieutenant Cregier's Company,
91 men; of Lieutenant Stilwil's, 30 men; Lieutenant Couwenhoven with 41 Indians;* volunteers
from the Manhatans, 6 ; volunteers from the Esopus, 35 men, of whom 11 were horsemen, and 7
of the Hon'''* Company's negroes with two pieces of cannon and two wagons, the whole party
provided each with one pound of powder and a pound of ball, 2'^' of hard bread and \ a soft loaf,
with 2"'' of pork and ^ a Dutch cheese ; left in garrison at Wildwyck 36 soldiers and 25 freemen.
Marched out about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, and came in the evening about two great miles from
Wildwycl;vfheve he remained until the moon rose. We then started anew, but could not march
more than a long half hour on account of the cannons and wagons, which we could not get through
the woods at night. We then bivouacked until day break.
27"* ditto. We got on the riglit road when day dawned and continued our march. On the
way we passed over much stoney land and hills, and had to tarry at the swampy, long, broken and
even frequent kills where we halted and must cut trees to make bridges to pass over, and divers
mountains were so steep that we were obliged to haul the wagons and cannon up and down with
lopes. Thus our progress was slow. When about two miles from the Indian fort, sent forward
Captain Lieutenant Couwenhoven, Lieutenant Stilwil and Ensign Christaen Niessen, with 1 16
men to surprise it. I followed, meanwhile, with the remainder of the force, the guns and wagons,
but on coming within a short mile of the fort, found the way so impassable that I was under the
necessity of leaving the cannon,, as I could not get it farther. I left 40 men there and gave them
* These Indians were of Long Island.
JSfew Yorlc Histoncal Records. 329
orders to fortify themselves and set palisades around, which they did, and I followed the precediiifr
troop with the remainder towards the Indian fort. On arriving there, found our peoi)lo in pos-
session of it, as it had been abandoned by the Indians two days before. Our Indians had caught
a Squaw in the corn-field, whither she was coming to cut maize. T^ow the evening falling, for it
was about 6 o'clock when we came to the fort, wo passed the night there, having found 3 horses
at their fort.
28"" ditto. The Council of War assembled at the breaking of the day and unanimously
resolved to go in search of the Indians to the mountain where the above mentioned female had
been a prisoner and to take the captured Squaw along. Whereupon Lieutenant C'ouwenhoven
and Lieutenant Stilwil and Ensign ^Tiessen were detached with 140 men, and remained in the
fort with about 29 men. The above named troops then set forth towards the mountain and
arrived where the Indians had been ; they had left that place also. The captured Squaw being
asked if she did not know where the Indians had fled to, said they were on a great, high moun-
tain, which she pointed out to them, distant about 2 miles, whither they had fled with the seven
prisoners tliey had with them ; whereuj)ou the ofiicers resolved to go to tlie other mountain in
search of them, which they afterwards did with their troops, after experiencing vast difhculty,
but found no Indiaps there. The Squaw being again questioned whether she did not know
where they were ? said they had moved to another mountain, which she pointed out, about i
miles from there, but there was no path tliither. Being on the brow of the hill our people saw
9 Indians coming towards them, whereupon they fell flat, intending thus to siii-prise the Indians
on their approach, but they did not succeed, our people being noticed at a distance of about 2 musket
shots. Eight of them ran off in an oblique direction, and the ninth attempted to run back to the
place whence they had come. As our force was discovered on all sides, and even our Indians
said that no savages could be caught at this time as they were every where fully informed of us,
it was resolved to return to the fort, where they arrived about one o'clock. After they had taken
some rest, I convened the Council of War to determine what was now best to be done. They
unanimously resolved to cut down their com and burn it, together with last year's maize, which
they still had in pits in great abundance in their corn-fields and around their fort. Whereupon
I went out of their fort with 50 men to a distance of a full half mile ; there cut down several
plantations of maize, threw into the fire divers pits full of maize and beans, returned to the
fort at sun-down and saw that divers Indians and horsemen found some pits with plunder in the
vicinity of the fort, which they brought in. Meanwhile I had the whole party called together,
and told them that all the plunder that was or should be found was to be in common, and was
so understood by the Council of War before we started from our fort. Whereupon one of the
horsemen stepped out of the troop and said to me. What we've found we'll keep and divide
among us horsemen. To which I said, that they should not do that, for they were under com-
mand. Whereupon the horseman, named Jan JlendricJcsen, answered — They are under the
command of no man but Zo7}g Peter, whom they, forsooth ! called their Cornet, and uttered
divers unmannerly words in presence of all the officers. Upon which I gave him 2 or 3 slaps of
a sword, and he seemed as if he would put himself in a postui-e against me. But I being close up
to his body he could not act as he wished, and I said to him that I should bring him to an account.
This said Jan Hendncl'sen, with one Allert Hey mans Hoose, acted insolently on the 7"" July.
Wiilst we were examining the two WajJplnger Indians, in the presence of the Scout and Com-
missaries, in Thomas Qhamhers' room a messenger came in and said that two or three Boors
were without the door with loaded guns to shoot the Indians when they came forth. Whereupon
42
330 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
I stood up and -went to the door — found this Albert Heymayis Roose and Jan Hendrichsen at
the door with tlieir guns. Asked them what they were doing there with their guns ? They
gave me for answer, "We will shoot the Indians. I said to them, you must not do that. To
which they replied, We will do it though you stand by. I told them in return, to go home and
keep quiet or I should send such disturbers to the Manhatans. They then retorted, I might do
what I pleased, they would shoot the savages to the ground, even though they should hang for it ;
and so I left them. This Albert coming into the Council told the Commissaries that one of them
should step out. "What his intention with him was I can't say. This by way of memorandum.
Meanwhile arrested Jmi Hendrichsen.
29"' ditto. Four parties went out again to cut down the corn and to bum the old maize.
About o'clock in the afternoon, some Indians made their appearance on a high hill near the
fort and called out to us, that they would come and fight us on the morrow whereupon we brought
the captive Squaw out of the fort to speak to them, and they called out to her that they should
now come and fight the Dutch., for the Dutch had now come and taken their fort, cut their corn
and burnt all their old maize and that they should die of hunger. I said to them, the Dutch had
gone in search of you to the mountain but ye always ran away and dare not make a stand. But
the Indians would not give any answer, and so Avent away.
30"" ditto. We, in two large parties, each of 80 men, cut down all the corn and bxumt the
old maize which remained in the pits. Returned to the fort, all together, in the evening, and
made preparations to set out in the morning. Meanwhile the Indians who the day before had
called out that they would come and fight us, did not make their appearance. We cut down
nearly one hundred morgens * of maize and burnt above a hundred pits full of corn and beans.
31*' ditto. In the morning at the dawu of day set fire to the fort and all the houses, and
while they were iu full blaze marched out in good order, Capt. Lieutenant Couwenhoven forming
the van guard. Lieutenant Stilwils company, the centre, and I with my company the rear guard.
So arrived iu safety at our fort about 9'clock in the evening with our cannon and wagons. Ke-
marked scarcely anything on the way. The road or course from Wilclwych to the fort of the
Esopus Indians lies mostly sout west, about 10 \Dwtcli\ miles from our foi't.
l*' August. In the morm'ng heard two shots from the Hedoubt on the river side. Sent oif
Ensign Christiaen Niessen with 50 men. He found there the Hon'"' Company's yacht in which
the Heer Secretary van Ruyven had come. Had him escorted to the village of Wildwych, and
did nothiug more as it was a day of fasting and prayer.
2'' ditto. Nothing occurred as it rained during the whole day and night.
3'* ditto. The Heer Secretary departed on his return to the Manhatans, accompanied by Lieu-
tenant Couwenhoven and the Indians being 41 iu the whole, who would not remain any longer ;
also 5 of the Hon""' Company's Negroes. Through great intercession and promise of better be-
havior in future, the Council of war pardoned Jan, Hendriokse7i the faults committed by liim
and he is released from confinement. Meanwhile I had two parties in the field with the reapers
and one in Ambush. They saw nothing and returned in the evening. I this day sold, by public
beat of drum, the three horses which we had brought with us from the Indians' fort.
4"^ ditto. A Mohegan Indian came from Fort Orange ; he had a pass from Mansieur Mon-
tagnie / brought two letters, one to Mr. Gysbert and one to Hendrich Jochems ; there was hardly
any news in them excejit that they were longing to receive some intelligence relative to the con-
dition of the Eso^us. Convened the Council of war and invited thereto the Commissaries of the
* About 215 acres — O'C,
New Yo7'Tc Historical Jiecords. SP.l
village Wddwijcl-, anJ made tins ordinance and read it to the people, both freemen and military,
and had a copy affixed to each beat or post. It is, word for word, as follows : —
" Ordinance made and enacted hy the Captain Lieui-enant and the valiant
Council of wak at pkesent cojimandino the tkoops and Military in the
Esopus ok Wildwyck.
" Tiliereas we learn by daily experience that many, as well militarj' as freeman, are removing
from the village WUdwrjek, without the consent of the Capt. Lieutenant and Commissaries of
this village, therefore it is necessary that timely provision be made therefor, so that none may at
any time fall into the hands of the barborous Indians, our enemies ; and that families every day
xmnecessarily waste and fire off j^owder and ball. Therefore the Captain Lieutenant and valiant
Council of War, wishing to provide for and prevent all inconveniences and mischiefs which may
arise therefifom, have ordered and directed, as they do hereby order and direct.
1.
"Firstly, that no one, whether military or freeman shall, without the consent of the Captain
Lieutenant, Council of War and Commissaries of this place, depart from this village of Wildwyck,
either in large or small bodies, whether to cut grain or for any other business whatsoever it may
be, lest an}' of them may chance to fall into the hands of the barbarous Indians, our enemies;
and if any one remove beyond this village of Wildwych without consent or proper convoy,
whatever the business or occasion may be, he shall pay a fine of five and twenty guilders for the
first offence ; for the second fifty guilders and for the third offence an arbitrary' punishment ;
and should any one, in violating and disobeying tliis order, happen to be captured by the
Indians, our enemies, no expenee or trouble shall be incurred for him, inasmuch as he, by his
perverse and stiffnecked course, contrary to this ordinance, will have brought down this mis-
fortune on himself.
2.
"If any one unnecessarily and preversely waste or fire off his powder and ball, be it on the
departure or arrival of convoys or otherwise, he shall, for the first offence, pay a fine of three
guilders for each shot; for the second offence six guilders and for the third offence suffer arbitrary
punishment, unless when desirous to discharge his gun, being out of order or wet, he shall ask
permission therefor from his superior or inferior officer. And for the better observance and
obedience of this ordinance, the Captain Lieutenant and Council of War hereby particularly and
imperatively command all superior ofiicers, Serjeants, and corporals to pay strict attention that this
ordinance be observed and respected. Thus done in the village of Wildwych by the Captain
Lieutenant, Council of War and the proper Commissaries of said village, on the 4"" of August
1663."
Same date a letter is also sent by the Mohegan Indians to Christoffel Davids at Fort Orange
requesting him to be pleased to come down to the Esopus on important business which we should
then explain and communicate to him.
S*"" ditto. Thomas the Irishman arrived here at the Redoubt from the Manhatans. Mean-
while nothing was done as it was Sunday, and no detachments were sent out.
6"" ditto. Sent out a party of 32 men to lie in ambush, and two detachments with the reapers
They returned in the evening ; perceived nothing.
7'" ditto. Three detachments were sent out with the reapers ; returned in the evening with-
out having seen anvthing.
332 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River
8"' ditto. Sent out Ensign Niessen with a detachment to lie in ambush behind the new vil-
lage which was burnt, and observe the Indians. Also two parties with the reapers. They came
back in the evening without having noticed anything.
9"" ditto. Three detachments were again sent out ; two in the field with the reapers and one
in ambush. They returned towards evening having perceived nothing.
10"" ditto. Sent out two detachments ; one in the field with the reapers, the other in ambush
behind the recently burnt village, under the command of Ensign Niessen. They came in towards
evening without having observed anything. Some yachts also touched at the Redouht bringing
letters from the Manliatans which they left at the Redouht and then sailed upwards for Fort
Orange.
11"" ditto. Eeceived this morning the letters which the yachts left at the Redoubt ; had two
parties in the field with the reapers ; they returned in the evening without having seen anything.
12"' ditto. Sunday. Nothing occurred except sending two convoys to the Redouht to relieve
the men who lay there and to bring up some stores with Mr. Oysherfs wife coming from Fort
Orange who brings news that the Northern Indians had killed some Mohawks and a Mohegan,
whereupon the Mohegans have obtained the consent of the Mohaiohs to build a fort. Nothing
else occurred here.
IS"" ditto. Sent out two detachments with the reapers and one to lie in ambush. Tliey
returned in the evening ; saw nothing. On the same day is made and enacted by the Captain
Lieutenant and the valiant Council of War the following Ordinance for the maintenance as far as
possible of better order, and the observance and enforcement of discipline among the Military,
and read the same before the Military and freemen and afiixed it at each post. It is word for
word as follows : —
" Oedinaijce made and enacted by the Captain Lieutenant and the valiant
Council of War commanding the MiLriAKY in the Esopds and Yillage of
WiLDWTCK.
" Whereas some in this village of Wildwyck who follow the trade of selling strong drink to
the military sufEer some of them to get drunk not only on week days but especially on the Lord's
Rest and Sabbath day, unfitting them for their proper duties, and more especially creating confu-
sion and disorderly conduct ; the Hou"'^ Company's servants not hesitating to sell, pawn and plege
their own necessaries for strong drink to the traders in intoxicating liquors; the traders also
receiving the same ; yea, even not hesitating to give them more credit and trust whether they
have any thing to the good or not. Therefore the Capt. Lieutenant and valiant Council of War
desirous to prevent as much as possible all disorders and mischiefs, have therefore ordained and
directed as they hereby direct and ordain : —
1.
" That none of the military, be his rank whatever it may be, presume to sell or to pawn for
any strong drink any of the stores advanced to him by the Hon"'* Company on his monthly wages,
for his needs and support, under a fine of one month's wages.
" No one, whether military or freeman, following the business of selling strong drink, shall
presume to take in pledge or endeavor to embezzle any propei-ty belonging to the military in
excliange for strong drink, under the forfeiture of the tapped drink and to return to tlie owner
New Ywh Historical Records. 3.33
free of cost and charges the received property and pay in addition a fine of twelve guilders as
often as he is discovered so doing.
3.
" All those who follow the trade of selling strong drink arc fnrther warned not to sell nor
furnish any strong drink on the Lord's Rest and Sabbath day much less entertain any clubs,
■whether before or after the sermon on pain of forfeiting the strong drink tapped on that occasion,
and in addition a iiue of five and twenty guilders as often as they shall be cauglit in the act.
4.
" Those who sell strong drink are also fnrther warned they take heed not to sell any to the
military either on credit or on account, be it in what manner it may be, on pain of not being paid
therefor, unless on order of his superior officer. Tuns done by the Capt. Lieutenant and valiant
Council of War in the village WildwycJc, this 13"" August 1663."
Itt"' ditto. Sent out fifty reapers to the burnt village, called the Great Plot, and sent with
them about thirty wagons and Ensign JVeissen with a convoy of eighty men ; gave him orders to
remain there all night witli the reapers and binders, and the major part of the wagons and forty
men per convoy. The remaining forty men returned to Wildwyck, and said ensign with about
one hundred and twenty men, as well reapers and binders as convoys, passed the night at the
Oreat Plot because it was so distant, and they could not make up more than one sheaf for they
could not begin the work as fresh as they wished. Brought the grain to Wildwyck as soon as it
was cut down. Kept si.x parties by the way in ambush to protect the said wagons. However
nothing occurred on this day.
lo"" ditto. Brought more grain from the burnt village wherefore I kept two parties in
ambush and one with the reapers and two on the road for the protection of the wagons which
went through and fro. Returned in the evening altogether; observed nothing.
le"" ditto. Two parties are again sent out to the field with the reapers ; came back in the
evening without having seen anything.
17"'. Two parties were again sent into the field with the reapers. Returned in the
evening without seeing anything. The Heer Decker ai-rived here at the Redoxdt from Fort
Orange ; had him escorted to the village Wildwyck, but he did not tarry here long as his Honor
was in a hurry to depart again. Had the said Ileer de Decker escorted back to the river side and
then he returned to the Maiihatans. Nothing occurred this day. Gave three Englishmen leave
to go to and return from the Manhatans. They belong to Lieutenant StilwiVs Company.
IS"" ditto. Had three detachments again in the field with the reapers, they returned in the
evening ; saw nothing. The Council of "War resolved and concluded to send a party three miles
from Wildwyck to some plantations of Esopus Indians planted with maize ; whereupon Ensign
Niessen was sent thither with fifty-five men. They went forth from Wildwyck about ten o'clock
at night, and had a Dutchman named Jacob Jansen Stoutenhoryh for a guide.
IQ"" ditto. "Was this morning with fifty men and sixteen wagons to the burnt viDage to fetch
grain ; came back to Wildwyck about eight o'clock. Did not see anything. About noon Ensign
Niessen returned with his troop from the Indian maize land. Neither saw nor noticed any
Indians. About three o'clock in the afternoon Christqfel Davids came from the Manhatans in
a canoe. Brought with him a letter from the Heer General, dated l-i"" August, brought also a
letter from Pieter Couwenhoven who lay with the sloop in the Danskamer* The letter was
*Six miles north of Newburgh, Orange co. — O'C.
334 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
dated 17"" August, and addressed to me. Its contents were, That I should be on my guard for
he was advased that the Esopus Indians together with the Manissings and Wappingers were pre-
pared to attack and surprize our fort in about two days with four hundred men, and that they also
daily threatened him in an InsufEerable manner ; he daily expected the arrival of the sachem who
had already been four days gone about the captured Christians to learn what he should then do
and what should be the issue of it. But he had not received any intelligence in all that time.
He also writes — That the Indians who lay thereabout on the river side made a great uproar every
night, firing guns and kintehaying* so that the woods rang again ; and he hoped to be with me
in two days. — Ilis letter contains divers other circumstances. Christoffel Davids informs us, that
he slept one night with the Indians in their wigwams — that some Esopus Indians and sachems
were there who had four Christian captives with them, one of whom, a female captive, had
secretly told him, Davids, that forty Esoptis Indians had already been near our fort to observe
the reapers and the other people. Whereupon the Council of "War resolved to send for the
sheriff, who being come, an order was handed him directing him to warn all the inhabitants not
to go from the fort into the fields without a suitable escort, as directed in the preceding Ordinance
of the 4"" August. Said Christoffel Davids also informed us, — that the Indians had on shore
several bowls and gourds Math brandy, which they obtained daily from the sloops, as the Indians
had informed him they could get as much as they required and whatever powder and lead they
wanted. Now, we cannot determine wliat this may amount to, but this I understand that the
woman who is on board the sloop with Lieutenant Couwenhoven brought four ankers of brandy
with her from the Manhatans, but none of it came ashore here.
20"' ditto. Lieutenant Couwenhoven arrived with the yacht at the RedouJjt ; brings a
Christian woman and boy with him ; says he gave about eighty guilders for the youth, and
promised to give our captive squaw for the woman. Left ninety guilders in pledge for her ; the
Council of War disapproved of his having promised the squaw in exchange as such was not con-
tained in the Director-General and Council's Instruction to him. Says, the Indians promisetl him
to bring in, within two days, all the prisoners they had, and that he should return with her to
them within that time. Says also, that two MohawTcs coming from Fort Orange in a canoe
passed his yacht in the Wappingers Kill. They had full four hundred pounds of lead and over
three hundred pounds of powder in the canoe. He would have them on board but they would
not; so they passed by. The Dutch woman, who had been taken prisoner, was brought to bed
of a young daughter on entering the Esopus Kill. Nothing occurred during the day as it rained
almost incessantly, and the farmers could not go out in the fields to reap or to bring in the grain.
^1"' ditto. The Council of War resolved to send Lieutenant Couwenhoven down again with
the sloop. I victualled the yacht and gave him five soldiers additional for his defense ; also
resolved to give him the two Indians and the squaw which we had prisoners, but he is not to leave
them out of his hands before we have our prisoners back. Furnished hun also with an instruction
as to how he should act therein. It reads, word for word as follows : —
* The Delaware word, Gent'keh'n, to dance, seems to be engrafted here into the Dutch language. The term
is also to be found in Van der Donck's Bcschryvinge van Nieuw Nederlandt, Tvhere speaking of the amusements of
the Indians, he says — "The old and middle aged conclude with smoking and the young with a. Kintecmn."
N. Y. Hist. Coll. 2d Ser. i. 304. Again in the Breeden Baedt we read, "The first of these savages having received
a frightful wound, desired them to permit him to dance what is called the Kinie Kaeye, a religious custom observed
among them before death He then ordered him to be taken ut of the fort and the soldiers
bringing liim to the Beuvcrs path (he dancing the Einte K(.u»je all the time). — O'C.
New York Historical liecords. 335
Insteuction fob Libutenant Pieteb Couwenhoven.
" Whereas Lieutenant Couwenhoven, sent by the Xlon""" Director General & Council to
release the Christians captured by the Kiojjus Indians, lay several days near the Wappinger
Indians who acted as meditators in the affair, and as yet could not effect much except releasing
one child and a woman for which woman he promised to exchange the Squaw who had been cap-
tured by us, on condition that they should then bring all the Christian captives to the river side
and release them ; and also promised the Wappimjer Indians to take down with him the two
Indians we captured. The Council of War, therefore, resolved and concluded to surrender the
two Indians & the Squaw, but on certain conditions and also by express order of the Ileer Direc-
tor General and Council, according to instruction accompanying the same, that no prisoners should
go, or be released, unless we first bad all our Christians, prisoners, out of their hands.
1.
" Therefore, the said Council of War recommend and order Lieutenant Coxiwenhoven not to
surrender nor give up any Indian or Squaw unless our Christian captives be first released and
exchanged and placed in our hands, but he is at liberty to promise the Indians, if they discharge
all our prisoners and restore them to us, that they shall then again have and regain their prisoners,
either in exchange or in some other manner as shall then be agreed to and arranged.
2.
" Should Lieutenant Couwenhoven see no probability of obtaining back, receiving or releasing
our captives, and the Indians be obstinately opposed to the discharge or release thereof he may
watch his time and opportunity to seize as many Esopus Indians as possible, either on land or
by inducing them with fair words to go on board, according as opportunities shall then offer;
or if many Esopus Indians should come thither with the Christian captives and refuse to surren-
der or give these up, be shall then endeavor to detain them on shore, whether by means of
intoxicating liquors or by any other means he shall at the time judge most expedient, and then
advise us immediately thereof by a yacht that may come there, in order that we may regulate
ourselves accordingly as much as lies in our power so as to surprise and seize them. Done,
Wildwycl; the 2V' August 1663."
Escorted said Couwenhoven to the Redoubt on the river's side and he sailed again to the
Wapplngers in the yacht. A party was also in the field with the Boars ; they retiu-ned home
without seeing anything.
22°'^ ditto. Sent out one escort with the reapers and two parties to lie in ambush, but it
commenced raining about noon and they came in. The rain came down in such torrents that
the Boors were obliged to take up the Bridge lest it be carried away as it was three weeks ago.
It is to be feared that considerable grain will be destroyed in the field for want of reapers, in
consequence of the great rain that has fallen, for a great deal of grain lies under water and the
farmers on an average have not harvested above one fourth part of it. Nothing else occurred
to day, except that the great rain carried away several of the palisades of the fort.
23"^ ditto. Sent an Order to the Sheriff and Commissaries and directed them to have the
palisades of the fort replaced. It reads word for word as follows : —
" Acti.
" The Sheriff and Commissaries of this village of WildwycJi, are hereby ordered and directed
336 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
to liave replaced and repaired the palisades of this fort, which were washed away by the water,
and the same is urgently required. Done, Wildwych the 23* August, 1663."
The Answer of the Court of the Village of Wildwtck.
The Court of this village Wildwych having seen and read this, find that it cannot be done at
present, inasmuch as the grain in the field is almost ruined, and it is necessary to draw it home as
soon as possible with the aid of all hands. Wildtoyck, 23'^ August, 1663, (was subscribed) Roelof
Svmrtwout. Lower stood — ^^ order of the Worshipful Court of the village of Wildwyck,
(signed)
Mattts CAPrro, Secretary.
Two detachments were out in the field with the reapers ; did not remark any thing.
24"^ ditto. Sent out two detachments with the reapers and one in ambush. They returned
in the evening, having seen nothing. Received a letter at night from Lieutenant Couwenhoven,
which he had sent up from the Waj^jnngers creek by an Indian, a Dutchman and two captive
Christian children belonging to the wife of the gunner who was on board the sloop with said
Couwenhoven ', and as the Indian told me he had given theca2>tive Squaw, whom he had entrusted
to said Couwe7ihoven,, in exchange for these two children, without any hope of a general redemp-
tion ; and that he had so thoughtlessly and contrary to orders surrendered this Squaw for the two
children on an uncertainty, not knowing whether he should receive another prisoner or not ; now
let him defend liimself to the Director-General and Council. Said Couwenhoven'' s letter was to
this effect : That he hopes to get all the prisoners, but that he should be in want of supplies ; for
the powder he has is good for nothing, and the cry among the Indians is all for powder and
brandy ; requests me to send him some, as it was for the public good ; that the Sachem had gone
with five men into the interior, and bad promised him to return with all the Christian captives ;
had given him the Squaw in order to succeed the better for us, and he had a fair prospect for a
good delivery. In case it happened otherwise then he should acquaint me of it, and so forth, as
appears by his letter. It is Dated the 25"" August, but I received it on the 24"' August ; this
liappened through a mistake of his in writing. Domine Blom departed hence to-day, with his
wife, for the Manhatans ; had him escorted to the river side by Ensign Niessen and forty men.
Experienced no harm on the way.
25"" ditto. Sent down the Indian and the Dutchman agam to the sloop lying by the Wapj}-
ingei's, with some bread. Also sent a letter to Lieutenant Couwenhoven, which reads as follows :
" Good fi'iend. Lieutenant Couwenhoven. Your letter came to hand, and I have noted its con-
" tents. As regards your surrender of the Squaw before you had in exchange all our prisoners,
" in my opinion it is not well done. But you, yourself, must vindicate that act. In answer to
" your request for Sewan and Brandy, I have none, as you well know, and the Council of War
" does not consider it prudent to furnish our enemies with powder at this conjuncture. You
" promise to do your best for our Christians in captivity, and to get these out of their hands.
" Should you not succeed, you will act according as you have been already instructed and told. I
" send you some bread and request you not to go to the Manhatans, but first come here to take
" off the sick and wounded. You can see whether you will not be able to obtain some sewan and
" brandy from the passing sloops, for if I had any and should send them to you, they would run
" great risk of being plundered on the way by the Indians. Done, Wildwych the 25"' August,
" 1663." Had three parties out ; two with the reapers and one in ambush. They returned in the
evening having seen nothing.
New York Historical Records. 337
20"" ditto. Two escorts were down to the river side to bring up supplies and sonic soldiers'
wives coming from tlic Manhakms ; a party lay in ambush behind the newly burnt village; re-
turned in the evening without having remarked any thing.
27"" ditto. There were two detachments with the reapers in the field and one in ambush, re-
turned in the evening without meeting any thing.
28"" ditto. Had two parties again in the field and one in ambush; returned in the evening
having seen nothing.
29"' ditto. Two detachments were out again in the field with the reapers, and one in ambush.
Saw nothing. A soldier of Lieut. StilwiFs Company was wounded by his Sergeant in some dis-
pute respecting orders. Said soldier was arrested and afterwards examined by the court martial,
and it was found that the Sergeant was as blameworthy as the soldier. The soldier, who is named
Thomas Coed; is condemned by the court martial to stand sentry with six muskets for the space
of three days, and during one hour each day.
30"" ditto. Lieutenant Oouioen/toven returned from the Wajypinr/ers at the liedouM with
the yacht, and arrived in Wildwyck with his people and the two Wapplnger Indians, but released
and liberated the Stpiaw there ; could not obtain any more Christian captives from the Empus
Indians. The Wappbujer Sachem had been with the Esopus Indians at their fort (which they
were erecting anew), in order to ascertain if he could not obtain the release of the Christian
captives. But when he had been two or three days with them in their new fort, to negotiate with
them respecting the pi'isoners, two 2Iohawks and one Mirupua came there with Sewan and a long
messiige, which rendered the Esop>xis Indians so ill disposed towards the Wapj)ingier Sachem that
they caused him to depart. He then returned without receiving any other Christian captives.
He came on board of Lieutenant Couioenlioven and told the same to him, and said Lieutenant
reported it to me. Now, I cannot imagine what there is in it. Convened the Council of War
and they resolved and concluded to attack with one hundred and twenty men the Esopus Indians
who reside in their new fort about four hours farther than their first fort which we had burnt.
We take with us as a guide one of our captured Wappinger Indians. Meanwhile issued rations
to the people, and orders to start on the expedition this evening or to-morrow morning; but as it
began to rain in the afternoon we did not set out to-day. Sent an order to the Sheriff, Commis-
saries, and superior officers of the village of Wildwyck, which reads as follows :
"Wheeeas another expedition is on foot against our enemies, the Esopus Indians, the
Sheriff, Commissaries and superior officers of the Burghery are requested to furnish twenty horse-
men from the hired men {Enechts) of this village of Wildwyck to accompany the military in the
attack on the Indians. Done, Wildwyck the 30"" August, 1663."
Answer of the Court to this Oedek.
" The Court and superior officers of this village of Wildioyck having read the communica-
tion sent them by the Captain Lieutenant and Council of War have at their request convoked the
farmers and read to them the aforesaid demand, whereunto they gave for answer that they were
well disposed to do their best for the public interest, but find at present that the horses fatigued
from the harvest, are unfit to be rode by men. The Coui-t having heard this answer, hereby re-
quest the Captain Lieutenant and Council of War, if it can be possibly done without prejudice
to the public service, that the expedition be postponed for six or seven days until the harvest be
completed as the grain yet in the field is already injured. Done, Wildwyck, this SO"" August
1663 (was siibscribed), Roelof Swaetwout. (Lower stood.) By order of the Sheriff, Commis-
saries and superior officers of the Burghery in Wildwyck (signed) Mattheus Capito, Secretary."
Nothing else occurred to-day.
43
338 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
31" ditto. It rained somewliat all this day, therefore the expedition must rest for the present ;
sent an escort to the river side and victualled the people at the Redoubt and Sloop. Asked the
Sheriff and Commissaries, verbally, whether they could not get some horses to accomjjany us in
the attack so that we may be able to jjlace the wounded on them if we happen to have any.
After great trouble they obtained six liorses from a few, but spiteful and insulting words from
many. One said, let those furnish horses who commenced the war. Another said, I'll give 'em
the Devil — if they want any thing they will have to take it by force. The third said, I must
first have my horse valued and have security for it ; and so forth with miich other foul and unbe-
coming language, not to be repeated.
1'' September. Thomas the Irishman and Olaesje Hoorn arrived with their yachts at the
KUl from the Manhatans ; sent an escort to the river side ; intended to set forth to-day but the
arrival of the yachts and the escort to the river side prevented this, and the weather was so low-
ering and threatened rain so much that we concluded to start next night towards the break of
day ; but as it rained the whole night we could not set out. Nothing else occurred to-day. A
party was out in the field with the farmers, but nothing happened.
2'' ditto. Sunday. The weather continued lowering, and heavy rain fell. In the afternoon
very heavy rain fell again so that we could not stir out. Nothing occurred during the entire da}-.
S** ditto. About one o'clock in the afternoon we started from fort Wildwyck, ha\nng of my
company two and twenty men ; of Lieutenant StilioiVs company, four and twenty men, and seven
freemen, with two of the Ilon'"'^ Company's Negroes. We took as guide the young Wappinger
Indian, and Christoffel Davids as Indian interpreter, and promised the Indian his freedom with
with a cloth coat, on condition that he brought us truly to the Esopus Indians. We got eight
horses with very great difficulty from the farmers, as they were so very unwilling and could not
be brought to give us any horses, except Thomas Chambers, who, without any solicitation,
presented me with two for the expedition. Several of the others, who would not give any,
used much offensive language to the Sheriff and to the company's officers, saying — " They
will have horses ; they may see if they can get them." Marshed that afternoon about three
miles from our fort to the creek which runs past the Redoubt; lay there that night, during
which we had great rain.
4'" ditto. Found such high water and swift current in the kill that it was impossible to ford
it ; sent six men immediately on horseback to our fort Wildwyck to fetch rope and axes to make a
raft or some other convenience to cross the creek ; they returned to us about ten o'clock ; brought
three axes and rope. Passed the rope over the stream in order to hold fast to it so that the peo-
ple may not be swept far down the creek. Crossed over with all the men about two o'clock in
the afternoon and marched about four miles further on, where we bivouacked during the night.
Considerable rain fell this afternoon.
5^'' ditto. Set out again at day break, and about noon came to their first maize field where
we discovered two squaw^and a Dutch woman ; who had come that morning from their new fort
to get corn. But as the creek lay between us and the cornfield, though we would fain have the
women it was impossible to ford the stream without being seen and then disco\-ered. We there-
fore, adopted the resolution to avoid the cornfield and the road, and turned in through the woods
so as not to be seen. Arrived about two o'clock in the afternoon within sight of their fort, which
we discovered situate on a lofty plain. Divided our force in two — Lieutenant Couioenhoven and
I led the right wing, and Lieutenant Stilwil and Ensign Wiessen the left wing. Proceeded in
this disposition along the hill so as not to be seen and in order to come right under the fort ; but
as it was somewhat level on the left side of the fort and the soldiers were seen by a squaw, who
New YorJc Historical Records. 389
was piling wood there and who sent forth ;i terril)le si-roiiiii which w:is heard liy tlio Indians who
were standing and working near tlio fort, wo instantly fell upon tiieni. Tlu^ Indians rushed fortii-
with through the fort towards their honses, which stood about a stone's throw from the fort, in
order to secure their arms, and thus hastily picked up a few guns and hows and arrows, hut we
were so hot at tiieir heels that they were forced to leave many of them behind. We kept up a
sharp fire on them and ])ursued them so closely that they leaped into tiie creek which ran in front
of the lower part of their maize land. ()u reaching the opposite side of the kill, they courage-
ously returned our tire, which we sent back, so that we were obliged to send a party across to
dislodge them. In this attack, the Indians lost their Chief, named PapeiiucmoA^hen^ fourteen
other warriors, four women and three children, whom wo saw lying both on this and on the other
side of the creek but probably many more were wounded, when rushing from the fort to the
houses, when we did give them a brave charge. On our side three were killed and si.\ wounded
and we have recovered three and twenty Christian prisoners out of their hands. We have also
taken thirteen of them prisoners, both men and women, besides an old nuin who accompanied us
about half an hour but would not go farther. We took him aside and gave hiin his last meal.
A Captive Indian Child died on the way, so that there remained eleven of them still our prisoners.
The enemy being conquered, we reviewed our men ; found we had one wounded more than we
had horses. Convened the Council of War ; submitted to them what was now best for us to do
relative to cutting down the maize. The Council of War decided that we could indeed cut it
down, but were any more of our uaen wounded, how could they be removed having already one
more tliaii we had horses, and this one must be borne, with great trouble, on a litter by two.
Resolved to let the maize stand for the present ; plundered the houses wherein was considerable
booty, such as bear skins, deer skins, notassen, blankets, elk hides, besides several other smaller
articles many of which we were obliged to leave behind that we could not bring along with us,
for we could well fill a sloop. We destroyed as much as we could; broke the kettles into pieces;
got also twenty-four or five guns, more than the half of which we smashed and threw the barrels
here and there in the stream, hacking and breaking in pieces as many as we could. Found, also,
several horns and bags of powder, in all about twenty pounds ; got also thirty-one belts and some
strings of wampum ; took the best of the booty along and resolved to set off. Placed the wounded
on the horses and had one carried in a blanket on poles by two soldiei-s in turns. Set out thus iu
good order on our return and marched that day full two miles from the fort. The fort was a
perfect square with one row of palisades set all round being about fifteen feet above, and three
feet under ground. They had already completed two angles of stout palisades, all of them almost
as thick as a man's body, having two rows of portholes, one above the other ; and they were busy
at the third angle. These angles were constructed so solid and strong as not to be excelled by
Christians. The fort was not so large as the one we had already burnt. The Christian prisoners
informed us that they were removed every night into the woods, each night to a different place,
through fejir of the Dutch, and brought back in the morning ; but on the day before we attacked
them, a Mohaioh visited them, who slept with them during the night. When they would convey
the Christian Captives again into the woods, the Mohawh said to the Empus Indians — What!
do you carry the Christian prisoners every night into the woods ? To which they answered — yes.
Whereupon the Mohaioh said. Let them remain at liberty here for you live so far in the woods
that the Dutch will not come hither, for they cannot come so far without being discovered before
they reach you. Wherefore they kept the prisoners by them that night. The Mohmok departed
in the morning for the Manessings and left a new blanket and two pieces of cloth which fell to us
also as booty ; and we came just that day and fell on them so that a portion of them is entirely
340 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
annihilated. "Wherefore praise and thanks be given to God Ahuighty. The course lies about
South iSouth-West to the Indians new fort which is distant about 12 miles.* The way is some-
what stoney and hilly, but the road for the greater part is good. After leaving their fort we
mai'ched that day two miles where we passed the night. Perceived the Indians on the road.
6"' ditto. Early in the morning we started anew ; were obliged to cross a rapid, stoney creek,
and came this day just beyond the Esoj>us Kill, which runs by the Redoubt, where we remained
this night, and there died the Indian child, which we threw into the creek. Saw scarcely any
Indians that day on the road.
7"" ditto. Started again and arrived about noon at Wildwyck ; did not remark any thing by
the way.
8"'. An escort attended the reapers in the field ; returned in the evening without having
seen any thing. Christoffels Davids departed.
9"' ditto. Sunday. Lieutenant Stilwil and Lieiitenant Couwenhoven left for the Manhatana
with the sloop ; sent witb them seven wounded and some sick, together with seventeen of Lieu-
tenant StilwiVs men and twelve of my company ; had them escorted to the river side. Nothing
else occurred to-day.
10"' ditto. Two detachments were out with the reapers and those driving the teams. Noth-
ing occurred. They returned about three o'clock in the afternoon, as it commenced raining hard
and they saw nothing.
11"' ditto. Nothing new ; it rained the entire day.
la"" ditto. Two yachts arrived at the Redmtht from Fort Orange ; had Eeyntje Pietersen
and Ilayis Carolmsen escorted up ; detached a party in ambush and one in the field with those
pulling hemp, but nothing happened.
13"' ditto. Nothing occurred as it rained the whole day.
14"^ ditto. Sent an escort to the Redoubt by the river side. Nothing else transpired, as it
rained again nearly the entire day.
IS"" ditto. Maet 8eeu arrived at the Redoubt with his boat and eight soldiers and some letters
from the Heeren Councillors, dated IS"" Septemljer. Had him conducted up to the village of
Wildwyck. An ordinance is enacted by the Council of War ; it reads as follows :
" Ordinance made and enacted by the Captain Lieutenajsit and valiant
Council of War Commanding the Military troops at Wildwyck in the
Esopus.
" Whereas it is found by daily experience that several of the military do, without permission
of the Sergeant or Corporal, leave their posts or stations either to work with the farmers or on
some other pretence, Wherefore the Captain Lieutenant and valiant Council of War being
desirous to provide therefor, have ordered and directed, as they do hereby order and direct —
• 1.
" That no one shall presume to quit his post or station without permission of the Sergeant
or Corporal in command, under the penalty of twenty stivers for the first offence, 40 stivers for
the second, and arbitrary punishment for the third.
*This line leads to about Blooininburg, in the town of Mamakating, Sullivan Co., in tlie vicinity of -svliich
village it is presumed the above battle was fought. — O'C.
Kew Yorh J Historical liecords. I'. 4 1
'' No person sliall pivsiiiiie to take nr steal aiiotliur's jjiiii, powik'r nr load in any manner
whatsoever, on pain of corporal piinislmiciit, according to the gravity uf the case.
3.
" Neither shall any pereon, be he who he may, commence or begin any cpiarrel on gnard,
mncli less come drunk or to drink there, niuler a penalty of twenty stivers for each offence.
" Every one shall hold himself in readiness with his gun, duly provided witli powder and
ball, to appear immediately, or on the first command of the superior or inferior otHceu, wherever
lie may be required, then to await further orders, and whoever acts contrary or disobeys herein
shall be arbitrarily punished according to his deserts, pursuant to the sentence of the Court
Martial.
5.
" No one shall go from one guard or post to another without taking with liim his proper
hand and side arms, so that he ma^- be immediately prepared to defend himself in case of alarm,
under a penalty of twenty stivers for each offence, and as often as be shall bo found disobeying
herein. Thus done by the Cap' Lieutenant and valiant Council of War, in WUdwijcl; this 15
September, 1663."
Nothing else occurred, inasmuch as it was again rainy weather.
16"" ditto. Sunday. Noticing occurred and no detachment was sent out.
17"" ditto. Maet Seeu left again with his boat ; took with him two sick, Peter Andr lessen
and Jan Coppenou and two horses for Monsieur Yerlet and sundry empty barrels for the Hon''''
Company ; had him escorted to the Redoubt by 32 men. Tkomas the Irishman arri\'ed to-day,
at the Redoubt and a small straw cabin in which a soldier resided was burnt, but nothing can be
ascertained as to how the fire originated. Meanwhile the Soldier lost all his jiroperty. Nothing
else occurred this day.
18"" ditto. Presented the following request to the Magistrates of this vOage of Wildvn/ck :
— " Whereas the Ileer Director-General and the Heeren Councillors have written to us here that
it is their intention to send hither, by the first opportunity, additional Soldiers and a party of
Marseping savages,* to seek out and subdue as much as possible the Esojnis Indians, our enemy,
the Captain Lieutenant and CouncU of War, therefore, request the Sheriff and Commissaries of
this village of Wildwych to be pleased to allot two or three houses in this village to lodge, pro-
visionally, the aforesaid force whenever it shall arrive. This doing, our friendship shall follow.
Done, Wildivyck, IS"" Sepf 1663." Answer of the Court as follows : — " The W. Court having
looked ai'ound at the request of the Capt. Lieutenant and Council of War for proper lodgings for
the coming forces, have induced Pieter Jacoisen to give his mill for iO to 50 Soldiers, and the
W. Court will do its best to find out quarters for the savages. Done Wildwyck, this IS"" Sep-
tember 1663. (was subscribed) Roelof Swaetwout. (Lower stood) By order of the W. Court
in Wildioyclc aforesaid. Mattheds CAPrro, Secretary. Two detachments were out, to-day, with
the reapers in the field and at the Great Plot, and 20 men in ambush. Returned in the evening:
saw nothing.
19"^ ditto. Thomas the Irishman sailed for the ManJmtans ; had him escorted. Two
detachments were out in the field with the reapers, but saw nothing.
* These were Queens Co. Indians. Thompson calls them Mursepeagues, and says their principal settlement
was at Fort iV«ci. —O'C.
342 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
20"' ditto. Two detaeliments were out at the Great Plot by Tjerck's to cut oats and to
plough ; they returned in the evening having seen nothing.
2P' ditto. Two detachments went out again ; one with the ploughers, the other witii those
drawing home the oats, but they did not see any thing.
22'' ditto. Another detachment was out in the field with the ploughmen ; saw nothing.
Sent a party about midnight along the Kill where some maize lay ; distant South from Wildioyck
about 2 hours' march ; but on arriving there found only a small patch of maize, as it had all been
plucked by some straggling Indians or bears. Our people took away the remainder, but 'twas of
little value. The Indian prisoners whom we hold had first informed us, to-day, that a small spot
of corn had been planted there principally to supply food to stragglers who went to and fro to
injure the Christians. Should they come again they'll not find any food.
23* ditto. Sunday. Nothing particular. Towards evening sent a convoy to the river side
to bring up bread for the garrison. About eleven o'clock that night sent out a party to Sage/s
little kill in an easterly* direction from our village of Wildwych about three miles from our
fort, having been informed that there was some maize there, to see if they could not remove
it thence, either by land or water.
24"' ditto. Monday. The party that was sent out in the night returned home about two
o'clock in the afternoon ; they were at Sager''s Killetie, on the Indians' maize plantation, but
saw no Indians nor any thing to indicate that they had been there for a long time, for the
maize had not been hoed, {aangehoocht) and could not come to its full growth, but had been
much injured by the wild beasts ; neither will any of it reach perfection, except one plantation
which was good, having been hoed by the Indians. 'Twas, however, much injured by the wild
beasts ; each of our people brought a load of it home on his back, and left some more standing,
which we will when convenient bring hither. They also say that it is beautiful maize land,
suitable for a number of bouweries and for the immediate reception of the plough. Had an
escort in the field to bring in the oats and buckwheat, and sent one to the Redoubt, as Domine
Blom had arrived in the Spaniard's yacht, and some supplies had also been sent from the Man-
hatan's by the Ueeren Councillors for the troops in the Esopus. Otherwise, nothing particular
occurred to-day.
SS"" ditto. Had an escort in the field with the ploughmen, and sent one to the river side to
fetch up supplies or provisions. A soldier named Jurien Jansen fell out of a canoe at the
Redoubt and was drowned ; he was reaching for a squirrel and the canoe thus upset and he
■was drowned. Nothing else occurred to-day except sending some horses and wagons to Fort
Orange which were required by the owners.
26"' ditto. Lieutenant Couwenhoven arrived at the Redouht and Wildwyck with some
Marseping savages. Sent a detachment to the water side to fetch up some supplies. Inasmuch
as Lieutenant Couwenhoveri has arrived at WildwycJc, and the gunner's wife has again brought a
quantity of strong drink along, which she retails as well to Indians as to Christians, without mak-
ing any exception as to habitual drunkards, and furnishes them with so much that they cannot
distinguish even the door of the house, and then, conaing out, fight with and strike the Indians.
Therefore, desirous to prevent all mischiefs which might arise from strong drink, the rather as
an expedition is again about to set out, according to letters from the Supreme Council, and in
order to have sober and proper men to march at the first command of the ofli^ers, the Cap'. Lieu-
tenant and valiant Council of War have, for the present, sent an order to the Sheriff of this vil-
* Oostbjek. This must evidently be an error, as they could not go 3 Dutch or 9 English miles from Kingston,
iu an easterly direction. It is presumed that " northeasterly" was intended, in which direction Saugerties lies. O'C.
New Ywh Histmneal Records. 343
lage, which reads as follows — " The Cap'. Lieutenant and valiant Council of War having oi-dors
from the yupronie government to get up another expedition, and the entire military, and the Na-
tives our friends, the Marxcping Indians, heing here also holding themselves in readiness to set
out at the first connnaud of the ofticers. Tiie Cap'. Lieutenant and valiant Council of War do
therefore hereby authorize and order Siiei'ilf Swartwoiit of this villagi; to notify and forhid the
tappers or retailers of strong drink who follow the profession of selling li(p;or in this village, that
they do not luider present circumstances sell strong drink to any one, be he Christian or Indian,
under the forfeiture of the intoxicating liquor that may be found in his house. Done, Wihlwyrk,
26"' September, 1663." Meanwhile, nothing else occurred to-day.
27"' ditto. An escort was in the field with the ploughmen and one to the river side to fetch
u}) provisions. Nothing else happened.
28"* ditto. Th Council of War engaged Derrick Smith to remain at the Redouht with his
yacht until we return with the.troops from the expedition, in order to carry back the forces and
Marsejnng Indians, and agreed witli said Smith that he shall have in Seawan eight guilders liglit
money per day. A detachment was out in the field with the ploughmen ; 10 to 12 of our Indians
were out in the bush shooting. They returned in the evening; say that they have discovered
signs of where the Indians are going to. Nothing else occurred to-day.
29"' ditto. Convened the Council of War and resolved and concluded to set out on another
expedition against the J^qpt/s Indians next Monday being the 1" of Octobei-, and each man shall
be furnished with three pounds of biscuit, one pound of powder and one pound of ball for the
expedition. An order is also given to the Sheriff and Commissaries as follows — "Whereas by
ordere from the Director-General and Council of J^ ew-Netherland an expedition is about to set
out against the Esopus Indians, our enemies, and sixteen horses are required to accompany and to
be used by said expedition, the Capt. Lieutenant and valiant [Council of War,] therefor request
the Sheriff and Commissaries of this village of Wildwyck to supply said horses from the inhab-
itants by the first of October proximo, being next Monday. Done, 'Wildwych the 29"" Septem
ber 1663." A detachment was in the field with the ploughmen, and one to the river side; saw
nothing.
30"" September, Sunday afternoon, caused powder and ball to be distributed to the soldiers
and Indians ; one pound powder, one pound lead each, with three pounds biscuit for this expedi-
tion. Nothing else happened to-day.
1" October being Monday, we marched from Wildwyck with these following troops : of the
military 102 men ; of the Marseping Indians 46 men ; of the freemen 6 ; \vith 14 horses obtained
from the farmers of Wildwyck for the use of the expedition so as to be able to accommodate the
wounded, should we have any. Marched with these troops about 9 hours and arrived in the even-
ing about 7 miles from Wildwyck where we passed the night. Experienced scarcely any trouble
through the day ; had considerable rain in the night.
2'"' ditto. Started again with our troops and about two o'clock in the afternoon came to the
fort of the Esojfu-s Indians where we had attacked them on the S"" September and there found
five large pits into which they had cast their dead. The wolves had rooted up and devoured some
of them. Lower down on the Kill were four other pits full of dead Indians and we found,
further on, three Indians with a Squaw and a Child that lay unburied aiid almost wholly devoured
by the ravens and the wolves. Sent oxit, immediately a party of Diitch men and Indians four
miles beyond the fort in a south westerly direction where our guide presumed some Esopus In-
dians would be, but on coming there discovered nothing but some wigwams which had been a
long time abandoned by the Indians. Meanwhile I had been over the Kill with a party of men
344 Colonial Settlements on the Ihidson River.
and pulled off tlie corn and threw it into the Kill. The troops returned in the evening without
having seen any Indians. About two miles from the fort perceived the trail of two Indians who
had gone across the mountain ; supposed to be strange Indians ; the trail was a day old.
3'' ditto. Early in the morning despatched a party of soldiers and Indians into the woods to
see if they could not find any Indians ; sent a detachment again over the Kill to pull up the
maize and throw it into the Kill. In the afternoon sent two other detachments into the corn
fields to throw the maize into the creek, as the corn which stood about the fort was all thrown
into the Kill by the evening. After sundown our party returned without having captured or
discovered any thing.
4"* ditto. We pulled up 'the Indian fort and threw the palisades, one on the other, in sundry
heaps and set them on fire, together with the wigwams which stood around the fort, and thus the
fort and houses were destroyed and burnt. About 10 o'clock wo marched thence down along the
creek where lay divers maize plantations, which we also destroyed q,nd cast the corn into the creek.
Several large wigwams stood also there which we burnt. Now, having destroyed every thing, we
marched that day, on our return, about four miles further, where we remained with the troops
that night by a small creek, the rain falling the entire time. Two Hackinsack Indians who had
come up with the Marsepings staid behind at the fort. They told the Chief that they should
return home from thence, as they could reach Hachlnsach as soon as Esopus ; but the Chief did
not mention it to us until we had marched back some two miles. These two Indians had. each,
a gun from the Esopus, which they took away with them.
S"" ditto. Still raining incessantly ; but we again resumed our homeward march to Wildwych.
This night one of the farmers' horses strayed away ; searched for it this morning every where,
but could not find it. Meanwhile continued our march, and arrived in the evening at Wildivyek.
Saw nothing on the road. Tlie course from Wildwych to the Indians' burnt fort lies mostly South
Southwest across several large creeks, some of which are breast-high, some not so deep. The way
is very bad and hilly ; in some places is very fine land.
6"" ditto. Had two escorts to the river side ; nothing else occurred to-day.
7"" ditto. Sunday. At break of day sent out forty soldiers with twenty Indians to the /S'a(/ers
KUletje, lying easterly (Oostwaerts) from Wildwyela, where there were two fields planted with
maize, for the purpose of destroying this and throwing it into the creek ; they returned in the
evening each with a load of maize having thrown the remainder into the creek. About noon,
to-day, a girl was brought up from the Redoubt who, the day before had arrived on the opposite
bank there and was immediately conveyed across [the stream]. When the girl came to Wildwych
she was forthwith asked, where she came from? Said, she had escaped from an Indian who had
taken her prisoner, and who resided in the mountain on the other side of the creek about three
miles from Wildwych where he had a hut and a small patch of corn which he had pulled and had
been there about three weeks to remove the corn. The Council of War forthwith resolved to
send thither forty men to try and catch him, whereupon Ensign Niessen with 36 soldiers and
Lieutenant Couivenhoven with 5 Indians were ordered out. They marched from Wildwych about
noon and crossed over at the Jiedouht. They reached the hut about sunset which, having com-
pletely surrounded, they surprized, but found it empty. The Indian had abandoned it before
their arrival. They found a lot of corn near the hut, and another lot at the kill, part of which
they burned and brought a part here. Remained in the hut during tlie night and watched there.
8"" ditto. About ten o'clock the troops returned to Wildwych. Convened the Council of
War and resolved and concluded to send off Lieutenant Cduwenhomn and the Marseping Indians
and about forty of our soldiers to the Manhatans on the morrow being the ninth of October.
New Yorh Ilii^torical Records. 345
The Council of War also resolved to scud down all tho ludiau prisoners likewise to the Manhaians
beiug cleveu F.sojius ludiaus, big and little and ow^iWappimjcr^ niakiui; twelve in all, as there is
no prohahility of tlicir being redeemed here, none of tho Ksoiyus Indians cduiing here to speak
to or enquire after them. Nothing else oeeurred to-day.
9"" ditto. Lieutenant Comvcnhoven departed in Dlrick Smithes yacht, took with liiin all the
Marseping Indians and 40 of the nn'litary. Sent no escort to the river side with them. Xothing
else happened. The horse which we left on the expedition returned back to WUdwych to-day.
10"" ditto. A detachment was out in the field witli tho ploughmen — they returned about
noon as it began to rain hard. Louis, the Waloon, M'ent to-day to fetch liis o.xen which had gone
back of Juriaen Westjihaelen^s land. As he was about to drive home the o.xen, three Indians, who
lay in the bush and intended to seize him, leaped forth. When one of these shot at him with an
arrow but only slightly wounded him, Louis, having a piece of a palisade in his hand, struck the
Indian on the breast with it so that he staggered back, and Louis escaped through the kill, and
came thence and brought the news into the fort, whereupon two detachments were instantly
despatched to attack them, but they had taken to flight and retreated into the woods. And
although a party searched for them an hour they could not discover them ; they thereupon returned
to Wildwi/ck. No other harm was done by the three Indians. This evening the Company's
yacht arrived at the Eedouht. Nothing else occurred to-day.
ll"" ditto. Two detachments were in the field with the ploughmen and one in ambush;
retxu'ned in the evening without seeing any thing.
12"' ditto. Two parties were again in the field with the ploughmen. About noon, to-day,
Reyntje Pieters came from Fort Orange with his yacht in which also arrived Thomas C'hamhers
and Evert Pels. Brought news that Peter the Fleming, residing on the east shore opposite
Bethlehem had been warned by a Mohaivk to depart if he wish not to be killed, for he said that
all the Indians on the east side of Fort Orange river had assembled and were to come in five days
to attack Fort Orange. This Indian had given him this warning, he being his great Nytap * and
the Mahicanders and the Cattskill Indians had all abandoned their maize plantations ; yea, had
offered to sell divers maize plantations to the Dutch for a piece of cloth. Peter the Fleming
brought this news to Fort Orange on Monday, being the Y"" of October, the day before he left
Fort Oratuje w\\h. the yacht. Now, the result hereof time will determine. I also received a
letter from Cattskill, from Elbert Eerhertsen which I enclose to your Honors. It is dated 26""
September. In like manner Capt. TJiomas Chambers informs me that many of the Dutch of
Fort Orange are removing in canoes the corn from the Indians' plantations which had been aban-
doned by the Indians. This Mohawk had also said that five Indian Nations had assembled
together; namely the Mahicanders, the Catskills, the Wappingers, those of Esopus besides
another tribe of Indians that dwell half way between Fort Orange and Llartford. Now, time
will tell what there is herein. He said their place of meeting was on the east side of the Fort
Orange river, about three miles iidand from Claveracl; and that they were about five hundred
strong. Sent two escorts to the river side to fetch up the Hon'''" Company's goods. They
returned to Wildwyck together with the detachments that had been out in the field with the
ploughmen. Saw nothing.
IS"" ditto. The Company's yacht returned to the Manhaians ; the same day two yachts also
arrived from the Manhatans and sailed for Fort Orange, after having touched at the Redoubt.
A detachment was out in the field with the ploughmen and one in ambush, and I sent an escort
* An Algoukia word meauing, " Frieud." — O'C.
44
346 Colonial Settlements on the H^idson River.
to the river side. Tlie beer sent up by the Heer General was likewise distributed, to-day, to the
soldiers. Nothing else occurred.
14"" ditto. Sunday. Nothing to note except that I sent a convoy in the evening to the river
side to drive up some cattle which had arrived from Foi't Orange.
IS"" ditto. Communicated another Order to the W. Court i-elative to the non repairs of the
fortress of Wildwyck. It is verbally as follows :
" Whereas an Acte dated 23'' August has been communicated to the .schout and commissaries
of this village Wildwych respecting the repair of this fortress of Wildwyck and nothing resulted
therefrom to this date, the Capt. Lieutenant and Council of War do, therefore, again recommend
and order the W. Court of this village of Wildivych to cause the said fortress to be properly
secured by the Commonalty of this Village against all unexpected attacks as necessity requires it,
and the fort lies open at divers points as the W. Court can itself see in what state it at present is:
Wherefore the W. Court of this village of WildwycTc is again condescendingly requested to be
pleased to give orders to repair the above-mentioned fort in a proper manner, and in default
thereof the Capt. Lieutenant and Council of War do hereby protest, should any attack be made
by our enemies on this fortress, that they hold themselves guiltless thereof, this fortress being at
present incapable of defence — and there appears no disposition as yet to repair it — although the
said Capt. Lieutenant and Council of War will perform their duty with the force entrusted to
them by the Supreme Government and shall constantly' hold themselves in readiness, both in gar-
rison and in the field, to maintain this place for the public interest, trusting that the W. Court will
please to give order herein to their Commonalty for the proper reparation thereof, which awaiting
&c. Done, Wildwyck lo'" 8"'=' 1663."
Two convoys were out in the field with the ploughmen and one in ambush ; saw nothing
during the day. Hans the Norman arrived at the Redoubt with his yacht from Fo7't Orange ;
reports that full seven thousand Indians had assembled at Claverach, on the east side, about three
miles inland, but he knows not with what intent. Now what this can mean, whether it be true
or not, we cannot determine, but in my opinion it looks somewhat like fiction. Meanwhile,
nothing else occurred.
16"' ditto. Two detachments were again in the field with the ploughmen, and an escort was
also down to the river side. They returned and nothing else happened.
17"" ditto. Two detachments were again abroad with the ploughmen, and likewise one in
ambush and had another as an escort to the river side. Nothing occurred to-day. An Ordinance
was, this day, drawn up by the Council of War for the soldiers at the Redoubt and posted there.
It reads as follows :
Okdinancb made by the Capt. Lieutenant and valiant Council of Wak com-
manding THE military TEOOPS AT WiLDWYCK, AND DEPENDENCIES, FOR THE MILI-
TARY stationed at present AT THE E.EDOUBT.
Whereas by daily experience we learn that some remove from the Redouht to the village of
Wikliinjck without the consent or order of the Capt. Lieutenant or other officers, the Capt. Lieu-
tenant and valiant Council of War, therefore, wishing to prevent all irregularities and infractions
of military discipline herein order and direct the officer and the military under his command sta-
tioned at the Redoubt., not to remove himself, from tlie Redoubt, much less to send any of his
command hither to the village of Wildwyck without proper consent of the Capt. Lieutenant or
or other Couunander who represents him for the time, nor without being accompanied by a proper
New York Historical JRecords. 347
escort oil imiii of beiiij^ arbitrarily punished hy Court Martial. Tuus done by the Capt. Lieu-
tenant and valiant Council of War lu the fortress Wildwi/ck the 1.""' S^'", 1C63."
18'" ditto. Received an answer from the Court of this village to the order sent to them the
15"' October, respecting the nonrepair of the fortress Wildwi/ck. It reads as follows:
'"The W. Court having read the oider dated the 15"" 8^"", sent hither by the Capt. Lieutenant
to the W. Court, which is therein requested to repair and renew the palisades of this village of
Wil(lwi/ok, so that the same may be in a state of dcience, the W. Court finds that necessity re-
quires that tins villiige be projwrly secured and protected by setting up of good palisades ; the W.
Court, therefore, ordei-s and directs that each fanner shall duely set up and repair the old, with
new, palisades in front of his lot ; and the othei-s, being inhabitants or Burghers occupying 34
lots in this village, shall be obliged jn-operiy to repair and sent up new palisades in place of the
old, from the water gate along the curtains unto the lot of Arent Pietersoi Tack; the new pali-
sades being at least two feet in circumference, but the thicker the better, and 13 feet in length,
according to the circumstances of the case to be determined by the W. Court. This renewal and
setting up shall commcuce next Monday, being the 22'' October. Wherefore every inhabitant is
hereby notified to appear at 7 o'clock on the day aforesaid, at the gate near Ilendrick Jochem-
S6'n' A', there, ;is his name is called, to proceed to work aforesaid, and to continue at it until the
same shall bo completed, on pain, in case of neglect or unwillingness, of paying for the first
ofl'ence three guilders ; for the second offence double as much, and so on adding three guilders.
Thus done at the Court of the Sheriff and Commissaries of this village Wildwyck, this 16"" Oc-
tober, 1663. (Under written) By order of the Sheriff and Commissaries aforesaid. (Signed)
MATruEus Cai'ito, Secretary.
Two detachments were out in the field to-day with the ploughmen, and one at the Redoubt
by the river side. Nothing else was done to-day.
19"" ditto. Two detachments were out again with the ploughmen, and one to the river side ;
a party was, also, in ambush to make some discovery ; but did not see any thing.
20"" ditto. Three detachments were out in the field again with the ploughmen, and one in
ambush, but did not remark any thing. An escort was also down to the river side at the Redoubt.
21" ditto. Sunday ; nothing occurred.
22'' ditto. Three detachments were again out with the ploughmen, and one in ambush as
scouting. An escort was likewise sent down to the river side ; they did not see any thing.
23" ditto. Three detachments were again out with the ploughmen, but saw nothing.
24"' ditto. Two parties were again out in the field with the ploughmen, and I Wiis until even-
ing with a party in ambush, but did not perceive any thing.
25"' ditto. Two escorts were again in the field with the ploughmen, and one to the river side.
Nothing happened.
26"' ditto. An escort was in the woods with those cutting palisades, and another party was
was 111 ambush, but saw nothing.
27"" ditto. An escort was in the field with the ploughmen, and one in ambush, and another
to the river side. Nothing else was done.
28'" ditto. Sunday. Nothing occurred.
29"" ditto. Two parties were out ; one with the wood cutters, the other in ambush — but sa\v
nothing
30"' ditto. A detachment was in the woods with those cutting palisades, and a party to the
river side, and also a troop in the woods scouting ; did not see any thing.
348 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
31*' ditto. Gerrit Abel was tried before the Valiant Court Martial for his offence committed
on the 29'" October and is sentenced by tlie Court as follows :
" "Whekeas Gerret Abel being in command at tlie Redoubt, hath in contravention to the ordi-
nance dated 17"^ 8''" enacted by the Valiant Council of War and posted at the Redoubt, proceeded
to the village of Wildwyck on last Monday, the 29"' October, without leave, escort or any neces-
sary business, but merely to get drunk, as actually happened, which being notified to the Capt.
Lieutenant, he caused him to be placed under arrest, and to be tried this day, 31^' October, before
the Valiant Court Martial and prosecuted for this his committed offence, for which the Capt Lieu-
tenant demands the Valiant Council of War duly to punish the accused Gerret Abel.
" The accused gave as an excuse for his coming here to WildwycJc that he wanted to get a
skepel of wheat ground, and as it could not be immediately ground for him, he was to a friend's
with whom he drank half a pint. And the accused having heard the charge aforesaid, acknowl-
edges to have transgressed the ordinance above mentioned, and supplicates herein, not justice,
but mercy.
" The Valiant Council of War having maturely considered this matter; that a soldier and
more especially one who is m command over others hath deserved punishment for his committed
offence according to the complaint and confession ; seeing that the prisoner's e.xcuse hath no
foundation, sentence the accused Gerret Abel, to be dismissed from his post of Cadet {Adelborsi)
and to be reduced to the ranks {Schildergastendienst te doeti) at Sfl. per month, and to remain at
the Redoubt until further orders, he Gerret Abel being unfit to perform the duty of Cadet. Done
at Wildwyck the 31"" October, 1663. (Subscribed) Marten Cregiee, Christiaen Niessen,
Thomas Chambers, Evert Willem Munnick, Jan Peersen, Jonas Rantson."
Same day, a detachment was out in the woods ^nth the wood cutters and one in ambush
scouting, but they did not see any thing.
November the 1". A party was in ambush, and a detachment with the wood cutters ; saw
nothing.
2'"' ditto. A detachment was out with the wood cutters and another in ambush to scout.
3"^ ditto. A detachment was down at the river side to carry rations to the people at the
Redoubt, and another party was at the Great Plot, but did not notice any thing.
4"" ditto. Sunday. Nothing done.
5'° ditto. An escort was down to the river side to bring up some supplies and people that
had arrived from the Manhatans in Lucassen^s yacht, they being freemen belonging to Wild-
wyck. A party was also out in the bush with the wood cutters. Nothing else happened.
C"' ditto. Ordered two soldiers to accompany Arent Moesinan to Beeren island near Fort
Orange.* An escort was also to the river side and being near the Redoubt lay there in ambush
until the evening, but saw nothing. Another party 25 in number was at the Great Plot ; they
returned in the evening, without having remarked any thing.
T"" ditto ; Wednesday. This being a day of Prayer {Bededag) nothing was done. In the
evening Picter Wolfe rt8ens.vv\ve(\. at the Redoubt with Rut Jacobsen^s yacht ; brought with him two
Christian children wliich he had in exchange from the Esopus Indians for a Squaw with a big
girl ; brought back the other Indian prisoners ; brought also the Wappinger Sachem whom
Couwenhoven had detained in the yaclit ; says a Christian woman is kept a prisoner by the Wap-
pingers, and that he had detained the chief in her stead until they shoiild surrender the Christian
woman. Nothing else occurred. Sent an escort to the river side to bring up the two captive
children. Couwenhoven said that he has concluded a ten day's truce with the Esopus Sachem.
* This island is opposite Coeymans. — 0"C.
New Yorh Historical Jieconk. 349
S"" ditto. Have been, myself, with an escort to the river side to bring up to WildwycJc the
£sqpus Indiiin prisoners & the children with the Wapjnngcr Indian (•;ii)tive, being iu all 9 in
number. On arriving at the shore, found the Wapjrhxjer chief and also one of his Indians on
board RiitJac<A>Miis yacht. Asked Lieutenant Couwcvkfyven, what were these two Indians for?
Said it was the Sachem of the Wupjnnijem with one of his Indians wliotn he had brought along
but not as a prisoner — -had come wilhngly on board as a friend. Asked him. If he would wish
to return home and endeavor to let us have the female Christian captive ? To which he answered,
yes ; says, he will bring her himself iu six or seven days. Whereupon the Council of War
decided that he and the Indian with him, sliould be released, and as they were at present our
friends and had reneweil peace we promised him if he brought back the Christian woman we
should then let his brother go together with another prisoner. Whereunto he said, ' Tis well ;
gave liiin a bark amoe it let him go. Nothing else happened to-day as it rained unceasingly.
9"" ditto. It still rained considerably. Sent an escort to the river side ; Jint Jacobseii sailed
with his yacht for Fort Orange. Nothing else happened.
10"' ditto. A detachment was out with the wood cutters ; nothing elscd occurred.
ll'" ditto. Sunday, nothing was done except sending a party to the river side with bread
for the people iu the Redoubt.
12"' ditto. A detachment was out in tlio busli witli the woodcutters. Nothing else tran-
spired.
13"" ditto. The Company's yacht arrived ; brings some provisions for the garrison ; also arrived
at the Redoubt a Wappinger Saehem with eight Indians, bringing a female Christian captive
whom he had purchased from the Ulsopus Indians and which he had promised us on the 8""
inst. on board Rut Jacohson^s yacht. The Council of War resolved that he and his attending
Indians should be brought up to Wildwyck ; they were accordingly conducted up by Lieutenant
Couwenhoveti and Captain Thomas Chambers and brought to Wildwi/ck. Sent for him to the
Council of War and asked, what he had to communicate ? He answered, I am come to perform
my promise which I gave on board the yacht at the Redoubt, to bring in the Christian woman
whom I bought from the £soj>us Squaw, and I bring and present her to you now, because we
are both friends. Whereupon we thanked liim and said, that we should speak together on the
morrow. Lodged them in Capt. Chambers house and had food furnished them. Meanwhile a
detachment went down to the river side. Otherwise nothing occurred to-day.
li"' ditto. The Council of War met again and resolved to release the Wappinger Indian,
and to give him back to the Chief with one of the Esopnis captive Squaws, pursuant to our pre-
vious promise, made on the eighth of November to the Wappinger chief, on board the j-acht at
the Redoubt. Invited the chief and his Indians into the Council chamber and presented him the
Esopus Squaw and a little sucking infant, whicli they took ; presented him also with two pieces
of cloth in token of friendship. The chief then requested that we should live with him in friend-
ship, which should be preserved by him. He gave us, in token thereof, a bow and arrow and said,
I will not make war against the Dutch, but live in peace with them. We promised him likewise ;
gave each other the hand, and the said chief promised us to do his best to obtain back for us all
the ]>risoners from the Ksopus Indians that a mutual exchange should be made ; for to morrow
being Thuisday, the Esopus Sachem would then come with the prisoners according to the promise
he gave Lieutenant Couwenhoven and the provisional truce agreed upon for ten days with him,
for he had promised to fetch the Christian prisoners to the Redoubt in the space of ten days, to
be then exchanged one for the other. Now, what the result will be, when the ten days are
expired, time will tell So they again departed well satisfied. Gave them an escort to conduct
350 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
thein to the river side, and tlie Council resolved that the sloop shall remain until the expiration
of the time agreed ujjon between Lieutenant (Jouwenhoven and the Esopus Sachem on the 5""
November, on board tlie sloop in the Wappinger Creek, to wit : that the Esopus chief should
bring up all the Christian prisoners to the Redoubt to exchange them then, one for another,
whereupon a ten days' truce w;is mutually agreed to. A soldier named Jurien Helm died to-day.
An escort was also down to the river side. Notliing else occurred to-day.
15'" ditto. A vessel arrived from Fort Orange with cattle; sent a convoy to the river side.
Nothing else happened.
16'" ditto. Another detachment was down to the river. A yaclit bound for the Manhatans
arrived from Fort Orange to-day. Nothing else occurred.
IT"" ditto. Arranged every thing in order and departed with some of the Military for the
Manhatans leaving in Wildicyck about sixty soldiers under tiie conunand of Ensign Christiaen
Niessen*
18"' Sunday. After Capt Lieutenant Martin Gregiers departure yesterda}-, Jan Hendrich-
sen Van Baal came the fourtli person up tt) Wildwyck. He arrived from the Manhatans in ]VI^
Ahrahain's** yacht and reported that two Dutchmen were killed by the savages between Gem-
onapa\ and the maize land. Had them escorted, on tlieir i-eturn, to the river side. Nothing else
occurred.
19'" ditto. Sent another party to the Redoubt and had provisions brought up. Discharged
one man at the Redoubt and sent two others thither ; also, distributed powder to the men, half
a pound to each. Notliing else done.
20'" ditto. Sent a detachment to the woods to draw out timber. This was all that occurred.
21^' ditto. Notliing happened.
22'' ditto. Sent a detachment to the river side. Otherwise nothing occurred.
-23'^ ditto The only thing done to-day was to send another party to the river side with
grain.
24'" ditto The yachts of lieyndert Pieterson and the Spaniard arrived at the Redoubt ;
seut an escort thither. No other occurrence took place.
25'" ditto. Sunday. Nothing happened.
26'" ditto. Sent down an escort to the river side to fetch up the Hon"'" Company's sup-
plies. No other circumstance occurred.
27'" ditto. Sent another convoy to the river side to take down grain. Otherwise noth-
ing happened.
28'" ditto. About one o'clock in t;he afternoon a Wappinger Indian came to Wildwyck with
a flag of truce; reports that a Wappinger Sachem lay at the river side near the Redoubt with
venison and wished to have a wagon to convey the venison up for sale, which was refused. The
said Indian told uie that the Sachem had not much to say ; added further, that the IlaA^ingsack
Indians had represented that four of the Esopns Indians, prisoners in our hands, had died.
Whereupon the Indian prisoners were brouglit out to the gate to him, to prove to him that they
were still living and well. Sent him down inimediately to his Sachem at the river side, to say to
him that we should come to him to-morrow.
29"' ditto. At day break had notice given that tliose who were desirous of purchasing
venison from the Indians should go along with the escort to the river side. Accompanied the
*That part of the Journal between asterisks is by Eusigii Niesseu. — O'C.
*♦ Abraham Staats .
\ Now Communipaw N. J.
New Yorh Hhtovical liecords. 351
detachment to the shore and conversed with the Sachem in the presence of Capt Thomas Cham-
hers and Sergeant Jan Peersen. lie said, he had been to receive tiie Ciiristian prisoners and
shoukl have liad tiiem with us before, iiad he not vinfortunateiy oiunt hiniselt in his sleep wlien
lying before the tire ; shewed us his buttock witli the mark of the burn whicii was very large ;
Also said, that six Christian captives were together at the river side, and gave ten fatiiom of
Sewan to anotlier Indian to look up the seventli Christian wlio is Albert Jleyinati's oldest daugh-
ter, promising us positively that he should restore all the Christian prisoners to us in the course
of three days, provided it did not blow too hard from the North ; otherw-ise, he could not come
before the fourth day. We, then, parted after he had, meanwhile, sold his venison. He left
immediately in his canoe.
30"'. Sent an escort to the river side with grain. Nothing else occurred.
1»' December. The only circumstance that happened to-day w-as the sending away the three
Indians with a letter to the Hon"" Ileer Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, to
wliom the following was written in haste.
"Noble, Respected, Right honorable, Wise, Prudent and most discreet Lords-
" To be brief, we could not omit advising Your Honours that three Indians arrived here yes-
terday, being come, as they said, from the Manhatans, with an open letter, being a pass not to
commit any hostility against their people to this date. But we cannot determine what sinister
design these Indians may have recourse to under cover of this pass. We maintain that such and
other Indians resort here with such passes, to spy out this our place. Meanwhile, we being on
our guard, placed sentinels everywhere before them, to prevent them passing through the village
to examine and pry into it, as they are strongly inclined to do. In the meantime we inform your
Honours that on the day before yesterday the Wajipinger Sachem 'came with venison to the Re-
douht, and we have had a talk with him, and he promised us, among other things, to bring us
hither all the Christian prisoners, within three or four days, according to the entries in our daily
journal which your Honors shall receive from us by the first Yacht. Done, Wildwych this first
December 1(563. (Was subscribed) Christiaen Niessen, Thomas CnAxmERs."
2'^ ditto. Sunday. Nothing happened, except that on account of the hard frost, I requested
the skippers of the vessels to go down to the liedoiibt to examine their Yachts which they con-
sented to do. In the afternoon, after the Sermon, sent a party to the shore to take down grain
and to put it on board.
S** ditto. The military Council having met, the following resolution w-as adopted : —
" Ensign Christiaen Niessen proposes to send down, pursuant to despatches from the Hon'"''
Director General and Council, the saddles, pistols, holsters and carbines, the best whereof was left
by Capt. Lieutenant Martin Cregier and remains with the Clerk, Mattheus Capito, as appears
also by letters from the Capt. Lieutenant aforesaid together with the three metal guns and their
accoutrements as they were used in the field, and also one sail.
" The Military Council decided that it was impossible, in view of the approaching winter, to
send the articles down at present as here at Wzldwi/ck we have no smith sufliciently expert to
repair the arms, and as the Wappingers come almost daily under pretence of exchanging Christians,
to spy out this place which already hath suffered massacre enough, and consequently, if the arti-
cles in readiness were sent away (which would be publicly seen by other tribes of Indians) two
massacres (whicli God forbid !) may occur through want of all adequate means, save God's Provi-
dence.
((2nd\y_ "pjjg Ensign aforesaid moves, inasmuch as the setting out of the palisades is found
as yet to be for the greater part inadequate and not in accordance with the Capt. Lieutenant's
352 Colonial SetilemenU on the Hudson River.
request, and as in many places palisades have been removed from the curtains and not replaced by
others, much less attention paid to setting out the same, to the imminent ruin and destruction of
this village of Wildwych, which God forfend ; and demands further tliat the inhabitants of
Wildwyck may be notified by the "W. Court to put the fort in a suitable state of defence within
the space of three days, and in default or neglect thereof, that he do it with the best means he
may at present find at hand, and demand repayment therefor when done from the W. Court at
Wildwyck.
" The Military Council unanimously resolved that for the due execution of said proposal, it
be forthwith communicated to the W. Court in Wildioyclc, and that they answer the same without
delay. (Signed) Thomas CnAirBERs, Hendeick Jochems, Jan Peersen, Eveet Pels, Jonas
Rantsou, Walean du Mond, Antonie delava."
Also, sent a convoy down in the morning with grain to the river side, which on returning
brought up the Wapjnnger Sachem and his wife, and Sjdiitwse, the Indian last taken by us.
Which Sachem brought with him two captive Christian children, stating to lis that he could not,
pursuant to his previous promise of the 29"" November, bring along with him the remainder,
being still five Christian captives, because three were at their hunting grounds, and he could not
find them, but tliat another Indian was out looking for them ; the two others are in his vicinity,
the Squaw who keeps them prisoner will not let them go, because she is very sick and hath no
children, and expects soon to die ; and when he can get Albert Heymaii^s oldest daughter, who is
also at the hunting ground, and whom he hath already pui'chased and paid for ; then he shall
bring the remainder of the Christian captives along. For the two Christian children which he
hath brought with him, an Indian child is given him, being a little girl, and three pieces of cloth,
with which he was content. In the afternoon, Jeronimus Ehhing, Nicolaes Meyer and Frederick
the rion'"''^ Company's late carpenter, went down unescorted to the Bedouht, with six wagon loads
of grain, not being willing to wait for the writings and letters which should be sent b}' them to
the Heeren Director General and Council of N. Netherland ; and the Skipper Lvcas Andr lessen,
also, said that he would not wait for the Director General's nor any man's letters but be off, as the
wind was fair.*
19'-'' ditto. About three o'clock in the afternoon we started from the JIanhaians ior the
Esopus in the Hon*'* Company's Yacht, with a W. S west wind ; arrived that night at Ta\^i->pan-\
hook, where ^ve cast anchor as it was calm and the ebb was running against us.
20'*" ditto. Weighed anchor about eight o'clock and drifted upward with the flood, but about
10 o'clock the wind came up from the north — so that we could make sail and weathered the High-
land to-day, where we came to anchor anew, as the flood was again gone ; saw an Indian paddle
across the river in a canoe, but he was a full half mile from us. Nothing else occurred to-day.
21^' ditto. The flood set in about two hours before day ; ran ihrow^^x t\\Q Highlands ; having
got through which, we caught a southern breeze but at day break it became calm again ; so ran
by the Karaer and arrived this niglit about 10 o'clock at the mouth of the Esopus Kill. Des-
patched a man up with a note to Ensign Nyssen to send down some wagons in tlie morning with
an escort to convey up the rion"'* Company's supplies which were sent for the garrison.
22d''. About 9 o'clock the escort arrived at the beach with the wagons ; entered the Kill with
the yacht in order to discharge the goods; remained this night in the Kill in front of the Jiedouht ;
it froze during the niglit so hard that the yacht was hemmed in by the ice ; arrived at Wildwyck
about noon ; sent a convoy to haul stone.
» Capt. Cregier now resumes and concludes the Journal. — O'C.
i\W Yorl Jlistorical llecords. 353
23* ditto. Sunday. No business.
24"' ditto. Monday. Assembled tlic SlierifT and Commissaries of tlic village Wildn^ijck
and handed them the letter sent to them by the Ilon''''^ Direetor-Geuend and Council and dis-
charged Sheritl Swartwout from his office and put [Mattheus CapitoJ i)rovisionally in his place
and presented hira to the Court of Wildwyclc according to order, whom the siiid Conmiiesaries
congratulated and were well pleased with ; they promised honestly to obey what the IJeer Direc-
tor-General and Council have been pleased to order. A party was sent to the Great Plot to cut
oats which happened to be late in ripening, as an opportunity now presented to cut it and draw
it home. The farmers thrashed some of it also, and the viJ7ti [a hundred and four sheafs] pro-
duced fi\'e skepels of clean oats.
25"' ditto. Tuesday. Nothing happened except that Iteyntje Pieters came from the river
side : he informs us the l:ill at the Redoubt was still fast.
26"' ditto. No occurrence.
27"" ditto. A party was out on the Great Plot hauling stone ; nothing else occurred.
28"' ditto. The Captain and Lieutenant of the Biu-ghcry of WiUiri/ck requested to have a
drum according to the promise given them by the Heer General. By permission of the Military
Council a drum and appurtenances were given to the officers of the burghery of Wildwyck. A
party was down to the river side to see if circumstances would admit of the sloop leaving the
kill. The party returned and stated that there was no way as yet to go out of the kill.
28"'. The officers of the Burghery presented a petition ; it reads as follows : — "We the
undersigned, Tomas Chandjrets Captain and Ilendrick Jochenus, Lieutenant of the Burghery in
Wildwi/cA; hereby request the Hon'''" Yaliant Heer Marten Kregier, Cap*^ Lieutenant to be pleased
to furnish a keg of gunpowder with lead in proportion on the village account, to be distributed
and used in time of need for the safety of this place, and we await your Hon" favorable answer.
Done Wiltioych this 28'" Xber 1663. (Signed) Tomas Cuajlbres, Hendrick Jochkms. The
answer thereto is as follows — Petitioners' request is granted. "Whenever they require it at the
public expense or for their own defence, it shall be furnished them from the Hon''" Company's
Magazine by the officer who M-ill be here. Done, Wiltwych this 28"' December, 1663.
29"' ditto. The Military Council resolved to issue an Ordinance against the gunners who
usually rnn about firing on New Year's day or night, which was also publislied and affixed. It
reads as follows : —
" ^Vhereas we find by Experience that some persons presume from year to 3'ear to discharge
guns on the day of the new incoming year thus wasting powder unprofitably both in the morning
and throughout the day and sometimes to the great danger of each other and to their own de-
struction, both in wounding or destroying their own persons which frequently occure there fi-om ;
and whereas there are here many ricks and barns full of grain and straw, and as great disorder
and rashness prevail in many places especially on this day, both in the raoniing and throughout
the day, by firing of guns which is practised and prevails more particularly in this place on the
above mentioned New Year's day. Therefore the Captahi Lieutenant and valiant Council of
"War order and forbid all pei-sons whom it may concern that no one shall presume on New Year's
day, being the first of January to discharge any gun or other fire arms in front of any houses or
any other places where it is not absolutely necessary, unless for some approaching enemies, and
that under the penalty of six guilders for each shot fired by the person. Both the Sheriff and
military officers are ordered to pay strict attention hereunto so that this our order may be duly
obeyed. Thus done and enacted by the Captain Lieutenant and Valiant Council of "War in Fort
Wiltwick this 29'" X"" 1663."
45
354 Colonial SettleinentH on the Hudson River.
Have been down witli a party to the river side to bring away the guns and other munitions
of war. Nothing else occurred.
30"'. Sundaj'. Nothing done as it rained almost the entire day and the Kill became again
open.
SP'. Left the Esojius again in the Hon''"' Company's Yacht for the Manhatans, the wind
Southerly. Weathered the Long Reach where ■we came to anchor in the night about twelve
o'clock.
1664. 1st January. The wind continuing southerly, tacked to-day as far as the entrance of
the nighlMnds where we anchored about 9 o'clock in the evening ; the flood being spent weighed
anchor and passed through the Iliyhlancls where we again cast anchor.
2"'. Weighed anchor again, and drifted with the ebb as far down as Tapjpaen.
3^. Having weighed anchor again, drifted down anew with the ebb to the end of Manhat-
ans island, where we made sail about 8 o'clock in the morning, the wind being westerly, and
arrived about twelve o'clock at the Manhatans.
MIktin Kkeuiee.
Letter from Ensign Niessen at the Esopos to Director Stutvesant ; depakt-
DRE of Capt. Cregier; great sickness on the Esopus.
Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Your Hon'''"' Worships' favor of the 29"' of December last has come to hand and its contents
are well understood. 1 have to say in answer, that Captain Lieutenant Marten Cregier left here
in the Hou'''^ Company's yacht on the 31=' of December, taking with him 7 soldiers from the gar-
rison, in place of which one remained here. There are many sick here among the military as
well as the inhabitants of a strange disease. In case your Hon''''' Worships should be pleased to
send here further orders by a savage for the return of soldiers overland to the Manhatans, then
I shall obey it, but as some have now already gone down with the Captain Lieutenant and some
are sick here, I do not clearlj^ understand your Ilon'''^ Worships' order, whether some more
soldiers shall go overland to the Manhatans. The letters sent to me shall be dispatched immedi-
ately to Fort Orange with two Dutchmen. I could not find savages here to employ on such an
errand. The letters were brought by two savages, one called Hastang, the other Waniassaan, a
Wajypinger, as he says, who came in place of the dispatched savage Neshahetssin. We find that
this Wa7nassaan has had part in the murder here, he took prisoner the son of Derick Jochemsen.
Meanwhile we shall be on our guard as much as possible. Closing with sincere salutations I com-
mend your Hon''"' Worships to the protection of God Almighty. Actum at WUtwycl; 4""
Jannai-y Anno 1664.
Your Honoral)le Worships'
humble and obedient servant
Christian Nyssen.
To their Honors, the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Di-
rector-General and Council of New-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherlard.
I^ew YofJc Historical Itecords. 355
LETiiat FROM Messes. La Montaone and van Rknssklakb to Directou Stuvve-
sant; the Mohawks' expedition into Maine.
Iloiionible. Veiy Worsliipful Director-CTCuonil and (\)uiicil of New-NetJun-lcmd.
On the 11"' and 12"" of last December a war-party of Maquaes, Sinnekua and Onondaken
came here from the Northern savanjcs, called Onojalce, they passed through liere in detachments
and left without causing trouble or doing iiarm to any one. To our questions as to
their designs they told ns, that some of their men had been killed and wounded ; 20 had been
wounded of the 2laquaes and Sinnekus and 30 or 40 of the Northern savages had been killed ;
besides these two of the Oiwjake have been , after the}' had together resolved outside
of the fort . . . . , they went out with presents, to negotiate with the 2IaquacH about a
peace; the Maqiiaes accepted it M-ithout however tlie consent of ilxa Sinnekus ; tiicrcfore some
of the Sinnekus and Onondakes started and said to the 21aijuaes, We from the Onondakc will go
and see, where tiie Northern savages live, to which the 2[aiiuacs answered. We liave not resolved
to storm tlieir castle, for it is strong and cannot be taken by us, but finally pereuaded by the Sin-
nekus the Jlaijuacs too went and attacked the castle by storm ; here they lost tlie greatest number
of their men. We hope to receive information from your Honors, how matters stand with the
savages there and at the ^qpii/i and with other people having evil designs against the province of
jWnv-Ji'etherland, so that we may govern ourselves : we trust however that every thing is quiet.
Closing we hope that his Honor, the General, is again quite well and with wishes for a happy
New Yciir and our cordial greetings we commend your Honors to God's protection and remain
Your Honors' aflfectionate friends
J^ori Orange La Montagne
the 8"" January 166i. Jeeemias van Rensselaeb.
Tour Honors, While closing this By order of the two
letter two soldiers arrived here from Courts of JFo?'t Orange and
the Esoj)its with letters to private par- the Colony of Eensselaerswyck
ties from there as well as from the Johannes Pkovoost Clerk
Manhatans. We hear that every thing D. V. Schellutne Secre-
is well there, praise to God ! tary of the Colony,
Tour Honors will please to despatch 1664.
again quickly the savage, who brings
this and to remember to pay him as
reward a sailor's rug and 20 guilders in wampum,
for he was engaged for the journey down and back
for 100 gmlders in wampum or its value to liis benefit.
Letter from Ensign Ntssen to Directoe Stuyvesant; the sickness at the
Esopus increases.
Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Gentlemen.
I cannot let this present chance by the savage messenger from Fort Orange pass by, without
informing your Hon"'* Worships, that our condition here lias not changed ; the disease here doe
356 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
not diminish, but increases daily ; it is a strange disease ; but the Almighty's will be done. Mean-
while I commend your Hon'"^ "Worships to God's protection and remain with cordial greetings
Actum Wiltwycl; Your Hon''"^ Worships
the ll"" of January 1664. humble servant
Christian Nyssen.
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Director-General
and Council of New-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam.
Extract from a Letter of Director Stutvesant to the co0rt8 of Fort
Orange and Rensselaerswyck ; the Mohawks' losses in Maine ; the dis-
persing OF the Esopus Indians, 2P' January 1664.
Honorable, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Your Honors' favor of the S**" inst. has been duly received on the 17"' ; we note from it
especially the bad success of the Maquaes and Sinnekus against their enemies, the Northern
savages. It must be presumed, that they have lost more men than they say or try to make your
Honors believe ; the rumor here was, that the Maquaes and Sinnekus had lost about 2 or 3 hun-
dred. God may give his blessing and grace, that your Honors may remain unmolested by the
war-parties there ; the worst of this war is, that we can expect only little trade, as long as this
war between the natives lasts and it would be therefore best to pacify them by intervention.
We could not hear or learn anything from the Esopus savages for a long time, except that
they are scattered here and there among other tribes, who have to support them, for they have
nothing to eat, their corn is ruined; one of their chiefs has been at HacMnghsacky and through
the chief there and the chiefs of Staten- Island has most instantly asked for peace promising to
return the few Christian prisoners, still among them, within two months. We have granted him
an armistice for that time. If in the meantime your Honors could learn something about their
situation and disposition through others, please to inform us in due time.
Ordinance erecting a Court of Justice for Staten-Island, passed 28^" January 1664.
(Laws of New-Netherland, p. 458.)
CouNciL-MrNUTE. Order for the construction of a redoubt in the Newesinghs.
28*'' January.
It having been stated, that the rumors are still current, according to which the English fi-om
Gramesend and some other vagabonds intend to go to the Newesinyhs early in the spring and tiike
Kew Yorh Historical Records. 057
possession of the land there, tl»e Director-General and Council have resolved, to send there a
party by the first convenient opportunity and favorable weather, who is to look up the situation
and conveniences and choose a proper place to build a redoubt or a block house and garrison it
(as far as circumstances will allow), at least until further advices from the Fatherland. Adij ut
supra.
P. SrUYVEBANT.
NiCASICS DE SiLLE.
C. V. RUYVEN.
PirnTION OF RoELOFF SWARTWOUT TO BK REINSTATED IN HIS OFFICE AS ScHOUT AT
WiLTWTCK AND ORDER GRANTING IT.
l-t"" February To the Noble, A^ery Worsliijifnl,
Honorable Director-General
and Council of New-Nether-
land.
Shows with all humility Roeloff Swartwoid, who has served as Schout in the -snllage of Wdt-
wych on the great £i<oj)iis, but was suspended for reasons by your Honorable "Worships, that he,
the petitioner, has before now informed your Hon'"'^ Worships by an humble petition, that he had
been induced by fair words, pereuasions and impositions to sign a certain document, known to
your Hon'"''' Worships and whereas the petitioner after further thinking of it perceives, that by
signing the same officiaUy he has made n grave mistake, which he regrets from the bottom of his
heart to have done, and that on account of it he may get into difficulties, unless he is pardoned by
your Honorable Worships' special grace, therefore he, the petitioner, humbly turns to your Hon*'"
Woi-sliips praying and requesting that your Hon""' Worshijis will first please to consider, that the
said error of signing was not committed by the petitioner intentionally, but through credulousness
and upon persuasion, while he confesses, that he could not distinguish the office of an executive
officer from that of a Commissary ; on the other side your Hon''"' Worships will please to take into
consideration, that the petitioner, (it is said without boasting) has heretofore never forgotten
himself, but has always acted honestly and piously ; tliirdly your Hou'''° Worships' attention is
called to the fact, that the petitioner is burdened with a wife and eight small children and has
perfomied the Sellout's duties all through the war and the troubles on the £soj?us, hoping, that
some time after the end of these troubles the place would increase in wealth and population and
that he would reap more profit and advantages from his office as Schout than heretofore ; he, the
petitioner, has employed and consumed all his little means and if your Hon*'" Worships should
resolve to dismiss him from the place, which he trusts will not be done, he would be reduced to
poverty, misery and hardship. Whereas the petitioner really needs and requires the emoluments
and profits of the said Schout's office, to support his large family and to protect and maintain
honorably his little property, therefore he very humbly prays and requests, that your Hon*'®
Worships will please to pity and commiserate him and pardon his aforesaid error with special
grace, reinstating the petitioner in his fonner position as Schout and giving him a letter of pardon
in optima J'armd, while he, the petitioner, promises to serve as Schout honestly and faithfully,
with due regard and obedience to his superiors and courtesy, urbanity, modesty, temperateness and
simplicity towards the inhabitants there. He hopes to perform henceforth his aforesaid duties in
358 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
such a manner, that your IIoii"'" Worships will uot only have reason to continue hira, but also to
promote him. Which doing he remains
Tour Noble, Worshipful Honors'
humble subject
HoELOFF SWAETWOTJT.
The Director-General and Council of Neio-Netherland received and read the humble petition
of lioeloff Swartwout, M'ho has served as Schout in the village of Wiltioyck and was suspended
for reasons, as he confesses, that he has made a grave mistake by not obeying the orders of the
Director General and Council and regrets having done so, asking that the error committed by
him might be forgiven ; therefore, although the unfitness of the said lioeloff Swartwout to act
as Schout to the advantage of the Plon"''' Company and the good inhabitants has several times
become apparent, the Director-General and Council graciously forgive this time, in the hope of
amendment, the committed error and reinstate the said Swartwout into the office of Schout.
Actum 2^01't Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 14"' February A° 1664.
Minutes of Council. Complaint of a Tappaan Indiaj; against Jacob Wolphert-
SEN VAN CoUWENHOVEN FOB NOT GIVING UP HIS GUN, PAWNED FOR LIQUOR. ThE
Newesinghs land and the English.
16'" February, Saturday (1664).
Present in Council his Noble Honor, the Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant, the Hon*"'
Fiscal Nicasius de Sille and Captain Lieutenant Marten Cregier.
Unsichan, a savage from Tappaan, complains that he bought from Jacob Wolphertsen and
his wife Z^ cans of brandy in the month of September, for which he paid in wampum and that
afterwards he bought again from the said Wolphertsen \^ cans of brandy, but as he then had no
wampum he left his gun in pawn with the Couwenhovens. Coming later to ]3ay for the brandy
and take his gun, he was told, that another savage had come and fetched it.
Hastangh, a Hachingh savage, declares, that Pojpemoor, one of the Newesingh Sachems,
has been at Gravesend 10 days ago and said there to the English, he did not want to sell the
Newesingh lands to the Dutch of the Manhatans, but would sell it to the English, whereupon
the English gave him a roll of tobacco.
The Director-General and Council take up again the resolution of the 28'* of January, con-
cerning the occupation of the Newesingh country and find it necessary to carry the same into
effect, because the rumors still continue, that some EnglishTnen have made up their minds, to
settle there ; to send the yacht there, if the M'eather is favorable next Monday, for the purpose
of selecting a good place and then to send 20 or 24 men there, who shall take possession of it.
Adij ut sujjra.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the Magistrates at Wiltwtck; restora-
tion OF Sheriff Swartwout ; recall of the military ; Indian affairs.
Honorable, Beloved, Faithful friends.
This letter serves above all as a safe-conduct for the bearer lioeloff Swartwout, whom wo
have again appointed to his former position he having made his submission and for other reasons.
New Yorlc Ilistoncal Records. 359
You will therefore accept and recognize him as before and assi.-t him in every way in the execu-
tion of his duties, as it is proper.
The public service, which has always the precedence of private affairs, requires the recall to
this place of 30 or 40 soldiei-s, whom wc therefore ex])ect without delay by the yacht specially
sent for them. As there is no peace concluded yet with the savages, for which wo have never-
theless good liopcsand as they are savage, barbarous people upon whose woi-d little or almost no
reliance can be placed, as you have felt to your damage 2 or 3 times, we must recommend you, to
keep a good watch with your inhabitants and the few remaining soldiers and not to trust any
savage, much less allow them to come into the settlements, except perliaps one or two and as soon
as they are inside the gates, they must be taken into one or the other house and remain there until
their departure, so that they arc not allowed to inspect the place or discover the strengtli of the
military. As it is further not our intention, to place the village and its inhabitants again in danger,
but in case no peace is made to assist you again with some military, we shall leave it to the better
infonnation of our Commandant and yourselves, whether it is not best to carry no grain to the
Redoubt until further orders, which shall be sent immediately after expiration of the armistice
and the return of the yachts. We await hereupon your earliest possible advice and answer, and
in that reliance we remain etc*.
IS"- Februarv.
Letter from the s^sjme to Ensigx Xyssen at the Esopus ; orders to send
DOWN soldiers ; Indian affairs.
Honorable, Valiant Sir. ,
These few lines serve as cover for the enclosed list, according to which you wall send down
the men named therein upon receipt of it. If the yacht is prevented by ice from coming into
the Kil, then you must send them overland to where the yacht lies with their empty bed ticks
and a blanket for every one ; their remaining movables and baggage to follow by the next yacht
or perhaps it may remain there until further orders. "We have recommended to the Commissaries,
that the inhabitants and the few remaining soldiers shall keep good watch and not let any savages
come into the settlements, anyway never more than 2 or 3 and to take these, as soon as they enter
the fort, into one or the other house and keep them there until their departure. "We have also
referred it to their opinion and recommended not to convey any grain to the Redoubt, until you and
they shall have received further orders from us, as to the result of the armistice, which you will
know by the very first opportunity, at the latest by the return of this yacht. You are meanwhile
charged to be well on your guard and to keep good watch, wherewith etc".
18'" February 1664.
On account of the sudden frost, the foregoing letter has been brought
To Ensign Niesen. back, as the yacht could not get in the Esopus for the ice.
MrsTTE OF CorNCiL, that Samtel Edsal had employed four men on his farm
AT Bergen. Order appointing trustees for an estate at Nooetwyxk.
2P' February, Thursday.
Present in Council, the Hon'"''' Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant and Fiscal Nicadus de
sale.
360 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The wife of Samuel Edsal produced an order from the Sehoiit of the village of Bergen, by
"which she was directed to send another man there.
It was ordered, as follows :
Our abovesaid friend appeared before our Secretary and declared, she had there four men
able to work on her lands, namely the farmer and his servant and two soldiers on furlough. If it
is so, the Director-General and Council consent, that during her husband's absence she may go on
with them, without being troubled about sending any more men until her husband's return.
Adij ut supra.
Whereas in the newly commenced settlement of Nooi'tioyck on the Northriver a farmer,
caWeA. Theunissen Bastiaenseyiirom. . . has just died, who left a young son, by name of . . ,
about 8 years old, the Director-General and Council of Nev)-Netherland request and authorize
hereby Mr. Paulus Leendertsen van der Grist, present Burgomaster, and Mr. Allard Anthony,
ex-Burgomaster of this City of Amsterdam and Co-Patroons of the said new settlement to act as
guardians and trustees for the aforesaid orphaned child and promote its welfare as much as possible,
also to take an inventory of the property of the said Theunissen Bastiaensen, if he left any, and
to use and dispose of it to the best advantage of the child, as it seem proper and expedient to
them. Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in New-NetJierland, the 21"' February 1664.
Petition of the commissioners for the erection of a blockhouse at Bergen, to
have certain orders made by them confirmed and answer of the council. '
Copy. To the Noble, Very Worshipful,
Honorable Director-General
and Council at Amsterdam,
in New-Netherlamd.
The community of the village of Bergen \\a.\e unanimously decided, to erect for the main-
tenance and necessary protection of this village a blockhouse at each gate and in order to have it
undertaken and promoted with diligence the Hon"" Court here has directed and authorized us,
the undersigned, to promote each in his quarter the work as much as possible and to take good
care of it. For the better prosecution of this much needed improvement we have ordered, that
the men, who absent themselves, shall pay part of the expenses and besides a fine of six guilders
for each day, on which they are absent, to which order we request your Hon"* Worships' consent.
The community complains also of Frederick Philippsen, who, it seems, has made an incorrect
report to your Hon''''' Worships. We refer ourselves to the statement of the bearer, who will
give your Hon"'* Worships correct information and request that somebody may be hired here in his
place or sent here. The tenants are opposed to pay their share of the expenses of the new work,
although willing to assist in maintaining it, unless it is especially expressed and stipulated in theii*
contracts. We await hereupon your Hoii"'" Worships' decision. (It was signed.)
Arent Lourens
Jacob Luby his mark
Hakmen Edwards
Lourens Andriesen
Paulus Pietf.rsen his mark
Jan Swaen his mark
Jan Lubbketsen his mark.
New Yorlc IliMforical Rfcords. 3G1
The foregoing request having been received jind read, it was decreed :
The Director-General and Council of J}^ew-A\'t he viand approve, praise and consent to the
enclosed resolution and order; they therefore command all, whom it may concern, to govern
themselves accordingly under the penalty fixed by it. As to the exception, taken by the tenants, it
is conceived, that tlie same are bound to assist in making the fortifications in question ; but if
they believe to have any action in law against their landlords in this regard (which is for the
present not quite evident to the Director-General and Council), they may institute legal proceed-
ings before the proper tribunal. Adij ut supra. (Febr*' 21, 1GG4.)
Proposals i>k Okatamy and otueu IIackingkesaky and Statkn-Island chiefs
witu answeks.
23"* February, Saturday.
In J^hi't Amsterdam appeared to-day Oi'atamy, Sachem of JJaeTcinglcesacTc, accompanied by
Kastangh, Hans and other IlacJihiglcesack and Staten-Island savages.
1. He says, that SewecTcenamo, one of the chiefs of the remnant of Esopus savages, had gone to
the Soitthnver and that the Esojyus desired very much his return, so that they could then
exchange the captive Christian children against the savage prisoners and conclude a peace.
2. He presents an otterskin as sign, that his heart is good and that also the savages of Uackvng-
l\csack and Staten-Island were good, but he does not know yet, how the heart of our Sachems is.
3. He gives another otterskin and sa^'s, that Hans shall be Sachem after liim over the Ilaclhuj-
l:esacJc and Staten-Island savages. If after his, Oratami/s, death we had anything to say to the
savages, we shoidd send for Hans, as we now send for Oratam. He asks for a small piece of
ordnance, to be used in his castle against his enemies.
He was answered, that the time, for which they asked, to return the captured children, had
now almost expired. "We had expected, that they would be brought now, but as they excused
themselves with the absence of Setoeckenamo, we would accept it so far and give tbem 14 days
more from to-day, to bring the prisoners. If they did not do it then, they would have to fulfill
their promise of going with us to the Esopus.
We accepted the otterskins and would make them a present in return, when SewecJcenamo
canae with the captured children.
Proposals of the same and Minissink Indians with answers.
G"" March, Thursday.
Into the Council chamber at Fort Amsterdam, came Oratam, chief of HacJcinghesack, Hans
and Kastangh and with them the following Menissinck chiefs, Memmesame, Meninger, Mama-
rikickan ; tbey brought one of the captm-ed children (it was the child of Jan Lootman, ihe
baker at the Esopus) in token of their good hearts and frieudship towards the Dutch, as they say.
They state, that the Sinnecus had threatened to come and kill the Menissincks, but that the
Minquaes from the Southriver had allied themselves with the Menissincks and if the Sinnecus
46
362 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
■were to come now, the Minqxiaes would also come to assist tlie Menissincks, who are now their
friends. They tell lis this for our information and give a quantity of deerskins.
2. They give beavers and deerskins and desire to know, what we would advise them to do,
whether to remain on their land or remove. Should we advise them, to remain, then they would
do it, even if they were killed.
3. They give some more deerskins only in token of their good heart and say, they do not
expect any cloth in return, but they request, that when they come here, they may be well treated
and have something to eat.
KoTA. — The presents of deerskins and beavers were appraised by Paulus Leendertsen van der Grist and
Captain Marten Cregier and valued at 65 guilders. They were turned over to Cornelis Steenwyck.
We replied, that we received the child in token of their good heart and that to show our
kindness of feeling we should send by the first yacht to the Esopua for one of the captive Esopxis
savages and surrender him to them, and gave to the squaw, who brought the child, 20 guilders in
wampum.
To the l'*^ We are glad, that they were united with the Minquaes and it would be well, if they
would make friends with the Sinnecus also, so that everybody could peaceably plant his laud and
go hunting and do his business. When a chance offered and somebody came down from above,
we would say the same to the Minquaes. We returned their present by giving them 39 guilders
in wampum.
2. We do not know much about their country, but it seemed best to us, that they should go
to the Minquaes, if they feai-ed to be attacked by the Sinnecus, or that some Minquaes came to
them to help them. We gave them in return for their present -ilj- guilders in wampum.
3. When Sachems or chiefs came to see us, we always provide them with something to eat ;
it would have been done so with them, if we had been at home. We gave them in token of our
good heart . . . guilders in wampum. Ady ut supra.
NoTA. — They received altogether G5 guilders in heavy money as a present.
Order granting Claes Arentsen, Court messenger of Bergen, a piece of land
outside of the village.
IT"" March.
The petition of Claes Arentsen, Courtm,essenger of the village of Bergen, was received and
read, in which he states, that the Court of the said village had given and granted him, subject to the
approval of the Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, on the last of January 1664,
as reward for his services as Court messenger, a garden and a parcel of land outside of the North
gate of the said village, which he requests to have confirmed.
After the question had been put, the consent and confirmation for the garden and parcel of
land is hereby given and granted to the petitioner. Ady ut supra.
KtrW Toil- Illstoiiciil Jiccordfi. ^(\^
Commission for Baltiiazau JJayakh to iik Ci.kkk or inn Corur at Bkiwkn.
1?" Mari'li.
Till- Direftor-Gonernl and CcMincil of Neio-Nctkerldnd to all, who may see or hear tliis read,
greeting: Know ye, that they found it necessary for tlie ])nblic welfare, the ini])roveinent and
inerejuse of tiie village of Bcnjcn and for the better and more convenient administration of jus-
tice to appoint a fit j)ei'son who shall act as clerk in the meetings of the Sellout and Commissaries
of the said village. Balthazar Bayard having been ]>ro])osed to ns, we have engaged and aj>
pointed him, as we hereby engjige and a])])oint liim, to perform the duties of the said ofHcc, pur-
suant to the instructions already given or hereafter to be given, as a good and faithful (/'lerk ought
to do. We direct therefore all, whom it may concern, to recognize the said Balthazar Bayard
as to what we iiave ajtpointed him and to assist liim in the ])erformance of his duties.
Tims done at Fort Aiiiderdaiii iu Neio-Netherland, the 17"' March 10G4.
ReI'OKT made by p. W. van CoUWENHOVEN of information RESPECTINO INTKIOUE9
OF THE English with the Wappings and Esopls Indians.
On the IS"" of March Anno 1664 a savage, called nicl-emicl-, came to my house and said,
Friend, I must tell you something. There is great dissatisfaction among the Esopiifi and Waj)-
pings. They had expected to kill all the Dutch and drive them away, as the Enylish of West-
chester liad promised to them, that they would first take Long-Island and then tlie Manades.
" If the Dutch do not surrender willingly, we shall kill them, but then you must assist us." The
savages answered, they would do that. But the English asked them, " When you have done it,
how much land shall we have then," and the savages promised them, " The laud on Esopus shall
be yours, if you help us kill the Dutch and we shall give you a present beside." " Well, we are satis-
fied and it will not bo long, before we shall begin, but you too must be ready to helj) us." The sav-
ages answered, " Surely, we'll do that." About 8 days ago a party of savages of the Wapping a.nA
Esopus tribes went towards Westchester with a lot of peltries, consisting of beaver, otter, bear, elk,
fo.x and raccoon skins. Arrived there they asked the English, whether they were ready to kill the
Dutch, but the English answered, " It cannot be done at present, our Sachem has made an agree-
ment with Stugve^atit for a year." " But we do not at all like to wait so long, answered the sav-
ages, why have you made us believe it. Come, let us only begin, wc will give you all these goods."
The English replied, " It cannot be done now, but if you will sell the land on the Wapping and
at Ilaverstraw, we shall pay for it ?" The savages then left very discontented and said, '• It
is better, we make peace with the Dutch, the English are only fooling us."
The foregoing report having been made by Lieutenant Picter Wolphertsen van Couwenhoven,
at the meeting of the IIou''''^ Director-General and Council of New-Netherland, it was deemed
necessary, to send the said Lieutenant and 2 or 3 others, conversant with the savage tongue, in
the Company's yacht to the Wappinglis, to inquire into the truth of the foregoing. The}' returned
here on the 23'' of March and made the following report :
Anno 1664, on the IS"" of March, we left the Menn-cules and arrived on the 20"" off the High-
lands. Three savages came immediately on board, I asked them where their Sachem was and
they said, he was on shore. The names of the three savages was Quemacherne, Pachhichme,
Piemisime. I inquired what the English had wanted of them, they said. To buy our lands, but the
English are Morthless people, we will not have anything to do with them, they have promised to
364 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
the Esopus and Wapxnngh savages, to kill the Dutch, if they too would do their best. '• But
■what laud shall we have then ?" The savages answered, " All the laud on the Esopiis, after tlie
Dutch have been killed." On the 21"' the Sachem's son Quemackemis aiso stated, that it is truly
so, but he says, the English have taken the peltries, consisting in beaver, otter, bear, raccoon and
fox skins and said to them, that they had to wait a year. On the same day the Sachem came him-
self on board and brought with him an interpreter, named Aerent. The Sachem of Ilaverstraw
is the brother of Semackese, the Sachem of the Esopus. The Sachem of Haverstraio said, the
Sachems were quite willing to make peace, but the " barebacks " will not. He says, what you
have heard from their savages, that the English wanted to kill the Dutch and had asked the sav-
ages to help, is tnie. Then the Sachem Sacsigout came on board with 7 others and said, that no
decision should be made before 30 days, all the Esopus and Wapi/mghs being far inland and then
a decision would be made either for peace or for war.
This is the mark V ^ of Sessikout.
This is the mark f>r^ of Aeeent.
This is the mark of 1 T Wensemot.
This is the mark of ^L Qewnackement.
This is the mark of /^^ Pachhicke.
t
Proposals made by the chiefs of the Kichtawanghs, "Wappings, Wiechquaes-
kecks and others with the answers.
25"" March, Tuesday.
Appeared before the Council Mechtsewach, chief of Eichtavxtn, on the east side of the
North river, Messachkewath, chief of the Wappings, Hiptamick, chief of Wiechquaeskeck in
place of his brother Sauwenarach, who made the following proposals through Oratamy, the chief
of Hackinghesad'y.
1. That they bring hither and suiTender to the Director-General and Council a Dutch child,
which they have bought from the Esojms savages for 31 strings of wampum, for whom they ask
nothing whatever, not even a bead, as they say, but they give him as a token and in proof of their
good heart.
2. He has six Christian prisoners, whom he has delivered to Lieutenant Couicenhoven before
now, and another, whom he bought from the Esojms.
3. One of the captured Christians, a large girl, had promised him some wampum, but had
neither given nor sent it to him.
4. They say, that they had not asked for war nor intended it, although they have been
accused of it and that they still desire to live in peace with us. In token and proof thereof they
bring now altogether the captured child, which the aforesaid three chiefs had bought and give
now to us as a token of friendship and they say, that all their young men are satisfied with it.
The following answers were given to these propositions :
We say to the first, that we accept the child with thanks and whereas they do not ask for any
wampum in return, but give us the child in proof of their friendship, we too will give them as a
N'ero York Historical liecords. 305
token of our frioiulsliij) a I'uptureil s;vviigo eliilil aiict prost'iit it as juDdf of uur j^ood liuart and
good intentions.
2. Concerning tlie six prisoneivi, among whom they count a cliild, born upon tiic yaclit, and
a big girl, wo answer, that they have received in return for them a captive squaw and two cliildren,
30 strings of wampum, a piece of cloth, two cans of brandy, also one-lialf of an anker, 15 strings
of wampum, three yards of duffel and 10 lbs. of powder and that the Sachem of tlie Ilhjldanda
received besides a small piece of cloth for his trouble.
3. As to the captured Christian girl, a savage cliild was returned for her at tlie Esopus ; if
she has promised anything more, it shall be given.
4. They are told, that if it is true, as they say, that tliey do not think of making war against us
and that to make us sure of their f riendsliip they bring now this captured child, then we too will not
think of war against them and tliat no harm has been done to them. If we had intended to in-
jure them, we could ha\-e pursued and killed them as well as the Esop^ifi, and destroyed all their
corn, as the Eiopus" corn has been destroyed and in proof of our good heart we give them in
return a child.
After the preceding statement had thus been answered, Ecliko made the following proposition
in presence of all the above-named chiefs, to wit : he was sent by the chief of the Newesinghs to
tell us, that the EmjUsh pressed him very hard, to sell the land of the Newesinghs, but the chief
had answered, he coidd not sell it to them, they had received already from iis wampum and goods
for it.
They infoi'med us therefore, that we had to make haste, if we wanted to buy the laud, they
could not keep off the English any longer and we must come immediately after having bought it
and erect a house there.
We answered, it was well, that they had thus spoken to the English and as to our coming
soon and make a contract for the land and put up a house there, we could not do that, as long as
we were engaged in a war and had no stable peace. When that was made, we would come, to
make a contract with them, but it was now too cold and the kils too full of water, to view the
land. We would come to see it, when the corn planting began. AdiJ ut supra.
Letter from Director STt-Y^T:s.«rr to Ensign Ntssen and Magistrates at Wild-
■WTCK ; Indian affairs.
Honorable, Dear Friends
These lines are to inform you, that since the departure of Ckies Bordingh, with whom we
sent a captured child (brought here by the Newesinhs savages) three chiefs have been here yes-
terday, to ^vit of the Wappingers, from Eichtawangh and WieckquaeskecTce, who brought the
child sent herewith ; we do not know whose it is and the said savages have reported, that there
are only three more captured Christians among the Esopus savages in the interior, whom they
have promised us to do their best and get them and deliver to us. We must leave it to time, to
see what the residt will be. As however little reliance can be placed upon a savage's promise, we
recommend and charge you once more, to be on your guard and strictly observe our former orders
concerning the ploughing in company and the going into the country of peojjle without proper
escort, until further ordei-s. As we have promised to the aforesaid chiefs, who have brought us
366 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
the clnldren, to give tliera in tlieir place two of tlie captured savage children, we send the bearer
hereof, Lieutenant Comoenlioven, to .you, to bring down the two squaws and three children, who
arc still prisoners there. Wherewith etc.''
26"' March 1664.
To the Honorable, Valiant Christian Niesen, Ensign,
the Schout and Commissaries at Wiltwyck.
Letter from Ensign Niessen to Dieector Stuyvesant ; all quiet on the Esopus.
Noble, ITonorable, Veiy AVorshipful, Wise, Prudent and
Very Discreet Gentlemen.
I cannot omit to inform your Hon'''^ Worships by this opportunity, that after the expiration
of the armistice between us and the Esopus savages nothing special has occurred ; it has been
the same during the armistice on account of the heavy snowfall and now lately on account of the
freshets. I had intended to make an expedition to the old or first castle of the Esopus savages
on the 21^' of March, but was prevented by the thaws and freshets, which filled the kils, also by
the inconvenience to get through with soldiers at this season, therefore the e.xpedition was not
made. I would have sent your Hon''''' Worships the military as ordered by Captain Lieutenant
Marten Cregier, but I did not know, whether it would be acting well or not, for if sent down
and immediately returned, the loss through the transport would have fallen on the Hon*'^ Com-
pany. I send down herewith two men, Barent Hoist and Otio Jansen, both sick and cripples. I
await meanwhile your Hon"'* Worships' further orders, which I expect within three or four daj's
from date. Closing with greetings I connnend your Hon"" Worships to God's protection. Actum
Wildwyck, the 27'" of March 1664.
Your Honorable Worships' humble servant
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Cukistiajs' Nyssen.
Wise, Prudent, Very Discreet Director-
General and Council of Neio-Netherland
at Fort Amsterdam.
Appointment of Magistrates for Wiltwyck.
The Hon"''' Director-General and Council of New-Netherland received and read the nomina-
tions made and sent in by the Schout and Schepens of the village of Wiltwyclk in X\\g Esopus and
selected and confirmed as Schepens there Jan Willemsen Iluochteylingh and Ilendrick Jochemsen.
Actum Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland the 3* April 1664:.
Patent to Ide Cornelissen van Vorst for a piece of land at AnAsiMtrs (Jersey City, N. J.)
Petrua Stuyvesant etc with the Hon'''^ Council declare, that we have to-day, date underwritten,
given and granted to Ide Cornelissen van Vorst a lot situate at Ahasimus on the Northeast side
New York Ilistoruul Hecords. 3(>7
of Cliit'ii Jannen and tlio southwest side of the wayonroad, uieasiiriiii; on the S. E. and N. W. sides
16 ivds, on tho N. E. side 22 rods i) feet, on the S. W. side 21 rods. With the express condition
etc etc. Douo at lort Aiimlcnlaui in ^^ew-JVeiherland April 5"* lOOi.
Okukk on TnK iMCTmoN OF Sander Leknoertsen Glen and otueks fou a survey
OF LAND AT ScUENECTAUY.
17"" April lOtU.
The petition of Sajider I^endei'Uen Gla'tn, Wdlem Teller and IlarmenVedder was received
and road, who in their own behalf and in the name of other proprietors of land in tho settlement
called Schanhe(jtede request substantiall}', that the surveyor might be sent to lay out for each one
his piece of land and buildiuglot for the prevention of further disputes.
It was decreed :
The Director-General and Council deem the survey of the land mentioned necessary to pre-
vent further cpiarrels and will send up the sui-veyor for that purpose by the first chance. Adij
ut suj»'a.
Instructions for the Cleek of the Court at Wiltwyck.
Instruction for the Clerk or Secretary of the inferior Court of Justice in
the village of Wiltwyck on the Esopus.
Fii-st he shall be obliged to be present at the ordinary and extraordinary meetings and sittings
of the Schout and Schepens, to serve their Court of Justice with his pen and to record in detail
and according to its true bearing and meaning, what the presiding officer directs.
2.
He shall take care to record in tlie minutes properly and full}-, without favor or regard to
person the complaint of the plaintiff as well as tho defendant's answer and add to it, after the
question has been put, the conclusion arrived at, by order of the presiding officer.
3.
In case the Schout and the Schepens should differ in some matters, the majority of votes
must decide and he shall not be allowed to publish the opinion of the minority to outsiders, but
he may, if requested thereto by the minority, enter their opinion beneath the order or decision of
the majority.
4.
After the adjournment of the Court he shall properly enter in a register the complaints and
answers of the parties in litigation and all the orders of the Sellout and Schepens and send authen-
tic copies thereof once or twice during the year to the Secretary of the Director-General and
Council
5.
He shall be allowed to charge twelve stivers as fee for each order made by the Schout and
Schepens or apostil given to petitions.
368 Colonial Settlements an the Hudson River,
In order to accommodate residents as well as strangers, he shall have permission to draw up
petitions, if asked to do it, provided he lets the petitioner sign it, for which he may charge as fee
sixteen stivers, if the petition is to be used in civil eases, twenty stivers if it is to be used in a
suit for injuries done or in criniinal cases of the middle degree and for giving a certificate and a
copy thereof he shall receive four and twenty stivers.
Finally he shall promise to practice the afore-stated rules as well as he can and to the best of
his knowledge and further to promote and help to promote as far as his position is concerned the
glory of God and the pure service of his word, the sovereignty of their Noble High : Might :
the Lords States-General, the high jurisdiction and authority of the Noble-Lords-Directors and
their supreme government now appointed or hereafter to be appointed, without meditating, much
less do any thing against them. Actum Fort Amsterdmn in New- Netherlands the 21^' of April
K\ 1G61.
Leiter from Ensign Nyssen to Dieectoe- General Stutvesant, reporting the
VISIT OF AN Englishman at Wildwyck, who said that the English would
possess New-Netheeland in 6 oe 8 weeks.
Noljle, Ilonoi'able, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet Gentlemen.
Little has occurred here, except that the farraere are busy to bring their summer grain into
the ground, as far as they can do it at this season and for what else has happened during this time
I refer to my enclosed daily journal. Among others I mention, that on the 10"" of April an
Englishman arrived here with Claes Tyssen, who desired, as he said, to buy some land from the
Dutch ; he went with the same Claes Tyssen to Foi't Orange, without having accomplished any
tiling here. As far as I afterwards found out, this Englishman must have been a spy, for accord-
ing to his statement, lie wished to live among the Dutch, because he had been badly treated by
the magistrates on the North and then he said, tliat the English would take and possess this place,
Fort Orange and the Manhatans within 6 or 8 weeks. I await your Hon'''* Worships' order,
whether, if some other stranger or Englishman, who has no passport from the Manhatans, should
act thus, I shall arrest and send him to the Manhatans, as I am also waiting for provisions for
the soldiers here, for only one barrel of meat is left in the storehouse and I have no peas. Closing
herewith 1 commend your Honorable Worships to God's protection and remain with greetings.
Your Honorable Worships' humble servant
Actum Wildwyck, the 21^' of April 1664. Christian Ny^ssen.
Honorable Worships ! the miller here refuses to grind lienceforth for the Hoii*'° Company,
because his account has been returned to him unpaid, while the necessity to pay others presses liini.
To the Noble, Honorable, Very Worshipful, Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet
Directoi-General and Council of New-Netherland at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland.
New York Jlistorical Reconh. 369
Pianiu.v Ml' TiHiMAS Ciiamhkks and Gysbkkt van iMiiuooii, dki.koatks, asking
KOK AMKNUMKNTS TO TIIK CIIAKTKK ril>' WiLTWYCK.
Ti> tlio \ul)le, Worslii]iful, lloiionihlo Director-General aiul Council of New-Netlierland.
Iliinibly show Tliomas Chambtrs anil Gijshert van Imht'oeck, delegates from tlie village of
WUtmjch, that the Court of Justice there is quite willing to maintain quiet, peace and harmony
among the inhabitants of tho said village for the best of the })lace and as it has been found, with
due reverence, that tho instructions sent by your Hon''''' Worehips to the said Court require very
much to be amplified, to carry on and support this praiseworthy work, which is o]iposed by evil
minded persons. Therefore the petitioners address themselves to your Hon'''" "Worships witli tho
respectful request, nuxde in the name and in behalf of the said Court, that your Hon''''' Worships
will please to grant to the same tho points and articles, which will serve to the welfare of the
\-illage of Wilitvi/cl; as follows :
First. That your IIon'''° Worships will ])leasc to enlarge the instructions for the Court of
Justice at Wiltwi/ck to the same extent, as the instructions for the Court at Beverwyck.
Second. As cases come up often requiring a prompt remedy, your Hon''''' Worships will
please to authorize tho said Court at Wiltioyck provisionally, to make statutes and ordinances con-
cerning the making and repairing of roads, streets, posts and fences around fields and gardens and
orchards and whatever may be best for the farming interests and the safety of the village, also
concerning the building of churches, schools and such other public works and the finding and
raising of the means thereto required, subject to your Hon''''' Worships' approbation and as during
the winter season no news can be obtained from here for 4 or 5 months, that the concerted statutes
and ordinances may not only be published, but also provisionally enforced.
Third. An instruction for the Courtmessenger, by which he may govern himself in the per-
formance of his duties.
Fourth. As it has been found, that the schoolmaster is making rather absurd demands for
schoolmoney from the children, whicli compels many people to keep their children at home, that
your Hon"'" Worships will grant him a fair salary.
Fifth. An instruction for the Secretary concerning the division of the fees for summons
between him and the messenger.
Si.\th. Concerning the auctioneers duties, who has to attend to them, the Sellout or the
Secretary ?
Seventh. Whether the duties of jailor and executioner belong to the Sellout's or the Secre-
tary's office.
Eighth. Whereas the village of Wiltvjyck has had to bear many burdens during the war with
the savages and is still bearing them, by which its people have got much indebted, therefore the
petitionei-s hereby respectfully request, that the tapster s impost on beer, wine, brandy and distilled
watei-s and the like may be let annually by the said Court, that the rent thereof may be adminis-
tered and applied to the expenses already laid out by the said village or hereafter to be incurred
and for the common welfare ; also that no one shall be allowed to sell drinks before he has not
obtained a tapster's license or spimiing house (i) schedule, as it is in usage within this city. They
await your Hon'''' Worships' favorable answer and remain
Noble, Very Worshipful Gentlemen
Your humble servants and subjects
ToMAS Chambers
25"" April 16C4. Gysbekt van Imbkoch.
47
370 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
The foregoing petition was receiver! and read and tlie following answer given.
Bj virtue of the instiiictious given to the Court of Justice in the village of Wiltwyck the
Court maj make statutes and ordinances according to circumstances for the best advantage of the
inhabitants, provided they submit them first to the Director-General and Council of Nexo-Nether-
land with the reasons for their necessity and ask for and obtain their approbation and ratification,
unless they are prevented to do so by the winterseason or other inconveniences, in which case the
said Court is authorized to concert upon and execute some provisional orders in an emergency, on
condition that they inform the Director-General and Council thereof by the first opportunity and
obtain their confirmation.
To the third. An instruction for the Courtmessenger shall soon be drawn up and sent to
them.
To the fourth. The petitioners are to inform the Director-General and Council by the first
opportunity, how much and what the inhabitants pay to the schoolmaster ; after this has been
done, further orders M'ill be issued.
To the fifth. The instruction for the Secretary or Clerk is sent herewith.
To the sixth. Provisionally and until further orders the sales of voluntary auctions shall be
taken care of and attended to by the Clerk or Secretary, all Schout's and involuntary sales by the
Sellout.
The seventli point is answered above.
The Director-General and Council had hoped that the petitioners would, as they had agreed
to do, have thought of some means, by which the necessary expenses of the village might have been
paid ; it is now once more seriously recommended to them : in the meantime the petitioners are
authorized, to let the tapster's excise publicly and in the name of the Director-General and Council
to the highest bidder under the conditions sent hei-ewith : the farmer of the excise shall pursuant
to an order, which will be issued in due time, turn over to the petitioners for reducing the debts
of the village one-half of what the excise shall bring.
The last point, namely, that nobody shall have permission to sell beer or liquors, without
having asked for and obtained permission, is granted pursuant to an order made in this regard, an
extract of which shall be gi\-en to the petitioners for their information. Ady ut supra.
PETrrioN OF Paulus Coenelissen and Jan Coenelissen van dee Hyden con-
CEENING THE ESTATE OF JaN BaEENTSEN WeMP.
To the Noble, Very Worshipful, their Honors the Director-
General and Council of New-Netherlaiid.
Noble, Very "Worshipful Gentlemen.
Whereas Maritie Meynders, widow of Jan Barentsen Wemp, deceased, a resident of the
Colony of liensselaerwyck finds herself extremely injured and damaged, because some creditors of
Ae7't Pietersen Tacli in the Exo^ms have not hesitated to sell his, Aert Pietersen^s, movable and
immovable goods there as also his horses and cattle and have partially received the proceeds thereof
or try to collect them, while the whole property was mortgaged and secured to her deceased hus-
band and herself, who has had no opportunity, during the last winter, to assert her good claim,
why her mortgage-bond should have the preference to a later one and to personal debts, therefore
I\ew York J/itiforical JiccOi'dts. 371
wo tlio umlersigned agents of the aforesaid Maritle Meynders rerinest, in consideration tliat tlie
house, burn, grainstalks, liorscs, cattle, even the hind have heen paid for by the said Jan
Barentseii Wemp deceased, that your lion*"" Worsliips will please to order, that the creditors
aforesaid, who have already been paid and still try to collect their debts, abstain therefrom and
give up their presumptions until the aforesaid widow shall by virtue of her mortgage-bond have
had her claim adjudicated and satisfied and that for this end the Hon'''" Court at Wiltwyck be
written to and directed, to assist the said widow in obtaining her just claim. Asking for your
non"'" Worships' favorable answer we remain
Amsierdam in jV. Xetha'land. Your Honorable Worsliips' subjects
the 25"' April 1G04. Paulus Coknklissex
Jan Coknklissen van inoit Hydkn.
Orpkh to tuk Magistrates at AViltwyck t<> inqi;ikk into tuk aisonJ': affair.
llduorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
You will see by the enclosed petition the statement made to us by the agents of the widow of
Jan Barentsen Wcmp deceased. If it is so, as they say, then we can only decide the request
made by them to be reasonable and equitable : but as we do not know, what reasons the other
parties might luring forward, we wish to direct you hereby, not to be too hasty or to proceed
herein too rashly, but to take the money proceeds of the goods sold into a provisional deposit, that
those, who may be found to have a just claim to it, may not be injured. This done, you will let
the parties proceed according to law, as it is proper, and the course of justice be quick. Where-
upon relying we commend you to God's jirotection and remain with cordial salutatious
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends
Amsterdam in J^^eio- Your aflfectionate friends.
Netherlands the 25'" April 16(34:.
CouNcii, Minute. Attendance of Oeatam, the chief of Hackinghesacky and
OTHERS concerning THE MURDER OF A DUTCHMAN BY A WaPPING InDIAN.
On the 26"' of April 1664 at the Couneilchamber before the Director- *
General and in presence of Sarah Kierstedc, the interpreter,
appeared Oratam, the chief of Ilackinghesahj, Ejachke and Aeltie
Sihrants, the widow of 2faUys lioeloffsen, the gunner, who had
been killed 8 days ago by the Wa])ping savages.
Ejachke says, he has been sent by Metsewachset, the chief of Kichtewangh, to inform us of
what the savages had said and reported concerning the killing of Hattys Roeloffsen ; the common
Wappings, or as they are usually called the " barebacks," say, that their chief has received from
Pieter Wolphertsen 30 strings of wampum and three coats of cloth ; the common Wappnngs have
become jealous and dissatisfied on that account, because their chief fead not informed them of it
nor shared with them, butiie did everything by himself, without telling them anything and so he
told us here, that all his people were satisfied to have peace, but he had done it by hunself and
without their knowledge aiid without saying anything to them.
372 Colonial Settlemei^ts on the Hudson River.
Secondly he says, a savage from Ilaverstraiu arrived with meat near tlie Fort at the Esojnis
and the soldiers came out from two sides and took him jjrisoner and locked him up ; he remained
there until the afternoon, when he took a letter out of his bag and showed it to them and then
they let him go, but that for all that they were not angry.
Thirdly the said EjacKke says, two squaws and a man have taken the woman here present,
Aeliie Syhranisen, widow of the killed Mattkys Roelofsen, by the hand and said, tlie savage, who
has killed j-our husband, is also going to kill you, go with us into another house. She did it and
shortly afterwards the said savage, who killed her husband, called Eihtaworis, came into the house
and wanted to kill her, but he was at first prevented by the other squaws and men and the said
savage wanted still to kill her, but Sewechenamy, the chief of the Esojnis, would not allow it and
prevented him saying, "We are about to make peace with the chief of the Manhattans and you
come and kill a Dutchman and want now to kill also this woman and thwart everything : the said
chief then gave a string of wampum to the said Aeltie Syhrants saying, Go with that as with our
safe conduct to the chief of the Manhattans and tell him, that we are not guilty of this murder,
but desire to make peace with the Sachem of the Manhattans, tell him further, that all the men
and squaws are very sorry for the murder and weep over it.
The said Aeltie Syhrants being present, svhen this statement was made, says, that in the main
it had happened so, but that many more and other words had been spoken in their Mnterlcasien
The aforesaid savage Ejachhc being asked, whether lie had been present, said, N'o, but an-
other savage called Eeentakain, who had brought this captured woman to them and did not dare
or would not come, had requested him to go with the woman hither and tell us.
Extract from a letter of Director Stuyvesant to the Directors in Holland ;
THE result of THE WAR AGAINST THE EsOPUS InDLANS ; IMPORTANCE OF THE
Indian trade.
26"' April 1664
* * * * * *
As to the war against the treacherous Esopus savages, they are so tired out and dispersed,
some here, some there among other tribes, by two or three successful attacks, made upon them
. last summer, by the burning of their long gathered provisions and by the utter destruction of
their corn plantations, that we could hardly learn during the whole winter, where 5 or 6 of them
could be found together : we ha\e got back all our Christian prisoners, except three. The veiy
heavy snowfall during the winter and the consequent high water in all kils and creeks, but espe-
cially the lack of shoes and socks for our soldiers, have prevented us during the whole winter and
spring from pursuing them as much as we desired or at least from attacking them. Small detach-
ments of our troops have nevertheless been out several times to this or that place, where they
suspected savages to be, but they never found any. Other tribes inform us, that they are willing
to renew the peace with us. but experience has taught us, that no reliance can be placed upon the
statements and declarations of this uncivilized, treacherous and mendacious people nor credit be
given to what they tell. Wq shall comnumicate to your Honors what further may happen.
* * * * ik *
The expenses (for the List year) will amount to 80,000 guilders, while on the other side the
revenue will not be more than 30,000 guilders on account of the poor trade in beavers, caused by
I\ew York Historical liecords, ;i73
the \v:ii-s which the Maquaes and Slnnekux waf;o aj;;iiii8t the JVurthcrn and Canadian savages.
We shall therefore have a deficit of 40 or 50,000 guilders.
Letticu from Rkv. IIkrmants Blom to Dikkctor Stuyvksant, rkcjuksting in the
NAME OF TIIK CONSISTORY, THAT THE 7tII OF Jl'NE BE ANNUALLY OBSERVED AS A DAY
OF THANKSGIVING AT THE EsOPUS, IN COMMEMORATION OF THE ESCAPE OF 80 MANY
PERSONS FROM THE InDIAN MASSACRE.
To the Noble, Honorable, Direetor-General and the Honorable Council of New-NetJiei'laiul.
Very Worshipful Gentlemen.
Your lion""'' "Worships all know, that last year 1603 on the T"" of June the great God has al-
lowed the savages heavily- to visit our neighbor hamlet and this place, whereby the one was totally
ruined and reduced to ashes and the other partially destroyed, in both places several people were
killed, smothered in their blood and wounded, as well as a large number of animals; many of us
have even been captured by the heathens and led away as prisoners and all this w-as done under
the cover of friendship in an instant and with great cruelty, so that it was pitiful and distressing
to look at, as we did not know, how it would go with those of us, who had been spared, for Death
had come upon us and into our houses quickly and une.xpectedly to destroy the children in their
cradles, the young men on the streets, the dead bodies of men lay here and there like dung heaps
on the field, and the burnt and roasted corpses like sheaves behind the mower. We have been
living witnesses thereof as well as of the distress of our town and the uncertainty of our escape.
The heathens fell then into this newly settled inheritance of the Lord intending to storm it at
once and destroy it, which would have been done, when they rose so tyrannically against us in their
rage and fury. If the Lord had not still been with us, they would have devoured us all alive, so
that the waters of anxiety rose daily up to our souls, even went over all our souls, but our souls
have escaped, like a bird from the snare of the bird catcher and in that anxiety the Lord has in-
creased our pleading and lamenting, so that we may say, where is there in New-Netlierland such
sorrow as ours, with which the Lord has visited us, for He it is, who on account of our sins has
given up Jacob, the plunderer and Israel the robber,- because we would not walk in his ways and
not listen to his word, therefore he has emptied upon us the fullness of his wrath and the fury of
war and he has set all around us afire, but we pay no attention to it and he has made us burn,
but we do not take it to heart.
But from all these needs and death, through which we have passed, the Lord alone has now
delivered us, and no man has helped, for men's assistance was far from us, though they got the
credit for it and our deliveiy so that the Loi-d revives the dead again
descend and he comes up again, as it has been proved, for his mercifulness knows no
end ; he has said, mountains may move, hills may fall down, but my mercy shall not be taken
from you, j'ea, a mother may desert her child and forget it but I shall never desert and forget ^'ou,
for the ... is broken and we have escaped, for as long as the Lord pleases.
So that we cannot sufficiently praise and thank the good Lord every day of our lives for the
great mercy and benevolence, which he has shown us and for the delivery from the hands of these
heathenish people, for which peace, honor and thanks are due to him only now and in all eternity,
amen.
374 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The "Worshipful Consistory of this place requests therefore with due humility and proper rev-
erence of your Hon""^ Worships, that for the merciful delivery, brought about by God's power,
the T"" day of June in every year, on whatever day it may fall, shall be kept as an anniversary'
and thanksgiving day in our place and that it be forbidden to do any work, on that day, so that
we, who have been spared and are still alive, may praise and thank his divine Majesty for it. "We
are sure, that your Hon"'" "Worships will grant us this request, whereupon we rely and expect a
pertinent answer at that time, to notify the community of it. Meanwhile we commend your
jjQjjbie Worships to God's gracious protection and shall not cease to pray God for your Honors'
persons and administration. "We wish your Hon*'^ Worships all blessings, good luck, welfare and
peace for soul and body, amen.
Very Worshipful, Wise, Pious and "Verj^ Discreet Gentlemen
Your Honors' Very obedient subjects and servants
The 6'" of May 1664, at ^iltwyck.
In the name and by order of the Consistory.
Heemanus Blom.
To the Wise, Prudent and Very Discreet, their Honors,
the Director-General and Council of New-Netherlwnd at Fort Amsterdam on the Manhatans.
Lease of land in Schenectady.
This IS"" of May 1664 Maritie Ileyndertsen, widow of Jan Barentsen Wemp dec*, declares
to have let and Aeckes Comelissen {van Style) acknowledges to have rented half of the bouwery,
belonging to both of them in company, situate at Schenechtede, upon which he, Acques, lives.
The lease to be for the term of four consecutive years beginning this day or with the present
sowing-time and the rent to be 1 80fl. in beavers or corn at beaver price (the beaver at Sfl.) for each
year, every time to be paid promptly without delay and deliverable at Scheneehtade.
It is further conditioned, that the lessee shall keep for his use during his term a stallion and
a gelding, the risk for them remaining with the lessor; except if the horses should die or be ruined
by a notorious neglect of the lessee, then he shall pay for them.
Next spring two milchcows with yearling calves, shall be turned over to the lessee, which cows
and possibly to be expected calves the lessee shall keep during his term of lease on half shares
according to the custom of the land.
The lessee promises to put into the ground at the end of his term as much seed grain as he
has now already sown in partnership with the lessor and is still sowing and of which each shall
have a just half, sharing in the expenses alike, whOe during the other years of his lease the lessee
shall retain the products of the land for himself.
* * * * * * ■
Done at Colony liensselaerswyck, date as above.
The mark ^i — of ]\[AETriE Meyndertsen
Aenout Coenelissen Viele
Jan Coenelissen van dee Heyden.
On the 12"" July 1669 Bent Bagge let his house and lot at Schenectady to Jan Binckhout
for one year. Rent 9 good beavers.
New Ywh Historical Records. 375
Articles of the peace, >rAiiE with the Esopus Indians.
On tlic 15"' of May \WA, Tlmrsday, tlio following Sachemfl or
cliicfs of tlio savages appeared in the Council Chamber at
Fort Amsterdam :
Seweckenamo, Onaglcotin, Powsawagh, chiefs of the Esopus,,
t Sees-Sagh-Gauw, chief of the Wap^mighs,
Meeght Seioakes, chief of Kighteioangh,
Ses-SegJi-IIout, chief of Itewechnongh or Iliwerstraw,
Sauwenarocque, chief of Wiechqua«Jiecl\
Oratamy, chief of IlaokingkesacJcy and Tappaeii,
Maiteno, chief of the iSfati'n- Island and Nayack savages,
Siejjpekenouw, brother of Tajausagh, chief of Marsepingh etc*
with about twenty other savages of that tribe.
Seweckenamo arose and said in belialf of the Esopus savages substantially, that he had asked
his God (whom he called Bachtaino and to whom he appealed several times as a witness to grant), that
he might negotiate something good with the Dutch in presence of all the chiefs now here and that
the treaty made might be as solid as in a stick, which he took hold of, one end was attached and
firmly united to the other.
2. He proposes and says, that all the chiefs and tribes in the neighborhood, as far as the
Maqxiaes, are well satisfied and pleased, that the peace between the Esopus and the Dutcli is to be
concluded and that the 2farsepingh savages shall be included in it.
3. That the chiefs and savages present have now heard, what he has proposed and said, which
is all that he has to say for the present.
As this chief had so far not said in his speech, that the Esopnis savages asked for peace, but
only, that all the savages would be glad, if the peace between us and the Esopus was made and
concluded, therefore the said chief and the other savages were asked by the interpreter, whether
they wanted peace now and came to ask for it.
The chief Seweckenamo answered in substance, that he had come to ask for peace in behalf
of the Esopus and that it should be henceforth so firm and binding as the arms, which he folded ;
he gave then his right hand to the General and said, that he meant sincerely, what he had said
and it was also the intention and desire of all the Esopus, in whose name he spoke.
2. The chief was asked, why, if all the Esopus desired peace, all the chiefs of the Esopus
had not come, to wit: Keercop, Pamyrawech, and JViska/iewan, and what proof they could give,
that these chiefs and the other savages desired peace also.
He answei-s, that one of these chiefs is a very old and blind man and the other two are his
friends, who have given him their instructions and are satisfied with all, that he shall say and
conclude.
After hearing the foregoing answer, it was unanimously resolved, to teU the Esopus savages,
that they had made peace with us before this and that they had broken it without cause or reason ;
that nevertheless, as they have now returned all our prisoners and got back from us all theirs and
as they now asked iis for peace, we would make peace with them, but on conditions, which we
shall propose.
The above was stated to them in detail by the inteijireter, who gave them also a short account
of all what they had done formerly and again now lately ; tliey acknowledged all this to be the
tnith without any contradiction whatever. They were further reminded, that notwithstanding all
376 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
this we were inclined to make peace at theii- request and to keep it, if we could be assured, that
they would also keep it on their side.
They answered, that henceforth they would keep the peace inviolate and the foUowine; condi-
tions were proposed :
Terms and Conditions, on which a firm and everlasting peace
has been made and concluded between their Noble Honors,
Petrus Stuyvesant, Director-General and the Council of New-
Netherland and the Sachems or chiefs of the Eaopus savages.
All, that has happened formerly, shall be forgiven and forgotten and not be remembered
again : the people killed and gone on either side shall and must be forgotten.
All the land, which they have previously given to the Dutch in payment of losses, caused by
them, and which we have now retaken with the sword shall be and remain ours as far as their two
captured forts, they shall not be allowed to plant this land again nor to come into the villages
there nor into any of our distant places, neither with nor without arms, except here to the Man-
hatans and to Fort Orcunge.
3.
But that they may not be entirely deprived of their land, they shall have permission to plant
around their new fort and during this year also near the old fort, as they inform ns, that they
have already planted there : but after that the land taken by the sword, as well around the new
fort as near the old, shall be and remain ours.
To prevent all troubles in the future, the savages shall do no harm to om* people nor our
people to them and it is covenanted, that no savage shall be allowed to come either armed or
unarmed, as was said in the second section, upon land, where the Dutch are ploughing, sowing,
mowing, planting or pasturing cattle neither at the Esopiis nor elsewhere and if they are found
there and caught, they shall be sent hither. It is however conceded to them, that they may come
to the Redouht to sell their corn, meat etc'', but not more than at the highest 2 or 3 canoes, pro-
vided that they shall be obliged, to send a savage with a flag of truce ahead, who is to give infor-
mation of their coming. For their better accommodation a house shall be built for them over
the kil, where they can remain.
6.
K it should happen, that a Dutchman killed a savage or a savage a Dutchman, then it is
covenanted, that no war shall immediately be begun on that account, but that a meeting shall first
be held over it and the murderer shall be punished by death in presence of the Dtitch and savages.
6.
It is also covenanted, that if an Esopus savage .should happen to kill some horses, cattle, pigs
etc^, the chiefs shall have to pay for it or if they refuse, one of them shall be arrested and kept
in prison, until the killed animal has been paid for, and the loser satisfied, while the Director-Gen-
eral on the other side promises, that no Dutchman shall do any damage to the Esopus savages.
7.
The chief of Marsepingh and all his savages are included in this peace.
New Yarh Historical Records. 377
The afuiTsaid Esoptifi Sucheins engMjjjc llu'uit^L'lvi's to liave \\w.>ni articles of ])cacc ratilif(l liy
tlie other Etsoptis Sachems and savages, to iiifonii us thereof within a montii and come liither with
the other Sachems.
It.
It is also covenanted, that they or sonic of their people shall conic down lierc every year, to
renew this compact and that, if they bring a present, we shall also give them one.
Thus done and concluded at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland the 16"' of May A" 1664
in presence of his Noble Worshi]) the Director-General Petrus Stuyvesant, the Hon''"' Mr. de Sille,
of both the Burgomasters of this city, their Honors Cornells Steenwyck and Paulus Leendertsen
van der Grist, of Captain Lieutenant Marten Cregier, Lieutenant Couwenhoven, Oovert Loocker-
mans, old Schepen, and Thomas Chambers, Commissary of the village of Wiltwyck, Jacob Backer
President of the Schepens, Abraham Wilmerdonx junior, Saara J. Kiersteede as interpreter and
the aforesaid chiefs and savages.
The mark \^ made by P. Stuyvesant
Skweckenajio >y hiiusclf
The mark made by NiCAsros de Sille
Pawsawagh <^ himself. C. V. Rutven.
As inteqjreter and witness As witnesses
Saka Kieesteede Cok. Steenwyck
GOVEET LOOCKEEMANS P. L. VAN DEE GeIST
Pietee Couwenhoven J. Backee
Thomas Chambees Abe. Wilmeedonj.
Maetitj Keegiee.
U^j^ Maeehinnie tuwee
Whereas Oratamy and Mati^no have asked first for this peace in behalf of the Esopus
savages, it is further stipulated and covenanted, that they shall be securities for this peace, that it
be kept well and inviolate and if the Esopns savages should be the first to break it, that they and
their savages shall then assist to make war upon the Esopiis and to subdue them and should the
Dutch at any time violate the aforesaid peace, then they shall go to war with all tlieir men against
the Dutch. Thus done at Fort Amsterdam in New-Netherland, the 16"' of May 1664 in presence
of the above-named witnesses, who have signed this in testimony thereof.
Peteus Stuyvesant
Maetyn Keegiee The mark / made by
CoE. Steenwyck Otatam V' himself
P. L. VAN DEE GkIST
The maik \y\JX/ made
by Mattexo himself.
The mark n^ made by
Hans alias Pieweseeenves himself
48
srs
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Pkoposals of the Mohawks at Foet Orange with the answers.
(Much defaced. Words in [ ]
Present
La Montayne, Vice-Director
Gerret Swart, Sellout of the Colony
Jan Verbeeck
Gerret SUchtenkorst
Stoffel Jansen
Jacob Schermerhorn
Jan II. van £ael, Jan Coster van Aken.
supplied by the translator.)
Extraordinary Session
held at Fort Orange
by both the Courts
with the Maquaas on
the 17"^ of May 1664,
in which they made the
following statements.
The Maqiiaas
have shown 7 strings .
shall send provisions
to [ransom] their prisoners
should take notice
arrival and the news
who have come thither [to learn whether the prisoners] were alive and they reported, that the 3Ia-
quaas who are [prisoners] of the aforesaid savages are still alive and may be ransomed, which [is
at the same time] a good chance to make peace with the [Northern] savages under the condition,
that the Dutch shall at the request of the [savages ?] send [messengers] thither together with the
Maquaas and the . . . , in order to make [peace] and as their know[ledge is] necessary,
therefore they request .... the Courts, that two Dutchmen might be given to for them,
to wit [Jan DaretK\ and Jacob Loockermans, whereupon the said Jan Dareth and Jacob Loocher-
mans were called before the Court, who have undertaken to make the journey and left on the
18'" inst. The Courts gave them a letter of safe conduct in token of their knowledge and media-
tors' office and two strings of wampum, worth about 50 florins, as a present for the Northern
savages.
Whereas the savages, called Maquaas, have very urgently requested, that we should [endeavor
to make peace between that] tribe and the said Maquaas [and send some] Mahicanders to the
Northern savages, called Onconntehocks, to procure the release of the Maquaas, who have been
captured by the said savages, and to assist them in every thing and do what the circumstances
shall require to conclude a peace, therefore we have commissioned and dispatched S"^. Jan Dareth
and JcKob Loock£r7nans as mediators. We reqtiest all, who shall read or hear this read to let our
said messengers pass to and fro without let or hindrance and jiromise to do the same, if occasion
ofi'ers. Thus done at Fort Orange the 17'" of May 1664:, at the meeting of the two Courts.
La Montagne,
Gekkit Swaet,
Schout of the Colony.
New York- Historical Jxrconh. 379
Present
La Montague, Vice-Director Extniordiiiury yei^biuii
Gerret Swart, Sellout of the Colony. lield at Fort Orange
Jan Verbeeck by both the Courts
Stqfel Janssen in presence of the Ma-
Jacob Schermerhorn quaas on the
Jan Jlendrickiien van Bad 1064, who made tlie
Jan van Aken following propositions :
Derick van Schdluyne, Secretary of the Colony.
They say that .......
and Smcquackicks .... . .
three Maquaas .......
are and request .......
live, that two or three ......
together with tliree of their ......
to procure the release of the prisoners and negotiate a ])eace with the aforesaid savages, but if the
same have fled to the Pacamteho [they are not] willing to make peace, if fled to the Onnogonges,
they will make peace, for which purpose .... go with them, [to treat] with the English.
They request, that we should .... the Mahicanders, if in case of war or peace [not
being made] they should leave here, but in the [manner], to which they are used.
They ask further for the three expected \^Mahicanders] which they understand have come
here and wish to know, whether it is true, so that they may speedily send word to their people in
their country.
The Maquaas speak in our presence with the chiefs of the Katskil savages, Machackine-
inanati, Keesje Wey and Wichpe ; they remind them of the peace, in which they live with all
the tribes of the . . and along the river as far as the South river and they request the said
savages, that they give their assistance to obtain peace with the Northern savages, for war is now
inconvenient to them and they prefer to live in peace.
Answer to the Maquaas.
As soou as the three 2£ahicande)'s, of whom you say they are out, have arrived, we will
inform yon, what news they bring and see what we have to do.
your request, the Mahicanders remain,
communicated to you, several
two pieces of ordnance have been received, which . . .as
you wish.
"We shall also take notice of what you have said to the Katskil savages in regard to peace.
Eeesje ^yey appeared before the meeting and presented a string of wampum in grateful return
for the gift, which the Dutch had given him last autumn, as we had done our best concerning the
peace.
They also request Jan Dareth, to tell the Maquaas, that they will give them a present and
whereas they have been informed, that the Maquaas would come hither, they are saved the trouble,
to go into their country.
380
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
[Proposals made by both the Courts at the request of the Sachems
and several citizens of Fort Orcmge.l (^Translated by Vander
Donck.)
1. They say that
passing tlirough
their enemies
tliat we should
done formerl}', when
shall be necessary
Secondly. That they [were bringing] 23 strings of wampum as a present and to confirm
[the peace] and it now was in the hands of the Northern savages, whether they would keep the
peace or not.
Thirdly. They request also, that we should assist them with wampum.
Answer to the foregoing.
Brothers, we are glad, that you intend to make peace with the Northern savages, because
[they] and our brothers have lost many of their best men by the small-pox as well as by war.
Seeonilly. The present of 23 strings of wampum is ver}' good, if you, brothers, will keep
the peace, but it will not help you otherwise, if you break it again, because the Dutch and the
have done their best herein and should it occur, then you make us liars and deceivers;
you must do no harm to the Northern savages, as you have threatened this day, but live like broth-
ers in peace with the people of the North and they . . . here among you.
JouENAL OF Jan Daeeth and Jacob Loockeemans, commissioners to negotiate a
peace between the Maquaas and the Northern Indians.
Copy. Journal kept by Jan Dareth and Jacob Looclcermans
on their journey to the Northern savages.
166-lr, 19"" May.] We, Jan Dareth a.x\A Jacob LoocJcermans, started with our savages, three Mahi-
canders and three Maquaes for the North.
On Monday morning we came to a little kil near the Castle Pa ha\'ing made, as we
judged, about 7 leagues .... our course being north.
Tuesday, the 20"^ we broke camp before sunrise, taking a south easterly course until [after-
noon ?, when we changed it] to south by east ; we made this day about .... and slept the
night at some .... called Hoossick, by the Maquaas .... place QuackansicTc, these
two days ... able to go, but our first Sachem could not get along up the three hills . . .
We passed also three great kills.
Wednesday, the 21'' we started again with daybreak and arrived at noon at the Winterberg,
wiiere it rained at the foot and when after a good hour's climbing and plodding arrived at the top
the rain changed to snow ; we became so cold, that we had to keep marching ; it was very steep,
steeper still in going down ; about three o'clock we arrived below. We made this day as we cal-
culated about 11 or 12 leagues, the course being south east, sometimes . . . We crossed this
day 4 large kills and camped in the evening on the bank of a spring, from where the saviiges said,
it was only .... to tlie Castle, called by the savages Facamtekock the first
village called by the English Narington.
2^ew Yoih Jlistorical Jieconh. .*581
Tluirscliiy, the 22''. we went atiain over vcrv bad and .^tocp hills ; we ai'iived at the Castle at
4 oV'. and were well received aeft>rdiii<^ t() tlieir customs ; un the day before 10 Kntjllnhincn
mounted on horses liad been tliere and had charged the savages, to [inforin them when we came],
wliich was quickly done by tiie Sacliem.
Friday, the 23''. five EmjUshnun came to us, ^Ir. C/ercl; 'Mv. WitteiiK, Mr. . . . and two
young men who came from Iladlc, the village liighest up on the Freshriver, with whom we dis-
coursed mucii and we showed them our commission, in the evening (juite a innnber ....
came .... and we got 60 far, that in the morning
The Eitgllsfi come from the neaiest village . . . .1-1: miles from here.
. liad come to us and liave . . . liaving seen the same they went out
. asked what the reason was . . . stating in answer ' . . .to
make peace between the 3fatjuaas and their savages .... whereupon they said, that
. . . . they had promised and it was their duty to do herein .... inttircsted in it as
cm- . . . in tlie land, bouweries, raising of cattle . . . interested in the trade with the
savages . . . desire to . . . and come to [persuade] our savages to make peace . . . sureties
for the peace . . . doubt wliether the J/fff^i^ftcs who [live] among you [shall] keep their word
the reply to which was yon must have confidence in them and he closed by saying, that it was in
his interest to liave the savages meet. The first [proposition] made by Mr. Wittens was : The
Dutch and the Maquas come to olfer }-ou peace, to forget all that has been done and to make a
firm covenant with you : we have no doubts, for we know, that tlie Maquaes hold to their word
and we desire, that you should make peace with them or leave our land and if [on your account]
we shall have to go to war, we will get rid of you and kill you.
They also s;iid, the Maquaes have always been faithful to the Dutch and our nation, as they
proved at the ArgansH'l', when we had a war with the savages about 30 years ago ; I myself was
pi'esent there at the time ; now make peace when it is offered you.
The Pacamtekocks answered. We have had no war for 36 years and have not troubled our-
selves about our neighbors, the SoqtcacJcicls, when the Maquaes were at war with them last year.
Let them send us a present, then we will release their prisoners and bring a present to their country,
thus to renew our old friendship. This was agreed to and they promised to do it. Thereupon
the savages left and we sent for the SoquacJciclc chiefs, who had taken refuge in the aforesaid Cas-
tle, to the number of 35 or 36 : we talked long with them to induce them to make peace, for the
war had been brought on by them and they were uo\v too weak, to have [a chance] against the
Maquaes.
The Maquaes messengers said, you have acted . . like fools, the Onoqanqes, our real
enemies, have [instigated] you . . . people you have killed . . . thence came . ..
friends the Dutch ... to make peace with you . . . whereupon the English . . .
to take it into consideration . . . because they wanted [to keep] the Sabbath .... to
make [peace] or [leave] their land . . . about midnight.
Saturday 2i"' the whole day ... to [pei'suade] the savages to make peace . . . savages
met and about . . . whether we might not come uj) . . . coming to us, he said. Good
. . . it being Sunda}', to conclude the treaty . . . the Z'wifA, about two o'clock .
have treated us with much kindness . . . the same evening before closing the gate .
Maquaes messenger with his wife . . . mm away, the reason why is . . . we believe
it was because he was afraid for his wife . . . Sunday 25"" About eleven o'clock
we met and concluded the treaty . . . presents given according to their custom, also . . .
382 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Miver.
given a belt of wanipnm, that we slionld be witnesses to the peace now made and keep the
M\aq}iaes] from breaking it as they promise to do the same. On the same day at two o'clock we
left the Castle, [escorted by the chief-Sachem and many others, [who came] with us to the
first moimtain and took leave of us very kindly after we had together smoked a pipe of tobacco
. . . . with us 14 savages, who went along .... the three prisoners shall be released
as soon as the Maquaes come with more presents .... they are treated well, not as pris-
oners, but as visiting friends.
We camped that night upon a [branch] of the Fresh river near a fall, where the [fishes]
jumped up in such cjuantities, while we were close by, that [the savages] made their nets ready ;
we had [plenty] to do [with fishing] as long as we were there and caught [some] fishes of 28
inches length, [we would] have caught more, but the rain prevented us.
. . . we continued our march about noon . . . high mountains, about 5 o'c. the same .
. . . between one of the Maquaes messengers after the troop ... to see in a savage, in
his fright he threw all his things away and came running in full haste up to us .. . . with
their nniskets in that direction but [they found nothing] and he went to pick iip his things after
which we travelled on.
. . . We continued our march and nothing happened this day.
SS"". Again on the march we reached at about 10 o'c. in the morning the river above the Cahoos
and in the afternoon we arrived here in Beoerwyck with several Northern savages to the great sat-
isfaction of the Dutch and savages.
Jan Dareth,
Jacob Loockermans.
Letter from Director Stuyvesant to the authorities at Fort Orange;
transmits the articles of peace concluded wrrH the Esopus Indians ;
the new village at the Esopus; Schenectady.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends.
This letter serves principally as cover for the enclosed articles of peace, made with the Esopus
savages, which, we send your Honors for communication to the community, that they may govern
themselves by the tenor thereof. Now, as upon occasion of this peace we have deemed it proper
and necessary (for the encouragement of the pai'ties desirous and interested in the new village on
the Esopus to take possession again of their abandoned lands) to erect there a stockaded place of
refuge and to keep there provisionally one half of the garrison of Wiltioyck, and as we recpiire
thereto some hemlocks plancks, your Honors are hereby directed and authorized to buy from one
or the other party 300 to 400 plancks and to ])ay for them by an order on the farmer of the excise,
or if he has better means to get plancks instead of wampum, then to take the plancks from
him at the common market price and to send them down to the Esoj)us by the first convenient
chance, directed to Capt. Lieut. Marten Cregier, to whom we have sent the necessary ordei-s, to
have the fortification quickly completed. In case there are no plancks to be obtained or that a
cargo could not be made up, your Honors are earnestlj-^ charged not to fail in the utmost endcavoi-s,
that they can be sent down by the first yacht following.
At the request of the parties interested in Schanectede the surveyor Cortetjou goes up here-
with, to survey and lay out the lands in the manner most convenient to the parties in interest.
Your Plonors are directed to take care and assist, that it may be done as quickly as possible and
jVew York Jli.sforical J,\c(>r'l'<. 383
that tlio sjiid Cortcljoii returns hero by the first c-lmiu-e, for tlirre arc hero several people waiting
for him to have their lands surveyed.
This letter serves further as cover for the enclosed ])roclani:i,ti()n for a general day of thanks-
giving on account of the successful peace and especially for God's signal grace, which he has
shown us during the war with the A^^ojrus savages in delivering all the ("hristian captives from the
hands of the barbarians against all human hope and expectation. Your Honors will deliver it to
Domine iSc/iaat^, after taking a copy, that he comniuuicate it from the altar to the conummity.
(Rest missing.)
OrDKR directing THK SriiVKYOlt TO LAY our THK LANDS OF ScUANUEGnTEDE.
20"' May 16(U.
Having taken up again the answer given to the petition of the parties interested in the lands
of Schanhegatede, dated the 17'" of April, the surveyor S'. Jacques Corteljou was directed, to
proceed by the firet yacht, sailing from here, to Fort Orange, to lay out the lands in question in
the most convenient and suitable manner for the accommodation of the interested parties and
allot to every one his share. In cases of disputes between neighboi's, the said Corteljou and the
Commissary La Montague are authorized, to reconcile the parties and if that cannot be done, to
report his information and the circumstances to the Director-General and Council of jVew-Neth-
erland. Actimi Fort Amsterdam in JVeiu-JYet/ierla?id, the 20"* of May A°. 1664.
Grant of a piece of land at Beegen to Arent Lawrensen.
The petition of Arent Lawrensen, residing at Bergen, was taken up and read, who requests,
that a piece of low land, close to his plantation, may be given and granted to him ; he exhibits
besides an extract from the minutes of the village of Bergen, whereby it appears, that the Court
there has promised it to liim subject to approval.
It was decided
The petitioner may have the said pior-eof low land surveyed by the surveyor and after that a
patent shall be granted to him. Actum Fort Amsterdam, ady ui siq^ra. (29'" May 1661-.)
Proclamation for a day of thanksgiving on account of the peace with the
Esopus and circclar communicating it to the Magistrates throughout the
COUNTRY.
As it has pleased the Only-good God in his especial mere}' to deliver all the Christian prison-
ers out of the barbarian's hands against all human expectation and to give and grant us with their
release an honest and advantageous peace with the Fsopus savages, it is not only becoming, but
also very necessary, that the Only -good God be thanked and praised for it not only by the released
Christians, but also by all and everybody, ■n-ho have so long oflered to God their prayers for the
prisoners. That this may be done so much better and with so much more unity, the Christian com-
384 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
munity is hereby informed, that by order of our high superiors we shall close the usual monthly
days of prayer with a general da}' of thanksgiving to be held on the first Wednesday of June,
that is the fourth day of that month, when a sermon will be preached here in the fore and after-
noon. Every one prepare his heart to be truly and sincerely grateful.
Here ibllows the letter sent to communicate the order for a day of thanksgiving :
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Friends :
This serves only as cover for the enclosed proclamation for a general day of thanksgiving as
well on account of the desired peace as specially for God's signal mercy, which he has shown us
during the war with the Esopus savages in delivering all the captive Christians out of the hands
of the barbarians contrary to all human hope and expectation : After perusing the said notifica-
tion you will deliver the same to the reverend ministers of God's word, that it may by them
be commimicated from the altar to the community. Whereupon relying we commend you to
God's gracious protection and remain with cordial greetings.
Your affectionate Friends
The Director-General and Council of New-Netlierlamd
Actum, Fort Amsterdam in New-Wetherland, the 31'" May A° 1664.
Extract from a letter of Rev. IIeneicus Selyns to the Classis of Amsterdam.
Lack OF Ministers ; Sad state of affairs in New-Netherl and; June 9 1664.*
Domine Samuel Megapolensis arrived in safety, but Domine War7ierus Hudson, who was
sent by your Rev. body as minister for the South river, died on the passage. It is necessary to
provide a minister in his place, as the children remain unbajjtized since the death of Dom. Weliits,
as well as on account of the diversity of sentiment jjrevailing there; there being some who speak
disrespectfully of the sacred scriptures. Besides there is among the Swedes a certain Lutheran
minister, who leads an unchristian life and a person who has chosen the Lutheran ministry after
first having been a schoolmaster which doubtless would have done no great injury to the sheep
wandering without a shepherd, were it not for the ivncliristian life of the aforesaid minister.
You have heard of the sad state of New-Netherland. The Indians have killed some, wounded
others and taken a number of captives and at the same time burned a number of houses at Esopus.
The English have declared, that they would take our town and all Long-Island with flying colors.
******
BRooKtYN, June 9, 1664. • Heneicus Selyns.
Extract from the Minutes of a Committee of the Classis of Amsterdam, June 23, 1664.
A letter was read from Jolin Polhemus, pastor at Midwout in New-Netherland, dated April
22'', 1664, wherein his Rev. complains, as in his preceding letter of Sepf 21"', 1663, that no cor-
respondence is maintained among the churches ; 2''. that ecclesiastical discipline is not practiced
by punishing the offenders ; S*". that no means are provided for the propagation of religion among
the savages and the English, although authority therefor had been received.
* This letter, as well as the following Extract from the Minutes of the Classis and other corresi)ondeuce be-
tween the clergy of New-Netherlaud and the Classis of Amsterdam, tlie Rev. E. T. Corwin, D. D., of Jlillstone,
N. J., has kindly allowed to be used. They belong to a collection in the i)ossession of the Tlieological Semi-
nary at New Brunswick, N. J. — Ed.
Ntio York Historical Jiicco7'ds. .'385
CoM.Ml!>SION OK "WlI.I.IAM r>KKCKM.\N TO 1!K C'u.MMISSAKV AT 1 H K EsoPlfl AND HIS INSTRUCTIONS.
Petnis Stxiyvesant, on bclialf of tlioir Iligli : ^liglit: the Lords States-General of tlie United
I^ethcrlanda and the Koblc Lords-Directors of tlie Priv. W. L Company, Director-General of
I^ew-Xetherland, Curacao, Bonayro, Aruha and its dependencies, together with the Honorable
Conncil to all who shall see or hear this read, Greeting: Whereas we reqnired for the adminis-
tration and promotion of the Ilon^'" Company's and our own affairs in the Esoims and its neigh-
borhood a suitable and experienced person, to command there in our absence as Commissary and
Chief officer and to manage eveiything to the best advantage of the said Company, Therefore
relying upon the capacity, piety and experience of Wilhclm Beeckmaii, who has for several years
served us in the same capacity at the South river and whose services there have well pleased us,
we have commissioned and appointed him, as we herewith do commission and appoint him as our
Commissary and Chief officer, to take care there, in our absence, of the safety of the country, the fort,
of the military and freemen, who are there already or may come hereafter, and to keep and maintain in
our name good order, administer law and justice in civil and military matters to the best of his
knowledge and to do further in the service of the said Company, concerning his duties and office,
what a good and faithful Commissary is in duty bound to do, pursuant to the oath of fidelity to
be taken before us. This having been taken, we hereby order, command and direct all and every-
body, whom it may concern, either servants of the Company or freemen, to receive, acknowledge,
respect and obey the said Wilhelm Beeckman as our Commissary and Officer, to give him in the
execution of his duties all lielp, favor and assistance, every one as far as he is concerned, for thus
we find it necessary for the service of the Hon'''* Company and the welfare of this province.
Thus done and given in the meeting held by the Director-General and Council of JSew-Nether-
land at Fort Aiasterdam in New-Nethei'land, the 4"' July 1664.
Provisional instructions for Wilhelm Beeckman^ Schout and Commissary
at tiie Eso]}Xis.
Arrived at the Esopus he shall make a pertinent inventory of all the goods and effects be-
longing to the Hon'''" Company, what and however they may be and i-eceive the balance from
Ensign Xiesen, Matthys Capita and Jacob Burhans and open and keep a proper account thereof
in the same manner, as he has done at the South river, with which we are well pleased. Hence-
forth we shall consign to him all goods, sent thither for the garrison and they will be charged
against him, until he proves by a clear account, how and to whom they were distributed.
2.
He shall convene the Schepens of tlie village of Wilticyck in the name of the Director-Gen-
eral and Council of N^eio-Netherland, preside at their meetings, count their votes and in case of
a tie have the deciding vote.
3.
"WTien however he is himself a party to a suit, or acts for the privileges of the Lords Patroons
or on behalf of the law for the Hon"'* Fiscal, then he must rise and leave the bench and he shall
in such cases have no advisory vote, much less a deciding one ; in his place one of the ex-Schepeus
must then preside.
4.
He shall strictly govern himself in what concerns his office by the instructions, given to the
49
386 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Court of Justice in the village of WdtwycJc by the Director-General and Council of New-Netli-
ei'land oil the IG"" of May 1664, of which a copy shall be given him for information.
5.
In our or our deputies' absence he shall further have supreme command at the Esojms and in
all villages already made or hereafter to be established over the Company's servants and the free-
men, who shall be obliged to assist him at all occasions in the execution of his duties ; as far as
possible he shall maintain good order and discipline among the former and administer and uphold
among the others law and justice to the best of his knowledge in civil and military matters as well
as in criminal cases in minori gradu pursuant to the instructions already given or hereafter to be
given according to circumstances.
6.
Whereas a sad experience has taught us, that the peddling and selling of strong drink to the
savages is extremely injurious there, he is especially commanded and charged to watch closely,
that the articles and conditions, under which the peace with the Esopus savages was made on the
15"" of May 1664, are strictly observed and carried out by Christians as well as savages, and not
to allow, under penalty of being discharged, that any savages come to the Esopus contrary to the
said conditions or that any trade is carried on with them, except as stipulated by the aforesaid arti-
cles of peace.
7.
The tapsters' excise of wine, beer and distilled waters to be consumed at the Esopus, without
distinction of place, either in the new or in the old village, shall be let out by him at the first con
venient opportunity. One half of the proceeds for the first year shall be turned over to the
Magistrates there for the payment of the village-debts, pursuant to our order given upon their
petition on the 25'" April last past.
8.
"Whereas the Magistrates of the peace have asked our consent to levy a municipal burghers'
excise, to defray some necessary expenses and we have given our permission, it may be put into
execution at some convenient time under the enclosed conditions, which are the same, imder which
the excise is let within this city. Thus given provisionally at Fort Amsterdam in Neio-Nether-
land, the 4'" July 1064.
Proposal of Seweckenamo, one of the Esopcs Sachems, to have some provi-
sions SENT TO THEIR COUNTRY BEYOND HaVEKSTRAW.
8'" July 1664. To-day appeared in the Councilchamber at the Fort
Seweckenamo^ one of the Esopus Sachems, who
made the following statement in presence of
Oratam, chief of Hackinghesaclcy, Samoenaar
of Wiecliquaeskech, Meghtsewakes of K'lchU-
wangh through Sarah Kierstede, the interpreter.
1.
He, Seweckenamo, comes to sa}', that the other Esojnis Sachems cannot come according to the
promise made at the conclusion of the peace, for they are mostly sick and very lean because of the
^l;io York Jl/s/on'cal Jicconl-i. .".87
«
want of food, but. tlioy will cuinc, as soon iis tlioir corn is ripe iiml In; comes now, to tell us. Tic
gives an clkskiii.
2.
WlicroiU; all the provisions, wliich they liail gathered have been destroA'cd and they have now
notliing to live upon, ho recpiests, that the Dutch niigiit sell them some provisions and send them
to tiieir country on the otiier side of Ilarei-straw in a vessel, for they aro all in M-ant and suffer
some h\uigor. lie gives three or four strings of Manipnm.
The answer to the first was, that we liad expected the EKOjnis Sachems according to their
promise and that they ought to have come, that we still expected them as soon as they recovered.
We gave a coat of duffels to the Sachem Seweckenamo.
2.
"We answered, that the savages may freely come here to purchase, what thoy require, that it
was better for tiiem to come here, than for our people to go there, but that nobody of oin- people
shall be prevented, if lie is willing, to sell them provisions in their country. We gave him some
wampum and a piece of duffels. Thus transacted and done at the Councilchamber in Fort
Amsterdam in New-Nctherland, S'" July 16Gi.
PeTTTIOX of PuII.IPP PietERSEX ScnUYI-ER ANT> GOOSEX GERRrrSEN FOR LEAVE
TO P0RCHASE THE IIai.F MoON FROM THE MoHEGAJsS, IN ORDER TO J'REVENT ITS
PURCHASE BV THE EnGLISH ; GRANTED.
To the Noble, Yery Worshipful Honorable Director-General
and Council of New-Netherland.
Respectfully show PMUpp Puierscn ScJniyler and Goosen Gerretsen, residents of the village
of Beverwyck, tliat the Malnkanders have informed the petitioners, the English of Connetikot
on the Fresh river had requested them to sell a certain plain, called by the Dutch the Half 2foon,
situate at the third or fourth month with an island between the second and third mouth, about
three or four leagues to tiie northward from here. The said Mahikanders have offered to sell
this land to the petitioners in preference, but as the petitioners may not do it without the consent
of your Hon""'* Worships, therefore they pray, that your lion''''' Worships will grant them peiinis-
sion to purchase the said land, as it will be done for the best of the country and to keep the
English away from this river. Waitmg for a favorable apostel we remain
Beverioyck, Your Noble, Honorable Worships'
the 27"^ May 1664. obedient servants
Philipp Pietersen Schuyler
Goosen Gerretsen.
After the question had been put, it was resolved :
The Director-General and Council of JVevj-NetJierland give permission to the petitioners to
buy the s;vid piece of land from the lawful owners, provided that the same be, as usual, transferred
and conveyed to the Dii'eetor-General and Council as representatives of the Noble Lords Directors.
What the petitioners pay for it to the lawful owners, shall be refunded to them at some conven-
ient time or be balanced against the tithes, but all under this reservation, that if this piece of land
388 Colonial Settlements on the IlndHOn River.
should be found upon determination of the limits of the Colony of Rensselaerswyck to be within
the boundaries thereof, they must properly acknowledge the patroou of that Colony as their
patroon. Actum FoH Amsterdam iu New- Netherlands the 10"' July 166i.
P. StUTVES/VNT
NiCASIDS DE SlLLE.
Petition of Thomas Powel and others for leave to purchase fkom the
Indians a piece of land between Kinderhook and Neutenhook; granted.
To the "Worshipful Honorable Yice-Director and Commissaries
of Fort Oraiuje and the village of Beverwyck.
Show respectfully the undersigned petitioners, burghei-s and inhabitants of the village of
Beverwyck, that the}- are desirous of pm-chasing a fine piece of land between Kinderhook and
Neutenhook. Whereas the petitioners can no longer make a living here in this village, they are
obliged to settle with their families in the country, to gain their bread with God's help and
honorably. The petitioners know well, that they cannot do this without your Honoi-s' order and
consent and therefore they request most earnestly, that your Honors will give them permission to
purchase the land, while they promise to be governed by the usages of this country, like other
inhabitants. Awaiting hereupon a speedy and favorable answer, they remain.
Your Honors' obedient
Thomas Powel
A7 the mark of Teunis Abrahamsen
yC the mark of Claes van den Berch
Hendrick Cat.
A-V- ^^ mark of Jochem Ketel.
Evert Luycassen.
— J- the mark of Bert Bagge.
Jan Dircksen.
The CoTirt of Beverwyck gave the following answer to the preceding petition :
The Court refers this to the Hoii"'" Director-General and Council of Neio-Netherland to dis-
pose thereof according to their pleasure. Actum Fort Oranye, the 20"" June 1664.
By order of the Court, lu absence of the Clerk
LlTDO■\^c^s Cobes, Court Messenger.
To the Noble, "Veiy Worshipful Director-General and Council
of New-Netherland.
Whereas Tliomas Pa^dus, Teunis Ah'ahamsen, Claes van der Berck, ITendrick Cay, Jochem
Ketel, Evert Luycassen, Bert Bagge, Jan Dirricksen and others, who have not yet signed, are
very desirous to purchase a fine piece of land between N%ieten and Kinderen hoeck, for which the
petitioners have submitted the request here annexed to the Hon''''^ Courts of Fort Orange and
Beverwyck, therefore the petitioners are referred to your Hon"'" Worship and the High Council of
New YorJc Hhtorical liecords. 389
New- Netherlands to be answered, while the petitioners do not doubt, but a short and favorable
decision wdl be given to them. Which doing etc*.
Actum Bevenoyclc, Tour II ou''''^ Worships' obedient
the 23" June 166i. Thomas Powel
Jdeiaen Teunissen.
The foregoing petition having been received and read, it was resolved :
The Director-General and Council of New-Netherland grant permission to the petitioners to
purchase the land in question from the lawful owners, provided that, as usual, the land is trans-
ferred and conveyed to the Director-General and Council aforesaid as representatives of the
Lords-Directors of the Priv. W. I. Company. Whatever the petitionei's shall pay to the lawful
owners for the said land, shall be refunded in convenient time or be balanced against the tithes.
Actum J^ort Amsterdam in New-Netherland the lO"" July 1664.
P. Stutvesant.
KicAsius de Sille.
EXTBAORDINAET MeETING HELD B\' BOTH THE CoUBTS AT FoRT OrANGE ON THE 12tH OF JuLY 1664.
related by his Honor the Commissary . . . Gerritt Slichtenhorst,
a savage, called Cajadogo, and .... from Ixa7iJchlo report to the
meeting that yesterday morning four Northern savages [came to] Claverack, who have been upon
the llaquaes path or upon .... and from the west side of the river at the JIdl Kd
crossed in a canoe arriving at the bouwery of Peter the Fleming and they said to them, How will
it be now with the Northern savages, for the Onejages have a knife and a hatchet lying upon their
arms ; they answered, the English had told the Northern savages to carry on the war against the
Maquaes.
They say f m-ther, the Onejages had said to them. Brothers, we will not conceal it from you, for
you have long lived among us and have had wives and children there and you understand our
language well, the English have told and directed the savages, to fight or kill the Dutch and
Maqxuus and the English have threatened, if you do not do as we tell you, we shall kill you.
They say also, that 40 ships shall come across the sea to make war here and ask for the sur-
render of this country and if we were not willing to give it up, they intend to kdl us all together
and the English shall fight agamst the Dutch and now the Northern savages against the Muijuaes.
They say further, that at the time when the messengers of the Maquaes had come to the
fort of the Pacamtekock savages to confirm the peace, several Englishmen were in the fort, who
[m-ged] the savages to kill the Maquaes and they are dead now.
He says further .... (rest illegible.)
Ordinance for the more careful navigation of the North river by sloop
captains, passed 17™ july 1664.
(Laws of New-Netherland, page 4C5.)
390 Colonial Seitlements on the Hudson River.
Minute of Council, concerning a communication made to Captain Thomas
WlLLE'lT OF complaints BY THE MoHAWKS AGAINST THE NoETHEEN InDIANS.
24'" July 1604.
******
The complaints of the Maquaas against some Northern savages were communicated and read
to Captain Thomas Willett and a copy of it was given to him, which he engaged to send to the
government at Boston. Ady ut supra.
Extract from a letter of Director Stutvesant to the Deeectoes in Holland;
THE INTRIGUES OF THE EnGLISH AMONG THE InDIANS. 4'" AuGUST, 1664.
******
The next few lines serve as an introduction and explanation of the enclosures No. ;
if your Honors will please to peruse them, especially the two last letters between us and the
authorities of Fo7't Orange and the Colony of Rensselaer stoyck, then your Honors will learn the
particulars of our new and increased anxieties, which trouble us on account of the good inhabit-
ants there because of the dangerous and for us not less damaging wars between the Maqitaes and
the Northern savages : the reasons of this supposed liurtfulness have been explained and com-
municated to the aforesaid two courts in our letter enclosed among other papers and numbered
NB., so that we need not trouble your Honors with a repetition thereof.
But we must say concerning the above said, that the 2laquaes pretend upon their own version
and perhaps reports made by our people, that the English of the North are the cause of the mas-
sacre of their messengers and consequently also of the present implacable and pernicious wars.
Your Honors' undersigned faithful servants eaa however not accept this vei'sion as true, they
believe rather, that it is a fabrication of the Ilaquaes, to engage us as their allies in this war.
This is not advisable for us for many reasons, as aside from the danger and losses arising from
such a war for our side, the delay if not the diversion of the furtrade must be feared. It is in
the meantime out of question, that, if the boundaries are once settled between us and our neigh-
bors, then the daily cpiarrels, bickerings, jealousies and claims shall be avoided from either side
and a good understanding and correspondence established ; these pernicious wars between the
Maquaes and the Northern savages would then soon be settled and brought to an end and all the
savages could be made to submit or at least to deliberate, when they see the Christians united and
drawing a line, to keep the barbarians in submission or at least cpiiet.
Extract from a letter of the Council to the Directors in Holland; the
Indlan wars, 17™ August 1664.
******
The new and grievous anxieties, with which we find ourselves burdened because of the
dangerous and very pernicious war between the Maquaas and the Northern savages and which
have been particularized in our former letter by the " Trouw " (duplicate by the " Gekrui/ste
Hart'''') are increasing daily on account of the continuous excursions and expeditions made by one
New Yorh Historical Records. 301
party against the other. "We have therefore conehided and resolved, that liis Efonor, the Director-
General, should make a trip to Fort Orange, to make there if possible such arrangements, that
our people sliall not l)e molested by either party, who pass along there every day as well as through
a new settlement formed lately a few leagues from there inland ; however we have little, but still
some hope for it, when the contending parties shall observe that our people keep neutral and treat
one as friendly as the other.
Lettek FEOii Eev. Samuel Deisius to the Classis of Amsterdam : State of
THE Hefoemed Church.
Heverend, Learned and Eeloved Brethreu in Christ Jesus !
I find I have a letter fi-om the Hev. Classis, which I have not answered. Having an oppor-
tunity by our brother, Rev. Ilenrieus Selyns, I could not neglect the opportunity of writing to
you. We had indeed wished that Dom. Selyns might have remained longer among ns, both on
account of his diligence and success in preaching and catechizing and also on account of his humble
and exemplary walk. He has attached very many unto him, among them a number of the negroes,
who are greatly grieved by his departure. But considering the fact, that he owes filial obedience
to liis parents, it is the will of God, that he should leave us. ******
In reference to the places, in which he preached viz. : the town of Brooklyn and the Bouwerie,
it is not yet positively decided, but 1 think it probable, that the son of Dom. Megapolensis, who
has recently come over, will take the charge of them, as he has not been sent by our patrons to
any other place. The French on Staten- Island would also gladly have a preacher, but their
families are few in number and poor, so that they cannot contribute much to the support of the
Gospel and as our support here is unpunctiial and small, there is no probability, that they will
settle a preacher. In the meantime, that they may not be wholly destitute Governor Stuyvesant,
at their request, has permitted me to go and preach there every two months and administer the
Lord's Supper. This I have done for about a year: in the winter season it is troublesome on
account of the great water or bay, which must be crossed, and the showers and stoi'ms, which
occur ****************
New-Amsterdam, Samuel Deisius.
Aug. li'" 1664. .
Petition of the Inhabitants of Westchester to the English Commissioners.
To the Hono*'" his Ma"^' Com" for the affaires of New-England The
Inhabitants of West Cliester Humbly Shew.
1. That the said Tract of Land called West Chester was jjurchased for large Sumes under the
Title of England by Mr. Thos. Pell of the Knowne Ancient proprietors in ye yeare 165-t.
2. The ]3retended power of the Manhatoes did thereupon continue protesting ag' and threating
of the said Plantacon keeping the Inhabitants at continual watch and ward until at length the
persons of Twenty-three Inhabitants of West Chester aforesaid were seized under Commission
from the said powers, committed Pi-isoners into the Hould of a Vessell, where they continued in
392 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
restraint from all friends for the space of thirteene dajes, fed with rotten Provision creeping with
wormes, whereby some of them remained diseased to this da}', after w'^'' they weie carryed away
in Cliaines, and layed in tlieir Dungeon at Maiihattoes.
3. That the said Inhabitants had perisiied w"' famine in the said Imprisonment, but for the relief
obtained at other hands.
4. That all this suffering was inflicted on them under noe other pretence, but that they were
opposers of ye Dutch Title to the Lands afores''.
5. That when the said p''tended powers had freed the said Prisoners and introduced their own
Governm' over the s'^ Planta9on they drove away such as would not submit to their p'tended
Authority, to their great Endamagem' and the enslaving of such as remained.
6. Tliat when in May 1663 the said Plantaeon was reduced to the King's authority, by virtue of
his Ma'"'" Patent to Connecticuti, the pretended powers aforesaid, sent in hostile manner for
certaine Inhabitants of West Chester, whom they confined in Manhatoes and the next day sent for
one Mr. Richard Mills, whom they cast into their Dungeon and afterwards soe used him for thirty-
eight dayes space, as there are yet strong and crying presu rations, they caused his death, which
followed soone after.
7. That the unreasonable damage of the Purchaser and the low estate of the Plantaeon occa-
sioned by the premisses, hath had no other recompense to this day, but new threatenings and
thereby an utter obstruction from the peopleing and improving of a hopefull countrey, all which
as an unsufl'erable abuse to his Royal Ma"'' and our English Nation is humbly offered to the con-
6idera9on of the Hon"" Commiss'^ Aug. 22, 1664 O. S.
Information of English intrigues among the Ebopus Indians.
27"" August A" 1664.
Carstangh, a HackinghesacTiy savage, says, that he has heard last night from a Maquaas, who
was on the west shore of the Worthriver, some Englishmen, among a chief of the English, had
said : Well, as the Dutch have so beaten you, what will you give us, if we kill the Dutch. There-
upon the savages handed to the English a bag with wampum and promised the land of the Esqpus.
Order, directing the commanding officer at the Esopus to bring down his
DETACHMENT, AS THE EnGLISH FLEET IS AT NaJACK.
Honorable, Dear, Faithful Sir.
The bearers hereof will, no doubt, inform jo\i minutely of the very distressed and anxious
state^ in which we are, seeing that English ships, four in number, have arrived in the bay yesterday
and cast anchor near Nayaclc, intending, as the report goes, to bring first Long and Staten-Island
under the King's authority and then attack also this, the principal place. If that is lost, the
whole coiintry is lost. We have therefore resolved for the better protection of this foi-t and conse-
quently of the whole country to call down here the military, except that the Eedouht remain
properly garrisoned. You are therefore directed, to send upon receipt hereof the Sergeant with
the rest of the men immediately to this place. Meanwhile we will recommend to all of you to be
New Yorh Histoi'ical Heconls. 393
well on your guard, whereupon relying we eomnieud you to God's mercy and protection and
remain with cordial salutations
J^ort Amsterdam, Your affectionate friends
the 29"" August A° IBBl. The Director-General and Council of New-Netherland.
Postscript.
The Sergeant must be instructed and ordered, to keep a good look-out, while coming down
and if an opportunity offers, send ahead a savage, to find out, whether any strange vessels are in
his way. If he hears of any, he can land his men and come down through the woods or as best
as he can.
Letter from Key. Samitel Deisius to the Classis op Amsterdam ; the sukren-
DEE of New- Amsterdam to the English.
To the reverend, learned and pious brethren of the Reverend Classis of Amsterdam. •
I cannot refrain from informing you of our present condition, viz. : that we are now brought
under the govermuent of the King of England.
On the 26"' of August there arrived in the bay of the North river, near Staten-Island, four
large men-of-war or frigates, well mounted and manned with soldiers and marines. They had a
patent or commission from the King of Great Jiritain to summon this province to suri'ender and
to take possession of it in the name of his Majesty. If this was not done amicably, the place
was to be attacked with violence and every thing given up to the English soldiers for sacking,
rapine and booty. The people here were not a little frightened at the arrival of these frigates.
Our rulers, the Director and Council, as also the officers of the City, took the matter very
much to heart. They earnestly endeavored to delay the affair by repeated embassies to the Gen-
eral, Hichard Wicholls, requesting that the business should be submitted to his Majesty of Eng-
land and the Lords States of Holland / but all was in vain. They disembarked their soldiers
about two miles off at Gravesend, and then marched them on foot over Long Island to the feriy
opposite this place. The frigates came up under full sail on the 4P^ of September. They had put
all their cannons on one side, having orders and intending, if any resistance were offered, to
pour a f uU broadside into this open place and so take the city by assault giving up every thing to
plunder and massacre.
Our honorable superiors, both of the "W. I. Company and of the City, were fully inclined to
defend the place ; but they realized, that it would be impossible, as the town was not in a defensi-
ble condition and that even if it M'ei'e fortified it could not be done, as all the men within the
bounds of the City could defend only one-fourth part of the City's front ; there was also but a
slender supply of powder either in the fort or in the town and no hope of deliverance or aid could
be entertained. Every day the concourse of the English, both on foot and on horseback, increased ;
they came from New England with desire to pillage the place ; they offered their services against
us as privateers, being about 600 in number, according to report, with 50 French privateers. The
English permitted this. Therefore our authorities at the urgent request of the inhabitants and
burghers, were obliged, although imwillingly, to resolve to come to terms in order to prevent pil-
lage and bloodshed.
50
394 Colonial tSettlements on the Hudson River.
After the surrender of tlie place several English, people, wLoiu we liave long known and wlio
were well affected towards us, came to us and said, that God had singularly overruled the matter,
in that the province had passed over by treaty ; otherwise nothing else could have happened but
pillage, murder and general ruin. This is also confirmed by several soldiers, who say, that they
came hither from England in hope of booty, and since it has turned out so differently, they de-
sired permission to return to England.
It is stipulated in the articles [of surrender], that the religious teaching shall continue as
before and the ministers shall remain. "We could not abandon our congregation and hearers ; we
judged, that we must continue M'ith them for a time at least and perform our duties, lest they
should become entirely scattered and grow wild.
The West India Company owes me quite a sum, which I hojje and desire will be paid. Thus
I close, commending your persons and services to the love of God. I remain
Tour Reverences' Obedient Brother
Manhattan, Sejyt. 15"', 1GG4. Samuel Drisius.
Second Period.
The Province under English Rule, from the Surrender by the
Dutch to the establishment on Counties.
(1664 to 1684. )
License to purchase Indian Lands at the Nevesinks ; a warrant to Wm Goldinge, etc.
Upon the request of Wm. Goldinge, James Grover and John Browne, in behalf of them-
selves and their associates, I do hereby authorize them to treate and eonchide with the several
Sachims of the Nevisans or any otliei-s concerned, about the piu-chase of a parcel of laiids lyeing
and being on the maine extending from Chaioyoranissa near the mouth of tlie Raritans Kiver
nnto Pontopecke for the doeing whereof this shall be their warrant. Given under my hand at
fort James in New Yorke on Manhattans island this IT"-" day of October 1664,
R. NiCOLLS.
Order directing the Magistrates of Bergen, N. J., lo receive and quarter a
GARRISON OF SOLDIERS.
You are hereby required to receive into 3'our town Corporal Poioell with the souldiers under
his command and them to accommodate with lodging, not above two of them to bed in any one
house and furthur you are required to joyne six of the inhabitants with three of the soldiers to
be upon constant guard, to secure the peace ot the said towud until furthur order whereof you
are not to faill. Given under my hand ni fort James .
To the magistrates of Bergen.
Permission to purchase land from the Indians given to Philipp Pietersen Schiiyler.
Upon the Petition of Philipp Pietersen Schuyler That hee may have Liberty to Purchase a
certaine Parcell of Land of the Natives, lying and being near ffort Alba?!]/, as in the said Petition
is exprest ; I do hereby grant Liberty unto the said Philips Pietersen Sehuyler, so to do, of which
when hee shall bring a due Certificate unto mee, hee shall have a Patent for the said Lands by
Authority fi-om his Royale Highnesse the Puke of Yorke for the farther Confirmation thereof.
Given imder my hand &tffort James in Neio Yorke on Manhatans Island this 30"' day of March
1665.
Rich. Nicolls. ,
396 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
Permission to ptjkchase land at Claveeack from the Indians given to Johannes
Clcte and Jan Hendrick Brityn.
Upon the Peti<;on of Johannes Clute and Jan Hendrick Uruyns, That they may have leave
and Liberty to Purchase of the Indyans, a certaine parcell of Land lying and being on the west
side of y'^ Noi^th River and against Clave Hack near ffort Albany, as in their Peti(;on is exprest
and that they may likewise Plant the same, I do hereby Grant leave and Liberty unto the said
Johannes Clute and Jan Hendrick Bruyns to make Purchase, thereof and to Plant it Accord-
ingly, as is desired, of which, when they shall bring imto mee a due certificate. They shaU have a
patent for the said Lands by Authority from his Poyall Ilighnesse tlie Duke of Torke for their
farther Confirma90n therein. Given under my hand at ffort James in New Yorke this 1" day
of April 1665.
Rich". Ts^icolls.
Patent fob the Land at the Neversinck, N. J.
To All whome these presents shall come I, Richard Nicholls, Esquire, Governour under his
Eoyall highness. The Duke of York, of all his Territories in America Send Greeting : Whereas
there is a certain tract or parcell of Land within this Government, lying and being near Sandy
point upon the maine, which said parcell of land hath been with my consent and approbation
bought by some of the Inhabitants of Gravesend on Jong-Island of the Sachems, chief pro-
prietors thei-eof, who before me have acknowledged to receive sattisfaction for the same to tlie end
the said Land may be planted, manured and Inhabited and for divers other good causes and con-
siderations, I have thought fitt to give, confinn and grant and by these presents Do give, confirm
and grant unto Wm. Goulding, Sam. Spicer, Ric. Gihbons, Ric. Stout, James Grover, John
Boon, In'. Tilton, Nat. Silvester, Wm. Reep, Walter Clark, Nicholas Davis, Ohediah Holmes,
Pattentees and their Associates, their Heirs, successors and Assignes, all that tract and part of the
maine land beginning att a certaine place comonly called or knowne by the name of Sandy point
and so running along the Bay W. IST. W., till it comes to y" mouth of tlie Raraton River, from
thence goeing along the said River to the Westermost part of a certaine Mash Land, which divides
the River into two parts and from that part to Run in a direct S. W. line into y" Woods twelve miles
and y° to turn away S. E. 6d untill it fall into y° maine Ocean together with all Lands, Sayles,
Rivers, Creeks, Harbours, Mineral (Royall Mines excepted). Quarries, Woods, Meadows, Pastures,
Marshes, Waters, Lakes, Fishings, Hunting, Hawkeing and Fowleing and all other profitts,
comodities and hereditaments to the said Land and premises belonging and appertaining with
their and every of their appurtenances and of every part and parcell thereof. To have and to hold
all and Singular the said Lands, premises and hereditaments with their and every of tlieir appurten-
ances hereby given and granted or liereinbefore mentioned to be given and granted is to the only
proper use and behoof of the said pattentees and their Associates, their heirs, successors and
assignes forever upon such terms and conditions as hereafter are expressed (viz'.) That the said
pattentees and Associates, tlicir lieires and assignes, shall within the space of Three yeares, begin-
ning from the day of the date hereof, manure and plant tlie aforesaid Land and premisses and
settle there One hundred families att least. In consideration whereof I do promise and grant, that
the said pattentees and their associates, their lieires, successors and assignes, sliall enjoy the said
Lands and premisses with their appurtenances for the terme of seven years next to come after the
date of these presents, free from payment of any Rents, Cnstonies, Excise, Tax or Levey whatso-
Ntw York Historical Records. 307
ever but after the expiration of said terme of seven yeares the persons, who shall be in possession
thereof shall pay after the same rate with others within this His Eoyall Highnesse his Territories
shall be Obleiged unto, and the said pattentees and their associates, their heirs, successors and
assignes shall have free leave and liberty to erect and build Towns and villages in such places, as
they in their discretions shall tliink most convenient ; Provided, that they associate themselves and
that the hou'ses of their Townes and villages lye not too farr distant and scattering one from the
other and also they make such fortifications for tlieir defence ag\ an Enemy, as may seem need-
full. And I do likewise grant unto the Pattentees and their associates, their heires, successors
and assignes and unto any and all other persons, whe shall plant and Inhabitt in any of the Lands
aforesaid, that they shall have free liberty of conscience without any Molestation or disturbance
whatsoever in their way of worship. And I do further grant imto the aforesaid Pattentees, their
heires, successors and assignes, that they shall have liberty to Elect by the vote of the major part
of the Inhabitants five or seven other persons of the ablest and discreetest of the said Inhabitants
or a greater number of them, (if the Pattentees, their heires, successors and assignes shall see cause)
to joyne with them and they together or the major part of them shall have full power and
authority to make such peculiar prudentiall Lawes and constitutions amongst the Inhabitants for
the better and more orderly governing of them, as to them shall seem meet : Provided they be
not repugnant to the publick Lawes of the Government : And they sliall also have liberty to try
all Causes and Actions of Debt and trespass arising amongst themselves to the value of Ten
pounds without appeale. But that they remitt the hearing of all criminall matters to the Assizes
att Neio Yorh and furthermore I do promise and grant unto y'= Pattentees and their Associates
aforementioned, their heires, successors and assignes, that they shall in all things have equall
priviledges, freedomes and Immunities w"" any of his Ma""^ Subjects within this Governm'. The
said Pattentees, their Associates, heires, successors and assignes rendring and paying such Duties
and acknowledgm'' as now are or hereafter shall be constituted and established by the Lawes of
this Government iinder the obedience of his Eoyall Highness, his heires and successors : Pro-
vided they do no wa^-s Infringe the Priviledges above said. Given under my hand and Seale att
Fort James in New York on Manhattans Island the 8"^ day of April in the 17"" year of the
Eeigne of Our Soveraigne Lord Charles the Second, By the Grace of God of England, Scotland,
France and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith, and in the Year of our Lord God 1665.
Entred In the Office of Pecords Richakd Niccolls.
In New Yorh the day and year above written, _
MATrniAs NiccoLLS, Seer''.
Indian Deed fok Caniskkk (Athens, Greene Co.)
(Fort Orange Records. Vols. Deeds No. 1.)
Whereas Jan Cloet, Jan Hendrichsen Bruyn and Jurian Teunisscn have produced before
the Court of Albany the consent given to their petition, of his Honour the Governour of New
Yorh, to purchase from the Indians a certain parcel of land, situate on the west side of the North
river opposite to the Claverrach near Fort Albany.
Therefore appeared before me, the undersigned Secretary of Albany, five savages, named Sacha-
moes, Matoinata, also called Schermerhoorn, Keesie VTey, Papenua, Maweha, owners and proprie-
398 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
tors of the said land, representing the other co-owners, wlio declared in the presence of the under-
signed witnesses, that they have sold, ceded and transferred, as tliey herewith cede and transfer
the same to the real and actual possession of and for the benefit of the aforesaid Jan Cloet and
Jan Hendricksen Bruyn, to wit, the land called CanisJcek, which stretches along the river from
the land of Pieter Bronh down to the valley, lying near the point of the main land behind the
Baeren Island, called llacJiaioameck, and runs into the woods both at the North and South ends
to the Katskil road. The price for it is a certain sum to be paid in merchandise, which they, the
sellers, acknowledge to have received from the purchasers to their full satisfaction; they there-
fore renounce their former claims and declare Jan Cloet and Jan Hendricksen Bruyn to be the
lawful owners of the land, promising, etc.
Thus done at Albany in the presence of Harinen Bastiansen aiid Hendrick Gerritsen, called
in as witnesses, the 20"" of April 1665 Old Style.
This is tlie mark ^— ^ of Ivkesje "We\'
Hakmen Bastiens, This is the mark ffl'=s-^ of Sachamoes
Hendkick Geekitsen, witnesses. ''^
This is the mark \^ of Papenua
This is the mark (JSrt of Masseha
In my presence, ^ /] ^^ Mawinata alias
JoHANNis Pkovoost, Sec'y. This js the mark ^^>^X. Scheumekhokn
Oepee concerning the settlement of the Nevesings.
Whereas I am informed that yo" Bichard GiUbons are one of the seven men made choyce of
by the rest of the Persons concerned for the Ordering and laying out of such Lands, as tiie Gen''"
hath given Leave unto you and yo' Partners to Purcliase of the Natives of JVavcsand, and the
Purchasers having proposed and promised to the Gen''" to lay out some Townes and to Plant and
Build near one to another, for their mutuall Safety and Security ; These are to require you, that
yo" take care, that the Persons, who are gone over with yo" or shall hereafter go, do Settle and
make their Planta9ons as neare together as conveniently they can and every Person concerned
therein is duly to observe the Rules Agreed upon for your Settlement in those Parts, and promised
to be performed by you ; and if at any time, you shall discover any Shipps or Yessells upon the
Coast, that yoit immediately give Notice thereof unto mee or send the Intelligence to the Inhab-
itants of Gravesend, who I have ordered to repair hither, according as in yo'' Judgments may bee
thought the quickest dispatch and the Persons Employed shall bee satisfied for their Paines.
Given under my hand atj^ort James in New Yorke this SO"" day of Aprill 1665.
Robekt Needham.
To RiclCd. Gibbons or whom else this may concern.
New Yorh Historical Records. 399
Indiai? Deed foe land neau Kindeehook.
fFort Orange Records. Deeds 3.)
Before me Johannis Provoost, Secretary of the Court of Albany and Captain John Manning
appeared a Mahicander Indian, named Wattawit, proprietor of a certain parcel of land, situate
back of the Kinderhook, which he declares in the presence of Jan Dareth, acting as interpreter,
to have sold, ceded and conveyed to Evert Luycassen, as he herewith cedes and conveys it. The
aforesaid land lies East of the Kil and is half of the middle piece ; he declares, that he has given
the other half to Volckert Jansen as a present and token of his friendship to satisfy an old debt
for corn, also that he renounces his right to the middle piece east of the Kil acknowledging Evert
Luycassen and Volckert Jansen as the lawful owners thereof and to have received full satisfac-
tion from Evert Luycassen.
Thus done at Fort Albany, the 6^'' May 1665 Old Style.
This is the mark TA " of Mattawit.
made by himself.
The mark (^^ of Musqtjamseeck,
made by himself as witness.
John Manning. The mark of Q^ of Obamp Snade,
In my presence, by himself as witness.
Johannis Peovoost, Secretary. Jajj Daeeth.
An Ageeement made between Kichaed Nicolls Esq"^ Goveeno" undee his
ROTALL HiGHNESSE THE DuKE OF YoEK AND THE SaCHEMS AND PeoPLE CALLED
THE SapES InDTANS.
(Minutes of the Kingston Trustees.)*
1. That no Act of Hostillity shall at any time bee committed on either pai-t or if any dam-
age shall happen to bee done by either Party to the Come, Cattle, Horses, Hoggs, Houses or any
other Goods whatsoever of the other Party full 6atisfa9on shall be given upon demand for the
same.
2. That if any Christian shall wilfully kill an Indyan or any Indyan a Christian bee shall bee
put to death, And the said Sachems do promise on their parts to bring any such Indyan to ye
officer in Chief e at the Sopes, to receive his Punishment there.
3. That a convenient House shall bee built, where the said Indyaus may at any time Lodge
without the Ports of the said Towne, in which House y'= Indyans are to leave their Armes and may
come without molestaQon, to sell or Buy what they please from the Christians.
4. That in Case any Christian should kill an Indyan or any Indyan a Christian, the Peace
shall not bee broaken or any Revenge taken, before Satisfa9on is demanded by the one Party and
refused by the other, allowing a competent time for the apprehending of the Offender, in which
Case the Indyans are to give Hostage, till y^ Offender is brought to Punishm', the said Hostage
is to bee civilly treated and shall suffer no other Punishm'. but Imprisonm*.
* This is the only document saved from the Wiltwyck (Kingston) Records previous to 1684. According to
an entry in the first volume of 1684, there have been 24 volumes of Dutch minutes which seem to be completely
lost.
400 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
5. That tlie said Sachems and their Subjects uow psent do for and in the names of them-
selves and their heires forever, give, Grant, alienate and coniirme all their Eight and Interest,
Claime or demand to a certaine Parcell of Land, lying and being to the west and Southwest of a
Certaine Creeke or Eiver called by the name of Kahankson & so up to the head thereof, where
the old fEort was. And so witli a direct line from thence through the woods and Crosse the Mead-
owes to the Great Hill lying and being to the "West or Southwest, which great Hill is to bee
the true west or Southwest Bounds of the said Lands, And the said Creeke called Eahanksen,
the North and Northeast Bounds of the said Lands herein mentioned, to bee given, granted
and confirmed unto the said Richard Nicolls, Governo"" under his Eoyal Highnesse the Duke of
York or his Assignes by the Sachems and their Subjects forever, to hold and Enjoy the same as
his free Land and Possession against any Clayme hereafter to bee made by the said Sachems or
their Subjects or any their heires and successo". In token of the afores* Agreemen', the afore-
said Sachems do deliver two small Sticks and in eonfirma9on thereof do deliver two more small
sticks to the said Richard Nicolls, And in the name of the Indyans, their Subjects, one of the
Subjects do deliver two other round Small Sticks in token of their Assent to the said Agree-
ment. And the said Richard Nicolla does deliver as a p''sent to their Sachems three Laced Eedd
Coates.
6. The said Sachems doth Engage to come one every yeare and bring some of their young
People to Acknowledge every Part of this Agreem'. in the Sopes, to the end that it may be kept
in perpetuall memory.
7. That all past Injuryes are buryed & forgotten on both sides.
S. Tliat the yoimg Sachem, called Wingeei-inoe, hath Liberty for three yeares to Plant upon
a small neck of Land over against a Small Creeke called OloughkawaJcanoe, iinlesse the said young
Sachem bee warned Off by Order to remove and give place to such Christians, as shall have Order
from the said Richard NicoUs or his Assignes to Plant there, at which time the said young
Sachem is to receive a Blankett, by way of Courtesie, and to remove to the other side of the
Creeke without delay or Clayming any future Interest thereupon.
9. In consideraQou of the p'misses, the said Richard Nicolls doth further give and pay to
the said Sachems and their Subjects forty Blanketts, Twenty Pounds of Powder, Twenty Knives,
Six Kettles, Twelve Barre of Lead, which paym'. wee acknowledge to have received in full satis-
fac9on for the p'misses And do bind Ourselves, Our heires & Success"''' forever to p^forme every
Part of this Agreem'. w'^''out any fraud or reserva9on of minde. And further that wee will main-
tayne and justifie the said Richard Nicolls or his Assignes in the full & Peaceable Possession of
the said Tract of Land, Eoyalties and Priviledges forever against any Nation of Indyans whatso-
ever, p'tending >ight to the same ; In testimony whereof. Wee have Sett our Markes to two
severale Writings, the one to remaine in the hands of the Sopes Sachems, the other upon Eecord
at New York, this 7'" day of October 1665.
Eich'd Nicolls.
f The marke of J^^^^__^ Onackatin,
Witnesses,
Jeremias van Rennsellaer,
Philip Pietersen Schuyler, Sachims -
Rohert Nedham^
S. Salisbury,
Edw. Saclcvile.
^
Tlie marke of S Waposheqdiqua,
The marke of (^\ Sewakonama,
The marke of ^^)~^ Schekvotin.
New Yoi'Tc Historical Records. 401
Indyan "Witnesses, of tlie Empes young men.
Pepuickhais ,K^d
The markes of Eobin Cinnaman (J^ '^ Pelcoct Sachem
Eemawmen fl
Bywackds ^
Sept. 25^" 1669. There appeared the second and thh-d Sachems abovenamed and owned their
markes Witnes Mechecock his marke ^ /lAj~{J~~f\/'
Aprile tlie ll"" 1670. There appeared before mee a new made Sachem of the Sopes Indyans
named Calcop, who hath this day owned and Confirmed the Agreement made between Coll
Nicolls & y'= Indyans for y" Land adiacent to Sopez as appears by his marke here under set.
The marke -A-' of Sachem Calcop.
"Witnes here unto
Dudley Lovelace, Pres'.
Thomas Chambers
"Wilh. Beeckman
Henry Pawling
Indyan "Witnesses
Tantapawhee 3v-+^ Sachem Calcop his young son.
Mamasheenan.
On the 27"" January 1671 the Sachems have renewed these Articles of Peace.
The mark 7 of Asinnieahan, Sachem.
6C
The mark J^ of Bowasktjs, young Sachem,
C son of SiwHiNAMiEA, Sachem.
Thomas Chambers
Isaac Grevenraedt
Henry Pawling
Jan "Willenisen
Quod attestor Cornelis Barentsen Slecht,
"W. De La Montagne, Secretary. George Hall.
This 5 Febr''. 1674 the undersigned Esopus Sachems have again renewed tlie peace with the
English agreeable to an order from the Hight Honorable Governor Edmond Andros and have
again signed these Articles.
"Witnesses The mark of ^^^ Sewakenamie
The mark of (f\) Asenerack Sachems
George Hall, Sheriff t ,. ., — <■ t.\ ,„„„i„
_, „ ' Indian witnesses, of the young people.
Cornelis Wynkoop
JoosT Adryaensen The mark yL of Tamagipo
William Asfordbie. o ^^^^^^^
Testis *■ —
"William La Montagne, .decretory. ^ Eawichtanech.
51
402 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Jau''. 22 1676 Febr''. 23 1678
? 1677 Febr. 11 1680
This day all the Indians have acknowledged, that the land called Easineh, which Kentkamin
has given to Harmen Hendrix and Hendricus Beecqman, shall belong to them and that they
may dispose of it at their pleasm-e. la testimony whereof they have signed this, as follows
The mark K\\ " of Kentkamin
'^''^i/C^^ Sewakajstamte
^^ Panneewack
Jan^. 19, 1681 j\ ) Koepawa
Febr-. 23, 1682 UjO/^^ Sasakabop
(Endorsed.) Rec'd. these Records in Court of Sessions of Sarah Rosecrans, the 3d October 1733.
Letter from Gov'e. ITicolls to the Inhabitants of Westchester concerning
the limits of the town.
Fort James, 28"" December 1665
When yon were last w"* mee I did tell yo" that I should send some Persons authorized to
lay out y" Bounds of Westchester in w'^'' Pesolu^on I still remain, but upon due considerapon and
Advice, I have found it necessary. That in tlie first Place yo" make an Enquiry into every man's
Estate now dwelling w^'in the Limitts intended for your Towne and remitt the same to my Con-
sideraQon, To the end, that w"" y" better Eqnality, the whole being divided into Lotts, every man
may have his proporcjon of Lotts according to y" Estate wherewith hee doth value himselfe Rate-
able in y'' Assessments : The Sooner yo" shall dispatch and send this Breviate to mee, the Sooner
will yo' Settlement bee made and those Persons, whom I shall send to that purpose, will have a
Shorter worke, my whole Endeavours being to lessen yo"' Charge and increase yo'' Satisfac9on,
whereunto I expect yo' full compliance and remaine
i'our loving ffriend Pich'd. Nicolls.
To the Constable and Overseers of Westchester, to be commimicated
to y° Inhabitants and farmers in and about Westchester.
Indian Deed for Land in Westchester (Town of Harrison) to John Rttod.
To all Christian People, Indians and others whom it may Coneeme, that wee whose n;unes
are hereunto subscribed living upon Hudsori's river in America, Shonorocka, Sagemore and
Romackc[ue and Pathunge. Whereas wee have formerly sold a tract of Land unto Mr. John
Rudd seniour bounded on the Sea on the South, on the North by Westchester path and the name
of the tract of Land is comonly called Apauamis. And whereas wee have sold unto the said
Mr. John Rudd twenty English miles northwards from the above s'^ tract of Land, which is called
New York Historical Records. 403
Apauamin is the above s'' tn'enty Emjlhh Miles Wee do aclinowledge that M-ee liave sold imto
Mr. John Rudd for Range for feed for Timber for Grasing to liiiii and his heirs forever and now
wee do acknowledge that we have bargained sold and delivered, wee and every one of us for o''
Heirs Executors and Assignes jojntl}' and severally unto John Rudd his Heirs Executors and
Assignes a tract of Land lying within the Compas of the above s"' Twenty English mile bounded
on the south by Westchester path and on the East by the Blind h'ooh and on the West by Mamori-
naok river and the Northbound is sixteen Miles English from Westchester path up into the Country
for which land wee have received already in hand a Certaine sunie to the value of Twenty pounds
starling for the above s* tract for w'^'' land wee are fully satisfied by the s"^ John Rudd ffor the
above s"" tract of land for the which wee do acknowledge wee have bargained sold and dehvered
unto John Rudd and his Heirs forever with Warranty against all men English Dutch and Indians
and do give him full possession and promise so to keep him to the which Bargaine and Agreem'
wee have hereunto set o' hands this day being the 29"" of Aprill 1666.
Wittnes Joseph Hoeton 'X^e mark 9:^ of Shanoeocke
Wittnes John Rawls
The mark ^--^t- of Cockeo the The mark Q of Eomackqtje
Indian.
lark /
The mark / of Pathung
May 10'" 1673 p^ me
John Alltn Seer'' CoUony of Connecticut.
A Lettek weitten by y^ Goveeno"" Oedee tFNTO Mr. Thomas Pell, conceenino
HIS LAND IN AVeSTCHESTEE.
Memokanock, July 3*, 1666.
The Govemo'' having been Informed by Mr. Delavall and others that yo" Complaine of veiy
hard Measure that you have rec* in that hee disposeth of the Lands at Westchester and there about
to which you pretend a Title ; his Hone'' gave mee Order to acquaint you, that for y^ present hee
hath putt a Stopp to Westchester Patent, as well as others there about (although they have for
some time laying ready for his Passing) That if you have any just Clayme to those Lands or
Exceptions to what hee doth, or is about to do, you may deliver them in to him, But hee con-
ceiveth, no Person hath a more Lawfull Power to dispose thereof, than himselfe by vertue of his
Commission and Authority from his Poyall Highnesse And hee did believe the Tryall about
VornhilVs Neck, was a Sufficient President for the Clearing of the Title to the rest ; However,
Its his pleasure to heare what yo" can alleadge or object, so that you do it Speedily for he thinkes
it not convenient, to leave those matters much longer in Suspense ; yo' Answer hereunto by the
first oppertunity will bee expected. This is all I had in Charge to deliver unto j^o", So I subscribe
S'.
Tour humble Serv'
Mathias Nicolls.
404 Colonial ^Settlement.'i on the HuJfiOii liiver.
A Letter weitien to the Constable and Overseers of Westchester, concern-
ing THE DI^^SION OF LAND.
Gentlemen.
I have acquainted the Governo' w"" the particulars wee discourst abont yesterday morning
and hee hath given me Order to returne you this Answer. That as to the Division of yo' Mead-
owes j'Oii may proceed and make it when yo" please, observing the order made by Mr. Delavall
and Mr. Ilubhard, That you are to have so much of that yo" call Mrs. Bridget's Meadowes, as
was ordered by Mr. Delavall and Mr. Iluhlard, but for the 42 acres by liattlesnalce Brooke,
Claimed by the ten flarmes, you are not to meddle with them, they being for the aecommoda9on
of those ffarmes, that are or shall bee settled there, who ai-e to bee concluded thereby and to bee
Bounded by the said Brooice, That after you have laid out to every 100"" Estate 6 Acres and to
200"' 8 Acres of good Meadow lying most convenient for each Lott, You are not to make another
Division, but leave the rest in Common for an Eneouragera' to others to come and live w"' yo".
This is all at p'sent from
July T"* 1666. Your very loving iiriend
Math IAS Nicolls.
An Order to the Constable and Overseers of Westchester, forbidding them
TO forbeaee y* giving 1'^ Inhabit''^ of the 10 ffaemes any further Molesta^on
about their Meadow Grounds.
Whereas I have formerly given order, That the Meadow Ground Ij'ing between Hutchinson's
and Battle Snake Brooke should wholly belong to y^ Inhabitants of the Tenn ffarmes and that
y^' rest of yo'' Towne should no way bee concern'd therein, Notw"'standing w* (as I am gi\'en to
understand) yo" have laid out particulars Lotts to other men out of the s'' Meadow and have for-
bidden those of ij^ Tenn ffarmes to Mow there, these are to require and Command you, that you
forbeare y" giving y'= said Inhabitants of the 10 ffarms any further trouble or Molesta9on in their
Enjoyin' of the said Meadow Ground and that yo" p'sume not to lay out Lotts of any part thereof
to other persons or y' imd"' any p'tence whatsoever yo" give them any disturbance in their Mowing
there or otherwise disposing thereof as they shall thinke fitt as you M'ill answer y'' contrary at yo'
utmost p'ills. Given und"' my hand at ffoi't James in New Yorke y" ll"" day of July 1666.
Rich". Nicollb.
A Letter written to Capt. Daniell Broadhead on behalf of Mathew Blanchman of Sopas.
Capt. Broadhead.
The Bearer hereof Mathew Blanchman an Inhabitant w"' you having Peti9oned the Generall,
that hee may have leave to Build a Horse IMill, on a Small Spott of Ground (as hee alleadges
belonging to no particular Parson) near adjoyning to his House, which Avill bee for the benefitt
and commodity of the Towne in Generall as well as for his owne particular; I am commanded by
his Ilono' to acquaint j'ou, That it is his pleasure you should make Enquiry of the Commissaryes
and Officers of the Towne, if the matter bee so as is suggested ; If it may prove no inconvenience
to the Towne, hee may proceed with his desigiie of Erecting the Mill in the place hee proposes
New Yorh HistoriGal Records. 405
and it may bee confirmed to him here ; An Ace' whereof }o" are desh-ed to Signify w"" the first
oppertimity ; S^
Yo\ very Loving ffriend
New Yorke IT*"" September 1666. M. Nicolls.
Extract from the Minutes of a CoMMm'EE of the Classis of Amsterdam, October IS'"' 1666.
A letter from Hev. John Megajpolensis, pastor at Manhattan in Hew-Netherland, addi-essed
to the K.ev. Classis of Amsterdam and dated Aug. 16"', 1666, was read ; it contained
1^'. A defense of liis Eeverence respecting the transfer of that place to the English.
2*. A report of the condition of that church, viz. : that there are between three and four
hundred communicants and that the place together with the surrounding villages is served by
three pastors, viz. : Rev. John Megapolensis, his son Samuel Megajjolensis and Rev. Drisius, but
that their salary is limited and comes in slow.
3'^. A request that through the intercession of the deputies of the Rev. Classis with the
Directors, he might obtain certain arrears of salary, which still remain unpaid by the Hon""' W
I. Company.
Extract from the Minutes as above December 10'"', 1666.
The request of Rev. John Megapolensis, which was presented in the meeting of the xix,
was rejected, until his Rev. shall give further satisfaction concerning the events at the surrender
of New-Netherland to the English.
Deed for the Land between the Rarffan and Rawake Rivers in N. J.
given by Philipp Carteret and others to Daniel Pierce and Associates.
Coppie out of the Records.
This Indenture made the 11"" day of Decemb' 1666 and in the IS"" yeare of o' Soveraigne
Lord Charles ?/' Second of Great Britain, ffrance and Ireland King Defend'' of the faith etc
Between Capt. Philipp Carteret Esq. Governor of the Province of New Jersey, John Ogden
Setf & Luke Wattson of Elizabeth Towns in the said Province of the one parte and Daniell
Peirse of Newherrg & his associates of the other parte Witnesseth, That the said Capt. Philipp
Carteret, John Ogdon & Luke Wattson for & in Consideration of the Sum of fowerskore pounds
Sterling to them in liand paid by the said Daniel Peirse, the receipt whereof they doe hereby
acknowledge and do by these p''sents fully discharge & acquitt the said Daniel Peirse his heires,
execuf' & Administraf^ forever, Have demised bargained and sold the one Moyety or half parte
of a certains tract of Land Scituate lying & being on the maine Continent of America & Corn-
only called or known by the name of Arthur Cull or Amboyle or by what other name or names
soever it hath been or now is called, the w'^'' said tract of Land was lawfully purchased from the
Natives or Indeans by John, Bailey, Daniel Denton and the said Luke Watson as hy the said
Bill of Sale from tlie Natives bearing date the 28"" of Octob'' 1664 will more at large appears ;
w'^'' said John Bailey and Daniel Denton have made over bargained and sold all their Right, tytle
406 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
and intrest in the said pvirchase vnto tlie aforesaid PliiUpp Carteret & John Ogdon as will appeare
by their bills of Sale vnder their hands vpon Eecord ; To have &, to hold the one raoyety or halfe
of the said purchase beginning from the Eai-atan River and soe to come Northward to Eawake
Eiver w'''' is to be the aljsolute bounds as farr as the tyde doetli flow between the one moyety of
the purchase & the other belonging to Elizahetli tmone and from thence to Ruiin the same Lyne
"West into the Land w**" y'' north and South Lyne as exprest in the said Indean bill of Sale equall
with the other moyety belonging to Elizahetli towne aforesaid with all &. singular Rights, tytles,
intrest & Conveyance therevnto belonging or in any manner of wise of Right appertaining
together w"" all Ri^'ers, ponds, Creeks, Inletts, bayes & springs and all other appurtenances what-
soever to the said Daniel Peivse and his Associates, their Heires, Execut" ifc Administrat"^ that
bee the said Daniell Peirse and his associates shall & inay Inioy all & singular the before demised
premises in as full & ample manner as the said Capt. Carteret John, Ogdon & Luke Wattmn doe
hold and inioy the same forever. In Witness whereof wee, the said Philipp Carteret, John
Ogdon & LuTce Wattson have heervnto sett o"' hands & scales the day & yeare first above written.
Signed Sealed & delivered Philipp Caeteeet
in the presence of William John Ogdon
Hill, Charles Gillmaji & James Soil en. Luke Wattson
Indorsed on the backside of the said deed as followeth :
Whereas mention is made in this Deed of Sale to Daniel Peirse and his Associates the said
Daniel Peirse doth hereby declare & acknowledge that these persons whose names are heer vnder-
written are his associates and are to have an equall priviiidge &, Share with him in that third parte
of the whole of the said purchase, that is for the accomodation of the towne called Woodbridge
except that hee the said Daniel Peirse is to have the first choyce for his accomodation ; vizt.
Joshua Peirse, John PyJce, John Bishop, Henery Jacques & Hugh March of N^eioberry, Steephin
Kent of Hamerelle, Rohert Dennis of Yarmouth, John Smith of Barnstaple and ... of
in Wew England. In Witness whereof the said Daniel Peirse hath heervnto set his
hand at Elizabeth tcnone the 3'' Decemb'' 1667.
Signed in the presence of Daniell Peiese.
James Bollen, Secretary.
The papers that conceenk y'^ Esopus mutineys wiph y"^ heath of Heneick Cornelius.
As allsoe —
The peoceedings and Sentences of the Couet held In Esopus \-^ 25 . 26 . 27 .
bayes of Apeill by vietue of a commission given to Cai''^ Robeet Need-
ham AJiD M^ Thamas De Lavall Esq'"', and Me. Coknelius Van Ruyven
Justice of y'^ peace. By y^ Right Hon'"''' Collonell Rich. Nicolls, Govern"
undee his royall highness the dukb of yoeke of all his teeeytoeies in
Ameeica. To the Hon" Magistrates op the Towne Wiltwyck.
Sheweth, the underwritten generall Inhabitants of the Towne of Wiltwyck, that since the
Hono''''' Governo'' Richard Nicolls, is departed from hence, we have suffered soo much Injurie &
Violence not only from the Sould" in General, But alsoe from the Capt". Broadhead in particu-
ter, whoe ought to have punished the wronge w'^'' tlie s'* SouW^ have done unto us, Videllez'".
New York Historical Jiecords. 407
1. Cornells Barentsen Slegt- is beaten in his owne house by Ins Sould'' George Porter, and
after this by the otiier Sould" forced to prison, and was by some souki" at his imprisonment used
very hard ;
2. and afterwards hath Cap'. Broadhead beaten Tierch Claesen & without any Reason
brought to Prison.
3. It is happened that Cap'. Broadhead, comminge at the house of Lewies Bu bois tooke
an anchor of Brandy and throwed it uppon the ground, because the s'* Bois Refused him
Brandy without paiment, and did Likewise force the s'^ Bois to give him Brandy.
i. And the s* Bois his wife comming for bur monny at the s'' Broadheads house, he
drove the s* Bois his wife, with a beare knyff out off his house.
5. The Sould'' George jporter, comminge in the Barne of Pieter UiUehrants, and findinge
there Dirck Hendrix, the s* Porter, tooke his sword & thrusted the same threww the s*
DircJc Uendrixes Breeches.
6. Albert Heymans Boos, going with his j)louw yrou towards the Smits, was assalted by five
sould''^ whoe wounded him very miich, whereupon
7. The souldiers said .... the s*^ Albert Heymans going .... without
any Reason brought him to . . . Imprisonment was most griviously . . . wounded
by Richard Hamer.
8. Two sould", f ranee Vreman and Wm. Fisher, comming to the Millers, to steale his hens,
the s* Miller in defending of his hens, was by the s'' sould" beaten in his owne hoiise.
9. JSarmen Hendricx was wounded in his Legge by Richard Cuge, in soo much that the s*
Harmen is lame unto this present day, and that only because his Goates where eaten by the sould'■^
10. It is happened uppon New Year day, that Walrait du Mont, haveing some friends &
Neighbours to eat with him at his house, where uppon Cap'. Broadhead comming in he treated
the s'^ Walrau very badly, and
11. herewith not being satisfied, tooke the wife of Hannen Hendricx, from thence to
Prison, in the Guards.
12. John Cornelissen Smith, going alonge the Streete was assalted &, persecuted to his verry
shop, & was Like
13. to have been murthered, by George Barter, but he was hindered in his desseyn by
frans Vreeman / and the s'^ George porter hath Likewise uppon the s** day in open streete
assaulted Roelof Swartivout.
14. Cornells Barentsen Slegt, beinge by Cap'. Broadhead verry ill Treated, in his owne
house, was afterwards by the s** Cap', forced to prison, and his armes by force taken out of his
house, w* still doe Remaiue by the s* Cap'. Broadhead.
15. Andries Pietersen being at the said time in the house of the s* Slegt, was beaton by
Christoffer Berresfort w"" his halbard that the s"* Andries fel downe in a sounding and was in
great danger of his life.
16. And Hendric'k Cornelissen Lindrayer, is by William Fisher without any the Least
Reason, wounded in his Belly & ... is apparent, that Gerrit Focken . . . would
have been killed by the . . . escaped being wounded in his ....
18. Wee passe by, all the offences, done to the ofiicer & magestrates in generall, and besides
all this, we are threatned by Cap'. Broadhead & his souldiers, to burns downe this Towne, & that
they will murther al what is thei'ein ; Therefore — we do most humbly supplicate, that you wil
be pleased to Remonstrate & make knowne, unto the Right hon"'^ Governo"" the sade condition
we are in, from whome we hope to have Redresse, and to be maintained in o'' Right, so Remaininge
408 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Thomas Chamhrits Cap', and overseer, and Evert Pels overseer, are hereby authorised by
the Court to acquaint Cap*. Broadhead, the answer of y^ Inhabitants, that Cornells Barentsen
Sleght by him Imprisoned, might be Ileleased out of his Imprisonment, for to prevent further
trouble & danger ; and in case the afore said Cornelis Barentsen Slegt, hath offended the s'^ Cap'.
Broadhea/l^ tliat the s"* Broadhead (: according to the Governo" order :) should sue him to the
Court, for to be examined and Corrected, dated in Wiltwyck this ^ day of Feb'". 1667.
Wm. Beeckmai^^
Jan Joosten
EoELOF SwAUTWOUT.
In answer to this above standings, Cap'. Broadhead Replyes, that he will keepe Cornelis
Sleght in apprehension, as Longe he thincks good, and in case the Inhabitants will fetch him by
force, that he would waight uppon them, dated in Wiltwyck this y\ off Feb^. 1667.
Thojiias Chambeits
EvEET Pels
Right Honorable.
Your humble servants and Souldiers hath made bold to Present yo'' honour with these few
lyues and to give yo" a a more clearer demonstration of our first proceedings and the testimonies
of all those men that were of both y* parties Comanded by our Officer in Chiefe the which they
will all testifBe upon oath.
The first party of men was Commanded by Sergion Beresford from the gaurd, to the Burgers
house, by Cap'. Brodheades Command, wher they found the Burger with his piece Cocked, and
his hanger drawnd hanging upon his Arme, we disarming him per force, and brought him prisoner
to the gaurd according to order, but att our first arrivall att the afore said house, we found Cap'.
Brodhead witli his Crevatte torne, and throwne away, and his face Scratcht and very much
abussed, the names of those men that went to the burgers house,
Sergion Beresford,
Corprall Hamer,
George Hall, thire testamonys.
Savfi. Oliver,
George Porter.
2. Eiglit or nine dutch men went to the Scouts house but wliat ther meaning was we cannot say
but Straight they were all in ther Arraes and the Scouts Sarvant with them also, in Armes, he
not having any Armes of his owne, but haveing tliem out of his M" house.
3. Ilendrich Yocka/ns, ther lieutenant Commanded them to ther Armes and drew them up in
battallia : and headed them him selfe att his owne dore.
Then Cap'. Brodhead with a party of 7 men marcht to them and demanded the ocasion of
being in ther armes, ther lieu', made answer, that they would have the burger out of y'' gaurd, but
Cap'. Brodhead Commanded them to returne all with ther armes to ther houses, but denyed the
motion and Standing all upon ther gaurd with ther peices Cockt, would not obey our Cap'. Com-
mand, ther Lieu'. Replyed that they would not but would have the prisoner out of the gaurd.
4r. There was one of ther party by name Anthony A french man, presented his peice Against
our Cap', being Loaden with nine small bullats and swere that if he moved on foot he would fire
upon him, and avouM not be persuaded nor Comanded, but did persist in ther Rebelious Acetions
and would not Return with ther Armes.
5. They sent for Cap'. Ghamhers, thinking he would have headed them, but when he came would
not, but likewise Comanded them all to returne with ther Armes, to ther houses, but denying
New YovTc Historical Records. 409
him, did maintaine tlier former Eesolutions ; continneing in ther Armes, untill about nine of y°
clock att night ; with threatening that they would fetch the burger out perforce that night and
villifying us with our Small party of men. Saing what is 15 or IG men to 60 or SO: as Continu-
ally they have done from y' begining.
6. Another of ther Rebellious party by name Albert Hyinons otherwise caled the new boore,
who was the Cheife in the first Eysiug against us, gave out speeches in y'= hereing of one of our
Souldiers, Iluinfory fforgison by name ; if he had had y*" Comand of ther party he would not
have left one English Souldier alive in the Esopes.
7. Cap'. Chamhers did relate unto Edw. Whiticar, and Francis Freeman both Souldiers quarter-
ing in his house, That he was verry sorry y' be "had misinformed yo' honour Concerning ther first
Rysing of y° burgers against us, when he Satisfied yo'' hono' that they Returned to ther houses
with ther Armes, but did not att his Comand Upon hopes of ther futer obedience, and is
ashamed y' he should excuse or countenance such a stoubern people as they bee.
A list of the names of ther officers that headed them.
Henry Yockams, Lieut.
Tirick Gloss, Sergion.
Hen. Seawant Walraven.
Hen. Fowlebeard, ) ^ „ .-,■, -r^
Jo. Johnson Brabande, \ ^"^'P^^^^" ^^^^''^ Hymons.
"With : 50 or 60 : more of the Inhabitants that were In Armes against us : omiting Severall other
abuses Received from them, att other times, we Remaine yo'' hon" Servants with our lives to our
powers.
AU what is before herein mentioned these men herein named will testaffie upon oath the
which is nothing but y° truth and the very truth.
The names of the party of men that Cap'. Brodhead Comanded with him.
Corprall Hamer.
George Hall.
Samuell Oliver.
Thomas Mathewes.
William Horton.
Hum. fforgison.
Will.ffisher.
COMP''^^ AGAINST Cap''. BrOADHEAD.
Tyerk Clauson.
Saith y'= reason why Cap'. Broadhead abused him was because hee would keepe Christ-
mas day on y° day accustomary with y' Duch, and not on y' day according to y*" English
observacjon.
Ca])'. Broadhead accknowledged it.
Lues Be Boys his wife.
Saith Cap' Broadhead had a knife in his hand when Shee demanded y^ money hee owed
her, and he told her y' if shee were not with child hee would Cutt her and called her many
bad names.
Lues De Boys saith.
Cap'. Broadhead used his best endeavo'' to show his anchor of wyne when hee threw it
downe but cold not, and y' hee lost none of y" Drinke.
Walra/oen De Mont sworne.
Saith y' last new yeares day hee had some freinds at his house, and Cap'. Broadhead
52
410 Colonial Settlements on the Hiuhon River
quarrelled with y^ wife of Ilarman HendricTcson, and threw a glass of Beere in her face
and called her many bad names & carryed her to y^ Guard a prisoner.
Cap'. Chambei's.
Concurreth with y^ former evidence being then p'sent at y° house.
Cap'. B roadhead ownetli y" same, but saith y'^ Harmans wife called his sister whore,
w* occasioned y° quarrell.
The Bui-gers brought into y" Court a paper to excuse their being in Armes, and
y® reason y' induced them to it they say, was because Cap'. Broadhead andy" soldiers
threatned to burne y° Towne and all y' was in it, and alsoe because Captaine Broad-
head had committed their Searjt. being a Burger of the Towne to y'^ Guard a prisoner
and had misused and cut him, ^f"^ made his wife and children run about ye Towne and cry
murder y* English soldiers had killed their father.
Henry Pawling Sworne, Saith
Article 2^. That Cornells Barnsan, Vrian Westf alius, Tunis Jacohson, John Brewerson,
& Jacob Van Elmendorp ; hee see these 5 p''sons come out He Batmans house but not
in their armes at y' tyme, and her heard Elmendorp say, lett us goe from house to house
for wee will have y^ Searj' at Liberty out of y" guard.
The Burgers being in their armes was by very many of them confessed.
Article 3''. '
But y'' lef being charged with standing at the head of them with his pistoll and sword,
made this his defence, That hee was not at home when they gathered together in their
armes, but ye Burgers telling him y' Cap'. Broadhead had threatned y"^ setting y*^ towne one
fyer hee came among them, and alleaged that that was not y*" right way to get the Serf, free
and when Cap'. Broadhead came to know y'= reason of their being in armes, hee comanded
them not to shoote w''"' was proved by there following p'"sons.
Sam''. Oliver sworne afirmeth y" same.
Anto Dalva — Albert Hymens — Jan Broerson — Jan Cornelison — Corn"\ Barnson —
Ariant Albertson Jioss — all upon oath afirme y"" same — Richard Haymour & George
Hall afirme y^ Like, upon oath.
Richard Haymour sworn saith
Oeorge Hall. That they heard Anthonio Dalva say to Cap'. Broadhead with his piece
presented, stand oif for if you move a foot He fyre upon you.
Jacob Jonson, Glaus Clason.
Both sworne say that y° reason why Antonio Halve presented his gun at C. Broadliead
was because hee made to him w'* his naked cutlax and threatned there with to cut him in
peeces.
George Hall sworne.
Saith that when Cap'. Broadhead was gathering some of y" young Burgers to goe to
Albany, hee heard Antonio Dalva say — Shall wee goe and fight against our f reinds and leave
our enemies at home. To w* Antmiia Dalva in his owne defence replyed Tliat hee said fight
for their f reinds meaning y" Duch at Albany who in y" Last warr sold y*" So_pes Indians powder
& Lead, and leave their enemyes at home, meaning the /Soj)es Indians.
Humphry Forgison sworne.
Saith being once at y" house of Albert Hymens with William, Fisher, hee heard Alhert
New Yorh Historical JReconh. 411
say y* if y° Burgers would bee ruled by liiin, Lee would not leave an Englishman alive in the
house, and that if there any disturbance againe hee would prosecute him selfe let y' Magis-
trates doe what they would.
Frederick Ilussey sworne.
Hee heard Albert Ilymens say that if the English had any quarrell againe with them,
they would 4 or 5 fall upon one Englishman, as y'^ English had done to y°". But Albert
Ilymens utterly denyeth all. Another complaint was brought in against Albert Hymens &
his sonn & couzen but 3'° Court understanding that hee had bine fined for it by y" civill Magis-
trate would not p'^mitt it to bee prosecuted.
These Persons Acckuowledged to bee in Armes.
Geekit Aete.
John Baenson
Asian Guneson
Jan Janson Van Oysteehoud
Anto. Dalva
AjtIENT HUBEETSON.
To THE Right Honoueable Gen^all Rich. Nicolls Goveenee of his Majesties
Teeitoeies In Ameeica.
The Testimonies of to" Hon"^ Souldiees in foet Esopes And nothing but what
THEY WILL TESTIFIE, ITPON OATH :
Imprimis. A partie of five men being commanded from the gaurd, by Sergion Berisford,
according to Cap'. Broadheades order, to the Burge" house, where comeing they found him y' said
Broadhead with his Crevate Torne in peices from of his neck, with his face scratch' and very much
abused, and the burger with his peice in his hand Ready cocked, and his Sword drawne hanging
upon his arme, wherupon by order of' Cap'. Broadhead they Brought him prisoner to the gaurd.
2. There was 7 or 8 of the townes men went to the Scouts house ; but what answer they Received
we cannot say but presently they were all in their armes, and the Scouts servant with them in his
armes, and to our knowledge he have none of his owne.
3. Tlier were 60 : or 70 : of th3 burgers in ther armes in the Fort, being headed by ther Lieu-
tenant Hendrick ITockams and the other of ther infEeriow officers, wherupon Cap'. Broadhead
commanded a partie of 7 men from the gaurd and march' to them, they being drawne up att ther
Lieu" dore, our afore said officer demanded ther Reason of being in ther armes ; ther Lieu' made
answer they would have the burger out of the gaurd, nore they should not Keturne ther armes,
untill they had him out.
4. Anthony a frencli man on of ther party presented his peice against Cap'. Broadhead : with
an oath that if he moved on foote he would fire upon him, his peice being loaden with nine bul-
lits the testimony of Avery price to Sergion berisford. As to y" clause of y" 9 Bulletts Evert
Price saith hee forgeeteth y' there was any such thing.
5. When Cap'. Chambers commanded them in ther armes, to lett them understand yo'' hon" com-
mand, concerning marching to fort Albany the last winter, the said Anthony said that we goe
and fight with our friends and leve our enimies att home. Geo. Ball.
6. They sent for Cap'. Chambers to his house who comeing to them commanded them to retm'ne
412 Colonial Settlemeniii on the Hudtson River..
with ther armes to tlier liouses they would not, but repljed they would have the burger out of the
gaurd, then he comeing to us to y^ gaurd, said they were a company of Stuborn Roages and
would not be comanded by him. Where upon he said he would have nothing to doe with such
mutinus Roages, and returned to his owne house tliey remaining in their armes untill about S : or
9 : of the Clock that night. All y° Soldiers in Generall.
7. Cap'. Chanibers said in his owne house to Edward Whiticer and Frances Freeinan that he was
very much troubled that he had misinformed yo' honour in exeuseing therein ther first mutinie
aad y'' his information to yo"' bono'' ou thir behalfe was an abomenable lie, in saying they returned
thir armes when they did not.
8. Ilumpherij jfergison was att Albert Hyeinonds house with Will. Fisher being his quarters,
where y'' said Albert Hymonds said that if thir party would have beene Ruled by him, he would
not have left on english man alive in y'' town ; and y' if there were any disturbance againe, lett y^
Magestrates doe what they would, he would prosecute by himselfe.
9. Albert Hymonds with his son and his Cozen, being att the Strand with thir armes, then in y^
winter the diference about A Canon, the afore said 3 men Chalenged 3 of our Souldiers of from
y° Redoubt thir gaurd to fight with them and drew thir small shot and loaded thir peiees with
bulitts.
10. Upon Easter Monday, John Williamson servant, by name Thomas y^ , Related to
Corprall hamer y* he had not beene in his armes had he not beene comanded by two of y'^ inhabit-
ants and y' in thir Leuits. name.
11. Thomas Elgur heard his landlord say Ard Mattlson being on of thir Corpralls they were
all in generall comanded to thir armes in thir Lieutenants name.
The testimonies of these as Followeth,
Christopher Beresford, Sargion.
The first Richard Earner, Corp'",
party. Oeorge Porter.
Samuell Olimer.
George HalZ. These are y" wittnesses to
Anthony Cooke. y" first Article.
The second Richard Hamer.
party. Sam,. Oliver.
Geo. Hall.
Will. Horton. All y^ Soldyers see it.
Hum. fforgison.
The Y Tho. Mathews.
men. Will, ffisher.
Att the Geo. Porter. The whole Soldyers
Redout. Sam. Oliver. and y° 7 men in p'ticuler.
Endorsed The Soldiers Testimonyes In Generall.
New Yorh Historical Records. 413
An extract out of y" Pkodusall ok Register of tub Towne of Esopus.
The wife of Cornelius Barnson Sleight and her daughter complained to y" Court, that
Cap'. Broadhead had grievously cut beate and wounded Cornelius Barndson her husband in his
owne house, and y' hee bad alsoe coniitted his body close confined to y^ guard and would not
release him.
Upon vf"'^ y Coiu-t ordered y' y" Courts messinger should bee sent, to request Cap'. Broad-
head to come to y" court and tlie s'^ messinger received this following answer, That if y*" comis-
sary would speake with him they might come to him, then y° Bui-gers being in armes, the court
endeavored . . in them lay to prevent any further danger, and thereupon ordered y' Cap'.
Chamhers tfc Evert Pelce to desyre Capt. Broadhead to release y"" said Burger from y° Guard &
if y" said Cornelius Barnson had any wise oifended him, hee shold according to y^ Govern" order
complaine to the Maiestrates, who would see that liee make satisfaction or be punished according
to ye merritt of his crimes. But when y" said 2 Commissaryes had delivered the message to Capt.
Broadhead, hee made them this answer, that hee would keepe the said Cornelias as long as hee
pleased and if they would fetch him, hee would be ready to waite for them.
The Com-t alsoe used many arguments to y" Burgers were in armes to goe quietly whome
to tbeir houses and went p'sonally themselves to persuade tbem, y' they should not doe any thing
against y* Militie, but told them they would adress their cause to y" lion""* Govern''.
Then the burgers told them y" Magistrates, that Captaine Broadhead & more of y° soldiers
had many tymos threatened to burne the Towne and that with other reasons moved them to
appeare in their armes and therfore they requested to bee impowred by their Maiestrates to con-
tinue in their armes. But the said Maiestrates uterly denyed the same.
The Burgees Reasons & Confession of their being in Armes.
Wee whose names are here underwritten, inhabitants of the Towne of Esopes doe certifye &
ackowledge that on the 4"" day of February last upon the dolefuU cry & lamentation of the
children of Cornelius Barndson Sleight, that their father was miserably beaten and wounded by
Capt. Broadhead and y' another p''son named Andreas Peitersen van Lewen was killed in y*
browhouse, at w*^** accjon Some of us being eye witnesses wee gathered together in an assembly at
y* first and through the ihreatning of y^ inillitia formerly to hurne up the Towne and through
their beating their drumm and their further saying they would burne y° Towne and y' was therein,
the aforesaid motives and resons moved us, that every one of us without order of Burger or ofticer
did take our \Veapons in hand not knowing otherwise but this might be the beginning or fore-
runner of the utter Ruein of the towne by y" millitia and that they would doe with us what they
pleased, as they had done with several p''sons sence y° Governour went from hence, as is p'ticulerly
mentioned in our remonstrance to his honnour dated this 28'" Aprill 1667 In y° towne of Wild-
wycTce.
Tyerck Clausen de Wrrr Peter Helebeantzen Cornelius ffinchard
Peter Arienson John Williamzen Corn. Hoghbome
Lambert IIubertson Hendrick Martensen John Jacobs Burhans
Gerrat ffowkee Ard Martinsen Henr. Arianson
Tunis Jacobson Paulus Paulsen "Walrav De Mont
414 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Andries Petkkson Claus Clauson ffranc. La Cheie
Arian Gekitson ffredk. Petebson John Lodman
Yeian Westfall Derick IIendricksen Thomas Harmonzen
John Corneliusen Thom. van Makken Bajbnakd Holsten, 34.
John Hendrix Jan Jansen
Koloph Hendricks Albert Jansen V. Steenwyck
John Barntson
John Adrianson
Adrian Hubertsen
The Proceedings of the Court.
At a Court held iu j" Towue of Esojjus ats Wildwyclc upon the 25, 26 & 27dayes of Aprill
A° 1667 by virtue of a Coinission from y" Right hono*"'® Collon" Richard Nicolls, Goveru'' under
his Royall highness the Duke of Yorke of all his territoryes In America, Given to Capt. Robert
Needham & Mr. Thomas Delavall Esq two of his hon*'^ Privy Councell and Mr. Comeliux van
Ruyven one of his Ma*'"' Justices of y" peace and were present the Schout & Comissaryes of y*
said Towne.
Articles against Albert Hymens of Esopus.
1. That the said Albert Hymens was the occasion of the first rebellious Mutiney in y" Esopus
and likwise a great incouriger of this last mutiny being himselfe in amies and since that tj-me
hath spoken very dangerous words to y" preiudice of his Ma''"* subiects and peaceable government
& contrary to his oath of Alegience.
That hee was y'^ occasion of y*^ first mutiney is Proved by Edward ffrench upon Oath, who
saith :
That y'' said AUiert Hymens wounded one Daniell JBuierworth in y° hand for demanding his
provisions and calling him and more of us the soldiers in Esopus Shellums {schelm, rascal) starts
(scum) and more of y" like provoking speeches.
2. That hee was in y° second mutiney is by himselfe confessed in a double manner and y'
hee was then in his armes is owned by his signeing y® petition and secondly y' hee confessed the
leittenant comanded him & y^ rest to lay downe their armes and goe home w""" hee did not and
therefore needs noe more to prove him guilty.
3. That hee spoke since very dangerous & mutinous words is proved by y° Oathes of 2 wit-
nesses, Humphrey fforgison and ffrederick Hussey.
Humphrey fforgison saith hee being once at y° house of Albert Hymans and 'William ffisher
ilea heard Albert say y' if y^ Burgers would bee ruled by him, hee would not leave an English
man alive iu the house, and that if there any disturbance againe hee would prosecute him selfe
let y° Burgers and ilagistrates doe w' they would.
Frederick Hussey saith Hee heard Albert Hymens say that if the English had any qnarrell
againe with them, they would i or 5 fall upon one English man, as y" English had done upon them.
That formerly Albert Hymans with his soim and kinsman was at y"' Redoubt where there
was a Canew left in charge of y' souldiers at y" Redouht, which Canew as it seems did belong to
y" said Alhert and annother man, but y" souldiers haveing charge of it from y" other man would
not lett her goe, whereu})on there was some dispute and one of his Company did abuse Samuell
New Yo7'h Historical Records. 415
Oliver and tooke his annes from him and after wards they challenged to figlit with any 3 of y*
souldiers and one of y™ drew his small shott and loaded his gunn with Bulletts. ^ This was
Sworne to by Sam^ Oliver, George Porter & Edward Shackleton, but by reason it was soe long
since and the Court haveing fined the said Albert for the said fault This Court took litle notice of
it, however cold not doe less then represent it to y" Genei'all to order what his honnour shall see
meete in y^ Matter.
Articles agains* Antonio Dalva.
1. That y^ said Antonio was in y^ first and last mutiney and hath spoken very dangerous and
seditious words contrary to his alegiance and y** peace of this Gouernment.
He confesseth his being in y^ 2 Mutineys.
2. George Hall upon oath saith that when Cap'. Broadhead was gathering some of y" young
Burgers to goe to Fo74 Albany, hee heard Antonio Dalva say Shall wee goe and light with our
friends and leave our enemies at home.
To w'"^ Antonio Dalva replyed in his owne defence hee said shall we goe and fight for our
friends meaning y" Dutch at Albany who in y'' Last warr sold y'= sopes Indians powder & Lead,
and leave their enemyes at home, meaning the Sopes Indians.
3. Richard Haymour and George Hall Being both sworne, they say they did see Antonio _
Dalva present his peece against Capt. Broadhead and they alsoe heard him y° said Antonio
threaten Capt. Broadhead that if he moued a foote forward hee would fyer on him.
Articles ag' Cornelius Barnson.
That hee hath bin in y'^ last mutiney and a great fEorwarder promoter and abettor thereof.
Henry Pawling upon Oath saith that y* said Cornelius Barnson was one of y^ first 5 that
went to y" Schout's house and one of y' Company who said right before y^ last Mutiney, let us goe
from house to house, for we will have y° Serg' at liberty out of y^ Guard.
The Schout and Comissaryes doe give a Caraeter of the said Corneli^is Barnson to be an Idle
seditious fellow.
That Ariant Albertson was in y^ first quarrell with y* soldiers at y" Redoubt is proued by
George Porter Sam' Oliver and Edioard Shackleton and y' hee was the occasion of y' first Mu-
tiney by quarrelling with DanK Butterworth is owned by his father and y' hee was in armes the
last mutiney is owned by his owne hand vnderwritten in y" General acknowledgment.
Vpon which Complaints and informa^on of his Ma"'"' officers in tlie Garrison of Esopus
against y' Burgers & inhabitants thereof and it being evidently proued and made appeare that at
2 seuerall tymes a Considerable number of the said Burgers were gott together in Armes without
or Comand of their ofiicers in very dangerous riottous and mutinous manner contrary to their dxity
and alegiance to our soueraigne Lord the King and the peace of this gouernment.
And vpon strict and serious examina9on wee have found that Antmiio Dalva, Albert Hy-
inenson, Cornelius Barnson and Arient Albertson are guilty of the said Rebellious and Mutinous
Riot and therefore for the more peaceable Gouernment of this towne for y'^ future, w-ee doe thinke
meete to can-y downe the foure abovemen9oned persons to New Y&rJce there to reeeiue from y'
honoured gouernour their finall Sentence for y" said fact.
A Warrant from the Govebno" to the Inhabit^' of Staten Islaijd, empower-
ing THEM TO CHUSE CIVILL OFFICERS.
Whereas Mr. Nicholas Stillwell hath by y° Mayo' pt of yo' Inhabit*' beene elected Constable
of yo' Towne I have this day confirmed him in y* s'^ office for this ensueing yeare : You are
416 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
hereby likewise appointed and authorized to clmse out of yo"' planta9on two good and sufficient
men to be Overseers, to whom y'= Constable in:.y administer their oath, who with the said Consta-
ble shall have power to decide and determine all matters of debt & difference betweene you or
any of you arising, under y"" value of five pounds & for what shall bee above the s* sume, you
are to liave recourse to y^ Sessions at Gravesend upon Lony Island & in all other matters you
are to bee guided according to the Rules prescribed in the Lawes for the Townes within this
Goverum' Given under my hand at ffort James in N. T. this 7"* day of Sept. 1667.
R. NlOOLLS.
To the Inhabit'* of the planta9on upon Staten Island.
A Gkant to the Soijldiers at Esopus, Apeill the 6™ 1668.
The Governo"' hath this day beene pleased to make a grant vnto tlie Souldiers now being at
the Sopez & to such oth" as shall bee allowed to settle there. That they shall have the First Great
pie^^e of Land & alsoe the second piece w* adioynes vnto it, They both lying & being Westward
beyond the Washmakers land being bounded on the South by a Certayne Ryver or Creeke. The
number of Lotts that are to bee laid out there shall be Thirty &, each lott shall have Thirty acres
of the Lowe Land & Two acres & a halfe of the Up Land to belong to their Home Lotts for
planting laud. The rest of the Woodland is to lye in Comon.
By Order of y^ Governo'
M. KicoLLs, Secretary.
Minutes of a Committee of the Classis of Amsterdam, August 27, 1668.
Rev. Ilerman Bloem, who was sent by our Rev. Classis as pastor to Esopus in New-Neiher-
larid in the year 1660, has now returned. He has given an account of his experiences and exhib-
ited a lawful dismissal and a good testimonial. He requests the assistance of the Rev. Brethren
with the Directors of the W. L Company, that he may obtain, what liis Reverence deems his
right for transportation and board. Whereupon the Rev. Brethren resolved to send his Rev. to
the Classis, that he may there make a complete report and present his aforesaid request.
Certificate of former Dutch Officers as to the loyalty of Domine Megapolensis.
As we are in duty bound to bear testimony to the truth, especially when requested : There-
fore We, the undersigned, formerly Director-General, Burgomasters and oihcers, attest and declare
as tnitli, that tlie Rev. Domine Johannes Megapolensis (having been a minister here about 19
years at the time of the capitulation of this pLace), has not as far as we know, behaved in any
other manner, than was becoming to a faithful subject of the States-Genei-al and of the W. I.
Company and to a pious and godly minister. In everything lie has always appeared to us to
exhibit these traits. In testimony of the truth hereof we have affixed our signatures on the
Island of Manhattans in Neio- York, formerly New- Amsterdam, Aug. 27, 1668.
Oloff Stevenson Van Coetlandt. P. Stuyvesant
J. S. Yandie Gkift. Timothy Gabey
Isaac Greveneaet
Nio. De Meyee
Nexo YorTc Historical Records. 417
A L*^ To Mr. Phillip Fieters (Schuyler) eegaeding his claim to the land in
THE New Village (Sept. 3, 1668)
M^ Phillip Pibtees.
I am Comanded by the Governo'' to acquaint you That he intends (God willing) to be at
Esopus vpon AVednesday next come Senight w'"" will be the Three & Twentith day of this month,
where he expects yo" should meet him & bring w"" you the Clayme or pretence of Goosen Ger-
ritts YolcJcert Jans or any oth' of Albany to the lauds in the New Dorpe at Eposus. He intends
then to issue then all differences & Contests about those lands & to lay out anothe'' Towne To
w"* end he will take . . as Survey' w'" him. I shall wait upon the Governo'' thith^ I will
bring w'" me y'' Lres of Deniza9on yo" spoke to me for. This is all at p''sent from
S"' Yo'' humble servant
Math. Nicolls.
An Oedee foe the beinging of the Clatmes to the land at Esopus.
All mann'' of persons who have any Clayme or p''tence to any lotts or lands at the New Dui"pe
at Esopus or to any other lands there adiacent And all oth'' p''sons who came over into these partes
w"" the late Govern^ Coll. Richard Nicolls or to whome he hath promised land & have now a
mynde to settle themselves the first are to bring in their Claimes or p''tences & the latf their
names to the Secretaryes office in the Forte by the Tenth day of this instant Month, the Govern''
intending to goe up to Esopus the latf end of the next weeke to settle matf' concerning the s*
New Durpe & partes adiacent aforesaid & to cause lands to be laid out thereby to such, oth" as
have had premisses for the same & resolve to live & settle thereon. Dated at New Yorke the
5'" Septbr. 1668.
By ord' of the Govern'
Math. Nicolls.
Septbe. 23" 1668 At Esopus.
Memorandum, That this day three of the Esopus Sachems, who had sould the Great Tract of
Land there to Govern'" Nicolls accompanyed w'" divers oth'' Indians came to the Gov' and
brought the Countei-parte of the deed of purchase desiring to Continue Friendship which was
then Katifyed.
Oedee foe keeping y^ Watch at y'' Guaed at Esopus.
To Mr. Berisford Comand'' of the Souldiers at Esopus.
For the furth' Incouragem' of y'' setling the furthest planta^on w"^*" is to consist of most
Souldiers, I doe ord' that the Military Guard hitherto maintained by the Souldiers be discharged
of that duty & that the Townesman of the Sopes are to keep their watcli, w'"" formerly was main-
tained by them onely y^ Redouht is to be maintained & kept by the Souldiei-s und'' Mr. Beris-
ford Comand who is required to see it executed according to the true meaning of this my ord'.
Fean. Lovelace.
Esopus, 25"' Septbr. 1668.
53
418 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
An Answer to the Desires of the Inhabitants of the Esopus tendeed to
MB 24™ OF September, 1668.
1. To the First concerning the Boundaryes of the Dorp of Esopxis my answ"' & opinion is
that I conceive the extrcmety of their land as to aN. W. lyne to be the utmost bounds on that lyne
And then a lyne drawne S. or S. & by East from the Sojms Kill in straight lyne to the Redoubt Kill
to be the true boundearie of that Dorp on that side, & there to beginne the lymitts of tlie next Towne.
2. To the Second concerning the Swamp lying und'' the Towne my order is that it remain
to the use of the towne of Sopus onely what my p''decess' Coll. Nicolh has already allotted to Mr.
Pawling w"* all with this provisoe, that the Towne in the next spring cause a sufficient Draine
to be made whereby the Valley may be made dry & Consequently healthy otherwise I shall dis-
pose thereof to such as I am Confident will doe it.
3 For the Preachers Bowry w* is at the New Dorpe it being not w'" in their lymitts I
conceive it concernes them not since I am resolved to make that a distinct Towne & to those
that shall settle there it properly belongs to clayme the right if any be tliough since it be forfeited
to his Boyall Highnesse by an Eseheate I see no reason, why he should be deprived of his right.
i. For the Quartering of the Souldiers ife providing them their provisions I am willing
(since it proves a burthen to them) to ease them in that perticnlar & shall take to send them pro-
visions at my arrivall at New Yorke, till when I thinke it reasonable, that they provide for them
as formerly.
5. Concerning the constraining of Souldiers to pay their iust debts, I thinke it reasonable,
that they should doe it. Provided that the Officer that Comands them be first acquainted with it,
before they are sumoned to the Bancke, who will take care that in reasonable tyme satisfaction
shall be given to the Creditor or else to be left open to y*" Law equall w"" the rest of the Inhabit-
ants, but w'" all I desire that the Inhbts will be carefull not to trust the Souldiers w"'out a prob-
able power of their Repayment.
6. As to their last Desire concerning tlie House where Mr. Beresford lives I refer them to
y^ ord'' made by my p'decess' the late Governo'' bearing date the 7"" day of August 1668.
Esopus, 26'" September 1668.
The names of those that Coll. Nicolls p^mised land to at Esopus being
now there.
Christopher Berisford, Serg'. Edward Price
Thomas Quennill Win. Houghton
Rich. Cage Thomas Elger
Geo. Hall John Biggs
Rob. Peacock Robt. Bloke7'staff
Erederich Ilussey Win. Eisher
Henry Paulin John Henry
Edioard Whettaker John Pound
Thomas Mathews Antlwny Addson
Anthony Cooke Thomas Skilhnan
Samuel Oliver Edw. Erench
George Porter
Those that are Crost finde themselves provisions.
New Yorh Historical Mecords. 419
An Oedee foe Cdtting Pallisadoes at Esopus.
Tliese are to give notice to all persons concerned in eith'' of the new Dorpes or Villages latel}'
laid out l)y my ord'', That every such person doe repaire or send some one in his stead to their
respective Dorpes or Villages duering this eusueing winter to cut & provide their proportions of
Pallisadoes against the next spring, when each persons dividend of land belonging to his lott shall
be sett forth for their settling thereupon. Ilereof they are not to faile. Given under ray hand
at Esojtus this 26'" day of Septemb^ 1668.
Fran. Lovelace.
An Oed^ foe the peovision of Planks, boards etc. foe y^ settling t' rtrRTHEST
New Doep.
"Whereas a Kesolu9on is taken to settle the furthest New Doi-pe or Village with all con-
venient speed & in the first place it being requisite & necessary to mak^ some place of defence
for the w'^'' there will be occasion of Plankes & otli' materials. These are to authorize and
empower yo" Heni^y Pauling on the belialfe of yo'self & the rest that are to settle there to take
such Plankes, boards & oth' materialls as yo" shall finde fitting for that pui-pose at the next Dorj^e
from any Two of the watchhouses or fower Flankers there belonging to the Publique & being
nearest at hand & to see them imployed for the use aforesaid. In the perfourmance whereof the
Schout & Commissaryes are desired to be aiding & assisting to yo" in providing of such Carts &
Horses as may be requisite for their transporting to the said New Dorpe And for soe doeing
this shall be to yo" a sufficient warrant. Given und'' my hand at Esojjus, this 26"' day of Sep-
tember A". Dom. 1668.
Fran. Lovelace.
The names of those peesons that aee willing to take theie dividends of
LoTTs at the fcethest New Doepe.
"We who have hereunto subscribed o'' names, are willing to take o' Dividends of Letts at the
Furthest New Dorpe or Village, when the Governo"^ shall please to give order for the laying them
out unto us. Dated at Esopus the 26"" day of September 1668.
Tho. Qutnnell Cheistofer Beeisfoed
ROBT. BiCKEESTAFFE GeOEGE HaLL
Jn". Beiggs
The marke R\ of Robt. Peacock.
Feedeeick Hussey
Heney Fabling The marke -Q- of Wm. Houghton
Anthony Cooke
Samuel Oliver Avert j-tT Peice
Edwaed "Whittakek Thomas Elgee
Thomas Mathews George Poetee
Tho. Skillman Anthony Addison
CoENELis Arson Jn". Pume
Davey Ceawfoed Wm. Fishee
Jn". Hendeick
Rich" Cage.
420 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Instructions to the Schout and the best of the Comissakyes at Escpus.
To'' are with convenient speed to remove y° Palisadoes & place them at the extremity of
yo' Towne where the new addition is made & to open the Coming in of the Towne in the middle
of it as is designed.
The place for buriall mnst be Impaled as likewise the place for a Townehouse.
The Morasse that lyes und' the Towne yo" are to take care that it be drayned, whereby the
place will not onely be improved to be betf, but it will Contribute much to the health of the place.
That according to the Agreem' made before me you goe on w"" the fence betweene you &
yo"' neighbours on the other syde, That there may be no further occasion of difference on that
Account.
Yo" are to be very Circumspect in observing the motions and Inten^ons of the Indians
especially those of the Wapingoes who are now gone to ioyne w"" the Mohawks against the
Mahikanders.
Yo" are upon all convenient opertunityes to give me an account of the welfare and affaires of
this place & if any thing happens extraordinary to send an express.
Yo" are to take care for the quartering y^ Souldiers till such tyme I can send them provisions
w''*' will be w"' the first oppertunity & likewise to live friendly «fe peaceably w"" them & to assist
them in what conveniently you can towards their planting the New Towne.
Fkan. Lovelace.
A WAEEANT to THE CoNSTABLE OF EasT ChEST" TO APEEHEND SUCH PEESON AS
TEAVELL on THE SuNDAT.
Whereas I am informed that severall persons not regarding the Lawes do presume to profane
the Sunday or Lord's day by travelling, labouring or other Vicious wayes to the great Scandall of
the Governm'. These are to authorize yo" the present Constable or Officer at Eastchester to
apprehend any such person or persons & to bynde him or them over to answer their offence &
contempt at the next Com't of Sessions, where yo" are to make a due returne of their name &
present their misdemeanour. Given und'' my hand at Fort James in New York this 28"' day of
October 1668.
To SamueU Drake at Eastchester.
Oedee DrEECTiNG Heney Pawling to lay OUT Lots at the " furthest New Dorp
AT Esopus" (Maebletown).
Whereas I am informed that some of y" Persons who have leave to settle at the furthest
New Durp at Esopus, have a desire to goe there this winter, These are to autliorize & appoint
you Henrij Pauling w"" the fii-st Conveniency to lay out to such person their respective House
Lotts in the place aforesaid, for the doing whereof this shall be yo"' warrant. Given und' my
hand at Fort James in New Torke this 9"" day of November 16G8.
To Mr. Henry Pauling.
New YorJe Historical Records. 421
Council Mikute. Dispute over land betwen the Town of Haelem and John
Aec'hee. Novbe. 6, 1668.
At a Speciall Meeting appointed by the Govemo'' to heare a Matf in Difference between
The Inhabit'^ of Ifew Haerlem T
by Dan. Turnier, Jno. Verveelen j-Plts.
Resolved Waldron & y" Constable J
John ArcJier Deft.
Theii- Peti9on by way of Plaint is read & their Patent produced.
The Def denyes any Clayme to y'= Lotts upon the Maine No. 1, 2, 3, 4, w"" w'^'' hee is charged,
but hath purchased Land near adjoyning that was the Yoimcker Van der DoncTcs.
It being taken into ConsideraQon, It was order'd that the Deft, doe bring in the Pa' for the
Yoimckers Land in 15 dayes time, w* what Eight hee hath to the Land, where hee hath built, at
w* time some Persons shall bee appointed to view the meadow belonging to Harlem upon the
Maine, and to make Report how it may bee preserved from the Def'^ trespassing on it ; w"" said
Persons shall also bee ordered to view the Passage of Spltliig Devil, how it may bee made con-
venient for Travailers and Deift of Cattle, y^ fferry at Harlem being found incommodious and
not answering the Ends formerly proposed. ***************
November 21", 1668.
Present The Govemo'
Mr Mayo" John Archer according to the Order
Mr Bedloo of the 6* Instant appeared to make
Mr Boone out his Title.
The Secret^'
The Order] : "Whereas by an Order of the G"" Instant Jno. ArcJier was appointed to make out
his Title to the Land, where hee is now seated and having accordingly appeared but not clearly
made it out, Hee having noe Bill of Sale nor Bonds setting forth his Purchase, It is this day
Ordered, that the said Jno. Archer have farther time till y'' 14"" day of fEeb''' next to cleare his
Title ; In y" meantime hee is to remaine where hee is without Molesta9on & giving noe disturb-
ance to his Neighbours. It is likewise Ordered, that in pursuance of the former Ord"' some Per-
sons shall bee appointed to view y^ Land, where Jno. Archer now lives & the Meadows belonging
to Harlem upon the Maine, as also about the Passage at Spiting Devil for y" conveniency of Trav-
ellers and p''serva<;ou of Cattle upon the Island, when the fferry at Harlem is to bee removed. (*)
An Order foe six of the Souldiees at Esopus to goe to woeke weekly at the
FTJETHEST NeW DuEPE.
"Whereas It is intended that the furthest New Durpe shall be settled w"" all Convenient speed,
There are to require yo" upon the receipt hereof to appoint six of the Souldiers und"' yo'' Com-
and to goe each weeke to worke there or to send & take provisions along w"' them, who are to
be relieved the follo\ving weeke by six other Souldiers & so to take turnes successively weeke
aff weeke until further order. Given und' my hand at Fort James in N. Yorke this 9"" day of
November 1668.
To Mr. Christofer Berisford at Esopus.
*As commissioners under this order Jno. Rkhhell of MamaronecTc, Wm. Lawrence of Flushing, Jacques Cortil-
leau of Neio Utrecht, Besohed Waldron of Harlem and Thomas ]VandaU were appointed Febry 23, 1669.
422 Colonial Setdemevts on the Hudson River.
An oeder concerning the taxes to be paid in West aot) East Chester.
"Whereas I am informed that the Farmers at Eastchester and others who liave perticular
Patents for severall parcells of Land w"'in tlie lymitts and JiirisdicQon of the Towne of West
Chester do refuse to pay their Proportions towards the Generall Pattent for the Towne & other
Publique charges incumbent upon the said place, These are to certefy, that it is the duty of all
p'ticuler p''sons w'^in the lymitts & iurisdiction of the said Towne to beare their parte or pro-
por9on of all such publique charges their perticuler Patents notwithstanding. Given und' my
hand at Fort James in New YorJce this IT"" day of November 1668.
F. Lovelace.
To the Inhabitants of Westchester &c.
The Governo"^ Lre to the Officers and Souldiers at Esoptis.
Gentlemen.
Having now paid yo^ of thes 6 months last past so y' yo" caniiot p'tend any obstructions to
the setling the new PlantaQon I have laid out for yo", in w'^'" I desire yo'' vigorous endeav' that so
by that tyme I shall come up to jo" w* (w'" God's permission) will be as soone as that weather
will p'mitt I may see some fruites of yo' Labour yo" may be sure of all the Countenance & assist-
ance I can afford yo" & I shall expect nothing from yo" but a Civill Comportment. I doubt not
but by your vei'tuous endeavours & God's blessing on yo'' labour to give a comfortable account of
yo" to his Eoyall Ilighnesse who (I know) will be very well satisfyed w'" your undertakings &
the benefitt & content will needs redound to yo'' future felicity, w* as no man wishes more than
myselfe, so none shall promote it more than
Fort James in N. YorTce the IT"" of Novbr. 1668. Yo' affectionate freind
F. Lovelace.
For the Officers <& Souldiers at Esopus.
An Ord" excusing the Inhabitants of Eastchest" from paying and coi^ributing
TO ANT OTH" ToWNES.
Whereas the Inhabitants of Eastchester are men9oned in a former Order to be lyable to pay
towards the Gen" Pattent of yo' Towne & other publique charges Incumbent vpon the place as
being w'''in yo'' jurisdiction Upon further Information &, consideratjon thereupon had that they
are a distinct village of themselves by their Pattent, though in some things depending upon your
Towne & that they receive no benefitt or privileges from yo' Towne, they having likewise beene
at considerable charges in making & repairing the Highways about them without any helji from
you, I think it reasonable, that they should be excused from Contributing to these Charges w'^''
concerne yo' selves alone ; the w""*" yo" are to observe any former ord' to the Contrary notw"'8tand-
ing. Given und' my hand at ffort James in New Yorke. this ll"" day of December 1668.
New Yoi'h H'mtorical Records. 423
The Goveeno"^ Lett" to y^ Magistrates at Esopus.
Loving friends.
Ml-. Pawling hath fully informed mo of what hath past betweene yo" & y* Esopus Indians,
as also of their proposalls Joyned w"' the South Indians & those of Nevisans to make a firme
peace w"" y' Maques & Si/nnekes. I doe very well approve of what yo" have already done &
do thinke it convenient that their designe of peace should be encouraged & promoted w"* all
speed To w"^*" end you'l do well to send some Christian w"" yo'^ Indians (but at their charge) to see
y"" same agreed & Concluded upon. If yo" are not provided better I thinke Christofer Davies
may bo a litt person to receive instruc9ons from yo" therein & to be a witness of what shall be
done w* when it shall be effected at his & the Indians returne back, I shall expect an Account
thereof here, when I shall be ready to Eatify & eonfirme, what they shall agree & Conclude upon
tending to peace & Unity. I am
Foj't James in JVew Yorke Yo'' very Loving friend
24'" fEebr'' 1668-9. Fkan. Lovelace.
Letter from Domine Johannes Megapolensis to the Classis of Amsteedam :
Aeeeaes of Salary : State of the Chdech under the English : Lutherans.
Heverend, Pious, Learned Fathers and Brethren in Christ Jesus !
The W. I. Company has unrighteously withheld from me about 2000 guilders, due me as
salary, M'hich had accrued previous to the change of government and the capitulation of this place
to the English, the false charge having laid to me, that I had an agency in procuring the capitida-
tion. Evidence of the falsity of this charge has been forwarded to the Rev. Classis, and honorable
men may see it in my defense. I doubt not, that the Classis has done its duty in defending me
before the Hon''''' Directors and that they will obtain for me the balance of my salary. But I
have not as yet received a written answer from the Rev. Classis, although I none the less hope,
they wiU continue their kind favors.
Tlie Classis will learn from my son Samicel, lately a minister of the church here and as well
acquainted with it as I am, the condition and circumstances of the church. On that account I
have not written you lately. There is a large attendance on the Sabbath and the church is full.
They seem to take great interest in the preaching, but the greater part of my hearers take but
little interest in contributing to the support of the Gospel in paying our salary. We have
addressed our Governor several times, but he has answered, that as the Dutch enjoy their freedom
of worship, they should provide for the support of their minister. It remains thus with our
salaries and in consequence we are greatly pressed in sustaining ourselves. For this reason my son
SamvA has resigned his call to the church here and taken his dismission in order to return to the
Fatherland and reside there. I doubt not, yom* Rev. Classis will kindly receive him and assist
him, so that when a convenient opportunity occurs, he may again be employed in the service of
the ministry.
Domine Drisius is also an old man of about the same age as myself. Although we are both
in the decline of life, we shall endeavor to do our duty and fulfil tlie ministry. I trust that God,
who has dealt so kindly with me from iny youth, will provide for me during the short remainder
of ray life. When in my youth 1 renounced popery, ray patrimony was forfeited. I am now
sixty-eight years old and have been forty years in the ministry, twenty-seven years in this country
and the rest in North Holland. One thing occurs to my mind and fills me with sadness, namely
424 Colonial Settlements on the Ihidson River.
the welfare of my congregation, when Domine Drisius and I come to die. As there is so little
inclination to support the Gospel adequately, I see not how they will obtain another minister.
There is besides another difficulty. The Lutherans, this spring, obtained a parson from Amster-
dam and received him with great pleasure. Therefore I fear, that when we die there will be a
great scattering and diminution of the church. But God can direct all for the best and give a
happy issue.
New- York in America Your dutyful brother in Christ
on the Island of Manhattan April |-|t>i 1669. Joannes Megapolensis.
LiBEETT to John Archer to settle 16 familtes at Spiting Devill.
These are to certefy all whome it may concerne That I have given leave to John Archer to
settle sixteene familyes upon the Maine neare the wading place according to directions formerly
given and that what agreem' liee shall make w*'' y'' Inhabitants as to their propor9ons of improv-
able Land and hamelotts, I shall bee ready to confirme, but doe respite the Setting out the uttmost
bounds for their Range, untill I shall come once more upon y'' Place after w* I shall graunt a
patent for their further assurance. Given under my hand at Fort James this 2>^ day of May 1669.
Fk. L.
An order concerning the Militia on Staten-Island.
Gentlemen.
I have received yo' returne of two p''sons for y° Employm' of Lieutenant of y^ Militia of yo^
Towne, for the w"^*" I doe approve of Thomas Carle, who is to follow the directions ali-eady given
in my late order to goe to y^ Generall Rendevous, And in complyance to yo'' Request that a file of
men should stay behind for y'= Protection and Safeguard of the Place, I doe thinke fitt, that Peter
Bileaih doe stay with a file of men for that pui-pose, one of y' ancient Inhabitants and is best
acquainted among y" Indyans. I doe intend in some short time to give you a visitt to settle y"
affairs amongst you. In y"^ meantyme I am.
Fr. L.
Postscript.
This Settlement of y'= Militia is for y" Present iuncture of Time untill my coming amongst
you when I shall take further Order therein.
May 14"^ Fort James New Yorlce.
Letter from Gov" Lovelace to the Governor of Bermuda concerning immigration.
Honored Sii* :
It being the positive comand of my Royall Master His Highnesse the Dulce of Yorl'e, That
after my arrival in these partes I should fix and maintaine a firme and freiudly correspondence
with the Govern" of all the neighbouring Oolonyes & planta9ons in these parts of the world.
This being premised, I hope my letter (though a Stranger to you) will require no further patron-
age or Apologie. To bee brief, the word of Capt. Stone has rendered the country very prosperous,
Nexo Yorh Historical Records. 425
bejond the strength of afEourding all the Inhabitants a plentiful! subsistanee, And (if hee flatters
mee not) hee beleeves with your approbation and leave many would bee ioyfuU and willino- to
transport themselves heather, of which I may truly say there is a want of nothing but an Indus-
trious and well disposed people to make it considerable both by the world and themselves. It will
doe a gratefuU service unto his R. Highnesse, if you advance this designe as it will doe an accept-
able worke to your Countrymen, if out of yo' superfluity you persuade some to dispose themselves
into His R. Highnesse Territoryes, where (besides all other conveniencyes) they will fiude more
room for themselves and make for others, they shall leave behind, I have here sent you a Copy of
y° Conditions the planters may settle on, which if it finde any acceptation with you (when Capt.
Stone returnes) you may sent some authorized from them to vew the place and to make such a
finall conclusion as may require no further expostala9on. S'., I beg yo"' pardon for this confidence,
to expiate which I can onely assure you, that wherein I can any way bee serviceable to you, you
may assuredly make use of mee, as one who is
Forte James in New YorTce on the To' affectionate friend and Servant
Tsland Manhatans in America June 3'', 1669. Fk. Lovelace.
PeOPOSITIONS AOT) C0NDI9ONS FOB A COMPETENT NTTMBER OF FAMILTES FEOM T*
Island Baemudas to settle a Towneshipp upon Staten-Island, belonging
TO these his Royal Highnesse Teeeitoeyes.
First upon their arrivale they shall have a convenient place sett out for them upon the said
Staten-Island on the South or Southwest part of itt neare the waterside to erect a Towne, the
which shall bee divided into lotts according to the number of Inhabitants proposed and intended
to bee settled there.
That Each home lott shall have .... Acres of Ground to build a house upon and for
gardens or other necessary accomoda^ons, as they shall thinke best to dispose of itt.
That there shall bee allotted of Ploughland or Arable ground Acres and of
Meadow a convenient proporQon.
That there shall bee no taks or levey imposed on them more then there is on other part and
places within this Goverm', which is onely to bear their propor9on of Charges to y"^ Country Rates
toward the keeping Courts of Judicature and other matters relating to themselves with some
small acknowledgments to his R. H., being in all a very inconsiderable matter.
That after they are in a way of Settlem' they shall a Patent by Authority from their Royall
Highnesse for the Conflnna9on of their Lands and proprietyes with the Same Condi9ons as the
rest of the Towne of the Goverm'.
That the Inhabitants shall have Liberty of Conscience, the which is graunted to them in the
Lawes nor shall any person bee molested, fined or imprisoned for deffering in Judgment in matters
of Religion, provided he profess Christianity and doe not molest or disturbe others in the divine
exercise of their Religion.
That they shall have liberty to elect and choose their owuq Minister, to whom they are to
give a competent allowance for his Subsistanee as they shall agree and to lay out and cleare a lott
of ground for him propor9onable with the Rest, the which lott shall bee after their first Ministers
decease or deserting them at the Towne disposal for their succeeding Ministers.
54
426 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River,
That in considerapon of what is before proposed for y" benefitt of the Settlers, They shall bee
obliged to cleare and fence two home lotts with equall proporcjon of arable or ploughland as is
allotted to the Rest for the use of the Govern' or to bee at his disposall.
That in all other matters and things they are to bee conformable to the Lawes and Constitu-
90ns of the Governm' Confirnjed and Established by his Royall Highnesse, being in most things
consonant to and agreing with and no way repugnant unto the Lawes of Englandt.
Fe. L.
An oedee PEOHiBrriNG to teade with Indyans at Schanechtade.
Wliereas I am given to understand that divers persons doe presume contrary to former acts
and Lawes Establisht within this Governm' to trade with the Indyans from divers places to Scha-
nechtade and that others from that place pretending or that the goods really belong to them doe
treade there witli the Indyans contrary to the Custome and practize of former times and the Con-
di9ons upon which they first settled, which already doth and hereafter may tend to the ruine and
destruction of the trade in the Towne of Albany, which is of farr greater consideragon and benefitt
of the Governm* then the private end and respects of particular persons can redound to. These
are to require you to see that the former acts and Lawes in the behalfe aforesaid bee putt in Exe-
cu9on and that you take care, that no such Liberty bee taken or hereafter graunted for any per-
sons under what pretence whatsoever to traficke or trade with the Indians at Schanechtade. And
that the Inhabitants have no further liberty to trade with them but onely for their necessary sub-
sistance and releife. Hereafter you are not to fayle. Given under ray hand and seal at Fort
James in New YorJce this T"" day of June in the 21^*' yeare of his Ma"'' Kaigne Annoque Dom-
ini 1669 Fe. L.
Lettee feom Gov" Lovelace to Seegeant Beeisfoed at Esopus on the lack of
DISCIPLINE among THE S0LDIEE8.
Me. Beeisfoed
I have received yo' Letter of the IT"" of July together ^vith William Fisher. I approve
well of yo' presecu9on of yo' duty ; But this I must informe you, that if a Stricter hand had
beene kept over the Souldiers, wee should not have had such frequent Comp"' of them as dayly
aproway (?) my eares; For besides fact of this p'ticular person, I cannot but take notice
to you of the great Comp" of the sould" often drunkenesse, debauchery, breaking windowes,
quarelling with all, vindicating themselves in their owne Causes and such like Exorbitances,
that (to speake plainely) are becoming more the nursery of Newgate, then persons who
have taken on them a settled and resolved life ; Pray therefore lett these things bee amended
and that I may have no fm-ther Cause to expostulate with you on y^ like subject ; I am soriy
I could not in person visitt you this Spring, but send mee word if anything bee to bee
done in point of laying out the Lotts of their feilds, I will send then the Survey' and Coramiss'' to
effect it, however lett them goe on with their homelotts according to the description I gave to
I^awling. Comend mee kindly to all and beleeve mee to bee
Tom Walton was on the point of death and he bequeathed Lst. to Mrs. Broadhead, to
whom comend mee and tell her her debt from Fisher is as safe now as before.
Fort James, the 25'" of July 1669.
jSfew Yorh Historical Records. 427
Letter feom the same to Henry Pauling at Esopus on the peace among the
Indians.
Herrt.
Yd' Letter of y^ 5"" Instant I answered, since which I received another of 17"^ ditto. I thanke
yo" for yo"' frequent letters, I approve very well of yo' advancing the peace with y" Indyans.
Though I must confesse, it had beene better, had the appearance of yo' formality of the Magis-
trates of Esopus concerned themselves here : I cannot imagine how that peace will bee of any
duration, in regard the Maquas will not accord with the Wappingos and other na9ons of that side
of Hudsons River and there being so great a Correspondence with them of the Esoj)us, Cattskile
&c that hee that attack the one, must needs injure the other, since in all extremityes they will
recourse one to the other. I am endeavouring to make it a generall peace and doubt not but to
accomplish it, for if the Indyans under Mr. Winthrop bee but as pliable as our Indyans, the worke
is already done ; you may on all occasions assure them so, it will relieve their doubt much, when
they see but a possibility for a generall peace. For y^ Oare sent mee, I have tryde it and find it
right. But with all I desire a greater quantity to bee sent mee b^^ the next convenience, for the
Last was so little, that I could hardly make a Tryall. For the Land you relate to be neare the
Mine, pray take it up for mee and if it bee in such a place, as may render it Comunicable to
other, I will settle it. For y'^ Washmakers Land I shall not dispose it till I lieare out of England.
Pray proceed vigorously toward the Settlem' of your Towne and I will invest you with sufficient
authority to administer Justice amongst them, I have from England advertisement of 200 Scotch
familyes, that are to bee transported hether (if so) I pui-pose to settle them neare you, that so you
may strengthen each other y'' better. Comend mee to the Magistrates there and the Rest and
believe mee to bee
You'' loving friend
Fort James the 25"" day of July 1669 Fran Lovelace.
Letter from the same to the Magistrates at Albany. jS^egotiations with
THE Indians.
Gentlemen
My last to you was about the letting out the great Paclit or Tappers Excise for the yeare
ensueing for the w* I therein gave you some Instructions. I then also required you, that the
double excise for liqu"^' goeing up to Albany is taken off, it being onely to bee paid here.
In answer to yo' letters concerning the peace betweene the Indyans, I doe very well approve of
what you have already done and shall desire you continue yo' best endeav" for y" promoting of it
to effect. I have given an Ace' of all your proceedings about it to the Maquaes part unto Mr.
Winthrop, from whome I every day expect an answer, how farre he hath wrought with those
Indyans about 'him as also an agreem' upon the place where the meeting shall bee for y"^ conclu-
sion of the peace, whether in this city or not.
I am informed that the Maquaes have made a peace with y^ Esopus, CattsTcill and other
Indyans adiacent, but have excluded the Wappingos, which will bee an occasion of breach of it
againe unlesse they will bee included, also there being so great affinity and correspondence betweene
them and those other Indyans. When I receive letters from Gov' Winthrop you shall heare
further from mee concerning this matter, in the meantime yo' Care and Prudence in the managem'
of Affayres with the Maquaes will bee very acceptable to Yo' affectionate friend
New Yorke this 26'" of July 1669. Fran. Lovelace.
428 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Letter written by order of Gov" Lovelace to the Commissaries at Albany
ON Indian affairs.
Gentlemen.
Here hath been with the Govern'' Perewyn lately chosen Sachem of y" HacJcingsach Tappan
and Staten Island Indians to renew & acknowledge y" peace betweene them & y^ Xtians here
& w"' all declared y^ peace made betweene them &, j" Maquaes & SynneJcs Indians, The w'^'' they
say they are resolved to keep inviolably. The Govern'' hath comanded me to signify y'' same
unto you & yo" may putt it upon record there as it will be here to be a Testimony against those,
that shall make y' first Breach, This is all at p'sent from
Gent,
New Yorke, Aug' 13'", 1669. Yo"" very loving freind
To y" Com''^ at Albany, These.
Council Minute. Esopus Matters.
At a Councell Sept. 9'" 1669
Before the Governo''.
Present Mr. Wliitfield
Mr. Nicolls.
The Busynesse of Esopus into Considera^on.
It is Ordered, that y'^ Garryson at Esopus shall bee henceforth Disbanded and Dismist of
their Military Employment, they being a needless Charge to y" Duke.
It is ordered, that Commission''^ bee appointed to goe up to Esop>us, to whom some others
there shall bee joyned to Regulate the AfEayres of Esopus and of the New Dorpes.
That y^ persons appointed for Commission'^^ bee
Mr. Balph Whitfield, Presid'
Capt. Jno, Manning
Capt. Jacques Cortelyou
Capt. Thomas Chambers
Mr. Win. Beakman, Schout
Mr. Henry Pawling
Mr. Christopher Berrisford.
Of w* any five of them shall bee a Quorum to settle the Affayres of all the Places there-
abouts, for the which they shall have a Commission and Instructions.
The Govern"^ Comission to severall p^sons foe y^ regulation of y'' Affaires
at Esopos &c.
Francis Lovelace Esq''" Governo'' Gen" und'' his Eoyall Highnesse James Duke of
York and Albany &c of all his Territoryes in Amreica, To all to whome these
p''sents shall come sendeth greeting.
Whereas there are severall afiaires at Esojnis & y* New Dorpes or villages adjacent w"" require
a regulation by some p'sons of Integrity & Experience to be upon y° place and there lying
New Yorlc Historical Records. 429
likewise before me some Complaints of irregular proceedings in y^ Co** there, w* onglit to be
Examined & rectifyed, For y" better managing y^ s** affaires & to put an end to any such differ-
ences, I have thought fitt to nominate, constitute & appoint yo" Jialjjh Whitfield Esq''" Capt.
Jno. Manning, Capt. Thomas Ckainhers, Mr. William BeecTcman, Mr. Christopher Berisford
& Mr. Henry Pawling to be Com" to Examyn into & to regulate y" affaires there according to such
instructions, as I shall herew"" give yo" of w^'' said Com''^ yo" Ralph Whitfield are to be p''sident
& any foure of yo" shall be a Quorum ; yo'' are upon yo' arrivall there to make y" Inhabitants in
generall acquainted with this my Comission & if there shall happen to be any difference betweene
any of them w*^*" may be of a nature above y* ordinary cognizance of y° Schoiit & Commissaryes
yo" are hereby impowered to heare & determyn y" same or what ever else of the like nature shall
occurre besides what p'^ticularly is given yo" in charge in yo"" instructions. And as yo" shall see
cause yo" may call before yo" any p''son or p''sons & for y" clearing of y" truth administer an Oath
unto them (y" w"^** yo" are hereby impowered to give) & whatsoever yo" or so many of yo" as shall
make a Quorum shall lawfully Acte or due in y'' prosecution of this my speciall Comission this
shall be to yo" & every of yo" a sufficient warrant Given und"' my hand & seale at ffort James in
JSfew YorTie this ll"" day of September in the 21^ yeare of his Ma""^ Kaigne Annoque Dom. 1669.
Instructions for Ralph Whitfield Esq''^ Capt. Jno. Manning & y" rest of y" Com''
for y"' Affayres at y*' Esopus & y^ new villages adjacent.
Inprimis That after yo" have first publisht y"" Com"" w'^" yo" are to doe w"" all Convenient speed
af f yo'' arrivall yo" doe send to y"^ Sachems y" Hsop^is who sold their land to my p''decess'' Coll. Nicolls
to come and acknowledge y" sale of y'^ said land before you & upon acknowledgm' thereof & renew-
ing of ffreindship yo" Engage them to doe y" like yearely at y** same place for y° future.
2. That you acquaint y" Souldiers »fe all y" Inhabitant in Gen" that now being a Tyme of
peace & lande being allotted to every Souldier for his Subsistance have thought fitt to reduce y°
Garrison & to take that Charge of from his Royall Highnesso the Duke.
3. That then yo" make inquiry into y'' strength of y" place by taking Account of y" numb''
of familyes & p''sons Capable to beare Armes both at y' Esopus & y'' Two neare villages, aff^ w'^''
yo" are to endeav'' to f ynde out y'' best & most Convenient way for maintaining a constant watch
at y° Redoubt.
4. That yo" make inquiry, how y° Inhabitants of Esopus have proceeded in following my
Ord" & Instructions left w"' them, when I was there &, what is y" Remora * or reason why they
have not proceeded therein
5. To make inquiry aff & to view y' land commonly called Washmakers Land & to
endeavour to know y" p''tence of Govern'" Stuyvesant or any oth'^ p'son thereupon & upon what
Account & consideration they clayme it.
6. To make Enquiry aff & to view a peice of Land adjacent Claymed or belonging to
Thomas Hall lately deceased.
7. To Enquire aff y* Ljanitts & bounds of Capt". Thomas Chambers his Land, wheth' it be
according to his Graunts & Pattents & how much furth' it extends.
8. To Enquire how Capt" Thomas Chamber's is enclyn'd to perfourme his undertaking y"
last yeare about Erecting & keeping y" Storehouse (at y° Redoubt of w'^" yo" have the Articles)
& if he still dec!_)Ties it to propose it to some oth"' undertaker.
9. That yo" make a speciall Injunction that noe wheate or oth' Grayne be transported &
'Delay, obstacle. AVebster.
430 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Miver.
mingled w"" oth' w^'oiit y° Corne be very well Cleansed that place haveing already lost in parte y*
reputation they formerly had.
10. That yo" give Ord"^ for y*^ farming of y"^ Excise to y* best advantage & take Account
how y° last yeares Income is disposed of.
11. That yo" take Ord'' that all p''sons, who have any p''tenees to Lotts at 3'" Hew Dorjye (w"''
was burnt) doe forthw"' settle there und' y* penalty of some fyne or forfeiture.
12. That if iJLrs. Broadhead doe remove from y' TFasAjwafers Land yo" take care to make a
very good provision for her at y*^ furth"' Dorjyem regard of her great Charge &her being a Com""
Offic''^ widdow.
13. That yo" take it into yo'' Consideration how y'' furth"' Neio Dorj)e shall be Governed as
to officers and by what Lawes.
14. That yo" appoint some Officers to ord'' y° well laying out y' High wayes from one village
to anotli'" & keeping them passable.
15. That yo" inquire aff & appoint fitt places of Rendevous in Case of Insurrections or
Invasions & how each place may have Recourse one to y^ other for succour.
16. That yo" take some Ord'' for y*^ Reparation of yMiousenext toMr. ^eeclwa/i's comonly
called j' Dominies or y* State house.
17. That yo" take greate Care to regulate y*^ Abuses of y° Indians & their drunkenesse at
Esopus, & make inquiry who trausgresse in giving them more drink or liqu'^ than is fitting or
allowed of.
18. That yo" Cause an Offic'' to be made in y" j^ature of a Constable amongst y° Indians to
keep them in y" better ord''.
19. That one or more Office'"' be appointed by yo" at y*^ furth'' Dorjie, to whome y" Indians
thereabout may have Recourse for redresse upon Occasion.
20. That yo" take Care and give yo'' best advice & direction for y" Continuance of y'^ late made
peace amongst y" Indians & if any breach shall happen that yo" give Ord'' to make inquii-y &
where y" fault lyes to cause satisfaction to be given by them to those injured or abused.
21. That yo" Cause a prohibition to be made that no Strangers be p''initted to come amongst
y® neighbor Indians there & disturbe y" publique peace.
22. That yo" acquaint y" Souldiers that as sooneas their Accounts can be stated to know what
is due to them their Airears shall be all paid off.
23. That yo" likewise take into yo"^ Consideration how some rate may be imposed upon y"
Inhabitants there according to y^ Lawes Establish' for y' defraying their owne publique Charge.
24. And Lastly that having done yo"" utmost in p''secuting my Com°" & following theise my
Instructions that yo" breake of & repaire to yo"" respective Employm' & Occasions.
Given und"" my hand aiffort James in New Yorke
this ll"* day of September 1669. Fkancis Lovelace.
Proceedings of tue Commissioners appointed to regulate affaers at the
ESOPDS AND THEIK REPORT.
Aesopus, Sept. 17'^ 1669.
At a Speciall Court held there by vertue of a Commission from his Hon' the Governour to
Regulate the AfEayres of that place and the Villages adjacent.
New Ycn'Tc Historical Records. 431
All the Com""^ being present, the Sachems were sent for to attend them &c.
They likewise gave Notice to the Souldiery of that place to appeare the next day at 2 of the
Clock in the Afternoon.
Tlie Com" then adjourned till y* next daj' at 8 of y'^ Clock in y° fforenoone and went to View
the Villages and nam'd the further Village Marhleton according to his Hon" directions.
Three places of Rendevouz were appointed for Safegard of the villages, vizt. the first in y^
middle of Marhleton, the second at Halfe way ground, the third iu Hurley^ which is the Village
next to Esopus and then so nam'd by them.
Septem' 18'".
Present all y" Com" John Joesten peti9oned about the exchange of a Lott, it lyeing not prop-
erly before us, it was thrown out.
***** 4f
The Com" then drew up this Ord"' w'^" was immediately publishd and after affixed to the
door of the Townehouse as followeth :
Whereas the Com" appointed by his Hon'' the Govern'' to regulate & settle y^ affayres at
So_pus and y'' Villages adjacent have heard of severall p''tences or Titles to y" Washniaher'' s Land
and the Villages adjacent made by severall pei'sons and the Lands p''tended to by Thomas Hall
lately deceased, they have thought fitt for the clearing and determining of all Claymes concerning
those places to warn all persons to bring in Patents or p''tences to the places aforemen9oned and
doe hereby strictly Enjoyne all persons to bring in their Patents or P''tences on Munday next
about 2 of the Clock in the Afternoon to them, who shall then be sitting at the Townehouse at
Sopez Then & there to receive a Conclusion & Judgm* of their severall Titles & p''tences as may
be most satisfactory to the said severall Pretenders. Given under my hand at Sopez this 18'" of
September.
Ralph Whitfield, Pres'.
Eesolved then, that y' Watch at y° Redoubt should be maintained by y° Towne of Sopez only,
the Villages having enough to doe to defend themselves.
Septbr. 20"^.
A Speeiall Ord'' from his Hon'' Dated September y" last and directed to y° Scout and Com-
missaryes there was read, And the Towne was ffyned ffifty Skeppls of Wheate for not performing
one Particular there ; vizt ffor not impaleing the Buriall place. The rest of the Injunctions of
the Scout is to give further Answer to.
It was agreed to make an Ord'' to p''vent the making of y" Indians drunk, for the first Offence
five pounds to be paid by y" Offender, for the second ten pounds, for the third Banishment.
******
It was orderd y' y* Scout & Comissaryes should take care that two Men should constantly
watch at y° Redoubt.
A List of y® Men able to beare Armes at Sopez was then brought in, with y"" number of the
ffamilyes there, but noe Acco' then given of the two Villages.
The Court examining all y° Patents, which were then brought in (excepting only Mr. Stuyve-
sant, Pieter Schuyler & Thomas Hall) and finde in them nothing named concerning the 2'* Styck
or peece, either by Dutch patent or English.
Complaint was made by an Indyan, that Tyerch Class had employed & not paid him ; the
Court made him make satisfaction and fyned Tyerh Glaes.
432 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Septem^ 21'\
Capt. Chambers ijroduced severall Patents for Land and House-Lotts.
The first for 38 Morgan 151 rods.
The second for 5 " 230 "
The third for 26 " 52 "
Tlie fourth for 45 rods floor floot being a Home Lott.
f The first 440 rood.
The fifth Patent had foure Grants in one
j The second 160 "
I The third 504 "
[ The fourth 128 "
The 6'" Patent 4 Morgan and a halfe.
Ordered that the Excise should be oiferd to ffarme on y® 22'" instant at 4 of y^ Clock in y^
Afternoon.
Then orderd that Hoht. Gouldsherry should have 12 Acres of Land in Ilarbleton.
Capt. Chambers refused to meddle with the building of a Storehouse at the Hedoubt, it was
then offerd to others, but noe man would undertake it.
******
September 22'\
The Instructions being then read over againe every Particular was debated and y'= Resolution
of them will appeare in the Answer to y"^ Instructions at large.
******
The Scout & Comissaryes desyred Time to consider of the Watch at y^ Eedoubt & to Answer
the Instructions formerly directed to them from his Honour and were to bring in their Answer on
Thursday.
September 23'".
Mr. Pawling was voted to be j" Officer to whom y'^ Indyans should repaire for Redress of
Injuryes in Kingston, Hurley & Marbleton and that hee take care, noe stranger Indyans come
among them.
Mr. Beresford chosen Chief Magistrate of Marbleton & Hurley to bee above a High Con-
stable & short of a Justice of Peace & two Overseers in each Towne to be chosen.
That hee have power to hear & determine concerning the High-Wayes, the overseers to give
him an Ace'.
That Mr. Chambers have an Ace' from y' Scout & Comissaryes of Kingston of the High-
Wayes belonging to that place & have the same power to heare and determine.
The Towne to be fiined, if y^ Morass be not drayned by y" last of November, one hundred
skepples of wheate.
******
The Scout & Comissaryes then gave an Aec' of certain Instructions formerly sent to them,
viz*. That to the Motions of the Indyans they will be watchfull over them and will upon any
Occasion give Notice to the Governour.
That they will new Tyle the Towne house where wanting.
The Scout & Comissaryes will provide an Officer to Cleanse the Corne & measure it.
The Watch at the Redoubt to be kept by two Men appointed by them ; And the Scout &
Comissaryes are to take care to keep it in repayre at the charges of Kingston.
******
Mr. PawUn</ peti^oned the Commiss" to dischai-ge him under their hands from certaine
New Yorh Historical Records. 433
Injunctions his Hon'' formerly had Lxid upon hiui ; They answered, they would make his lion'"
acquainted with it.
These Orders following were then drawn up and afterwards publisht and affixt to the Doore
of the Towne House.
An Ord'' that noe Wheat or other Graine be transported or
mingled with other without the Corue be very "well cleansed.
Whereas y® Com" appointed by his Hon'' the Governour to Regulate & settle y* AfEayres of
Kingston & the Villages adjacent have had certaine Information that all sorts of Graine growing
here and being the proper product of Kingston & the Villages adjacent have not beene well
cleansed & soe become less merchentable to the great disrej^ute & prejudice of the place, To p''vent
w'^'' Inconvenience for the future. They have thought fitt to Order and doe hereby strictly Order
& enjoyne that noe Person doe utter or sell any Graine whatsoever to be transported from
Kingston, Hurley & Marhleton, but such as shall be well cleansed &, unmingled with other upon
paine of forfeiture for any such negligence or defaxilt one full quarter of such Graiue soe utterd or
sould contrary to this Order, one third part soe forfeited to goe to our Soveraigne Lord the Xing,
one third part to the Informer & the other third part to the Scout and Comissaryes then being
(who have hereby power to name the officer for this purpose) to goe toward the charges for keep-
ing the Watch at the Redoubt : And that it shall be lawful for the Informer to seize & detaine in
possession such graine until complaint made to y^ Scout & Comissaryes or any two of them, the
matter in question be determined : Which they are to doe with all speed convenient according to
the Tenure of this Order. Given &c 23'* Septbr. 1669.
An Ord"' for y* Drayniug y^ Swampish or Morasse Ground
adjoining to y' Towne of Kingston.
Whereas his Hon"" y^ Governo'' had formerlj^ sent Instructions to the Scout and Comissaryes
of Ksojms, now called Kingston, about severall things relating to that place and hath since Comis-
sioned severall p^sons to Regulate & settle y" Affaires there, who among particulars in their
Instructions are obliged to enquire after the performance of what was formerly given in Charge
to the said Scout and Commissaryes, and finding one Article belonging to y^ Publique good as
yett unperformed vizt. y" Draining of y'' Swampish or Morasse Ground, lyeing & adjoyning to
the said Towne, The Com''^ in pursuance of those Instructions have thought fitt to hasten the per-
formance of it. And doe hereby strictly charge y'' Scout & Conaissaryes (in regard it would very
much conduce to the health of the place & the Improvera' of soe much Ground, w'^'^ is rendred
at p'sent almost useles) to Draine the said Swampish or Morasse Ground by the last day of
November next ensuing upon paine of forfeitm-e of one hundred skepples of Wheat to his Ma"'
according to the vote & sentence of the Court held this day by the said Commissioners to be
levyed on the said Towne of Kingston. Given &c this 23'^ of Sept^ 1669.
An Ord"^ for y^ Repayre of y" Domine's House or Towne
House in Kingston.
Whereas the Com""*" appointed &c &c have among other Instructions one concerning the
Repara9on of the Domine's House or Towne House in Kingston w'^'' now grows ruinous, to p''vent
further damage, it being of absolute necessity, to keep that House in good repaire, in regard of
the frequent use of it both for Religious Dutyes and Civill Affayres, It is thought fitt to give
Ord' in that behalfe. And the Scout & Comissaries of this Towne are hereby strictly enjoyned to
55
434 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
repaire y® said House as soon as they can get Pan-Tiles to do it and other niaterialls thereto
requisite, Which Reparation (it being for the publique good) ought to be performed at the publique
Charge ; And which they are hereby empowered to demand and Levy in this Towne of Kingston,
And that they doe give an Acco' to his Honor tiie Governour of the performance of this Order as
soon as it shall bee by them Obeyd. Given &c this 23'' of Septbr. 1669.
An Ord'' to p''vent Drunkenness among the Indyans.
Whereas the Comm" &e &c have been inform'd that severall persons Inhabitants of Kingston
have for their private Lucre & Gaine sold to the Indyans thereunto resorting great quantityes of
Strong Liquors wherewith they have been frequently drunk to the great dishonour of Christian
Religion and the breach of the Laws of the place, they have thought fitt in order to prevent all
Excess and Deboishery in that kinde, for the future strictly to enjoyne and they do hereby strictly
Enjoyne all person or persons not to utter or sell to any Indyan or Indyans such quantityes as shall
make them drunk upon the Penaltyes following : vizt for the first Offence the person soe selling is to
pay five pounds, for the second Offence Ten pounds and for the third Offence to suffer Banishm'
out of this Towne : Which summe or Sunnues the Scout is hereby empowered to Levy by way of
Seizure or Distress of any such Offender's Goods ; Two parts of wliich said penaltyes or fforfeitures
are to goe to the Reliefe of the poore of this place, and the third part to the Scout. Given &c.
this 23'^ of Septb-- 1669.
The like Order was drawn up for Hurley & 2£arhleton, Mutatis mutandis.
September 24"^.
An Order for the laying out & keeping passable the Higli-
Ways & Comon Roads in Kingston, Hurley &, Marbleton.
Whereas the Com"^" appointed &c &c are obliged by a particular Article in their instructions
to take care thaty" Highwayes & Comon Roads belonging to those three Townes be conveniently
layd out and constantly kept passable, They have thought fitt to Order and doe hereby Order,
that the Highwayes & Common Roads belonging to Kingston be kept passable by y" Scout &
Commissaryes belonging to Kingston, who have hereby power to command every person (whom
they shall adjudge lyable) to attend their Orders in the mending of the Highwayes & Comon
Roads and to ffyne such as shall neglect or refuse to obey their Summons according to such Con-
tempt : And if the Scout & Commissaryes shall neglect their Duty herein of supervising or ffineing
Offend''^ where just cause is. That then Capt. Thomas Chamhers, who is hereby made & consti-
tuted Surveyour Generall of the Highwayes & Comon Roads for the three abovemengoned Townes
or Villages, shall have and hereby hath power to ffyne the Scout & Commissaryes or any such of
them as shall omitt his Duty therein. As before expressed 20 skepple of wheat to be paid to our
Soveraigne Lord the King, w'''' power of Surveyour Generall hee is to exercise within twenty one
dayes after the Date of this Order in Kingston ; And whereas Mr. Christojpher Beresford is chosen
Chiefe Magistrate for the Townes of Hurley & Marbleton, hee is hereby empowered to Command
the Overseers in each Towne to take the like care for the mending & repaireing of the Highwayes
in those two last menponed Townes & to fiine all the Overseers of both places or any of them, as
shall neglect their duty in 20 skeppels of Wheat to be paid to his Ma'''^ and hath hereby power to
Levy the same ; And if the said Christopher Beresford shall refuse any part of his duty herein,
That then y" said Surveyour Generall of the Highwayes shall have power to fiine him 20 skepples
of Wheat to his Ma"" and to Levy for the use aforesaid, which power in both the said Thomas
Chamhers &; Christoj)Jier Beresford shall begin within twenty one dayes after the date hereof in
New York Historical liecords. 435
Ilurley autl 21 dayes after the laying out of the Lotts in Marhleton. Given &c this 23'' Septbr.
1669.
All Ord"' for the settling of Hurley.
Whereas severall persons by virtue of former Groundbriefs or Patents claime Lotts or pro-
portions of Land in Hurley & have neglected their Settlements there, alledging frivolous reasons
for their soe doing, to the publique p''judice, It is thought fitt by y° Comra" authorized &e &c to
Declare & Order; And they doe by this Declare & Order that any person haveing a Groundbrief
or Patent to any Lott or proportion of Ground doe settle their j^roportion by the first of Aprill
next eusueiug the Date hereof ; And if any person so claimeing shall refuse to Settle his Lott or
proportion according to y'= Tenor of this Order, That tlieii such Lott or proportion shall imme-
diately become forfeit to his Ma''" and to be disposed of as his Hon'' the Governour shall think
fitt and withall to pay Twenty pounds as a fiyne to liis Ma''', w^'' the chiefe Magistrate of this
Towne is empowered to Clayme & Levy to the use above said.
Given &c Septbr. 24'" 1669.
There appeared some Indyans though none of y° Sachems, that sett their hands to the sale
of y^ Lands to Coll. Nicolls ; two of the Sachems to that sale & one of y" Witnesses are dead.
It is left to Mr. Pawling to Summon them and to endeavour y" performance of that article.
***** « * * * *
Septr. 25'"
******* ***
Instructions were then drawn up for Mr. Beresford chiefe Magistrate for Hurley & Mar-
hleton.
Instructions were drawn up for Mr. Paioling, Officer over the Indyans.
The Ord' for the Redmlt.
Whereas y" Com''' appointed &c &c have taken into Consideration the keeping of a Constant
Watch at the Redoubt at the Cliarge of the parrish of Kingston, obligeing .them to finde two
Men to remaine constantly there upon this Duty, They have thought fitt to Order and doe hereby
Order that y^ Scout & Comissaryes of Kingston doe take constant care for the Relief e of that Watch ;
And whereas the said Redouht is very ruinous, they are hereby enjoyned to repaire well and suf-
ficiently the said Redoubt within six weeks after the Date hereof upon paine of forfeiture of 20
skepple of Wheat to our Soveraigiie Lord the King And soe constantly keep it in good repayre.
Given &c this SS"" of Septbr. 1669.
On this day (viz' 25"") the Towne formerly called Sopez was named Kingston.
Septem""^ 27'".
******
Two Orders were then drawn up for settling the Excise in the two New Villages — vizt for
Hurley.
Whereas it is thought fitt to settle the Tapper's' Excise in Hurley, it is hereby Ordered that
Mr. Beresford doe take care for the settling & gathering of it in the said Towne of Hurley ; And
that he observe to sett the same Rates & use the same course in gathering it and have the same
power in every regard upon refusall of payment to Seize or distreyne as it is us'd at Kingston /
And is hereby oblig'' every yeare to give an Ace' thereof to his lion'' tiie Governour.
Directed to Mr. Beresford.
The like for Marhleton.
436 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
These 3 Lotts following are vacant by j" death of y° p''sons to whom they were promised and
are to be dispos'd of as his Hon"" y" Governour shall appoint vizt.
Constaplis Jan Joosts David Craiofords
1. 2. 3.
An Ord'' was drawn np for Albert Heymensens erecting of a Brew House & setting up of
Tan-ifats ; referred to Mr. Beresford to consider of the place.
r\ j: TT 1 \ Letois de Boys
fjvevseers lor J I urtei/ < "
K Atbert Meyinens.
Overseers for MarhUton -j f^
( rrednck Hussey.
Anhruj), an Indyan, petigond again Capt. Chambers p''tending hee was not paid for certain
Lotts of Lands. It was referred to y" next morning.
Septbr. 28'".
Anhmp the Indyan appearing, Capt. Chambers produced the Bill of Sale & y® Indyan then
owned his niarke & full satisfaction for the Land ; tlie Com'"'" then caused that Acknowledgment
to be Endors'd on the Bill of Sale ; And they took care that unjust Complaints from y*' Indyans
in that nature should be puuisht
Septem: 29*\
An Ord'^ for the Officer to measure Corne was then made as followeth, vizt :
Whereas it was thought necessary by y" Com''' &c that an Officer should be chosen to super-
vise & measure all sorts of Corne and Graine, that shall be transported from Marbleton, Hurley
and Kingston to other parts, To y'^ End that nothing but what is merchantable may be uttered or
sold, It is hereby ordered, that y" Scout & Comissaryes of Kingston shall elect & choose a
person, whom they shall judge most fitt for y" Execution of that place ; And they are hereby
empowered to Charge every person soe uttering or selling any Corne or graine with the paym' of
one styver upon the skeppel then to y'^ said Officer, when any such Corne or Graine shall be
brought to be view'd or measur'd, by the Owner or buyer of y" same to the said officer ; Who is
hereby Comanded to sufEer noe Transportagons to be made of any such Corne or Graine but what
is truely merchantable. And that the Scout and Comissaryes or any two of them be made Judges
of any default or Complaint or have power to punish where any Cause is in any thing men^on'd in
this Order both to the Officer soe chosen or any person that transports such Oorne or Graine.
Given at Kingston^ September 29"' 1669.
This morning the Court was Dissolved.
The Answer of y*^ Comm'"^"^ to his Hon"' Instructions annexed to the Comm"
AS followeth :
1. On Thursday y'^ 16'" of this Instant the Cora'^^ arrived &i Kingston. In the Evening meetting
with Capt. Chambers & Mr. Beakman joyn'd likewise in Commission with them, 'twas privately
read. The next morning being y'^ 17'" Instant a Court being called y*^ Commission was publii^uely
read, all y'= Comm''^ being present (& were constantly soe duering the setting of the said Commis-
sion; and the Inhabitants were fully inform'd of the Cause of their Coraeing ; and how great a
care liis Hon'' y^ Governo"' had for their prosperity and welfare, not only in remedying some
New Yorlc Historical Records. 437
former irregular Proceedings there and composing the private differences of unfriendly persons,
but by takeing y° best way for setling y® two New Townes and endeavouring to render them as
flourishing as the place could make them, which was soe pleasing to the Inhabitants, that they ex-
pressed that acknowledgm', which was due to soe excellent a person.
The Sachems being then sent for, a few days after appeared Wcqjoshequiqua and Sewalcanoma,
two of those Sachems, that sould the Land to y' late Governor JVicolls, who owned their marks
with y° whole agreem'. An Indyan, who came with them, sett his hand to the paper & they were
then obliged to bring two young Men to wittness what they own ; the other two Sachems men-
(joned in that Agreem' are dead, but these Sachems that appeared obliged themselves to bring
y^ success" of those deceased to Mr. Pawling, to whom it is referred to give full answer to y° rest
of this Article.
2. This they were acquainted with & they are willing to turne the Sword into a Plowsheare, Only
in regard their Lotts are not measured out to them yett and the little Groxmd they manure at
present bringing in a poore Revennew, likely to discourage new Beginners, it is humbly desir'd
y' their Provisions may be continued six Months longer.
3. They have a List of the ffamilyes of the three Townes, w"' y" number of them that are able
to beare Armes.
ffor the maintaining the Watch at the Redoubt it is imposd wholly upon Kingston, the
other Towns being exposd to more danger from y'^ Indyans and in that regard may very well be
excusd from that Duty, the Scout & Comissaryes are to take that Charge upon them and an
Order is drawn up for it.
4. The former Instructions to y" Scout & Comissaryes are these, first to renew the Pallizadoes&
place them at y" extremity of the Towne, where y" addition is to be made & to open the Towne
in the middle.
To this y^ Scout & Comissaryes answer, that they doe repaire the Stockadoes & that they
conceive the Towne needs noe Enlargem', it decreasing in people ; when it increaseth they will
be very ready, which will if now be a very great Charge to the few Inhabitants.
Secondly y*^ place of Buriale was to be impaled, this hath been altogether omitted & the Towne
fyn'd for it 50 skepples of AYheat.
ffor the impaleing a place for a Towne House there, they conceive it is a mistake, they have
a Towne House already, standing conveniently w'''in y" Towne.
Thirdly to Drayne the Morasse.
This hath been omitted, but an Order is drawn up under a penalty to have it suddenly done.
Lastly for the ffence, when any come to live on the other side, they are ready to obey that
Command.
n \ They have viewd both Lands, but noe Patents were produced, though enquird after.
7. A Patent was granted to Capt. Chmnbers by Coll. Nicolls of the Land here menQond & was
never surveyd ; soe wee cannot give any Ace' of it ; his other Patents wee have seen and judge
them to be indifferently measurd.
8. Capt. Chambers doth absolutely refuse to meddle with it, 'twas offerd to others, but none
accepted it.
9. An Order was publishd to redress it.
10. The Excise was offered to ffarme, but noe person comeing neer the valine, it is continued as
before ; ffor the last yeares Income, they have y" Scout's Acco'.
11. An Order is publishd concerning it.
438 Colonial SettlemenU on the Hudson River.
12. Mrs. Broadhead hath 100' Acres allotted her.
13. They have chosen Mr. Christopher Beresford Cheife Magistrate over Hurley & Marhleton,
who is to Govern by English Lawes, there is likewise chosen two Overseers in each Towne under him.
The Instructions they left for Mr. Beresford till yo'' Hon"^" further directions are as f olloweth :
"Whereas you are chosen by y° rest of the Commiss^^ Chiefe Mag' rate over Hurley & Marble-
ton, You are to observe these Instructions following : If any Order or Command shall be directed
to you from his Honor y^ Governour concerning those places committed to your Charge, You are
speedily to Obey them, which you may y^ better doe by the help of y" Overseers in each Towne,
whom 3'ou have power to Command in anything that concernes the Execution of yo'' Office. If
any difference ariseth between y"* Inliabitants, you are to give them a speedy decision, not regard-
ing partyes, but y*^ merritt of y" Cause, And you are likewise to take the same Care, that the Over-
seers doe their Duty in whatsoever they are comanded in relation to tlieir places. You are to Govern
by English Lawes, which will speedily be sent you ; & as you are obligd to preserve the peace as
much as you can between particular persons, soe you must endeavour, that those Townes com-
mitted to your Cliarge may well agree themselves and both with Kingston ; And that you take
away all Obstructions from that Trade or Correspondency, You have with y*^ Indyans & give his
Hon'' the Governour an Accorapt of whatsoever you judge considerable by the first Opportunity.
14. An Order is publishd & y" Oificers namd.
15. Three Places of Rendevous are appointed, y® first in y* middle of Mai'ileton, y" second at
Halfway Ground, the third at Hurley.
16. An Order is publishd for it.
17. The same.
18. 19, 20, 21. Mr. Henry Paioling is made the Officer over y" Indyans and those foure particu-
lars fall under his care.
His Instructions are as followeth :
Whereas you are chosen an Officer over the Indyans, you are strictly to observe the above
written particulai-s and not to make your own InterpretaQons, but to follow precisely the Letter of
those Articles ; And you are not hereby anyways empowered to prevent or hinder y" Trade of any
person with the Indyans or give any Cause of just Complaints, but to carry your selfe answerable
to the Trust reposed in you ; And in case of any disturbance or riott among the Indyans, that may
Endanger the publique quiet. You are to repaire to the next Magistrate in that Towne & consult
with him or the rest of the Magistrates what is best to be done for yo'' assistance & y' keeping of
y" publique peace ; And you are likewise to performe the remaining parte of the first Article in
the Generall Instructions and send an Acco* thereof to his Hon'' y" Governour, as likewise of any-
thing of Moment concerning the Indyans by the first Opportunity.
22. The Souldiers are acquainted & well pleased with it.
23. This is to be Regulated as in Long-Island And it is desird a Copy of the Lawes naay be sent
them.
24. This is willingly obeyd & they humbly desire, that in this and all other yo'' Commands yo""
Hon' would be pleased to accept of their endeavo'.
Ralph WnrrFiELo pr*
John Manning
Thom. Chambeks
Wm. Beekman
Cheistoph. Beeesford
Henet Pawling.
New Yorh Historical liecords. 439
Letter from Gov" Lovelace to the Magistrates at Albany on Indian affairs.
Gentlemen.
I have ReC' yo" of y" 5'^ Instant w"" some further propositions from y" Maquaes Indians
■whereto I can at present say little or nothing nutill Governour Winihrop retorne, w'='' is daily
expected, bnt 1 am glad they continne in so Calme & peaceable myndes notwithstanding their last
victory. I have also an Account from yo" of yo'' Election of yo"' Coramissaryes and doe approve of
Capt. Philipp Pieters Schuyler for Albany in y" place of Mr. Jacob de Ilinse & of Pieter
Meenssen in y® stead of Jan Tlwmas for Renzlaersviyck w'*' is all at p''sent from
Yo'' very Loving freiud.
ffort James in New YorTce this 13'^" day of October 1669.
Letter from the same to the same.
Gentlemen.
The Govemo"' hath rec* y" Propositions yo" sent from y* Mahicanders Indians, Copy whereof he
doth intend to transmitt to Governour Winthroj), from whome he dayly Expects a retorne of all
y' former papers of w'^'^ yo" will have an Ace'. Tlie Govern'' liath given me ord'' to acquaint j'o",
that he would have yo" as formerly to provide a Scow to helpe y" Souldiers in their provision of
firewood against winter, w'^'' is all at p'sent from
Yo'^ very Loving freind
Octb' 27* 1669. Math. Nicolls.
To y® Schout & Commissaryes at Albany.
Letter from Gov" Lovelace to Gov" Winthrop of Massachusetts on Indian affairs.
Deare S'.
I am heartily sorry so sad an Occasion as y'' Indisposi(;on of yo'' wife obstructed yo'' retorne
to yo'' house, but am as well pleased at her recovery & thereby y' advantage I shall reape by a
more frequent Correspondency, if all my Letters arriv'd yo'' hands yo" will fynde them of one
Tenure (vizt) y° Earnest desire of y" Maquases to conclude a firm peace with y® Mohica^ids :
What overture (of this nature they have made before) I cannot be inform'd in & 1 am not apt to
believe what they now represent to be (as farre as Infidells are to be Creditted) very Cordiall.
Yo'' see their propositions & haveing had y° Experience of their Actings formerly you can best
give a Judgment of y" Event, to be breife (if it can be aecomplisht) I doubt not but it very much
tend to y® good of all Xpians in their tranquillity & to y* Advancem' of Trade (y" first step to
plenty). How farre yo" believe me to be Capable to promote that designe I shall receive Instruc-
tions from yo", but I am apt to believe y° Progress will be very slow, if it be managed by Letters,
there will be therefore a necessity of an Intercourse w"^*" I shall attend, when I know from yo" y^
tyme and place. For these Exceptions yo" inferre of y' tyme & place & Jelousy y° Mahicanders
Conceive of y° Maquesyes by reason of some former misactings y'^ others use y" same Arguments
against them & if true [rebus sic stoMtihis) there is little hope of a period, but if all former mis-
440 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
carnages are oblitterated & we enter on a Treaty de iwvo it is possible a good issue may be Expected.
However all faire endeavours are to be practiced that may accomplish so univei-sall a benefitt to
this Corner of y" World. I believe I can resolve your doubt concerning what is meant by y'
Highland Indians amongst us, y'' Wapphigoes & Wickersheck &c have alwayes beene reckoned
so. And for these I dare respond to have them included in y'' Gen" Peace ; thus yo" see how
that affaires now stand & through y'' Churlishnesse of y" weather will not suffer us to Acte any
further (y* well wishes towards it). Tett as soone as y^ wayes be passable I shall be glad to give
j'O" a meeting that so we may consid'' y^ best way & method to bring y'= worke to a desii-d conclu-
sion. I have no more but wishing you all happinesse & a beleef that I am
Yo'' most affectionate humble servant
Fort James, December 29"" 1669. Fean. Lovelace.
Letter from Got" Lovelace to the Commissaries at Albany, on the Ltoian peace.
Fort James in New Yorke this 2i*'' day of January 1669-70.
Gentlemen.
I Received yo' Lett' of y° 8"' of January by y" Indian, by w<='' I understood of yo' health &
welfare, w"^" to me was a most welcome New Yeares guift & as it hath beene my sole ConsideraQon
yo' peace & happiness so y^ Continuance of it shall be my cheifest study. I am glad all y^
Indians are so well disposed as to Imploy themselves to y° Beaver hunting, I doubt not but yo"
will receive y^ good effects of it by yo' next yeares handling, by w'^'' tyme I am in great hopes to
constitute a firme peace w*'' y^ Indians now in Hostility w"' each oth' & am soiTy I have
hitherto brought it to no greater perfection, but must w*"^ all assure yo" y" fault lay not in y^ least
on my parte, in regard Mr. Winthroj), who govern es those Indians (by an Accident of y^ indispo-
sition of his wife) has beene absent from his Governem' all this sumer & retorn'd not till y*
Churlishnesse of y* wint' forbad all manner of Intercourse. In y^ springe I am resolved to
proceed in y^ worke of making a Gen" peace, to w'^'' end I have already made some p'paration
thereunto, w'" I beseech God to blesse, It tending so much to the universall benefitt of theise
partes & perticuler yours.
* * * *
Your assured f reind
Fran. Lovelace.
Letters Graunted to Tierck Claesen de Wit, that he mat have lebertt to
Erect a house & barne &c on his owne Land at Esopus.
Upon y* Request of Tierck Claesen de Witt, that he may have hberty to Erect a house &
Barne w"" convenient outhouses for his Cattle upon his owne Land at Fsopus lying betwixt
Hurley and Kingston, for y^ w* (as I am informed) he formerly had a Graunt from my
Predecesso' Coll. Nicolls, In Confidence whereof he hath Provided all materialls ready for y" same,
I have thought fitt to likewise to graunt his request. And y" said Tierck Claessen hath hereby
liberty to Erect a house & barne w'" Convenient outhousing for his Cattle in y" Land aforemen-
tioned, It appearing not to be any way p'judiciall to the Townes adjacent, but rath' in tyme may
prove a benefitt & releife to such as shall ti-availe that way. Given &c 2-1*'' January 1669-70.
Neto Yorh Historical Records. 441
An Oed" Excusrao William Betts & oth"^ feom making a beidg ovee y'= Maesh
BETWEENE PaPIEINIMON & FFOEDHAM.
Whereas it was proposed unto me by William Betts, George Tippett & Johi Hedyer, that
living at some distance from y" Towne of Fordham, where a Cawsey is to be made over y'= Marsliy
ground betweene Papirinimon & y° Towne of ffordham, if they may be Excused from their
Proportion of worke in making up that Cawsey they will be obliedged to make a bridg at their
own Charge over Bronlcx Ryver in y^ wa}' to Ecmtchesff', w'^" is also a thing veiy requisite &
comodious, Upon debate of y" said Projjosigon in y" p''sence of y" said Three p''sons & also of divers
of y'^ Inhabitants of Fordham, those of y"^ Towne offering to give their Assistance in making of
y* said bridg aff" y'= Cawsey shall first be finisht, for y'^ w* all their Assistance will be little Enough
& finding that what is jiroposed by y° Towne tends to y"^ greater Expedition of both workes, It is
ordered, that y" three p''sons aforenamed shall first joyne w"" y'^ rest of y" Towne of Fordham in
making y* Cawsey agreed upon as aforesaid & that afterwards they do all Jointly give their best
help & assistance in making a Convenient bridg over Broiikx Ryver, w"" a Gate on EastchesV
syde to hind"' their Hoggs from comeing over. In consideration whereof & for their Inconragem'
it being a new Plantation, they shall have 3'" liberty & priviledg of having y" Passage of y"^ Ferry
free to & fro for themselves, Horses, Hoggs & Cattle for & duering y^ space of tyme Johannes
Vervelen, y* p''sent Constable or his Assigns shall injoy y'' Ferrj', as by agreem' betweene us is
sett downe. Given imd"' my hand at Fort James in New Yorke this lO"" day of February 1669-70.
Lettee feom Governoe Lovelace to ? (on Staten Island) on buying land feom the Indians.
Gent.
Having Rec'' a Complaint against yo' neighbour Indians from Mr. StillweU & Nathan Whit-
more on y^ behalfe of y" Inhabitants in Gen" of yo'' Towne efe likewise heard & debated what they
had to say as to your Jealousyes & feares of y*^ Indians Insolencyes & threatnings grounded upon
their p''tences, that y^ Land there hath not beene paid for & that }our Horses, Hoggs & Cattle
have done them damage in their Come, I have thought good to retorne yo" this in answer. That
in y^ first place yo" send to them & treate w"" those concerned in a freiudly way touching y"^ pur-
chase of soe much of that Island, as hath not beene already bought & paid for, y" w"^" can be
proued to have beene perfourmed in parte notw"'standing their denyall & that yo" do it as for yo''
selves & at as easy a rate as possible, y' w'='^ will turne to yo'' owne perticuler advantage & having
so done, that yo" cause y" sauie to be remitted to me for a Confirmation iz, wheth'' yo" shall be
admitted purchasers or that I shall comply w"" yo'' Agreem' & buy it for his Royall Highness, It
shall be still for yo'' good & benefitt. 1 shall onely expect y" p''ference in y'^ purchase on y^
Duke's behalfe. As to their threatnings yo" ought not to show y^ least Apprehension of feare of
them, But it is yo'' parte to have a Vigilant Eye over their Actions, & Motions, & that you cause
a Guard to be kept in y* Towne for yo'' defence against any suddaine mischeife from them, y" w'^''
as there shall be occasion & I have notice thereof shall be strengthened w"" a supply of a partye
of Souldiers & an Officer from hence capable to offend them as well as defend yo". That upon
discourse of y" damage they p''tend to have rec'* by yo'' cattle, horses & hoggs j'o" may shew to
them y"' greate difficulty of preventing it as long as their Corne lyes unfenc't & y° greate charge
66
442 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
it will be to fence in their ground, as it lyes in y'' midst of Y woods, but if they could pitch upon
some Neck of land fitt for that purpose w"^*" may w"' more ease be fenc't in, that yo'' will be ready
to assist them in setting of it up, unless they'l agree upon Tennes to leave y^ Island wholly. — If
yo" can prove, that they have killed oi- destroyed any of yo'' horses. Cattle or Hoggs yo'' may
acquaint them, that the English Law will Constrayne them to make Satisfaction for them & that
it is not Trespasse for them to come upon any ground unfenc't, but lett yo'' discourse tend to a
freindly composure of all differences.
In Conclusion yo" may acquaint them, that my resolution is to be upon y" Island in y" spiing,
when if thev have anything extraordinary to propose or Complaint to make, I shall be ready to
ord'' all due satisfaction to be given therein & will endeavo"^ to remove all future Occasions of
difference betweene yo" & them. This is all at p''sent I have to Recomend to yo", so conclude
being
Yo"" very Loving freiud
Febrs" 16, 1669-70. Fean. Lovelace.
In Regard that Mr. Richard Stilwell hath for a long tyme Inhabited in this Countrey & is
acquainted w"" y'' language & customes of y^ Indians I doe appoint him, y'' said Richard Stilwell,
Nathan Whitmor'e & Nathaniell Brittaine togethe'' w'" y^ Constable & Overseers to be Com'^ of
whome Mr. Stilliudl to be p^sident to treate & agree w"' y' Indians according to y" Instructions
herein given & to looke after y' safety & welfare of y* place, of y*" w"'' they are to render me an
Ace'.
Lettee from Gov^ Lovelace to Mr. W. Beeckman and others at Kingston con-
cerning THE NEW VILLAGE.
Gent.
I make use of y° first opportunity aff y'= opening of y" Ry ver to recomend to yo' care y*
Ord''* & Instructions already given yo" by myself e or left w'" yo" by y" Com" I sent as to y° goeing
forward w"' y" New Dorpe or oth'' raatf^ relating to yo" in Gen". Intending to visitt yo" in a
short tyme & to bring a Survey'' w"" me to lay out yo'' Lands before y'^ grasse growes too high,
when I hope to fynde yo'^ forwardness according to Expectation : what is to be done on my parte
for yo' Encouragem' yo" may confidently promise yo'"selve8. So wishing yo" good success I
remaine
Eort James in New YorJce Yo' veiy Loving freind
this 11'" day of March 1669-70. Fran. Lovelace.
I Expect to heare from yo" by y^ next, how affaires stand w"* yo" in Eelagon to y° Indians
about y" Peace.
To Mr. Win. Beerlcman
Mr. Xpqfer Berisford &
Mr. Henry Pawling In Kingston
At Esopus.
New Yorh Historical Records. 443
A Commission to Capt. Dodlet Lovelace & al. for t'^ saEVEYiNG & laying out
SEVEEALL LOTTS OF LAND AT Y^ EsOPUS, WITH InSTEUCTIONS AND PEOCEEDINGS.
Francis Lovelace Esq^'= &c Wliereas y" bounds & Limitts of y" Townes at Esopus, That is to
say of Kingston Hurley & Marhle Towne have not hitherto beene sufficiently hiyd out & ascer-
tained neith' hath a division as yett Ijeene made of y'' perticuler new Lotts & some of y° p''tend-
ers to y^ old Lotts laying clayme to greater qnantityes of Land then is graunted to them in their
Patents or Groundbriefs y'' w''*' requires an ins])ectioii thereinto & a due Regulation thereof, To
y" end theise severall matt" may be y'^ better concluded I have thought iitt to nominate, consti-
tute & appoint & by this my speciall Commission doe nominate, constitute and appoint you Capt°
Dudley Lovelace., Capt" Jacques Cortileau, Mr. William Beeokma)i, Mr. Christopher Beresford,
& Mr. Llenry Pawling to be Coin"'' to inspect y^ surveying and laying out y* several Lotts in y"
Esopus & to aseertaino y° bounds & lymitts of y® respective Townes, as also to regulate affiiyres
there according to such instructions, as I shall herewith give yo", of w"^*" said Coin'''' you Capt"
Dudley Lovelace are to be president & any of yo" to be a Quorum.
To" are upon yo'' arrivall to acquaint y" Inhabitants of each Towne w"' this my Com"" y^ w'^''
yo" are to prosecute w'*" all care and dilligence And as yo" shall see cause, where yo" fynde any
difficulty in ascertaining y" old or laying out y° new bounds, yo" may call before yo" any p'son or
p''sons to receive information from touching y° same & for y" clearing of y" truth administer an
Oath unto them or any of them (y** w'*" Oath yo" are hereby empowered to give) And whatso-
ever yo" or any of yo" as shall make a Quorum, shall lawfully Acte or doe in prosecution of this
my special Comission this shall be to yo" & every of yo" a sufficient warrant. Given und'' my
hand & sealed w"' y* scale of y*^ Province ?X ffort James in New Torhe this IT"" day of March
in y° 22"" yeare of his Ma"**^ Eaigne Annoque Domini 1669-70.
Insteuctions FOE Captain Dudley Lovelace, Me. Jacques Coetilleau & the
BEST OF Y*^ CoMM""^ FOE THE AfFAIEES AT EsOPUS AUD THE !NeW VILLAGES
ADJACENT.
Inprimis that the Precincts of every Towne be justly stated, according to their severall
Patents and that the particular Lotts be laid out as the Ground falls out, onely in case a larger
proportion of vile Land or Swamps shall happen to One Man's share, that then it be in the Breast
of the Com''^ to make some Addition of good Land over & above his allowance specifyed in his
Ground Brief, otherwise each man must be contented with his Lott as it falls out.
2. That after y° exact Bounds of Kingston is laid out, that there is to begin y^ Boundaryes of
Hurley and where that terminates Marhleton is to begin & soe y" Lymitts of that so be sett out
as farr as that extends towards the Indyans, w'''' beare as I suppose South.
3. That noe persons have noe more Land laid out, but what is comprised in their Patents and the
Souldiers their proportion.
4. For }° Washmahers Land I shall referr you to the particular Instructions of his Eoyall High-
ness wherein you are to use Mr. Styvesant with all y" ffixvour, soe it prejudices not y" Towne.
5. That Mrs. Broadhead be accomodated at Marhleton and have the first choice of her Lott.
6. That y" Land that belongs to Mr. Yarlett be Surveyed & noe more allowed, but what is com-
prised in his Patent.
444 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
7. The like for Thomas Rail, wlio under the p''tence of 150 Morgan layes Claime to above 300,
but if the Occasion of that Patent were througlily Inspected, it would appeare he had tittle or
noe p''tentious to it at all.
8. There is a Tract of Land by y* Cale Berge, which I purpose to improve for a ffeeding ground,
which I would have you to survey' & give niee an Acco' of it, it is called the Butterfield. — Mr.
Pawlitig will direct you.
9. That such strict Rules be left to y"" Planters to finish their severall Lotts, that whosoever com-
pleats not the ffence of his Lott & improves the Land, shall make a forfeiture of it, if it be not
Inclosed within one year.
10. That you review all y'= Instructions sent to the Conmiissioners for the regulating the Affaires
the last yeare & to give mee an Acco' where the non-performance lyes.
11. That all be compelld to settle in Townes, except one I have given Lycence to, who in regard
hee lives between Hurley & Marhleion may be of convenience to Travellers and make a nearer
Correspondence between the two Townes.
12. That in regard many occurrences may arise, w* will bee impossible for mee to foresee here,
therefore you are at Liberty to take anything into debate, that may conduce to advantage of y*
Publique, though not expressd in these particidar Instructions according to your prudence & Con-
science, Jievertheless soe that it be not obligatory, till it receive my approbation & Confirmation.
13. Lastly that having done yo'' utmost Endeavours for y'' regulateiug and settling the Affairs at
the Esopus, according to these and other Instructions deliverd you & noe new matter arising
worthy your Attendances, that then you break off and each Commissioner repaire to their severall
other Employments, rendering mee a just Ace' of all Transactions in the Prosecution of this my
Commission directed to you. Given under my hand this 24"" day of March 1669-70.
Francis Lovelace.
Towne Hall at At a Speciall Court held there by vertue of a
Kiiigdon in Commission from his Hon"' y" Governour for
Esopus. setting out the Boundaryes of Kingston, Hur-
ley & Marhletan & for Regulateing the Af-
faires of those places & y"^ parts adjacent. Die
Mercurij vizt 30™° die Martij Anno Regni
Caroli 2"' Dei gra Angliae, Scotiae, Franciae
et Hibniae Regis, Fidei Defeusoris &c
XXij"*" Annoquc Dni 1670.
There being present
Capt. Dudley Lovelace Presid'
Capt. Thomas Chambers
Capt. Jaques Cortelliau
Mr. William Beeckman
Mr. Christopher Beresford
Mr. Henry Pawling.
It is this day Ordered, that y^ Lands of Thomas Hall & Nicholas Varlett cont. about 44 Acres
150 Rodd lyeing upon the first great piece of Laud next Hurley is Elapsd & forfeited, by reason
y'' Patent for it was not renewd, according to the Law in that behalfe provided. And that Mr.
New Yorh Historical Records. 445
Jagues Cortilleau doe Survey the same and as liee fiudes the Extent of it to make report thereof
to the Governour.
It is this day Ordered, that Mathias Blanchan shall have in Hew of foure Acres of Meadow
which hee setts over to the use of Marhleton, foiire Acres of Woodland elsewhere.
The like is ordered for all the rest who have subscribed to the Transport hereunto annexed ;
And that they choose out the said Woodland, which is to hee in Liew of their other soe disposed,
where they shall judge fitt. And they are to repau-e to the Chief Officer of their Towne for a Con-
firmation thereof.
Coppy of y" Transport of y" Inliabitants of UurUy, Wee the Inhabit'' of y" Towne of Hurley
in the Esojyus, whose Names are underwritten, doe remitt & sett over unto his Hon'' Coll. Francis
Lovelace^ the Governour, the severall parts and parcells of Land contained in a schedule annexed
to dispose of it for the better provision of Marhleton. And the Commissioners for y*" setting out
y^ Boundaryes and Lymitts of y* Townes aforesaid are desired to take care, that the severall
parcells of Land soe given by us, may be disposed of to the Pretenders & Inhabitants of Marhle-
ton., there being not Land enough thereunto belonging to satisfy them according to the Grants
given them by the Authority of the Governour.
Signed
Thomas Delavall — — Acres
Lambeet Heybeetsen 12 "
ROELOFF SwAETWOUT 4 "
Lewis de Boys 4 "
John Joesten 8 "
COENELIS WiNECOOP 10 "
Matthias Blanchan 4 "
Gaeeett Fokak 6 "
Albeet Hetmens 8 "
Copia vera
Jo. Clarke, Cler : Cur :
Upon the humble request of Mr. Cornelius Winecoop the Commissioners doe unanimously
agree, that the said Cornelius Winecoop shall have Liberty to lay his two parcells of Land
scituate in Huyley into one ffarme, upon consideration that hee allowes & setts over ffive Morgan
of Land to the assistance of Marhleton • he likewise rendering up againe one of the Home-Lotts
at Hurley to be disposed of as the Comm''^ shall think fitt.
The Comm" have granted the said Home-Lott to one Francois La Ceire of Hurley to build
there in the place & stead of Cornelius Winecoop.
Ordered that Capt. Jaques Curteleau be desired to begin to Morrow being the last of this
instant March to survey the Land belonging to the Towne of Hurley at the North West Line,
which Terminates the extent of Kingston • and so onwards towards Marhleton soe farr as the
Patents will reach and to make report to the Comm" what quantity is therein contained at their
nest meetting.
Capt. Jaques Curteleau, was this day sworn Surveyour in open Court.
446
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Registee
Of all the Lands geanted by t^ Authority of his E.. H. lyeing within the
Peecincts of Kingston.
Acres.
Rodd.
Soeloff Swartwout
4
560
Evert Pels
180
Widdow Jacob Hwp
85
122
Wallrave de Mount
8
Edward Whittacre
56
Edward Wliittacrre \
Thomas Mathew \
24
Ilendrick Joahims
32
Jacob Hop])
72
Heere Petrus Stuyvesant
92
Mr. Jeronimus Ebbings
1000
Capt. Thomas Chambers
10
390
More iu y'' same Patent
34
82
Capt. Thomas Chambers
6
ISO
do
9
do
10
230
do
•74
451
do
52
30
More pui-chased
24
80
Jan B a/rents Kunst now of H%
wley 24
460
Register
Of the Patents granted to the Inhabitants of the Towne of Hurley.
Cornelius Winecoop
do more
Thomas Hall
Ariam, Hybertsen
do more
Capt. Delavall by Transport from Oosen Garetson
do more from the same man
Philipp Pieters Schuyleen
More the same man
Albert Heyraensen
Lewis de Boys
do more
Mathias Blomchan
More
Antho. Crippell
Yolcaert Jcmsen
More
Acres.
Rod.
24
450
48
580
10
500
25
450
17
400
. 18
250
48
460
16
250
50
440
10
600
24
450
16
408
16
248
24
450
16
350
18
250
40
460
New Yorh Historical Records. 447
Vltimo MartiJ.
The Presid' employ'd the Sui-vey'' & all other persons concerned to measure the
first Great piece of Land next Hurley containing by Estimation 300, 000
Primo Aprilis.
They also survey'd y'' 2'^ piece cont 420, 000
The Survey' also makes Keport that the Washmakers Land containes 148, 000
Easter Eve.
Whereas John Joesten of Marhleton, Husbandman, hath putt in his Clayme or Pretence to
two parcells of Land containing fourty foure Acres & 150 Rod by vertue of a Bill of Sale formerly
granted to him from Thomas Hall & Nicholas Varlett deceased, whose Patent could not bee
produced, by reason 'twas then (as hee alleged) in y" Office of Records in New Yorke ; The
QQQjners jjave therefore upon serious & mature deliberation thought fitt to lay out the quantity
of Land aforesaid upon the second great piece adjoyning to y^ Bounds of Hurley : And that Mr.
Jaques Cortilleau doe make Report thereof to his Hon'' the Governour, that upon sight of his
Patent, hee may Enjoy & possess the said parcells of Land accordingly.
Ordered that y® Bounds between Kingston & Hurley Eastward doe beginne at y° fibot of the
Hills iipon y" Easterly side of Premackers Land & then running from the Hills along the great
Creeke to the East end of the Washmakers Land directly to y° Woods & then with a North West
Line thorow the Woods to a certaine Creeke commonly calld & known by y^n ame of the Redoubt
Creek or Kill.
Ordered, that y" Bounds between Hurley & Marhleton do begin at the ffoot of the Hills all
along the great Creeke between the iirst and second piece of Land, Hurley Including the first,
Marhleton the second. And then with a North West Line from the nearest part of that Greek to
y'' place of Rendevouz, cleare thorow the Woods to the Redouht Creek or Kill as in the other
Boundary.
In pursuance of an Order made y" 30"^ of March last past, Capt. Jaques Cortilleau doth re-
port to the Comm" that hee hath surveyd not oiily all y^ Lands given by Patent, but also those
promised to y'^ Souldiery And findeing y" quantity thereof ffall short of Expectation. To the end
therefore that y" Townes of Hurley & Marhleton may be supplyed with good & valluable Lands
to give each Man content as near as may be, The Com" have thought fit to sett over and by this
Speciall Order have sett over soe much of the Washmakers Land to the Inhabitants of Hurley, as
by the Survey doth api:)eare to fall short in that Precinct.
Vpou a motion made by Capt. Thomas Chambers & seconded by Mr. Henry Pawling • It is
this day oi'derd that the Washmakers Land bee divided into two equall parts. The one moiety to
be recommended to his Hon"' to be granted to Mr. Petrus Stuyvesant in pursuance of his R. H'.
his Directions and fourty Acres of the other moiety to Capt. Thomas Delavall towards the satis-
faction of his Patent, hee being excluded the second piece. The Overplus containing 34 Acres is
hereby more especially recommended to be disposed of to his brother Capt. Dudley Lovelace in
compensation of the great care & paines hee hath taken in laying out the Lands and settling the
Affaires of this parts to the Generall Content & satisfaction of all partyes concerned herein.
This Day y® Presid' gave Ord"' to y^ Min^ or ffore-Leser to pray publiquely the day following
(being Easter day) and soe from time to time hereafter for the K*. Qeen, his R. H. the Duke
of Yorke »& all y^ Roy" ffamily, w'^'' was obeyd accordingly.
Munday, April 4"^.
The Com" fell into debate about settling y" Militia but findeing noe Commission Officers
448
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
already establislit Thought good in Obedience to his R. H'. Lawes & the Govern" Instructions to
nominate Mr. Henry Pawling Capt., Mr. Christopher Beresford Lieutenant, John, Biggs Eusign
to be officers for tlie time being and to raise and exercise the Inhabitants of Hurley & Marhleton
according to the Discipline of Warr ; Whereupon Proclamation was made by Beat of Drum accord-
ing to the Warrant underwi-itten.
You are upon sight hereof to give notice to all the Inhabitants of Hurley & Marhleton and
also all the Pretenders to the Land now to be allotted and laid out for them, that they appeare in
Armes at the Rendezvous appointed the last yeare and that you cause Samuell Olliver, Sergeant
or Albert Hymensen or either of them to read the summons lierewitli sent you publiquely by beat
of Drum in the Towne of Kingston and afterwards affix the same upon the Doore of the Towne
Hall. And for soe doing this shall be your sufficient Wan-ant. Given under my hand at Fox
Hall* this fourth of April 1670.
To Ensigne Biggs. DmjLEY Lovelace, Pres*.
Proclamation was made by Beat of Drum accordingly & the Souldiers Lysted.
The Names of y^ Officers & Souldiers appointed to be present at the Rendezvous at Marhle-
ton Tomorrow y" 5'" of April 1670, as followeth vizt.
Officers
Hen. Pawling Captain
Christ. Beresford Lieuten'.
John Biggs Ensigne
Sam^'' Olliver Sergeant
Alhert Heymensen Serg'.
Rich^. Cage Drummer
Thorn. Quynell
WilV^. Fisher
John Hendrick
Geo. Porter
Fred. Hussey
John Pound
Edw. Whittacre
Thorn. Mathews
Geo. Hall
Antho. Cooke
Antho. Addyson
Evert Price
Thorn. Eager
Paulus Paulenson
Jacob Johnson
Lewys de Boys
Aaron Tunys
Antho. Crippell
Lambert Hyberts
Wardener Horiihech
Marhleton Souldiers.
Hurley Souldiers.
Edw. French
Will"'. Horton
Poht. Bickerstaffe.
Robt. Peacock
John Reynolds
John Joesten
Joesten
Jacob de Wael
Henry Crumjp
Fred. Pieterson
Corn, ffinehold
Gishert Crump
Garret Johnson
Arien ATbertsen
Jacob Carle
Robert Goldsberry
John Dihoih ,
Arian ffrancon
Allard Rose
Arian Rose
'• Fox Hall, later erected into a baronial Manor, was the property of Thomas Chambers; N. E. of Kingston.— Ed.
New Yorh Historical liecords. 449
Oerrett Fdkar John Hose
Garrett Corneliuson Pieter the Negroe
francois Le Shiere Matthias Blanchan
John Albertsen In all 54.
Tuesday, Aprill 5"- 1670.
This day Capt. Pawlings ffoot Company appeared at the Kendezvons, where they were must-
ered & exercised in their Armes. The President also caused all the Lawes relateing to Military
Affaires to be read before them & then marched them with ilying Colours to the Towne of
Hurley and there dismissed them. The Colours were lodged with a Guard at the Towne Hall in
Kingston, where the Souldiers were Commanded to appeare next day in Court to draw their Lotts.
Wednesday Aprill 6"*.
The Com^ this day took care for the publishing of the Orders for the Boundaryes of all the
three Townes, Kingston, Hurley & Marhleton, causing the same to be ffixt upon the Towne Hall
of Kingstmi to publique view. And that noe man might plead ignorance of the same, the same
Orders were also publisht and affixed in the Dutch Language by order of the President : The which
were likewise recorded in the Hutch Register.
This day also y' Comm''^ thought fitt upon y* Debate of Mrs. Broadheads Land to order, that
shee according to his Hon"'" Instructions shoiJd have the first choice of her two Lotts, whereupon
she pitched upon the seaventh & eighth parts, upon the first peice of Land belonging to Marhleton.
The Commissioners doe order, that Mr. Pawling and Mr. Beresford shall have three Lotts
out of the Lands belonging to Marhleton, to be divided this day by the Comni" aforesaid by ver-
tue of the Authority granted them by his Honour the Governour.
Ordered that for the more just and impartiall distribution of the Souldiers respective parcells
of Land, whereby there might be noe murmuring or cavilling on any side, They should submitt
to draw Lotts for y" same. And the Comm''^ to that end appointed, that the next Childe (or that
M'hich was nearest at hand) should draw the Lotts & Numbers out of two Hats and as they are
drawn to deliver each Lott & Number to y° President to open & publiquely to read the same and
Kegister it in the Journall.
The first Lott was that John Hendrick, Richard Cage & Tliomas Quynell should have each
10 Acres of Land upon the first piece of Ground belonging to Marhleton, -^"^ was forthw'^'' orderd
them by the Comm" No 4.
The like Order for Porter )
Hussey V No 10.
Addyson )
The like Order for Horton )
Elgar \ No 5.
Olliver )
The like Order for Peacock )
Price \ No 6.
Reynolds )
The like Order for Biggs )
Clinton \ No 9.
Fisher )
The Court adjourns till 2 of the Clock in y** Afternoon. A Paper delivered into the Presi-
57
450 Colonial Settlements on tJie Hudson River.
dent by tending to Sedition & Mutiny ; wliicli was torn as a scandalous Libell
repugnant to tlie Lawes of tliis Government and the Authority thereof.
The Coin''^ proceeded to draw y" rest of tlie Lotts (14) for divideing y" 2'' piece of Land be-
longing to Marhleton amongst the Souldiers by the same Rules of proceeding as in the
morning.
This being done, 'twas Ordered, that (according to the Chance of the Lotts) Corporall Biggs,
W'" Fisher & Clinton J/own^? should have 20 Acres a piece on the 3"^ Styck No. 15.16.
The like Ord' for Jo. Ilendrick, Cage & Quynell " 19.20.
The like Ord"' for Elgar, Olliver, Horton " 11.12.
The like Ord"' for Ilussey, Addyson Porter " 17.18.
The like Ord"" for Peacock, Price, Reynolds . " 13.14.
This day upon y" humble Request of Rol/ Bickerstaffe setting forth severall reasons there
unto moveing him to yield up his Right, Title & Interest of all the Lauds allotted him within the
precincts of Marhleton, the Courth doth order, that Clinton J!/&?<n(? having formerly had a promise
from his Honour the Governour be inserted in the Roome of Rol>t. Bickerstaffe aforesaid and re-
ceive, possess and Enjoy the same parcell or parcells of Land, if his Hon"' the Govern"' think fitt to
confirme the same.
Also upon the I'ecpiest of John Pound, setting forth severall reasons thereunto moveing him
to yield up his Right, Title & Interest of all the Land allotted to him within the precincts of
Marhleton, the Court doth order, that TF'" Fisher be inserted in the Roome of y" said John Pound
& receive possess <k Enjoy the said parcell or parcells of Land to the use of him ife his Heyres
forever; If his Hon'' the Governo'' shall think fitt to confirme the same.
Ordered by y" Court, that y" Land upon y' first & second pieces belonging to Marhleton thus
divided &, drawn by Lott as aforesaid for the use of the Souldiers be forthwith recommended to
the Govern'' for his allowance & confirmation. And that his Hon"' be supplicated in their Name
to settle y'' same by Patent to them & either of them & their Heyres & Assignes forever. And
tliat his Hon"' would be pleased to send them halfe a yeares provision (now due to them as they
alledge) & their Discharges (as they were promised) by the first convenient Opportunity.
Joest Arian haveing this day given to Gishert Crump his Home-Lott lyeing at Marhleton,
the Court has unanimously ordered and Granted, that the said Joost Arian be Released from that
Towne, seeing hee has gott this Gishert aforesaid to supply his place.
Thursday, Aprill 7"".
This day Mr. Christopher Beresford was sworne chief Magistrate of Hurley & Marhleton.
Also Mr. John Biggs was then sworne Overseer of Marhleton.
Ordered, that Mr. Christ. Beresford ehiefe Magrate John Biggs, Fredrick Ilussey, Lewys
de Boys and Alhert Hymens, Overseers for the Townes of Hurley & Marhleton or any three of
them are hei-eby Empowered & Enjoyned to settle a due way of flfences (improveing and pre-
serving such Common ftields & the ffruits of them) as lye within the precincts of the Townes re-
spectively, where they dwell and the said Chiefe Magistrate & Overseers shall from yeare to
yeare appoint one of y^ Planters for all & each Common flield belonging to the Townes, where
they dwell, to view the Common ffeuces within their Trust, & to take Tioticeof the defects thereof
and forthwith to accpuiint the Owners with the same ; And if the Owners or Occupy''* doe not
make or repairey" Common ffence proportionably to the quantity of Land allotted them before the
first of May next & to measure the said ffence within six days after the date hereof, That then
upon report of the Viewer or Viewers soe chosen, the said Viewer or View''" shall renew them, if
Kew Yo7-h Historical lieeords. 451
they think fitt & have double recompence for the same to be paid according to the known Lawes
of this Government in that case provided.
******
Upon the speciall Instance & Request of the Inliabit'" of Marlleton setting forth y' great
necessity of erecting a bridge at Marhleton to pass over to the certaine tliird piece of land, called
y" 3'' Styck ; It is this day ordered that Capt. Pawling doe take care for the Erecting & building
of a Bridge there & to take to his assistance Capt. Tlwmas Chavibers, Survey'' Geuerall of his
Ma'"' Highwayes in these parts & to make the Bridge with all convenient speed. The Labourers,
that are employed therein to l)e duly paid out of the Geuerall Eate assessed or to be assessed upon
all the Inhabitants of Mwrbleton for makeing or Building the Bridge aforesaid.
Tlie names of the persons that this day
in open Court surrendered up their seveiaJl
parcells of Land, allotted them in MarUdon
for the good of their Fellow-Souldiers.
Anthony Cooke Edward Whittacre
Edward French George Hall
Thomas Mathews Robert Beckerstaffe,
Copia vera
Jo. Clarke. Cler. Cur.
These Men did then petition to y" Com" that, (since they had thus given up their lands to
the Enlargem' of their ffellow-Souldiers proportions) They might be ffreed from llarhhton, a.s
also that they might have their halfe yearss provision sent them down with their discharges from
his Hon'' the Governour. The Grant of w"^*" recpiests falling not properly under the power of the
Com'''' the Presid' thought fitt to recommend the same to his Hon"' the Govern'' for a Resolve.
Friday Aprill 8"".
******
Tlie Comm''^ doe also agree that all Persons whatsoever in the Precincts of Kingston, Hurley
and Marhleton shall hold & Enjoy all Lands & Inheritances granted them bv Patent or Lott
paying iu Corue Two Shillings six pence Quittreut amuudly for every hundred Acres to his Roy-
aU Highness according to Law.
******
Saturday, the 9'" Aprill.
Vpon Reading the Peticons of Tierck Claus de Witt & Mr. IP" Montania setting forth,
that his Hon'' the Governour hath given them a Grant for the setting up of a Sawmill for the
publique benefitt, humbly requesting also that y^Com''^ would be pleased to recommend tlieirgood
intentions to his Hon'' for the speedy Erecting of the said Sawmill some five Miles North from the
Towne of Kingston and likewise imploring the Grant of a certaine piece of Land scituate & lyeing
a Mile further (called Dead Mens Bones) upon a North Line Easterly containing about seaventy
Acres for the sustentation of themselves and their Cattle, being soe remote from the Towne of
Khigston / The Connn"''' have viewed the same & referred the Debate hereof till Munday next.
Upon reading ye Peti9on of John Osterhout, Jan Burhans & Cornelius Vernoy, Husband-
men of the Towne of Kingston, alledging that his Hon'' the Gov'' hath been pleased to promise &
Grant to them a certaine Neck of Land five miles distant from Kingston or thereabouts over the
Kill neare tlie ffootpath leading to Albany containing by Estimation fifty foure acres cleare and
Good Laud, The Com''* have this day viewed the same & have referred the Consideration thereof
till Munday next.
452 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
These five Persons last men(;oned have obliged themselves to bnild their Houses all togetlier
on the other side of the Kill due North from the Land of Capt. Thomas Chambers, intending y*
same for an In-shipp within the precincts of Kingston.
Capt. Chambers desires also to Build a House for a Tenant witliin Two Musquett Shott of
the said Innshipp And also another House for his Son-in-Law. All which are referred till Munday
Munday, Aprill 11"'
Ordered that the several! Petipons, vizt. of Tierck Claus de Witt, Mr. Wm. Montania, John
Osterhout, Jan Burhans, Cornelius Yernoy, Capt. Chamhers & John Teyson be forthwith recom-
mended to his Hon'' the Governour to confirme and allow the severall desires ol the Peti^oners,
as hee in his wisdom shall judge most fitt & convenient.
The Orders now Read, Corrected & Amended, we doe Assent vnto vnder o' Hands, desiring
liis Honour to Pardon o"' Imperfections & to accept of o'' Endeavours.
Dudley Lovelace, Presid'.
Thomas Chambers
Wm. Beeckman
Cheisto : Beeesfokd
This Evening the Court was dissolved. Henky Pawling
M'^"' that there appeared the last day of o'' sitting (in Obedience to our summonse) before us
one Calcop an Indyan Sachem with his young Son and another young Indyan, who have sett their
hands to the agreem' made between Richard Nicolls, the late Governour & the Sachems & peo-
ple, called tlie Sopez Lidyans ife doe owne the same according to Right & Honesty. They were
likewise admonished to Continue the same Custome yearely.
The next day Capt. Chambers his Company aj)peared in Arnies ; They were commanded to
remove the East Gate of Kingston to the middle of the Curtaine, soe that the Towne is now
opened according to his Hou"'^ Instructions directed, to y'' Com''^ y" last Sessions.
The Compaii}' was mustered & exercised & the Lawes relateing to the military Affaii-es were
read at the Head of them in the Dutch language. The Artillery was drawn into the ffield &
ff^'red when the Pres*^ took Horse to depart for New Yorke.
Present
Council Minute. Staten Island business.
At y'= Fort Apr. 7"" 1670.
The Govern' Tjjg indyans who p'tend an Interest in Staten
Mr. Delavall tijia -i.* jij? »y-i
^ Island by Appomtm' appeared before y^ Govern' ;
Mr' vcm Ruyven '^^^^ ^^^ "<^* '^o™'^ Yesterday (y-^ day p'-fixed) being
The Secretary. hindered by Windy Weather.
It was askt of y° Indyans, how they could make it appeare, that they were y" Owners of
Staten Island, the w"^" at y° last Meeting they undertook to doe.
They say, there are five Principal 1 Owners, the rest are only ffriends.
It was demanded, what the first Owners Name is, they having markt out y' severall Divisions,
beginning at the South.
New Yorh Historical Records. 453
They say, his name is — Matackos, a Boy, hee was at Staten Island. The second — Karara-
mint, hee is in Towne, but hath Entrusted some here^ The 3'' Matarus, hee'l come To-morrow,
The 4"* Craoquy, hee is ahnost dead, soe cannot come, hee is of Rock-way, some of his ffi-iends
will hee here To-morrow. The 5"' Wenonecameke of Staten Island.
Three of these were narned at Staten Island, the other two not.
Its askt, if these beforenamed are y" Hight Proprietors & noe other ? They say, yes & can
make it appeare : The 2 ancient men, who speak for the rest, doe not p''tend to have any Interest
in the Island, but are entrusted for the rest, who they know to bee Proprieto''^.
Its demanded of thena, if they or any of them have heard of the names in the Dutch Kecords,
of w* diverse were read to them. They say, some they remember, but they are dead, soe doe
not love to heare of them. It's 40 yeares agoe since that Record.
It was askt, if they then lived upon Staten- Island. They say — Tes & that these now
Clayming are descended from them.
It was then enquired of them, since those whose names were read did 40 yeares agoe sell
their Interest, why these now would sell it againe. They say, they sold but part : It's told
them, that it appears upon Record, that all was sold : They being told, that since these now
would sell the Land againe, after it had been sold 40 yeares agoe, their children 40 yeares hence
may doe y* like. They say still, that then only part of it was sold, so they continued on it, but
now if they shall sell it all, they will go off & leave it.
They are told, how it is made appeare y^ Island hath long since been bought : however in
Consideracjon of their quiet Leaving y* Island a Present shall bee made them some-what extra-
ordinary for their Satisfaction.
They still insist, tliat a part was only sold & a small matter only paid.
All the Old Dutch Records were produced & Examined into ; wherein it was found, that
the said Staten Island was sold, & the Cousideracjon Agreed upon therein mencjoned with all the
Indyans Names & Markes, who sold it, — of which Warriner & Aquepo & MinquOrSachemacks
at Staten Island are 3. It was in 1657.
This being prest, they say, they'l speak noe more of it, but lett those that are alive of them,
who made the Agreem' come to the Govern"' & satisfy him about it. — Then they are told,
that though there was an Agreem*, yet nothing of it was paid, for they did not goe off the Island,
but if they will now goe all off. That Agreement shall be made good to them.
The Particulars are read vizt
10 Shirts 2 Pieces of Duffelds, about 36 Coates
30 paire of stockings woollen 30 Kettles, small & Great
10 Gunns 50 Hattchets small & great
10 Barrs of Lead 25 Hoes
30 pounds of powder Some Knives
30 Ells of Redd Dogens, w'^'' make 12 Coates Some Awles.
They say, they'l acquaint y* rest, that are concerned w*** it & will send to Warriner, Aquepo
& Minqua-Sachemack to come hither. At last they promise to biing Aquepo & Warriner to
the Govei'n'' To-morrow.
At f Fort Apr. Q'^ 1670.
Pres'.
The Governo' etc
The Busynesse was again had binder Consideracjon about y* Indj'ans Pretences etc. to Staten-
Island.
The Indyans brought only Aquepo w"* them ; they say, Warriner is sick & besides if hee
454 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
were well, liee would not come for that hee hath play'd away all his Interest in Staten Jslanrl.
Afterwards came also Minqua-Sacheinack. Aquejyo being then shown the Kecord, where his
Marke was, hee presently found it out.
Hee saith farther, that y' Governo'" then promised y^ severall things mentioned to bee Agreed
for the Island & sent into Jlolland for them, but they never were sent.
It's askt if the Govern""' will now make good that Agreem', whether they are content to
quitt the Island.
Aquepo pretends. It was agreed but for a part, bnt they are told y* Record mentions the
whole Island, w"^" is more certaine, then what hee saith. They refuse to take, what was then
agreed upon.
It's told them, if they will not sell the}' must Plant in some Corner of the Island, that may
be flenct in ; And if they shall disturbe y'' People, Cattle or Hoggs that live there, they shall bee
severely punisht.
Some of y'^ Indyans present lay Clayme to y' Land by Ilarlem, but y° Records shews, it was
bought & paid for 4-1 yeares ago.
It being askt, what they demand more then was Agreed formerly ; They desire to know
what y*^ Govern'' will give for the Island, It's told them, what was Agreed for formerly. They
still insist, that the Agreem' was but for part. They demand for the whole as follows :
300 600 ffatliom of Wampum 30 Axes
30 60 Match Coates 30 Hoes
8 Coates of Dussens made up 30 Shirts
30 40 Kettles A ffirkin of Powder, judged to bee 50 pounds
20 30 Gunns 60 Barrs of Lead
50 Knives
Afternoone.
It is offerd to make an Abatem' as in y" Margent. The Indyans ask more 100 ffathom of
Wamp™ 10 Kettles, & 10 Gunns. The 100 iiathora of Wamp"' is consented to.
The Governo'' offers more to give them 3 halfe fiatts of Beai-e, each of them a white six Stive''
Loafe & halfe a Mutch of Liquor.
Quererom, who was Employed to bring the Indyans together, is to have a Blanket & a
ffathom of Duffells. Wackechanoking, one of the Speakers, is to have a small Iron Pott in lieu
of one hee lost in Towne.
On Wednesday ne.xt, being the 13"" day, they are to come againe & receive their Pay. The
Persons p'sent & concerned stroolce hands upon the Bargaine.
To leave the Island upon receiving the Pay.
Their names :
Aquepo Quewequeen
Minqua^Sachemack Wewav ecu meek
Wewanecameck Mataris
Pemantowcs-Aquepo Aquepo in y" name of Wamner.
April 13'\
The Sachems appeare, but not all ; those that appeare for them absent are written above over
against them.
There appeare 4.
The Payment is made & Deed of 'Conveyance signed Possession of y* Island by Turfe «fc
New YorJc Historical Records. 455
Twigg was given by y= Indyans tlie P' of May following to Mr. Tliomas Lovelace & Mr. Mat-
thias Nicolh Deputed from the Governor
Indian Df:ED foe Staten-Island to Governor Lovelace.
This Indenture made the thirteenth Day of Aprill in tlie 22"' yeare of the Eaigne of o""
Soveraigne Lord Charles the Second by the Grace of God of England, Scotland, ffrance and Ire-
land Kiuge Defend' of the Faith &e & in the yeare of our Lord God 1670, Between y^ R' Hon"""
Francis Lovelace Esq"'' Governo' Gen" und' his Eoyall Highness James Duke of York & Albany
&c Of all his Territoryes in America for & on y*' behalfe of his said Eoyall Highness on y^ one
part and Aquepo, Warrines, Mimjua-Sachemacl", I^emantmoes Quewequeen, Wewanecavieck, and
Mataris on y" behalfe of themselves as the True Sachems Owners & lawfully Indian Proprietors
of Staten-Island & of all other Indians any way concerned therein on y" oth'' parte Witnesseth,
That for & in consideration of a certaine sums of Wampum & divers other goods, which in the
Schedule hereunto annext are Exprest unto y'' said Sachems in hand paid by the said Governo'
ffrancis Lovelace or his Order, the receipt whereof they, y" said Sachems, Doe hereby Acknowl-
edge & to be fully satisfyed & thereof & every parte tliereof Doe for tliemselves & all otiiers con-
cerned their heires and Successoi's & eveiy of them clearly acquitt and discharge the said Govern-
our & his Successors, Have given, graunted bargained & sould & by theise i^resents Doe fully &
absolutely gi\'e, graunt, bargain &, sell unto y*" said ffrancis Lovelace, Governour for & on y^ be-
halfe of his Eoyall Highness aforementioned All that Island lyeing & being in ILudsons Eyver,
comonly called Statetv- Island & by y*^ Indians Aquehonga Manachnong, having on y*' South y"
Bay & Sandypoint, on y° K'orth y® Eyver & y'' Citty of New Yorke on Manhatans Island, on y"
east Long-Island & on y" west y" maine Land of After Coll or New-Jersey, Together w"" all y°
Lands, soyle, meadows, fresh and salt pastures, Comoiis, woodlands, Marshes, Ey vers, Eyvolettes,
streames Creeks waters Lakes & wiiatsoever to y" said Island is belonging or any way apperteyning
& all & singuler oth'' y° p''misses w"' th'appurtenances & everye parte & parcell thereof w'^out any
reservation of y'' herbage or Trees or any other thinge growing or being thereupon And the said
Sacliems for themselues & all others concerned their heires & success''^ Doe Covenant to & w"' y"
said Govern"" & his success''^ for & on y'= behalfe aforesaid in manner & forme following. That is
to say, That they y'^ said Sachems now are y° very True sole & Lawful! Indian Owners of tlie said
Island &, all & singuler of y'^ p''misses as being derived to them by their Anncestors & that now
at th'ensealing & delivery of these p''sents they are lawfully seized thereof to y" use of themselues
their heires & Assignes for ever according to y^ use & Custome of y" rest of y® Native Indians of
this Country And further That y" said Island now is & at y° tyme of Executing of y* said Estate
to be made as aforesaid shall be & from tyme to tyme & at all tymes hereafter shall & may stand
remaine and continue unto y'^ said Governo'' & his successors to y*^ use of his Eoyall Highness as
aforesaid freely & Early discharged & Acquitted from all & every former bargaines sales guifts
Graunts & Incumbrances whatsoever & furthermore the said Sachems for themselues and all
others concerned their heires & Success''^ Doe Covenant, That y" said Govern"^ his success'^ & As-
signes for & on y" behalfe of his Eoyall Highness as aforesaid shall & may from henceforth for-
ever Lawfully peaceably & quietly haue hould possess & Enjoy all tlie said Island w'" th'appur-
tenances & all & every oth'' y'' p''misses w"" their appurtenances w"'out any Lett resistance or
Disturbance or interruption of the said Sachems or any others concerned their heires & success''^
& w"'out any manner of LawfuU Lett resistance molestation or interruption of any other person
or persons whatsoever Clayming by from or under them or any of them And It is likewise Lastly
456 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Miver.
Covenanted & agreed That y* said Sachems & y^ rest of y® Indians concerned w*'' them now In-
habiting or residing upon y° said Island shall haue free Leaue & Liberty to be & remaine there-
upon untill y® First Day of May next, when they are to surrend'' the possession thereof unto such
person or persons as y* Govern'' shall please to appoint to see y" same put in Execution upon w*
day They are all to Transporte themselues to some other place & to resigns any Interest orClayme
thereunto or to any parte thereof forever To haue and to hould y° said Island so bargained &
sould as aforementioned unto y" said Francis Lovelace Govern'' & his success''^ for & on y^ behalfe
of his Royall Highness his heires & Assignes unto y'' proper use & behoofe of his said Royall
Highness his heires & Assignes forever. In witness whereof y'^ Partyes to theise p'sent Indenture
haue Interehangably sett to their hands & seales the day and yeare first herein wrytten.
Sealed & Delivered in y'^ presence of The marke of ^^ Aquepo (L S)
Corn. Steenwyck, Mayor
Thos. Lovelace The marke of Aquepo
Matthias Nicolls on the behalfe of V. "Waerenes (L S)
C. V. RtJTVEN
Oloff Stevenson van Cortlandt The marke of Wawanecameck
Allard Anthony on the behalfe of y- ' Minqua-Sachemack
Johannes van Beugh
C.
Gerret van Tricht The marke of Aquepo
I. Bedloe on the behalfe of \^ Pemantowes
Warn. Wessels, Constab :
William Nicolls "1 The marke of j Quewequeen
Humphrey Dauenport , ^ ,,
„ r. r* louths
CORNELIS BeDLOO
Nicholas Anthony J
The marke of ,^-'_ Wawanecameck
The marke of (3 Mataris
Memorandum : That the young Indyans not being present at the Ensealing & delivery of the
within written deed, it was again delivered & acknowledged before them whose names are here
underwritten as witnesses.
Signed in presence of -<v>
The Governo' The marke of V^ Pewowahone
Capt. Manning about 5 yeares old, a boy.
The Secretary. The marke of d^ Kohique
about 6 yeares old, a boy.
The marke of c^ SHmomNEMO
about 12 yeares old, a Girle.
The marke of O Kanarehanse
about 12 yeares old, a Girle.
The marke j-^ of Maquadus
about 15 yeares old, a young man.
The marke of C'S''^ Asheharewas
about 20 yeares old, a young man.
New York Historical Itecorda. 45^^
The Paj'inent Agreed upon for y" Pui-cliase of Staten-Island Coaveyed this Day by y" In-
dian Saeheius Propriet" (viz :)
1 Power Hundred Fathoms of Wampum "
2 Thirty Match Coates
3 Eight Coates of Dozens made up
4 Thirty Shirts
5 Thirty Kettles
6 Twenty Gunnes
A ffirkin of Powder ^ 7
Sixty Barres of Lead I 8
Thirty Axes I 9
Thirty Howes & 10
Fifty Knives 11
Memorandum : It is Covenanted & Agreed upon by y"^ Partyes within mentioned Francis
Lovelace Esq''^ Govern"' etc for & in y^ behalfe of liis Royall Highn''^ & y^ wi"'in wrytten Sachems
on y* behalfe of themselues & all others concerned before th'ensealing & delivery hereof That
Two or Three of y*^ said Sachems their heires or success" or so many Persons Imployed by
them shall once every yeare (viz*.) upon y*^ First day of May yearly after their surrend'^ repair to
this Sort to acknowledge their sale of the said iStaten- Island to y'^ Governour or his Successors
to continue a mutuall friendship betweene them As witness their hands.
The marke of Aqdepo The marke of Aquepo on behalfe
" Wewanecameck of Waerines
on the behalfe of Minqua Sachemack The marke of QnEWEQUEEN
The marke of Aquepo on behalfe The marke of Wewanecameck
of Pemaio'owes " " Matabis.
The Goveen"' Oed" foe y'' non-Sale of y^ Land at Esopus, w™ was given to y^
SOULDIEES THEEE.
Francis Lovelace Esq""" &c Whereas I am given to understand, That some of y^ late Souldiers,
who have had Lands allotted them at y® New Village at Esopus called Marhleton & have had
Discharges from their Military Imploym', have contrary to y^ end & intent both of myselfe &
Predecess'' for y" w'^'' the Land there was gi-aunted to them p''sumed to make Sale of their Lotts,
whereby y" said jjlace instead of being settled will inevitably come to Ruine «fe Decaye unless some
speedy Eemedy be used, These are to publish and declare. That y* sales vi"^ already have beene or
shall w"'in y" space of Three yeares be made by any perticuler person that hath Land laid out for
him at Marhleton for his service as a Souldier are & shall be voyde & that what person soever
shall p''sume to sell or buy any such Land w"'in y* space of Three yeares aforesaid w'^out my
perticuler Lycence & consent shall be lookt vipon as a Contemner of this Declaration & shall be
lyable to undergoe such fyne or censure as by myselfe & Councell shall be thought fitt to be
imposed upon them. And I do likewise hereby ord"" that Publication hereof be forthw'" made in
each respective Towne at Esopus & this Declaration read by beate of Drum & afterwards affixt
in some Eminent place in every Towne, that none may plead ignorance hereof. Given und' my
hand & sealed w"" y» scale of y'= Province a.i ffort James in New Torke this 23d day of August
in the 22'" yeare of his Ma"''* Raigne Annoque Dm 1670.
58
458 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Me. Jacques Coetilleau oedeeed and appointed foe t^ Convenient laying out
40 LoTTS foe t^ seitllnq 2 Towneships on Staten-Island.
Whereas it is Eesolved upon that Two Towneships shall be settled upon Staten-Island of 40
Familyes each, You are hereby ordered & appointed fortliw*'' to repaire to y° said Island & first
of all to take a view, where 18 Lotts more may be added to y" 22 already lay** out or so many as
shall compleate y' said number of 40 & that it be so Contrived that y° Lotts be not laid out strag-
ling but neare one another, w'^'' when yo" shall have done, that yo" goe to y*' great Kill & pitch
upon y"* most convenient place for a Towne tliere of y" like number of 40 Familyes and having
made an Exact Calculation thereof, that yo" bring an Account thereof unto me by Monday morn-
ing next & for so doing this shaU be yo'' warrant. Given und'^ my hand this 24'" day of Octob'
1670.
To Capt" Jacques Cortyleau Survey'' Gen".
Council Minute. New-England people teading with the Indians at Albany
Indian Teeaty.
At a Councell held y<= 22"' day of October 1670.
* * * * * * *
3. As to Capt. Salisburyes Letter about the New-England Mens Trading at Albany w"*
Horses & Cattle for Beaver. That an Ord^ & Proclama^on bee made to Prohibitt the Importapon
of Cattle, Horses or Goods from any other Government to that Place over Land or of Exporta^on
of Beav'° or Peltry from thence that way, without particular Ord"' from the Govern"' under the
penalty of forfeiture &c untill his Eoyall Highnesse Pleasure shall bee further known herein.
*******
6. About yo peace between y° Maquaes and Mahica7iders, To leave this in suspense, untill
y* Certainty of Govern'' 'SYinihrops Voyage for England bee knowne & the Returne of Mr.
Mayo' from Albany.
* * * * * * *
At a Councell held in y^ ffort Decemb"^ 1, 1670.
*******
About the peace between y* Maques & Mahicanders Ordered that a Letter of what hatlr
past at Albany & Sohanechtide with a Translation of y* Proposicjons made by y" Indyans there
bee sent to Goveruo'' Winthrojp with a Desire of his Answer upon it.
Oedee dieecting the Sheeiff of the Esopus to keep an Account op Yessels coming theee.
Mr. Isaack Gravejmert, Schout of Esopus, appointed to take an Acco* of all Sloops or Boats
coming thither.
Wliereas severall Sloops and Boates doe go up from this place to Esopus, where they unload
& there load againe without making Entry, as in other Portes within this Governme' is usuall,
whereby sometimes his Ma"° is defrauded of y° Customes due upon Strong Lic[u''* & other Cus-
New York Historical Records. 459
tomary Goods ; To y° end y® same may be p''vented and a more regular course taken for y° future ;
These are to Authorize and Appoint Mr. Isaack Graveraert y° p''sent Schout at Kingston in Eso-
pus to take an Acco' of all Sloops or Boats, w"'' shall come in there bound for that place, and
make an Entry of their Loading ; And likewise that hee cause y'^ Master or Skipper of any such
Sloope or Boate before hee comes away to take a Certificate or Pass-porte for iiis Vessell and Load-
ing, as is practized in other Fortes; Hee takeing y" ordinary ffees allowed therefore and rendring
an acco' of all such matt" to y" [Receiver] of y" Customes in this City. And all Masters of
Sloops, Boats or other Vessells goeing thither or comeing thence are to observe and take notice
hereof, as they will answer y° Contrary at then- perills. Given xinder my Hand at Forte James
in New Torke this 12th day of July 1671
Fran Lovelace.
To all Mast" of Sloops or other Vessells,
whom this may concerne.
FKOOEEDrerGS IN THE Matoe's Court. Differences between Haklem and Fordham.
(New York City Records.)
Sep'. 8, 1671.
The Inhabitants of the Town of Fordhani Flff.
John Archer Deft.
The Flfs. do complaine that y" deft, severall times hath bene y' occasion of Great Troubles
betwixt y*" Inhabitants of y'' s'' Towne he takeing uppon himselfe to Ruel and Governe over them
by Rigur and force and do humbly desiere Reliefe and y"" protexion of this C" ag' him or any
other that should disturbe y'' peace of y" s** Inhabitants.
Uppon y" Hearing of both p''ties y" Court ordered y^ deft John Archer to behavie himselfe
for y'' future Civilly and quietly ag^' y'= Inhabitants of y^ s'^ towne, as hee will answer y'= Contrary
att his perrill ; And it is further Ordered that all small DifEerances w'='' for the future shall happen
to fall out at Fordham afores'' shall be Decided at Haerlem by y'' Magistrates of Fordham w"" y*
Assistance of two of y'' Magistrates of Haerlem afores**, Except those of Fordham will be at y°
Charge to satisfy y'= Magistrates of Haerlem for Comming up to their Towne of Fordham.
Orders foe y'^ Regulating of y^ Civill & Military Affayres at Esopus.
1. Inprimis, That Capt. Chambers command y" Militia at Kingston and that Capt. Pawling
Command y® other Company at Hurley and Marhletowne.
2. That for exercizing y" said Militia both private & Gen" they follow y° 25''scription of the
Booke of Lawes in that Case establisht ; And see likewise for ffining of Delinquents, p''serva9on
of Armes, Ammiini^ons ifeC.
3. That every Towne in y" Administragon of Justice follow y" Rules of y" Lawes already sett
forth, Tiiat is to say, That each Towne shall determine definitively all Actions under flive pounds
according to y" Lawes of Towneshipps.
4. That there shall bee a C"^ of Sessions held each halfe yeare at Kingston, which shall determine
all Actions, whether Criminall or other (not extending to Death) & inflict punislim'^ according to
460 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
the Merritt of y'= ffact, whether on Christians or Indyans; And for Matt'' Civill as other C' of
Sessions doe here hold & determine ; w"" this Provisoe, That any Party aggrievd may have like
Liberty to Appeale to y" Gen" C" of Assizes held at New-YorTce.
5. The Persons, that are to sitt at y* C"^ of Sessions shall bee Capt. Charnbers, Justice of y"
Peace, who is to p''side as Presid', y'^ Schout of Kingston & Elect Commissary, Capt. Pawling for
Marhleton, Albert TIeymans for Hurley & the Eldest Commissary at Kingston.
6. That in regard y" Traffick at Esojnis consists chiefly in Corne, w'^'' invites Merchants from this
City of Neio Yorke to repaire hither to Negotiate w"" y° fFarmers, and that it may often happen
out soe, that some difference ariseing above y** determina^on of Towne Courtes, soe that the Mer-
chant according to y" ordinary course of Justice must be Constreyned to attend y" Sessions, w'='*
may prove prejudiciall to his Affayre by y'' approaching of Winter or any other Intervening Lett
or hindrance ; ffor p''vention thereof It may be lawfull for any Person at any other time to cause
a Speciall Court to be called (as a Court of Sessions), the Person being at y' Charge that convenes
it; And all Actions soe determined there shall bee Esteemed as Effectuall, as if it had past at y"
Court of Sessions held at their usuall Seasons.
OctoV 25"", 1671. Feancis Lovelace.
Council Minute. Pdechase of Laio) in "Westchester County.
At a Councell held y? 30"" day of October 1671 Present — The Governor
Mr. Steenwyck The Secretary.
The Matter under Considera9on is the Purchase of the Land of y" Wickersoreek Indyans,
offered to Sale. Part of it was purchased in y^ yeare 1649, as appeares upon Record.
Showan Orockeits Brother, & other Indyans present being demanded, what they came for,
they replyed, they come to sell their land to the Governo"". They were offered a Price & could
sell it to others, but would not, having more a Desire, that the Governor should have it or the
Refusall ; It was told them none could buy it without the Governo" Licence.
Then they went by clialking it out to shew their Bounds &, what was sold, w"^" they describe
by a small Stroake alongst the East River.
The Names of those that pretend to bee y* Owners — Ramaque, Tapongeere, Nepahnickan,
Inquiis, Nenemarck, Ama^iung, Wyrandis, Cheimis, Sessepoos. — They would reserve a piece of
Land for themselves.
It was askt them how farr it was from Monussing to Ilarlem River, And from John Rich-
ardsons Crosse over to Wyckerscreeke, They answer, it is a good halfe dayes Journey, about 6
hours or 18 miles in breadth. In length as before. They say It is a good dayes Journey.
It is 3 dayes Journey about in Circumference. It being askt, now tliey are beaten off by the
Maques, how they can make a good Title thereinto, if it were sold ? They say, the llaques will
not say, they have any pretence to their Land, though being at "Warre, they would destroy their
Persons & take away their Beavers & Goods.
It was demanded what Meadow or Valley did belong to their Land, They say there is a great
deale of Meadow within the Land.
They are bid to consider of what pi-ice they will ask for their Land & give an Answer about
two ocloek Afternoone.
New Yorh Historical Records. 4G1
The Acco' they returne of their Price is
300 fatliom Wamj)™ 30 Chipping Axes
30 Matcli Coates 50 Knives
10 Blanketts 30 BaiTs of Lead
5 Cleat Coates of Duzzines ^ a Barrell of powder
30 Kettles 2 \ ffatts of Beere
30 Gunns 1 Anchor of Ruiuiii
20 Shirts 3 Howes.
20 pairs Stockings
30 Hatchetts
Letter from y^ Governo'' & Councell to Capt. James Carterett as an Inter-
POS190N FOR a renewed ffriendship betwixt him & Capt. Philipp Carterett.
Tlie Governo' having lately received a Letf from his Ma"'= Dated y^ 10"" of March 167^, who
out of a Paternall & Princely Pegard to y*^ Safety of these his Dominions in America^ admonishes
us (by the great Revolutions, that are now likely to happen in Christendom) that wee might timely
provide against y'' Common Enemyes of his Ma"''^ Just Right and y'^ true Interests of y" particular
Proprief", to whom his Ma"* hath most graciously transferred over liis Clayme of any of these
his Territoryes or Colonyes on this Continent of America, by a more strict Vnion of ourselves
together, whereby wee may bee the better able to assist each other as Occasion or Exigence should
require, And having taken Notice of late, that our next Neighbour Governour, Capt. Phili^rp
Carterett, with whom hitherto wee have had a friendly & amicable Correspondence, is now in a
manner extruded from freely Exercizing that Authority, by w"^*" hee was commissioned to Rule &
Governe those committed to his chai-ge & trust & y* legislative Powers now exerciz'd by others;
To the end his Ma"''' gracious Advice & Commands may bee loyally & solemnly observed. It will
bee necessary, that a true Vnderstanding bee known by what means this suddaine Mutation is
made, that soe wee may not bee to seek to whom legally to apply ourselves to, if ever any Immerg-
encyes should call on us conformable to his Ma'"' most Gracious Will & Pleasure, AUwayes pro-
fessing where the just Authority does reside to bee willing & ready on all lawfull Occasions to bee
soe serviceable to them, as wee desire y" like from others, if need should require. Neither have
wee occasion to f eare, that those unhappy Breaches, w'^*' have happend amongst you bee altogether
soe desperate and uncurable, but that by y'^ Interposition of moderate & unbyasst persons to either
Party such a Composure may bee proposed, as may satisfy all Interest, but those that delight in
Nothing soe much as in Dissent.
S^, if these amicable Proposigons of ours bee but harken'd to {& by the Blessing of Allmighty
God) take that Effect, wee cordially wish in y° Peace & Tranquillity of you our nearest Neighb",
wee shall have Cause to bless God in makeing us y" happy Instruments to soe worthy a Worke ;
But if it fall out Contrary to our profest Desires (which God forbid) yet wee shall acquitt our-
selves to all the World qf the entire Syncerity wee have us'd to heale tliose Wounds, w'^ (perhaps)
the Enemyes to his Ma"" A: Lord-Propriet" would bee gladd to see fester into a Gangreen & soe
become incuralJe.
S''., wee heartily desire you to take these our Reflections into yo'' serious Consideragon & to
believe noe sinister end whatever doth prompt us to this Interposition, but it being a Christian
Charitable Worke acceptable (wee believe) to God, who is a God of Order, to y* Loyalty & Duty^
462 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
wee owe to his sacred Ma"«^, & that Comon Charity wee desire may be paid to each other, by
endeavouring to p''serve a Vnity of Spiritt in y" Bond of Peace.
Thus recomending these our Eeflections into your candid & ingenuous Acceptapon wee
heartily take Leave of you, desireing you to send an Answ'' in "Writing by this Gentleman, y«
Bearer Capt. Dudley Lovelace^ who M'ill deliver this to your Hands.
By Order of y' Govern'' and Councell.
Forte James in New Torke j] W^ day of June 1672.
Cai'T. James Carteeetts Answer.
Eight Hon'"^ S'
&
Worthy Gentlemen.
I received yo" per y" hands of Capt. Dudley Lovelace Dated y" 11"" of this Instant. The
Contents I have perused & part of them do" finde meriting all Loving acceptance & kinde enter-
tainm' ; assureing you that I doe fully concurr & acquiess w"' you in respect to any friendly
Association, whereby wee may Bee made more capable to signify y^ Integrity and Sincerity in
serving his sacred Ma"" in his concerns either here or elsewhere, & when Occasion doth present
myselfe & y" Inhabitants here shall readyly, & chearfuUy manifest the same according to his
Ma"" Gracious Advice & Comands in whatsoever wee are or may be found capable ; w'^'' I hope &
desire may satisfy you or any others, who are all dubious whom to apply themselves unto, if ever
any Immergencyes should call on them ; flor you may please to believe That in what is, or may
be proper to use wee shall show y" like williuguess to assist you against any of his Ma""" Comon
Enemyes ; But w""" will afford you y" less Encouragem', & wee indeed are ashamed to divulge,
our Inhabitants are in a raw & undisciplined Condition, brought thereunto by Capt. Philip
Carterett, who differing from all Martiall Men that ever I knew in the "World, hath for severall
yeares past threatened & forbidden our People upon paine of Death not to Exercise themselves
in Military Affayres or Discipline ; w'^'' together with other Gross Miscarriages of his, contrary to
our Concessions, & contrary to bis own Commission hath formerly (in bis time of Governm')
unjustly dissatisfyed, disturbed, «fe impoverisht the Kings Subjects in this Province ; And if then
you or others who pretend such amicable ffriendship & coiTespondence w"" him, had been pleased
to advise & Councill him better. It might have been better for him than at this time. "What you
mean by Reflections, is above my minor & feeble capacity to apprehend ; And as I favourably
conjecture they are as inexpedient to promote & eiicrease Love & Peace, as Interpositions are to
heale iinhappy Breaches ; of w"^** (by the Blessing of God) wee are freed of late, & doe enjoy
very much Tranquility among"' oiu-selves to our great satisfaction ; yett possibl}' not wholly
exempt from turbulent, Jehu, & Ishmaelite Spirits asappeareth in all Ages, Provinces, & Jurisdic-
tions, together with the old pernitious Sect of Tale-Bearers, w* the wise man speaks of ; And I
wish that you & I may take that judicious & divine Advice of his ; Proverbs y" 20'" & 19 ver : &
■f 17'" & 15'" ver.
S'^ In respect toy" Differences or Breaches that have hapened between Capt. Carterett & myself,
there is (as you say) noe occasion to dispair, but they will in time be healed or cured by the Hon'''"
Lords Proprietor unto whom they are already p''sented & referred as y" most ample & compitent
Judges in those Matt'''' ; And I doubt not but yo''selves will grant them to bee moderate & unby-
assed Persons on either side ; And if soe then most requisite that they should receive that acco'
w"" is rendered to them ; the same which I suppose you mean by a suddaine Mutation here ; A
true understanding where of is as much unnecessary to bee declared to unconcerned Persons, as
New Yorh Historical Records. 463
by what Authority I act & transact AfEayres here in this Government, a thing w"^*" I have never
sought to pry into in other Governments ; and why any Acco' there of should bee required or
expected by you as a Councill I know noe Eeason, seeing that I am not iinder Obligations to render
the same to any but to his Ma'"^ & my Superiours the Lords Proprieto''* by whose Order & Instruc-
tions I act & shall in an orderly, meek & peaceable way endeavor to suppress such who doe most
falsely without either shew or Colour of truth repute mee a Disturber of y" Countrey, like
unworthy Persons as they are ; who some I have accused of speaking treasonable words against
his Ma''° the King, & under y° Guilt of y° Breach of their Oath of ffidelity to y° Lords Proprieto",
&, have fatally ruined their Interest here, & y* poore Inhabitants of their Province in a great
measure. These have only lately publislied mee by their writts a Rebell & Mutineer, who am
Proprieto"' of my ffathers Interest in this Province ; They are likewise great Disturbe" of our
Peace. They and only they, & doe frequently arrogantly, & falsely Declare in New Yorhe that I
have done it, because I have taken a Legall Course to putt a stopp to their unjust & unrighteous
Proceedings, greatly dishonorable to God, his Ma"^ y" King, & y° Lords Proprieto'^ ; All w'^'' I
can sufficiently prove & make appeare to y" Damage & shame of the aforesaid Persons, counte
nanced, encouraged, & believed by some in New YorT^e • which I take unkindly; And if God
spare life, I will give his Poyall Highness an Accom2:)t of them by the first, & after second it
myself by a Verball Declaration how I am used in his Territoryes, as also who they bee that have
appeared like Enemyes to King & Countrey, &, perhaps (as you say) would gladly see wounds
fester into a Gangreen, & soe become incurable ; which God f orbidd, & grant that I may bee by
all Lawfull & just Endeavo"' an Instrument to preserve Unity in the Bond of Peace ; A thing
w* I can appeale to God (w* a conscience unblameable) & acquitt myself before all the world. I
never did obstruct in any unrighteous or illegall way ; And it is my hearty and unfeigned Desire
to hve in all amicable Correspondence & Tranouility with you and all Men. Soe you shall ever
find me —
Your Ready Friend
Elizabeth Towne in New Jersey James Caetekett.*
Juney-^ U"^ 1672.
Council Minute. - Commission fob Indian Affairs.
At a Councell held ia Fort James j" 24"^ of June 1672.
« * * * « *
The Commission for y" Indyan AfEayres soe farre to continue in force as shall relate to keep
y'' Indyans in good Ord'' ; But as to any matter of difference of meum and tuum or trespasse, that
it be decided by the next Justice of the Peace and Constable & Overseers of the Towne, where
the cause of Action shall arise, but if the Action bee above 5 £, they may Appeale to y* next
Court of Sessions.
« * * « * *
* See "East Jersey under the Proprietary Governments " and " New Jersey ArcUives," Vol. I. — -Ed.
464 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
Instkuctions for Capt. DeLavall & Me. Steenwyck, at their goeesig for
Albajiy, June y^ IG''", 1672.
Gentlemen.
Forasmucli as you are sufficiently acquainted w"" his Ma'""^ Kesolutlons of prosecuting a Warr
w"" y" States of y* united Provinces, as appeares both by his Published Declara9on, & likewise by
his particular Lett" directed to mee to bee communicated to you with said Letters & Declaration
you shall carry along with you for your better Guidance & Instruction, you are in the first place
after yo' Arrival to cause your said Declaration to bee solemnly proclaymed, by what fformality
you shall conceive to bee most effectuall according to his Ma'"^ Intention & good pleasure.
Tou are lilcewise to see that y" Forte and Militia bee put in that posture as may best secure
themselves against the Attempts of any Euemyes to his sacred Ma"'^ & his Royall Highness either
publick or private.
If you find their ifeares too great, you may assure them an Expedient shall bee propounded, as
will infallibly secure their Doubts by locking up ye Kiver soe that noe fforce shall bee able to attack
them ; to that end I propound this ; In my travails I have observed (w'^'' I desire you to take a
more strict observation of y* Scituation as you pass that way) at Antonios Nose upon the West
Coast there is in a Corner a piece of ground well watered, low, & very strong by nature, where if
a Block-liouse were but erected, & a Breast-work cast up to make a Battery, & but 4 Gunns
planted there. It would stop y'= Passage of any Yessell or Vessells from passing up the Piver, y°
place lyes in an Angle w"*" y° Stream makes there, & y? Current Setts on that Shore, within less
than halfe PistoU Shott ; This fforte being supplyed but with a douzen Men from Albany & Esopus
to manage y® Gunns & to afford some small shott must of necessity give a Stopp to any Vessell
from attempting their Designe, if this bee not thought a proper Place, any other may bee pitcht
in on y" East side of the Piver in the Highlands ; Provided y° Scituation bee naturally low &
capable to Erect a Battery & well watered.
You are to use yo' best skill and Industry to bring the Inhabitants to a complyance to a
voluntary Contribution towards y® Reparation of this fforte, their Mother & greatest Concern, &
you are to acquaint them of the readyness of these parts, & What Diligence is used to compleat
the same.
You are to call for the Ord"'" made when we were last there, & to see what is executed, & if
any thing happens anew to heare and determine it.
AVhat is here directed for Albany you may communicate to the Esopus, still leaving the
manner & method to your prudent Determination.
Lastly as soon as conveniently you can dispatch yo'' Affayres both publick & private I shall
desire yo' speedy Peturn to mee againe, you well knowing how much I am destitute in your
Absence of any helps, and soe God send yoii a prosperous Journey & Retm-n.
Agreement between the Inhabitants of Schenectady and the Four Mohawk Castles.
On this Day the S"* of July 1672 did Appeare before me John Oarretson van Marken, pub.
Notary admitted by the WorshippfuU Co'' (ii Albany zx\^ the Inhabitants of Schenectady To-
gether with a sartain Indian called Dohorywachqua & Crage, being the Representative of y" foure
Mohoakh Castells, Who declared & promised to hold firme & stable & will Cause to be held in
full force & vertue all and Whatsoever hee shall act & doe in The sale of y" Lands Lying Neare
The Towne of Schanhectade within Three Dutch Myles in Compasse on boath Sides of y* River
New Yoi'h Historical Recwds. 465
Westwards which eudes in Kinaqua/riories, Where the Last Battell was betwean the Mohoahe
and the North Indians, Provided that Jaaclces CorneUssen shall have the tirst flatts or playne,
except the Inhabitants of Schanhectade will Kestore unto said Jacques CorneUssen two Rundlets
of Brandy and one hundred hand of Wampum, Which being pajd unto s"* Jaaqties, The said first
Playne is to Remaine to the Towne, Whereuppon Sander Leenders Gehn being a former Magis-
trate & John van Eps and Sweer Teunissen being y"' present Magistrates of y^ s'^ Towne did
acknowledge & declare. That They were agi'eed with y" s* Indian uppon y" purchase of y' Land
for y* summe or c[uantity of Six himdred hands of good wlieyte Wampum, Six Koates of Duffels)
Thirty Carres of Lead & Nine Bagges of powder, Wliich they do promis to pay unto Y" s*
Indians in two Termes, viz. The First, as soon as the Sachems or any person by them authorized
shall Comme out of y* Country & produce full power from theyr Inliabitants according to theyr
Usuall Manner and have Thereuppon delivered imto y'= s'' Indian as a present for the Old Man in
The MohoaJcx Country a Eundlet of Brandy.
To the End all Misunderstanding & Complaint may be washt of and Remooved ; To the true
performance of the premises the s* parties have hereunto sett theire hands and was Intei-preted by
Cornelia Yiele in the absence of Jacques Comelissen, In Schanhechtade The date above written.
The mark iC of Dohoeiwaohqua
9
The mark ^^p^^ of Crage
Sander Leenderts Glen
John van Eps
Sweer Teunissen
Attested by me J. G. v. Maeken Not. Publ.
This day the IS"" of July is payd unto the Indians above mentioned in parte of y= purchaze
foure hundred hands of Wampum, 30 barres of Lead, 3 bagges of powder More for a present
three ankers of good beere, one Koatt of dufiels, together -with the above mentioned Rundlet ot
Brandy.
A" 1672 The IS'" day of July
Did the underwritten Indians appears before us and do declare that they did confirme all and
whatsoever the abovewritten Indians named Tohorio^vachque and Crage in the Annexed Instru-
ment have acted & do by these p''sents promise with the last payment to give all fiu-ther Assur-
ance of the s* Land and that they and theyre heires shall desist from all fiu-ther Claymes & pre-
tenses whatsoever. In witness whereof they have hereunto sett they're hands in Schanhechtade
at the house of Gcrrit Banner and in the presence of severall particular Indians, the day and
yeare above written
The marke of
The marke. of
■yc Canachquo
■f-J OcQTTARET
t
The marke of TY Tohoeiowachque
Attested by me, J. G van Marken
69
466 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
An Oed^ foe Capt. Lovelace, Me. Noewood, &c ; to take a Sdevey of Staten Island.
These are to Authorise & Empower you Capt. Dudley Lovelace, Mr. Andrew Norwood, &
Mr. Robert Rider, by the best skill & Judgment that you have to take a Survey of y" Bounds
& Lymitts of Staten Island, together with its Dimensions & Circumference, the w* you are to
putt upon a Piatt, & make Keturn thereof unto me. And y^ Justice of y* peace. Constable &
other Offic" upon y'= said Island are hereby required to bee ayding ife assisting unto you herein,
as Occasion shall require ; And for wluit you shall Act or do" in prosecu9on of y" Premisses, this
shall bee unto you a sufficient Warrant. Given under my Hand at fforte James in New York
this 22"^ day of July 1672.
Council Minute. Teade at Schenectady.
At a Councell held at Fort James, Sept. 6"' 1672
******
The Commissaryes Letter about y" handling at Sohanechtide was taken into Consideration ;
It was brought downe by Capt. Salishtiry ; There was also two Requests, one from Schanechtade,
'tother from Albany brought by Mr. Delavall made to him & the Commissaryes when above w""
the Appostills thereupon.
For Schanechtide, it is Ordered,
That for Redresse of small Grievances by Trespasse, Debt or otherwise, they shall have a
Towne Court to try all such Causes to the Value of one hundred Guilders, the persons, who shall
try the same to bee two to bee nominated by the Governo'' out of three to bee chosen amongst
themselves annuall}', but for greater Suraes to have Application as formerly to the Co" of Com-
missaryes at Albany. As to the matter of trade with Indyans or others there, they ai-e to be
regulated by the Ord" made by the Governo' & Councell the last Summer at Albany till further
Ord'.
Lett" feom y"^ Goveeno" to Capt. James Caeteeett of New Jersey. Sept. 18. 1672
s^
I received yo"' Letf by y*^ hands of M''. Jones ; y"^ Contents were a narrative of what had
past between one of yo'' Magisstrates &, my Marshall ; I must confess I have heard something of
that Story though imperfectly ; neither did I give too much Credit to liis Relation, finding him
to bee too much transported, w"'' I can attribute to noe other i-eason, then what he averrs, his hard
Treatm' ; Tis true, I employ'd him to forewarne all persons (that had not that common Civility
in them to desire Liberty of mee) to cutt & carry away Hay from Staten Island without my Ap-
proba9on ; but it seemes M''. Hopkins (whether in contempt or Derision) pr^um'd to make an
Essay, whither the Propriety belonged to his Royall Highness, or y" Lord Proprieto''^, & as my
Servant averrs, when that was y" Dispute, he was soe confident as to decide it theirs (for that was
the Terme) And upon that Conclusion perhaps us'd him more rigorously than some undecent
Reply of my Servant might meritt. S'' I hope there will not bee an Occasion of a Controversy
of the Title of that Place after 5 years possession, together with .a lawf ull Purchase of the Na-
tives, & not the least Contradiction from y* Lord Proprieto" ; but if any pragmatick Person, out
New Yorl: Historical Records. 467
of any OfBeiousness or sinister Ends of liis own sliall intermeddle in that Affayre, I shall assure
him to maintain my Eoyall Masters Interest to that place,. to the utmost of my Ability ; M^ Jones
brought another Letter, but finding the Superscription to be W. Hopkins his Hand, with whom
I never had any Con-espondence (neither desire I any) I refus'd the Accepta^on. I have noe
more at present, but that I am
Yo'' humble Servant
E. Y. IS Sep: 1672 Fe. Lovelace.
Lke to Cap'. James Cabterett at Elizabeth Towne in IN'ew Jersey.
Hon. S"-.
I received yo"' Lre of y" 12"' of Octob'', wherein you seem to complaine of a barbarous & mur-
therous Act (as you are pleased to name it) committed on Y* Body of yo"' Marshall, & at y^ same
time, I am sollicited by M^ La Preary, and y" Deputy Governo'' Capt. Berry, who both are in
the natm-e of Exiles, not daring to return, the one to y" peaceable enjoyment of his Estate, pur-
chas'd by his hard Labour & Industry, the other from Exercizing that Authority of Deputy Gov-
erno"' in the Dispensation of Justice, and y* preserva9ou of the Publick Peace, according not only
to y^ Oath hee stands oblig'd to, but likewise to that Trust lawfully invested in him by y° Gov-
erno'' Capt. Philip Carterett. What to doe in this case, & to satisfy two different Opponents
might puzzle a greater Statesman than I pretend to determine ; yet when T reflect on y° Answ''
you were pleased to returne to that Letf of ours, wherein (mov'd out of tender sence of the Iii-
conveniencyes & mischiefs which were dayly growing to y* hazard of y* effusion of Christian
Blood, w*^" since has hapned, & wee having noe other Ayme then the peace & tranquillity of you
our Neighbo" consonant to y^ Commands of his Sacred Ma"", who enjoyn'd all Neighbouring
Colonyes toe nter into a strict Association w"" each other, that then (I say) you were pleased to
have soe little regard to those our kinde & friendly Proff"'^, as in returne of an acknowledgm' of
those sentiin'^ of ours, you wondered wee should concerne our Selves in y^ Afiayrs of yo'' Governm'
since you never sought it in ours ; If soe you continue in those resolutions still, you have then an-
swered yo'' Selfe ; Neither doe I intend for y'' future to concerne myselfe w"" yo" in any Publick
Affayre, unless you undeceive mee by showing mee a sufficient Deputagon from the Lord Proprie-
to''^ to act as a Governo'' w"'out w'^''- I cannot safely adhere to you as a Publique Minisf but ab-
stracted from that. As you have had y^ large Experience of my Civility towards you, Soe (keep-
ing within that circle) you shall all ways finde mee ready to acknowledge you as I desire to be by you.
Yo' affection'" Friend
Fe. Lovelace.
Oct. 13. 1672
I had forgott to acquaint yo" that y' Prosecute''* attempted to enter on Staten Island in Quest
of M''. Za Prery where if they had found him were resolved to carry him away w'^out my Leave.
I shall desire for y° future, you to refrayne that course, least you constrayne me to fetch them
back from you.
468 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
A Pkiviledg'^ granted to Cap'' Thomas Chambees, for t*^ Erecting ffox Hall
INTO A Manno^.
Francis Lovelace Esq'' &c: "Whereas Capt. TJiomas Ghamhers Justice of the Peace at Eso-
pus hath beeu an ancient Inhabit' in those parts, where hee hath done signall & notable Service
in the time of the warrs against the Indyans, & having by his Industry in the time of Peace
acquired a considerable Estate, of which hee now stands possest, Amongst the rest having a Man-
sion house not farr from the Towne of Kingston commonly called ffox Hall, with a great Tract
of Land thereunto belonging, w'*" said House is made defensible against any sudden Incursion of
y"' Indyans or others; In acknowledgm' of the Services heretofore done by the Capt. Thomas
Chambers, & in part of recompence thereof, I have thought fitt to Erect the said Mansion house
called ffox Hall & Land belonging to it into a Manno"' to be known by y^ name of the Manno"' of
ffoja Hall, the w'^'' shall for the time to come bee held, deemed, reputed, taken, & bee an entire
infranchized Manno' of it selfe, and shall allways from time to time have, hold, & enjoy life &
equall priviledges Avith other Manno"'^ within the Goverum', & shall in noe manner or anywise bee
under the Pule, Ord'' or Direction of any Towne Court, but by the Generall Co''' of Assizes, or
as from time to time y^ said Capt. Ghamhers shall receive Ord'^ or Directions from y° Govern'' &
his Councell. Given imder my hand & Seale at ffort James in New York this 16"* day of
Octob'^ in y'^ 24"" yeare of Ma""^ Keigne, Annoque Domini 1672.
Lett" to Capt. James Caeterett at Elizabeth Towne in New Jersey, Dated 22"' Octob : 1672.
s--
Before Mr. Delavall resolved to shake hands with Albany for this Winter Season, hee was
determined to kiss yours, & I have perswaded M'' Steenwyck & M'' Nicolls to accompany him, to
try if yet there were a possibility left by a fair & amicable Intei-])osition to make up those
Rents w* by y" sufferings of some, & y* Asperity of others (if not prevented) will grow past
their skill to close ; Neither can I dispaire but by this inconcern'd Interview (on their parts) but
to hope for a good Issue, & the rather in regard M'' ILelyen & Baker when parting last from mee
returned to you with great resolutions of j)ropounding such Expedients for a Gen erall Accomoda-
<;on as might secure each party (by severall Propositions & Conclusions thereon) both of their
persons & fortunes, till the determinative Resolution of the Lords Proprieto'''' might putt a period
to all mistaken Distinctions on either side. S'' contrary to ray once resolved Opinion of not
troubling either you or myselfe more on this Subject, I have (upon y° Address of very many of
your Inhabitants) adventur''d to make this last Essay, w'*" I wish may prove effectuall, that soe
when ever a Transmutation should succeed between my R : Master & the Lords Proprieto''', I
might not present him instead of a peaceable & well dispos'd Territory (such as I hope to have)
& in Exchange of that a Land only replenisht with Bryars and Thorns ; thus heai'tily wishing you
to make a Serious reflection on all the evill consequences that necessarily must attend those Dis-
orders, & that by yo'' prudence & Moderation strive to prevent them, that not only the Proprie-
to''* may be assured of their indubitable Rights, but the Inhabit*' of their Immunitys & ffree-
doms, w* & w'^'' alone is the Cordiall wish of
S'' Yo-^ Aff^ec""^ Friend
Fr : Lovelace.
Fort James, Octob'' y 22'^ 1672
New Yoi'lc Historical Records. 469
Lettek feom King Charles II to John Beret, Depdtt-Governoe of New
Jersey, directing him to enforce the authority of Lord John Berkeley
AND Slk George Carterett.
Charles R.
Trusty & wellbeloved. Wee greete yoii well, having bcene informed that some turbulent &
disaffected persons. Living & inhabiting within the Province of Cesarea or iVew Jersey, The pro-
priety whereof wee have granted to our right Trusty wellbeloved Councello" John Lord Berkeley
of Straito7i & Sir George Carterett Kn' & Baronet, doe refuse to submit & bee obedient to the
authority derived from us to the s'^ L* Berkeley & Sir George Carterett as absolute Proprieto" of
the same to the great prejudice of the s"* L"*^ Proprieto", the disturbance of the Inhabitants &
hindrances of the whole Planta9on there designed. Wee doe therefore hereby require you in our
Name strictly to charge & comand all persons whatsoever inhabiting within the said province
forthwith to yield obedience to the Lawes & Goverm' there settled & established by the s'' L"*'
Proprieto'''' having the sole power under us to settle and dispose of the s* Countrey upon such
Terines & Condicjons, as they shall think fitt. And wee shall expect a ready complyance with
this our will & pleasure from all persons whatsoever dwelling or remaining within y" fores* Prov-
ince upon paine of incurring our high displeasure & being proceeded ag'' w"' due severity accord-
ing to Law, whereof you are to give publick notice to all persons that are or may bee concerned
& so wee bid you farewell. Given at our Co" at Whitehall the 9"' day of Decbr 1672 in the 24'"
year of our Reigne.
By his Ma"-<=^ Comand
Henet Coventry.
To o'' trusty & wellbeloved Capt. John Berry, Dep. Gov. of Wew Cesarea or New Jersey in
America & to his Council there.
Council Minute. Trading at Schenectady. Taxes on the Esopus.
At a Councill held in Fort James Jan^^ 27"^, 1672-3.
******
Jeuffrou Curlers Peti(;on from Schanechtade desiring some ffavour about Liberty to trade
w"' the Indyans, in regard of her great Losse by the fEre.
Her Letf to Mr. Delamall & another to Mr. Beekman upon the same Acco'.
An Order thereupon as followeth :
Upon y'' Request of Antonia van Curler of Schanechtide p''sented to his Hono'' y^ Governo'', that
having not long since received a very great Losse by ffire, shee may for her p''sent Reliefe bee soe
farr indulged as to have Licence to sell some Pumm to y° Indyans, as also some quantity of
Powder «fe Lead; The Premisses being taken into serious ConsideraQon, It is Ordered, That in
regard of the very great Losse cfe Damage sustayned by the said Antonia van Curler in having
her House, Barnes & Corne destroyed, as by her is sett forth, as also the Losse of her Husband,
Arent van CurUr, while hee was employed in his Ma*"'" Publick Service, Shee, the said Ant07iia,
his Widdow, shall have free Liberty & Licence for y** space & terme of one whole yeare & two
Months after the Date hereof. That is to say, from the first day of Aprill next untill the 29"^ day
of May w''*' shall bee in the year" of o'' Lord 1671 to sell & dispose of to the Indyans or others in
or about Schanechtide in Eumme one hundred Anckers & in lead to the value of two hundred
470 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Beav" or 1000 Weight ; But for Powder in this Conjuncture of time during the Warr, It's
thought inconvenient any Extraordinary Liberty should be granted therein.
By Ord' &c.
The Matf of Diiierence between y* two Tappers at Schanechtide, not thought fitt any order
shall bee made therein further, this Liberty to the Widdow probably being a meane to defeat
both their Expectations.
Esopxis Contribution.
The Commissaryes Lett' to y'^ Govern'' about y" Contribution not yet ready, & a Request that
a Tax imposed about three yeares agone upon their Land, Working Horses & Cowes may con-
tinue to support the charge of the Towne, — Mr. Graveraets Letter for y° Continuance like-
wise.
The Ord'" thereupon.
Upon Considera9on had of what hath been represented to his Hon"^ y® Govern'' by y" Schout
& Commissaryes at y*" Eso]pus as touching their Voluntary Contribution towards the ffortifications
here and a Tax heretofore Agreed to bee imposed for y'' time of three yeares, upon each Margen
of their Improved Land, as also upon their Working Horses & Milch Cowes towards the defray-
ing y® Publick Charge of their Towne, w'^" said Time being now expired, they desiring a Con-
tinuance of the said Tax, upon the same Acco' as before ; Both the said Particulars having been
taken into considera9on It is Ordered, That the said Voluntary Contribution bee collected & paid
into Mr. Isaack Graveraat, the Schout, in good Corne according to y* Intent & Meaning of the
Donation, otherwise it shall bee in the Liberty of the said Schout to refuse the same & constrayne
them to pay better, And likewise that y"^ former Tax upon y^ Land, y* Working Horses & Kine
bee continued for two years longer or untill farther Order, beginning from the Expira^on of the
last three yeares. And for that there was y" last yeare the Summe of sixteen hundred Guild"'^
allowed toward the Publick Charge of the Towne out of y" Excize, It is also Ordered, That an
Acco* bee given to the Govern'' how the said 1600 Guild" & y" last tliree j'eares Tax hath been
expended ; when consideraon will bee had, how the two yeares Taxe for the time to come
shall be disposed of.
By Ord"^ etc.
That some particular Ord'' bee sent to Capt. Chambers, who is exempted from being rated by
the Towne, in regard of his manno'' — *******
LlBEETT GIVEN TO Mk. DelAVALL TO ErECT HIM A WarE-HOUSE AT Y^ StEAND IN KINGSTON.
These are to certify all whom it may concerne that I have given free Leave & Liberty to
Capt. Thomas Delavall one of y^ Councell to Erect or build a Storehouse or Ware-house adjoin-
ing to the Block-house at the Redouht near Kingston in the Esojnis. either of fourty or fifty iioot
in length, and twenty or thirty tfoot in breadth, or such like Dimension as bee shall think fitt for
his convenience. Given under my hand &ifort James in New York y" IQ"" day of March in the
25"" yeare of his Ma"'" Reign, Anuoque Domini. 1672-3.
New Yorh Historical Records. 471
An Ord* about y^ Maj^no" of ffordham, viz'^ that a Co"'' bee kept there qijar-
TEELY, & THAT Mr. Jn" RiDER BEE StEWABD & PkESID''.
Whereas Mr Jn° Archer having obtayued a Patent from mee for a certaiue Parcell of Laud
upon y* Maine (of w*^*" hee had made Purchase) lyeing & being over against this Island Man-
hatans, neare Sjaiting Devill, where a New Village is seated, & is called, ^wfZAa/w, unto y^ w*
I have thought fitt to Grant y'^ Priveledge of a Manno'' & the said Mr John Archer being the
Principall Proprieto"^ having requested of mee. That being y° Principall Proprieto'^ for y* Decision
of Matters of Debt & Trespasse between him & his Tenants, or between one Tenant & another
there may be held a Court quarterly or as often as there shall bee Occasion, of w*^** some Person
as Steward of the Manno'' shall bee Presid' taking as his Assistants y" Constable of y® Place, &
one or two more of the discreetest of the Inhabitants ; The holding of a court there by y' Con-
stable & Overseer bemg not practicable amongst them in their J!^ ew Settlement, By these Presents
I doe well approve of y^ Proposall afore-mentioned, & doe Order that there shall bee held for y^
said Manno'' of ffordham a Court quarterly or oftner if Occasion shall bee, the first Court to bee
on y® 24"" day of this Instant month when the Steward for the time being shall bee Presid' &
that hee take as his Assistants y*^ Constable of y^ Towne, & one or two more of the discreetest of
y® Inhabitants as afores"* or neighbourhood, for the Decision of all Differences of Debt or Trespass
between the Landlord & Tenants, or one Tenant w"" another, according to y" Direction in the
Law & y"* Priveledges in his Patent. And M''. John Rider being recommended by y' s"* Mr.
Archer to bee Steward of the Court, I doe hereby Allow there of, the said Steward taking his
Oath to doe Justice in y* said Employm' between Man & Man according to Law c% good Con-
science, & Regulating himselfe as a Steward of a Manno'' ought to doe, for y^ w"^*" as Occasion
requires hee shall have particular Directions from myselfe. Given under my hand at ff^ort James
in iV^. Yorh, this 20"" day of Aprill in y^ 25"^ yeare of his Ma"" Reign, Annoque Domini 1673.
CouNcrL MiNTJTE. New Jeeset Matters.
At a Councell in y« Fort May IS"" 1673
The Duke's Letf dated November 25"' read, relating to Wew Jersey.
A Letf from y^ Lord Berkley & S"". George Carterett to recommend y^ Affayres of New Jersey
to the Governor.
Coll. Nicolls Patents of Elizaheih Town and Nemsans now made void by the Duke.
A Letf from y^ Lords Proprietors to Coll. Nicolls confirming his Patents before Capt. Philijyp
Carteretts Arrival being objected, the State of y* Case to bee returned to His Royall Highness.
CoTmcTL MrNUTE. Inteodtjction of English Laws at the Esopub.
At a Councell held in the Fort &c June 12"" 1673.
******
The Letf" from Esopus taken into Consideration about being Governed by English Lawes ;
Whereupon it was Ordered as f olloweth, viz' :
The Petition from severall of y" Inhabitant at Esopus being taken into Consideracon, wherein
472 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
they desire to have the Privilege & Benefitt of Enjoymeii' of y" English Lawes Establisht by bis
floyall Higbnesse & in practice abnost throughout all his Territoryes, It is Ordered, that y"
said Lawes shall bee settled & practized in y*" Three Townes of Esojyus as in other Places, for the
w* they shall receive particular Instructions. In the meantime y'' Inhabit'^ of Marhleton & Hur-
ley have Liberty to make choice in each Towne by a double Vote of a Constable & Overseers
& returns their Names unto y° Governour, who will out of them pitch upon the Persons to bee
Confirmed in that Employmen' for the ensueing yeare ; Whereupon they are to take the Oath
prescribed iu the y* Booke of Lawes before a Justice of the Peace for the Performance of their
Trust.
By Order &c &c.
Letter of King Chaeles II to Goveenoe Philipp Carteeett, dieecting heu
TO sustain the AUTHOErrY OF SiE Geoege Caeteeett m New Jeesey.
Charles H.
Trusty & wellbeloved. "Wee greete you well. "Whereas our right Tnisty & wellbeloved Councell''
Sir George Carterett, Kn' & Baron*, by grant derived under ns, is seized of the Province of New
Cesarea or New Jersey in America, & of the Jurisdiction thereof, as Proprieto'' of the same, In
the plantacjon of which s'^ Province the s'' S'' George Carterett hath lieene at great Charge & Ex-
pence : And whereas of late great Troubles & Disorders haue hapned there by some ill affected
persons, "Wee being willing and desirous to encourage the inhabiting & planting of the said Prov-
ince & to preserve the peace & welfare of all our Loving Subjects residing there. Wee doe there-
fore hereby require you in our name to use yo'' utmost Endeavo''' to prevent all troubles & disor-
ders here for y^ future & strictly to charge & command all p''sons whatsoever inhabiting within the
s* Proyince forthwith to yield obedience to the Lawes & Governm' which are or shall be there
establisht by the s'^ S''. George Carterett, who hath the sole power under us, to settle & dispose
of the s'^ Countrey upon such Termes & Condi^ons as hee shall think fitt. And wee shall expect
a ready Complyance with this our Will & pleasure from all persons whatsoever dwelling or re-
maining within the same, upon paine of incurring our high displeasure & being proceeded against
with due severity according to Law, Whereof you are to give publick notice to all persons, that
are or may bee concerned. And so wee bid you farewell. Given at our Court at Windsor the
13"" day of June 1674, in the 26"' year of our Reigne.
By his Ma*'" Comand
S"". George Carteretts Arlington
Letter
To our trusty & wellbeloved
Philipp Carterett Esq''". Governo''
of New Jersey in America & to the Council there.
Copia vera compared w"" the original
James Bollen, Seer''.
New Yorh Historical Records. 473
Order allowing Elizabethtown, Newark etc. in New Jersey to send dele-
gates TO surrender their towns.
At a Meeting of the Noble Honorable Commanders and their Hon"" Council
of War at the City Hall of this City of New-Orange on the 12"' of August
A° 1673.
Present -
Commanders | '^''^"'"^•^'^ Evertsen junim-
{ Jacob Benckes
Capt. Anthony Colve
Capt. Nicolas Hoes
Capt. Ab. Ferd. van Zyll
John Backer, Jacob Melyn, John Oghdon cum sociis request as delegates from the villages
of Elizabeth Town, New Work, Woodbridge and Piscataway, situate in the province formerly
called New-Jersey, that they may be allowed to send commissioners from their said villages, to
negotiate with the Hon"'" Commanders and Council of "War in regard to the submission of their
villages to the sovereignty of Their High : Might :, the Lords States-General of the United
Netherland and his Serene Highness, the Prince of Orange ; also that no audience be given to
their former Governor, Capt. John Berry, until their commissioners had been first admitted.
It is ordered : Tlie petitioners, namely the inhabitants of the villages of Elizabethtown, New
Work, Goodhridge and Piscataway have herewith permission given them, to send their commis-
sioners on Tuesday morning next following to negotiate with us.
Done at the City Hall of New Orange, Aug. 12'", 1673.
Signed
cornelis evertsen the younqer
Jacob Benckes
By order.
N. Bayard, Secr^.
The Admirals and the Council of "War upon further resolution dispatched the following order
to the remaining three villages in the same Province
To the Inhabitants of the Town of Bergen and the farms and settlements thereto belonging.
You are hereby directed and charged, to send commissioners of your town hither, in order to
negotiate with us on Tuesday morning next concerning the surrender of your village to the juris-
diction of their High Might : the Lords States General of the United Netherlands and his Serene
Highness, the Prince of Orange, or upon refusal we shall be compelled, to subdue your place by
force of arms.
Done at the Stadthuys of the City of New Orange, Aug. 12"", 1673.
Cornelis Eveetsen the Totjnger
Jacob Benckes.
By order.
N. Bayard, Seer''.
(The same order sent to Middletown and Shrewsbury.)
60
474 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Peivlleges granted to the several, Towns in New Jersey.
At a Meeting of the Council of War held at Fort Willem Hendrih
Aug. 18% 1673.
On the request of the inhabitants of the villages of Elizahethtown, New Worh and Piscata-
%vay, situate behind the Coll {Achter Coll) the following order is made :
The petition of the inhabitants of EUzabethtoivn, New WorJc and Piscataway having been
received and read by the Commanders and the Council of War, they direct, that all the inhabit-
ants of the said villages shall be allowed the same privileges and liberties, which are granted to
the born subjects and tlie Dutch nation, the petitioners and their heirs shall further possess and
enjoy without molestation their lawfully bought and paid for lands, which the Governor is to con-
firm to them hereafter in due form. The boundaries of each village shall be settled by the Gov-
ernor and Council at a later date and orders to that effect shall be published. As to impressment,
no Englishman shall be impressed to serve against his own nation in case of war against his
Majesty of England, provided they comport themselves in such case quietly and peacefully, but
their ships and vessels shall be subject to it. Regarding inheritances they are to be ruled by the
laws of Netherlands but they may dispose of their estates by testaments as they think fit and in
case some are willing to withdraw from this territory with their property, they may do it within
the time of six months, provided they have paid their debts and obtained a pass-port from this
Government. Further, no person shall be allowed to settle under this Government except on
previous approbation by the Governor and lastly the petitioners are granted such freedom of con-
science, as it exists in Netherland.
The deputies from Woodhridge, Shrewsbury and Middletown appearing before the Council
the same privileges are granted to their villages at their verbal request, all until further orders
from their High : Might : and his S. H. of Orange.
Council Mindte. Submission of East and Westchester with Ex-rENT of the
JURISDICTION OF THEIR CoURTS.
At a Council etc. Aug. 21, 1673.
»* * * * * ***
The deputies from Oostdurp alias Westchester and the neighboring farms, called East Chester,
delivered their credentials to the Council and stated further, that they submitted to their High :
Might: and his Highness of Orange. They are directed, to have their people nominate by a
majority of votes and to present at the earliest opportunity a double number of names for magis-
trates of their said villages, from which we ^vill select three magistrates, two for the village of
Westchester and one for Eastchester, who shall decide in their respective villages all cases up to
30 shill. English ; cases of greater value must be determined by the whole bench in the aforesaid
village of Westchester.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 475
Okdek on a Petition fkom the Esopus for the Government of that District.
In Council etc. Septbr. 1"', 1673.
The delegates from the Jisopus appearing handed np a certain petition, upon which the fol-
lowing order was made :
First. The petitioners shall send in a list showing the number of their inhabitants and what
tliey can do towards the support of a minister, whicli will be referi-ed by us to our superiors. The
requested instructions shall be prepared by liis Honor, the Governor, at the earliest convenience
and sent to them.
Second. Tlie population of the three respective villages shall together nominate three per-
sons for the office of Schout and tliree for that of Secretary, from which we will then select one
as Schout and another as Secretary for all these villages. The community of Swanenburgh*
sliall further nominate eight persons for Commissaries of their village ; Hurley and Marhletown,
which have heretofore been under the jurisdiction of one court, may continue so until further
orders, but they shall also nominate and present to us eight persons, from whom we will make a
selection ; it is further recommended to them to make a nomination for chief-officer of the train
band and send it to us.
Third. The Governor will consider the cpiestion of the excise as soon as possible and the
consumption in the families of the petitioners is also recommended to him.
The fourth point is granted to the petitioners and they ai'e specially charged to take care, that
nobody be nominated, who is not of the Reformed religion.
5. Nor shall anybody be nominated, who is not at least well inclined towards the Dutch nation.
6. The article in regard to the extension of the said villages by farmers shall be referred to
our superiors, who, we have no doubt, will decide upon quickly.
7. It shall be recommended to the Governor to provide the petitioners in time of need with
the necessary amunition and militia.
The 8"* point about the retail sale of strong liquor to the savages is granted and the Schout
directed to see to it.
The present Magistrates are further directed to publish and affix the enclosed notice. Done
I St Y^re lgJ3_
Appointment of Magistrates for the Tillages behind the Coll.
The Lords Commanders & honnor^" Counsel of Warre of y^ New-
Neverlants residing in fort Willejn Hendrick &c.
Whereas wee have thought fitt tt Necessary to discharge the forme of Governm* late in prac-
tice here and to reduce it under the Stile of Schoutt & Schepens, w'^'' is customary in our Native
Country, the United Belglck Provinces, Know yee therefore, that wee by Vertue of our Com-
mission from y" high & mighty Lords, y' States-General & his Serene highnesse, the Prince of
Orange &c out of y" nomination presented unto us by y" Deputies of Elizabeth Towne, Wood-
ridge Sahrousbury, New Worke, Piscataway & Middletowne have Elected & Established
Mr. John Oqden to be Schout f /• n .i i.- t
,, „ /_ ,. , ^ > of all the respective iownes.
Mr. bamuel Mopk^ns to be Secretary \
* Kingston, Ulster Co.
476 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson Hiver.
Giving & by these presents granting unto the s* Jno. Ogden & Samuel Hopkins & each of
them full power, Strength & authority in their s"" oifices, the Schout together with y^ Schepens or
Magistrates of respective Townes to Kule & Governe as well their Inhabitants as Strangers and
y' s"' Samuel 'BqpHm to administer y= office of Secretary in y^ s"* Townes according to Lawes of
y* United Belgick Provinces and such Particular Instructions as they from time to time shall
receive from us & from our Govern" for y° time being and wee doe hereby Strictly order & Com-
mand all y° Inhabitants of y" s'^ Townes to obey & Execute all such LawfuU Orders & Constitu-
tions, as shall be made by y"" Schout & Magistrates for y" welvare of y'^ s* Respective Townes &
he Inhabitants thereof. Dated Ut supra, Sept. 1, 1673.
Renewal of the Peace with the Hackensack Indians.
At a Meeting of the Hon'"^ Commanders and the Council of War held
the 13"> of September 1673.
r Jacoi Benches )
Present -j Cornelis Evertsen, the Younger C
[Capt. Anthony Colve
The Sachems and Chiefs of the Mackensach Indians with about twenty savages requested
admittance and appearing before the Council stated, that they had been sent by the re-
mainder of their people, to ask the Commanders, that they might continue to live in peace with
the Dutch, as they had done in former times ; they declare, that on their part they are very desir-
ous of doing so and in token thereof about twenty dressed deerskins, two or three pieces of beaver
and a string of wampum were given by them as a present.
They were told, that their presents and propositions were accepted and that they should con-
sider the Government here their good friends as formerly. In confirmation thereof a present was
made to them in return of 6J dosyntjes of cloth, 12 pairs of woolen socks and five handfuUs of
powder, for which they gave their most cordial thanks and retired.
Census of the several towns m New Jersey.
At a Meeting of the Hon"'" Commanders and the Council of "War
held the 14'"> of Sept. 1673.
Capt. Knyf and Lieutenant Siiel, having returned yesterday from the country behind the
Coll, report, that in pursuance of their commission they have administered the oath as prescribed
to the inhabitants of the villages, named below, and have found the population to be as follows,
according to the lists delivered to them.
Eltzaheth Town, population 80 heads, of whom 76 have taken the oath, the others were
absent.
New WorTi, pop. 86, of whom 75 took the oath, the others absent.
Woodbridge, pop. 51 heads, who all took the oath, except one, absent.
New Yorh Historical Records. 477
Piscataway, pop. 43 heads ; all took the oath.
Middletown, pop. 60 heads ; 52 took the oath, the rest were absent.
Shrewsburi/, pop. 68 heads ; 38 took the oath, 18 being Quakers, promised allegiance, tlie
rest were absent.
Minute of the Depabtdee of Mohawk Chiefs from New Yoek. Schenectady Affairs.
At a Meeting etc held Septbr. 18"", 1673.
The Sachems and Chiefs of the Moliawks appeared before the Council, having come hither,
to view the naval force under the Commanders and to report thereon ; they now request leave to
return, which is granted and a present of 8 dozens of handkerchiefs, 6 pairs of woolen socks, 3
cartridges of powder and 3 guns is given to them.
The petition of the inhabitants of Schenectady was taken up and read, they ask in substance,
that the privileges and liberties given and granted to them by the late Governor Stuyvesant be
confirmed. It is ordered.
The petitioners have our consent and permission, to enjoy their former privileges and liber-
ties, provided the same have not subsequently been countermanded by the said Governor Stuy-
vesant and Council.
Order to the Magisteates of the Villages in the Nevesinks in eegaed to
approaching ships and foe a new election of officers at Sheewsbuet.
******
A letter was written to-day to the Magistrates of the villages, lying in the JSfevesinks on the
sea-coast to direct that they and their inhabitants should speedily inform the Governor General of
the arrival of any ship from sea.
Whereas the Late Chosen Magistrates ofE Shroushwy are found to be Persons, whoes Re-
ligion will not Suffer them to take any oath or administer the same to others, wherefore they can
Nott be fitt Persons for that office. I have therefore thought fitt, to order that by y" e^ Inhabitants
off y^ s'' Towne a New Nomination shall be made off four Persons off the true Protestant Christian
religion, out off which I shal Elect two and Continue one off y'' former for Magestrates of y*" s,^
Towne. Dated &it ffort Willem Hendrich this 29"' 7tember 1673.
Signed. A. Colve.
Lettee from Goveenoe Colve to Schout John Ogden at Elizabeth N. J. on
Indian Affairs ; seizure of Gov" Carterets peopeety in New Jersey.
Mr. John Ogden:
Yesterday I sent you y'' Instructions by y° way of N'ew Worke. Since that time I received
y" of y^ 29"" of Septb^ last and vnderstood out of y° same y° proceedings of your people with y^
Indians, of w'^'" I do wel approve and according to your desire I wil alsoe Endeavour that Satis-
faction may be given by j" Indians to y^ owners, to w'^'' End I have once more thought fitt, that
y"" Indian Sachem bo summoned to appeare before me to give me satisfaction about it and that y^
478 • Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River:
Messenger doth signify to him, that I do much wonder that all j" Cheife Sachems hereabouts, as
also tliose of y'= Mohacks have bene here to present themselves unto me and that he onh' Kemains
Defective therein : wherefore I would willingly speake w'^ him to know y'' Eeason and that I
promise him & his Company freely to Passe &, Kepas without any Molestation you may alsoe give
order what goods he hath Tendred or yett shall Tender to Restore y" People may Receive from
him and lett an acco' be sent me what y"* loss may be of y'' goods, w'^'' still are wanting. Tou are
also required to send hither by y" first opportunity the armes & other goods according to Inventory
formerly belonging to y*' late Govern" Carterett and to Caiise this Inclosed order of arrest to be
published in your severall Townes and to order y^ several! Clarkes to returne an ^cco' thereof
unto yon for to be presented unto me. And lett Mr. Hopkins Examin uppon what Conditions
y'' Tennants are seated uppon the plantations of Capt. Carterett and ace' thereof Returned unto
me. Not Else att Present, but that I am
Dated Aiffort Willem • Your loving fEriend
Hetidrick, 14'" Oct. 1673. (Signed) A. Colve.
Order in Council on the Pttrchase of Indian Lands in New-Jersey and on
THE Trade to the Esopus
At a Meeting in Fort Willem Hendrich etc, Thursday the 8"" of March 1674.
Received and read the petition of BartholoTneus Ajojilegadt, Thomas Applcgadt and Richard
Sadler requesting permission to purchase from the Indians a parcel of land, situate about two
Dutch leagues on the other side of the village of Middletown towards the Nevesings and suitable
to settle 6 or 8 families thereon. It is ordered.
The petitioners' request is granted on the condition, that after having purchased the land,
they shall obtain proper patents tlierefor and actually settle it within two years on pain of confis-
cation. Date as above.
******
Whereas several skippers and boatmen have requested permission to sail with their sloops
to the Fsojnis and Willemstadt* , which would deprive this city, we fear, of sloops and weaken the
population, therefore in order to prevent this, the authorities of this city are directed to summon
before them all skippers and masters of boats and inform the same, that not more than two yachts
may go to Willemstadt and Esopxos and one to the Southriver, the same to be designated in turn
by lot, also that they must not take from here any passenger unprovided with a passport ; for
thus it has been decided necessary for the welfare of this city. Date as above.
Council Minute. Order approving an Ordinance made by Middletown. In-
dian Claim on Secaucus Island, N. J.
******
A certain ordinance was handed in on behalf of the Magistrates of Middletown^ directing
that no inhabitant should be allowed to leave their village unless he gave bail to return, as soon
as he had done his business or unless he was engaged in the service of the place etc. They ask
* Albany, N. T.
New York Historical Records.
479
for its approval by his Honor, the Governor-General. The ordinance having been read and
considered the Governor and Council order : No inhabitant can be prevented from changing his
residence within this province, unless he is arrested for lawful reasons : but no resident of the
village of Middletoion shall be allowed to leave without having first given notice of it to the
Magistrates.
The Councillors, Messrs Cornells Steenwych and Cornelis van Rnyven have to-day heard, by
order of the Governor, the claims made by some savages, that Sicakus, a smaU island lying back
of Bergen, had not been sold, but only Espating and its dependencies and that they were now re-
proached by the other savages for having sold laud, which did not belong to them. The contract
of sale was thereupon examined and after liearing further debates, it was found, that the said island
was included in the sale made in January 1658, but not in the sale of Espating. After Saartie
van Horsim had interpreted and explained the matter to them, they said, they had not known it
and represent, that they were now entitled to have an anker of rum, which the parties in interest
agreed to give them to avoid further trouble. Date as above.
Peopositions of the Mohawks to Governor Colve and his answer.
Propositions made to his Honor, the Governor
General of New-Neiherland by the Mohawk
Chiefs from the two nearest Castles, situate
above Fort Nassau* and called, the first Kaghe-
newage and the second Kanagaro, interpreted
by Jan Jansen Bleycker and Hendrick Lans-
ing.
Answers by his Honor, the Governor :
To the first. Whereas they say they come here
as to brothers, who are of their own flesh and
blood, we receive and welcome them as such
and
His Honor has been well pleased by the re-
newal of the covenant at Nassau last fall and
he will take care that the Dutch shall duly ob-
serve it.
3
They are thanked for their offer to assist the
Dutch against the French and other enemies
and a promise is given that they shall in like
manner be protected against invasion by their
enemies.
♦Albany,
First they say, they have come here as to their
brothers, as the Dutch at Nassau and here
have always been of one flesh with them and
they give notice that they are going to four
nations to renew their peace. They give a
string of wampum.
2
They say, last fall they have made a new cove-
nant with tlie Dutch at Nassau, they come
now to confirm it and give a string of wampum.
They say, that if the French should come as
rumor has it, to attack the Dutch, they will
march out with the Dutch and live and die
with them. A string of wampum.
N. T.
480 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
4 4
The answer given is, that his Honor, the Gov- They express their pleasure seeing, that his
ernor, has built this fort and fortifications ex- Honor, the Governor, has built such a strong
pressly with a view to keep off all enemies, yet fort here and hope that this country shall be
he is grateful for their affection and good defended by him against all enemies and that
wishes. no other nation will again become master of
it. They give a string of wampum.
5 5
Whereas they are sent out and are going to They say, they were sent out to some other
some other nations, his Honor, the Governor, nations to renew their covenants and intend to
wishes them a happy journey and good sue- pass througli here on their return, therefore
cess in the renewal of their covenants with they ask permission to come and give a string
these nations : they have permission to come of wampum,
here on their return.
6 6
His Honor, the Governor, believes that when They say, that at Nassau they had asked to be
they came down, there was no yacht at Wil- brought down in a yacht, but at the time there
letnstadt to bring them here, but after having was none at Nassau and as they are old men
done their business with the other nations and they request, that upon their return they may
returned here, they shall receive a token of be taken up the river in a yacht,
his friendship and be taken up to Willemstadt
without expense.
Done at Fort Willem Hendrick in NewNetherland, May 22*, 1674.
FUETHEE TeAJSTSACTIONS WITH THE MoHAWKS.
At a meeting in Foj't Willem Hendrick, held by his Honor the Governor General
Anthony Colve and the Council of War, June 5"", 1674.
The Maquaes Sachems, who left here on the 22'' of May last past, retm-ned and appeared
to-day before the Council, requesting, that they might now be taken in a yacht to Fort Nassau,
as they had been promised. They ask further, that, as for some time past neither they nor all
other savages have been allowed to remain over night at Willemstadt, this privilege might be
given to them, they being the brothers of the Dutch, also that some orders concerning trade
might be made, so that they could buy as formerly a duffel coat for one beaver and a]l other goods
in proportion. Lastly they promise to remain faithful to the Dutch, their brothers, for all times
and say, that in order to increase their strength and power to resist all enemies, they have drawn
theu' three castles into one. They give hereupon two strings of wampum.
His Honor, the Governor, answered, that according to promise they should be taken to Wil-
lem^tadt by the first yacht going up the river and he gave them a letter, du-ecting the Commis-
saries to show to the Maquaes, as the brothers of the Dutch, all possible favor. As to the high
price of goods, he said, the same was caused by the long and wearisome wars in Europe, but as
soon as peace was reestablished and the Dutch can ship lai-ge quantities of goods from the Father-
land, then they will sell them as cheap to the Maquaes, their brothers, as possible. Three duffel
coats, two packages of gunpowder, about 20 pounds of lead, one pair of socks and a hat was then
given them as a present and highly satisfied they left.
New Yorh Historical Records. 481
Lettee from Goveknoe Colve to Isaac Grevenbaedt Schout at Esopus, direct-
ing HTM TO SURRENDER THAT PLACE TO THE EngLISH. (Novbr. 10, 1674.)
(See N. T. Doc. History III, p. 77)
An Ord". of Attachment on Goveeno" Lovelaces Estate, on Staten-Island.
Whereas I Lave received particular directions and Order from his Royall Higlinesse, to inform
myselfe what Estate, reall or personal!, there is in these Parts, belonging to Colonell Francis
Lovelace, late Governo"' here, and to possesse myselfe of the same, in his Eoyall Highnesse name
and to his use : These are in his Ma'''^^ name to will and require you, forthwith to lay at Attach-
ment upon the Houses and Planta9on upon Stat£ri-Islaiul, lately belonging to Colonell Francis
Lovelace, as also upon the Water Mill sett up by him, and Lands there unto appertaining, to-
gether with the Horses and Cattle which may be found upon the said Island, or any other Goods
there, of the said Coll. Lovelaces, the which shall bee prosecuted by due course of Law, on behalfe
of his Royall Highnesse, against the said Coll. Lovelace, for Moneys and Arrearages of Moneys
or Goods, due unto his Royall Highnesse ; And for so doing, this shall be yo' Warrant, Given
under my hand & Seale in Ifew YorTc, the 12"" day of November, in the 26"" yeare of his Ma"'^
Reigne, Annoque, Domini, 1674.
E. Andros.
To M'' Thomas Walton, Constable upon Staten-Island, who is lo make retume of the Service of
this Attachment, at the next Court of Sessions, to be held at Gravesend.
PETmON OF JiTEIAN ThEUNISSEN AND OTHERS FOE PeEMISSION TO PUECHASE InDLAN
Lands at Katskil.
To the Honorable Schout and Commissaries of Alhany, Hensselaerwych etc
Show with due reverence Jurian Theunissen, Herman van Gansevocrrt and Gerrit Theunissen,
that they, the petitioners, are desirous of purchasing some lands in Katskil, the refusal of which
the Indians, who are very wiUing to sell, have already given them and considering the difficulty to
earn a living by trade or a profession, they intend to settle there themselves with their families
and cultivate and plant the said lands. The petitioners therefore humbly request and pray, to
have liberty given them, to purchase the said lands, promising to submit to all such orders, as are
made in such cases. Awaiting a favorable reply etc they are
Tom' Honors' well-inclined subjects
Jtjei Jan Teijnissen
Hakmen Harmense Gansevooet
The mark of \^ Geeeit Theunissen
made by /J\ himself
{In margine :) The Court refers the petitioners to his Honor, the Governor-General of Wew
York; if his Honor gives them the desired liberty, this Court has no objection to it.
Alhany, December 17* 1674. By order of the Court
Johannes Provoost, Secretary.
61
482 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Miver.
The Govern' doth consent vnto & allow of the within written purchase, Provided the Pur-
ehas''' doe forthwith settle it as they ought & not hinder others by having greater Quantityes,
then they can improve.
A Letter sent to the iNHAsrrANTS of Hurley and Marbleton.
Gent.
I received yo' Letters and addresses of the 4"' of January, and shall not bee wanting in main-
taining every ones just Rights and Priviledges, But thinke I had suiBciently Authorized Capt.
Thornas Chambers as Justice, and Mr. George Hall as Schout in your Towne, as well as Kings-
ton ' Nor do I finde upon due exaniinapon, any ground for yo' late Scruples or Actings ; How-
ever I haverein forc't my former Orders, to the which I do expect a punctuall obedience, for his
Royall Highnesse service, and the good of all the Inhabitants, and that you beware of any Partyes,
factions or discontents, amongst you, which I shall in no ways Suffer. When I come up (which
I hope will bee this Summer) I shall give further Orders, in what may bee then necessary, I am
New York, January Yo' affectionate ffriend
11"' 1071^5 E. Anueos.
A Letter written to the Inhabitants of Kingston at Esopus.
Gent.
I received yo'' of the 2d instant, that all things are well and quiet in yo' Towne, I thank
you for yo' care therein ; I thinke the Magistrates being discharged from their Oathes, is a Suffi-
cient discharge for all others in yo'' Towne ; However, if yo" thinke it necessary, you may appoint
a Generall Towne meeting where M'' Greveraet according to Orders, may declare it to them all ;
As to the Militia, I have appointed Capt. Thomas Chambers, to Command till further Order ;
For the Peace you mention with the Indyans, you will do well to renew it, as hath been Custom-
ary formerly : I do intend to see you this Summer, and give all necessary Orders for yo"' future
good Settlement. I do againe recommend unto you, the carefull exercize of yo"' Charge, and shall
bee ready upon all opportunities for yo"' welfare, to testify my being
NewYorh, January Yo" affectionate ffriend
12"' 167i-5 E. Andeos.
Indian Deed foe Land m Greene Cohntt.
(Fort Orange Records. Vol. Deeds 3.)
Before me, Johannes Provoost etc, appeared an Indian, by the Dutch commonly called Scher-
merhoor?i, who in his own behalf and specially authorized by another Indian, named Siachemoes,
declared in the presence of the Hon"'^ Mr. Gerrit van Slichtenhorst and Adrian Gerritsen, Com-
missaries, that he cedes, transfers and conveys to and for the benefit of Jan Bronh, his heirs and
successors a certain piece of land at Katskil on the northside of the Kil, called by the Indians
Paslcaecq, lying under a hill to the "West of it. Etc etc.
Done at Albany the 25"* January 1671:-5
Gerrit van Slichtenhorst This is the mark (3-Tl f) of the Indian.
Ad?-ian GeiTetsen called Schekmeehooen
In my presence
Johannes Peovoost Secr''
New Yorh Historical Recwds. 483
The Order for keeping the Court at Fordhaji.
The Governo' having given Permission, that the iisuall Coiu-t of the Mannor, should be held
at Fordhmn, according to the Pri\iledges of the Patents, and former Practise, It is Agreed upon,
that the Court sliall be kept at M'. Archers House, on Wednesday come senight next, being the
3" day of March, of which you are to give notice to all Persons concerned, who may have businesse
there ; Dated at jSlew Tarlce, the 18'" day of ffebruary, 1674-5.
r., -., ^. ,;. ^ ^ JVIatthias NicoLLs Seer.
To M'. Rvih^ Gage, Constable of ffordham.
Council Minute. Iiojian Affairs.
At a Coimcell Aprill IG"-, 1675.
Present ■
The Governo"" Mr. Laurence
The Secretary Capt. TF™ Dyre.
The letters from y" Commissaryes at AThamy and Propositions from the Maques Indians to
them w"* the Answer being taken into Considerapon
Resolved, That y" Maques Indyans bee encouraged in their Loyallty & friendship to y"
English & y" French to bee sent to, not to molest them without Cause and forthwith to release
any Hostages they may have of theirs ; Engageing to interpose or help (for due satisfaction to bee
given from y* Maques to the French) upon all just occasions requiring. The ffrench Governo"'
promising the like for y"^ Natives in their Limitts.
That y" Jesuit or other French resideing with the Maques bee sent for to y^ Governo'' at his
Arrivall at Albany, to give an Ace' of his bemg & Actings in those parts and if to Continue, to
give such Assurance, as is proper, for his future Comport.
A Letter sent by the Governo" to the Commissartes and Schout of Axbant,
Aprill the 19^", 1675.
Gent.
I have received yo''' of the 8"" instant, together with the inclosed Copyes of the Maques
Indyans Proposigons and desires, of a continued ffriendship ; To which (as you have already told
them) I shall give effectuall Answers, when I come up; which will he about the beginning of
June, upon my returne from Delaware, where I am now preparing to go ; In the meane time (as
you may have occasion and thinke it necessary) you may further let the Maques Indyans know,
and assure them, that if they bee not wanting themselves, I shall not on my part, in continuance
of the ffriendship, hath been liitherto w"' them, and also Interposing \vith the ffrench, or any other
Neighbour, in any just matter, nor shall suffer any to come to Fsoqnis, Albany and Precincte, or
any other his Eoyall Highnesse Territoryes, for the Prosecution of any Indyans, under the Pro-
tec9on of this Government : And so I jiray be not wanting on yo'' Parte in taking Care that all
Indyans have faire and just dealings in yo^ Jurisdicyon till my arrivall. I am Gent.
Yo' affectionate ffriend,
E. Andros.
484 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
A Letter to Capt. Chambees and George Hall of the 24^" Apeill, 1675.
Gent.
Heer having been a late report of the Murther of two Christians about the S'** day of this
Moneth, between the JS'evisans and Delmvare River, of the which the Governo"' was yesterday-
advertized by L'"^ from thence, sent hither expresse; And the South Indyans of those parts,
having been lately somewhat troublesome to Strangers, and have refused to deliver up the Mur-
derers of those two other Christians, killed by them the last yeare, as they were Travelling this
way, upon p''tence of two of theirs being killed, which wee finde to bee no other then by accident
and through their occasion, I am Ordered by the Governo'' to give you notice thereof, and the
rather for that its also represented to his Hono'', that the Sojpez Indyans are in Combina9on with
them, the truth of which latter report, you are desired forthwith to make inquiry into, and know
of them whether they will concerne themselves with them, m case we should be obliged to use
force, to bring them to Heason, and to retm-ne Answer thereof to the Governo'' by the first con-
venience, or by expresse, if you shall finde occasion ; The Governo' did on the 20"' instant make
a Peace with three Sachems of y* Nevisans and adjoyning, having about 30 in company with
them; And they did also engage, that they would neither assist, Harbo' or have any thing to do
with their Neighbo''Mo the Southward, or any others that might bee our Enemyes; The Gov-
erno'' is resolved for Delaware, either this day senight, or Monday following, accompanyed with
40, or 50 men : As to a Message you may have had from Albany, of the ffrench menacing yo'
Indyans, the Governo'' hath writ to Albany, That hee will not suffer the prosecution of any
Indyans, within his Koyall Highnesse Territoryes, whilst they shall continue under the Protection
of this Governm' ; But if there shall bee occasion, will bee willing to interpose in any Just matter.
This is all at p'"sent from Gent.
Yo'' most humble Serv"^
New York April the 24, 1675. Matthias Nicolls.
A PEOCLAMA90N about tue Indyans and making of Block Houses.
Whereas there hath lately been severall Reports, or rumours spread, of the Indyans Evill
and mischevous intents and readynesse, to execute it against the Inhabitants of this Government,
particularly long Islmid, which hath very much disturbed the mindes and the Lawf ull occupa9ons
of his Ma"''^ Subjects in the same ; And Avliere as upon a strict Examina9on, there appeares no
Evidence or cause for such reports, but the contrary ; These are therefore by the Advice of my
Councell, in his Ma"''' name, to require and charge, all his Ma""' Subjects, of this Government.
Christians and Indyans, that shall know or heare any thing, of such a Publicke nature, forthwith
to repaire and give a full Pela9an thereof, to the next Magistrate, or Cheife Ofiicer, And the said
Magistrate or Officer, to take the Examina9on and give necessary Orders or notice, and send mee
a present Account there of as the thing may require.
And where as it is necessary to keep watch and ward. All Magistrates and Officers, of the
severall Townes & places within this Government, are hereby required to see y'^ same continued,
and punctually performed ; And where there is not a Block House, or some Stockadoed or Palisa-
doed House or Place, That there bee one forthwith fitted, in the most convenient place, in each
respective Towne, for a Retreat to the women and children ; Into which, our ludyan women and
Children, to bee also received & Protected, if they desire it ; And that all our Indyans bee
friendly treated, and have equall Justice, according to Law ; Of which, all Persons are to take
New York Historical Records. 485
notice, and conforme themselves tliere unto accordingly, as they and every one of them will Answer
the contrary, at their utmost Perille : Given under my hand in New Yorke, this 16"" day of
Sept, in the 27"" yeare of his Ma"*^ Keigne, Annoque Domini, 1675.
E. Andeos. S.
To the Mayo' and Aldermen of this City &c.
Council Minute. Encouragement of immigeation : Staten Island Land Matters.
At a Councell August 5"» 1675.
Present ; The Governo"', The Secretary, Mr. J. Lawrence, Capt. Brochholes, Capt. Dyre.
Upon a proposall to give publicli Notice, what Encouragement will bee given to persons, y'
shall come out of Europe hither to inhabit & plant in this his Koyall Highnesses Province.
Resolved, That every Freeman shall have for himself y^ Propor9on of 60 Acres of Land of
Inheritance & for his wife and every child 50 Acres per head and every working servant, that
shall be brought over, shall have each of them 50 Acres after the Expira9on of then- service
according to y" Custome of the Country.
A Copie of this was sent for England by George Jleathcott. '
Staten Island businesse taken into Considera9on.
Ordered that each Lott of New Land upon Staten Island after 3 years, shall pay 4 bushels of
good wheate, encluding Commonage & Meadow. The old Lotts to bee free from any paym', but
what shall bee added to them of new to pay propor9onably.
Ordered, That all persons, who have Warr'" for Land upon Staten-Island doe make applica-
gon to y" Sxirveyo'' to have their Lands laid out in six weeks time after y° Date hereof and y"
Survey to bee returned into y'' Secretaryes office iu the Fort, in Order to their taking out Patents
for y'' same, otherwise y'' Warr'^ to bee voyde.
That eight rod be layd out for a Highway for Outdrifts and by y" Sea Side six Lotts to
joyne together.
Ordered, That all improveable Uplands being layd out, the Meadow ground to be layd out
next proportionably.
That somewhat of Improvem' be made by each person in one yeare, an Improvement accord-
ing to Law in three.
The Neck of Land Capt. Billopp is upon, is judged to bee about 1300 Acres.
Ordered, That he have the whole Neck allowing halfe to be divided into Lotts, y^ rest to be
allowed for Commonage, so to be entyre unto him, but then he to have no Commonage upon y'=
rest of y'' Island ; — That a Survey thereof be made to know the true Extent.
By the Governo". Instructions for the Commissartes of Schanectade.
1 You are to keep Court, the second Tuesday in every Moneth, and oftner (if there be occasion)
to which all Persons are to have free accesse, and all Cases to be heard and determined Publickly
and impartially.
2 You are to Act in the Administra90u of Justice, according to Law and former Pi-actice, not
486 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Kepugnant to the Laws of the Government, and to determine definitively, to the vahie of 40
Gilders Beavers ; Above which, to admitt an Appeale to the Court at Albany, and in Crime, you
are to Judge as farre as putting in the Stocks, or ffine, not exceeding fforty Guilders Beaver.
3. Tou are Authorized to make necessary prudenciall Ord", or by Lawes, which are to bee ob-
served, but presently sent to the Comander at Albany ; And if not otherwise determined, or dis-
approved, to bee of fforce, till the next Gen''" Court, when (if not confirmed) to bee void, if con-
firmed to continue till the next Gen^" Court after that, or Order from the Governo' Gen^".
4 You are not to make or Raise any CotisaQon or Taxes, on the Inhabitants, without the approba^on
of the Govern o' Gen''" unless in Case of emergent occasion or necessity, with the knowledge and
consent of the Commander at Albany ; And all Taxes or Le^^es, to bee yearly accompted for, at
the next Gen^" Court, and then sent to the Governo'^ for his approba^on.
5 The Gen"" Court is to consist of the Commander at Albany, and five or more of the com-
missaryes of Albany and Colony of Renslaerswyck, and two or more, of the Commissaryes of
Schanectady, to meet and sitt once a yeare, to begin the first Wednesday in Jime, and to deter-
mine all Cases under five hundred Guild'■^
6 As per Instructions at Albany, you are not to Suffer any Traders, or to have any Indyan
Trade, for the Indians in yo'' Towne, nor any Liquo''" to bee sold, but in the Licensed Houses, which
to be Limited as to the Indyane, not to exceed one or two Drams, and Beer to refresh them, under
Penalty of forfeiting all such Trade and Drinke in the Houses, and further ffine or Punishment,
by you, or the Court at AJhany, (if above 40 Guilders) as the Case may deserve.
7 The Gen"" Com-t is to Choose yearly, two Commissaryes of Albany and Renslaerswyck, and
one of Schanectady, to go to Yorlce, and Assist at the Gen"" Court of Assiiies there. Given
under my hand at Schanectady, this 30'" August, 1675.
E. Andkos.
CoTTNCELLS OpnnONS CONCERNING CoLL. NiCHOLLS PATTENT AND InDIAN PUEOHASES.
The Land Called N. 7ork & other parts in America now called N. East Jersey, was first
Discovered by Sebastian Cobhitt a Subject of England in King Henery y' T"' time about 180
years Since & afterwards further by S''. Walter Raleigh in y^ Reign of Queen Elis. and after him
by henery Hudson in y'' Reign of Ejng James and also by the Lord Delaware & begun to be
planted in y'' year 1614 by Dutch & English the Dutch placed a Govemour there but Upon
Complaint made by the King of England to y" States of Roland the s"" States Disown'd y" Bisness
& Declared it was only a private Undertaking of y* West India Company of Amsterdam. So y*
King of England Granted a Comison to S''. Edward Layden* to plant these parts Calling them
New Albion & y^ Dutch Submited themselves to y* English Goverm'. but in King Charles y* 1"
Reign y® troubles in England breaking forth the English not minding to promote these New
plantations because of y° troubles y" Dutch pretended to Establish a Gover' there again untill.y®
year 1660 when afterwards it was Reduc'd under y^ English Goverm* & included & Ratifyed in
y° peace made between England & Holland then it was granted to y" Duke of Yorh 1664 who
y" same year Granted it to y' L'' Barchley & S' George Cartrett betwixt y" Dukes Grant to y^
L'* BarcTdy <& S"' George Cartrett and Notice there of in Atnerica Severall persons took Grants
of Lands from Coll. Nicolls y° Dukes Goven''. Severall of y* planters have purchased of y° In-
dians but Befuse to pay any acknowledgment to y® Kings Grantees.
* Ployden, Knight, Earl-Palatine of New-Albion. See N. Y. Col. Doc. I. 289.
JSfew Yorlc Historical Records. 487
Q: 1^' Wither y* Grants made by Coll. Nlcolls are good ag' the Assigns of y° L'' BercMey
& S'^ George Cartrett.
Q : 2°'* Wither the Grant from y* Indians be Sufficient to any planter without a Grant from
y® King or his Assignes.
A us. 1^' To y'' first Question the Authority by which Coll. Nicholls Acted Determined by y"
Dukes Grant to y" L'' Berckly & S' George Cartrett & all Grants made by him Afterwards (tho
according to y° Comison:) are void for y® Delegated power w** Coll. Nicolls had of making
Grantes of y® Land could Last no Longer then his Ma"'' Intrest who gave him y' power & ye
having or not having notice of y° Dukes Gi'ant to y' Lord Berckly & S' George Cartret makes no
Difference ia y"^ Law but y'' want of Notice makes it Great Equity y' y" present proprit"^' Should
Confirm Such Grants to y" people who will Submit to the Conssions & payments of the present
proprioters Quitt rents other wise they may Look Upon them as Desseizers & treat them as such.
Answ. To the 2'' Question by y'^ Law of Nations if any people make Discovery of any
Country of Barbarians the Prince of y' people who make y*' Discovery hath y* Right of y' Soyle
& Goveim' of y' place & no people can plant there without y* Consent of y*" Prince or of Such
Persons to whom his Right is Devoulved & Conveyed the Practice of all Plantations has been
according to this & no people have been Suffered to take up Land but by y° Consent & Lyceuce
of y^ Gov' or proprietors under ye princes title whose people made y* First Discovery & Upon
their Subraition to y'^ Laws of y" Place & Contribution to y" Publick Charge of the place & y"
payment of Such Rent & other Value for y"^ Soile as y" Propriet" for y" time being Require and
tho it hath been & Still is y"^ Usuall Practice of all Propriet" to give their Indians Some Recom-
pence for their Land & So Seems to Pm-chase it of them yet y' is not done for want of Sufficient
title from y' King or Prince who hath y' Right of Discovery but out of Prudence & Christian
Charity Least otherwise the Indians might have destroyed y^ first planters (who are usually to few
to Defend themselves) or Refuse all Commerce and Conversation w"" }'" planters & thereby all
hopes of Converting them to y° Christian faith would be Lost in this the Common Law of England
and y" Civill Law doth agree and if any Planter be Refractory & will Insist on his Indian Pur-
chase and not Submit to this Law of Plantations y" Propri'* who have y" Title Under y' Prince
may deny them y° benefit of y^ Law & Prohibitt Comerce with them as Opposers & Enemys to
y^ Publick peace. Besides tis Observable y' no man Can goe from England to plant in an English
Plantation without Leave from y^ Goverm' & therefore in all Patents & grants of Plantations
from y" King a Particular Lycence to Carry Over Planters is ineerted w""*" Power in Prohibitting
is now in y* Proprie" As y" Kings Assigns, and therefore tho Some planters have purchased from y®
Indians yett having done Soe without y® Consent of y^ Propriet" for y" time being y® title is
good against the Indians but not against the Propriet" without a Confirmation from them
upon the usuall terms of Other Plantations.
"W" Leck — Jo. Holt —
W" Williams — W" Thomson
Jo. HoLLES — Rich" Wallop
John Hotle Hen. Pollexfen
A true Coppy.
Garvin Lawkie.
Rob'^ West
488
Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Assessment Roll of West & East Chester in 1675.
Parsons
horses.
Oxen.
Cows.
3 yr. oW.
2 yrs.
lyr.
Swine.
land.
Meadow.
Sheep.
Henry Gardener
1
0
3
0
3
1
2
4
8
0
Isaac DUarman
0
0
3
0
3
1
2
4
12
0
Will"" Shippard
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Joseph Tailor
1
0
3
1
0
2
1
5
6
0
John Wintar
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
—
—
-
John Ginby
4
4
6
3
3
3
3
20
23
4
Joseph Palmar
1
2
3
4
2
3
4
6
24
6
Samuel Palmar
0
2
2
2
0
0
3
14
13
0
Pich'' Oziufi
1
2
3
2
2
4
1
3
12
0
Widow Plat
0
0
4
0
0
0
2
9
0
0
Thomas Mulcucx
2
8
8
6
3
6
4
14
22
10
Ward Hulard
1
2
2
2
0
1
2
15
13
2
John Turnar
1
0
2
0
0
3
0
5
6
0
Nicies Bayly
0
4
6
1
3
2
10
8
15
0
Robt. Huested
1
0
2
0
2
2
0
19
17
0
John Wily
0
0
4
2
0
1
2
3
6
0
Tom. Seabruch
2
0
6
3
0
3
2
5
12
0
John Firis
2*
4
6
1
1
6
5
2
50
10
Timothy Wintar
0
0
3
0
1
1
1
2
5
0
Nathan Bayly
1
0
1
0
1
2
0
2
3
0
James Pyly
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
—
—
-
John HitchcocTcs
1
2
1
0
1
1
3
0
6
-
Pic¥ Pontun
1
4
5
2
0
1
3
5
18
0
TF™ Colard
3
0
2
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
Thos Farington
0
2
4
0
0
2
0
2
6
-
TJios. Vaill
1
2
3
2
2
0
0
6
8
0
Edward Watars
0
4
4
2
3
1
3
20
20
6
Miles 0. Kely
0
0
2
2
0
1
0
4
4
8
DiricTc Garitson
1
0
1
1
0
1
0
3
6
5
Joseph Himt
2
2
5
0
2
2
2
7
10
0
John Hunt
0
2
4
2
2
2
4
6
8
4
Francis Peats
1
0
1
3
1
1
1
5
0
0
Considax Wood
1
0
3
1
4
0
5
3
12
0
Thos. Hunt S"
3
5
6
4
6
6
6
15
30
9
John Forgasonn
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
—
—
-
BoV Maning
2
2
8
6
7
5
2
6
60
0
Thos. Hunt J^
1
4
4
5
4
1
2
8
20
0
John Richard
-
-
_
-
_
-
-
—
—
-
Tom Baxter
0
2
3
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
John Palmar
1
2
3
0
3
0
6
0
12
0
Josiah Hunt
2
0
5
1
1
4
0
4
6
0
Westchester
Sept
the 12'" 1675
By mee Edward Watars
JSfew Yoi'Ti Historical Records.
489
Parsons
horses.
Oxen.
Cows.
3 JT. old
2 yrs.
1 yr. Swine.
land.
Meadow. Sheep
Samuel Drake
-
i
3
3
2
2 3
14
12
Sam Drake J^
1
8
0
0
0
0 0
0
3 0
John Drake
-
-
-
-
-
-
. .
— _
TT'™ Hayden
3
2
4
3
4
1 4
12
12
Moses Hoyt
2
2
8
6
4
1 6
11
15
Naihai^ Tonkins
0
2
3
1
0
0 4
6
6
John Hoyt
2
•i
7
3
0
2 1
15
15
John Jacksonn
2
2
2
2
0
1 7
2
7
John Goden
1
0
3
0
2
3 0
. 2
0
Ebenesar Jones
1
0
3
0
2
1 0
5
8
BicM Hedly
0
0
2
0
0
0 2
0
0
TP" Sqidre
0
2
3
0
2
0 5
0
0
Samuel Ooden
0
0
1
0
0
0 1
4
5
Thomas Sherwod
1
1
1
2
0
0 0
4
4
John Tomkins
0
2
3
0
0
0 1
8
10
Rkh^ Shoot
2
2
4
4
2
2 8
10
15
David Ozhun
2
4
5
1
1
4 10
15
15
Philip Pinkny
1
2
8
0
3
0 9
14
15
John Pijikny
2
0
4
2
2
0 0
5
4
John Helyard
0
0
1
0
0
2 0
0
0
Estchester
The list of John Richardson
Estate foure Oxen Eaig
ht Couese Six three yeare
ouids foure
two yeare oulds three
! yearlings one hors one mare
seven i
swine twenty eakers of meddow three
eakers of upland.
Westchester Yaluation brought in
byM^.
Palmer
Sept 16 — 1675.
Ex rate £22 5sh 8d
An Oed" to M'' George Hall to enquire after Ptiblicke Debts, due at Esopus
Whereas there are severall Publicke Debts, standing out, of Goods exposed to Sale, and other
dues, in and about the Esopus ; These are in his Ma"'^'* name to Authorize you, M' George Hall,
Sheriffe of Esopus, to make diligent enquiry there into, and what shall come to yo" knowledge,
that you cause the same to bee secured, and give mee Acco' thereof ; And for so doing, this shall
bee yo'^ Warrant : Given under my hand in Hew Yorke, this 13'" day of Octob'', 1675.
E. Andros.
Council Minute. Purchase of Indian Lands at Schenectady. Schenectady affairs.
At a Councell Octbr. 15'", 1675.
Present The Governo'
The Secretary, Capt. Dyre,
Mr. Philips.
Sanders Leenderts Glen and Lodovicus Cobez, Schout of Schenechtade, produce (with a request
from their village) severall papers relating to an Indyan purchase &c made Anno 1672, somewhat
62
490 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
before the Surrend'' of this place to y^ Dutch and desire a patent for y" land three miles of each
side of the Eiver.
They desire twelve miles farther, which they pretend to have purchased and make severall
other proposalls.
In answer whereunto, It is resolved as followeth, viz'. To y° first Proposall : That they may
have a Patent for y'' Land about and above Schanechtade, but their apjiearing no leave from y*
Governour to buy the same, nor a full Information of the Premises, It is to be suspended for y°
present, but no one else shall have a Grant for that land before them, In meane time it may con-
tinue in Commons as formerly .
The boweryes or farmes of Schanechtade are to pay for each of them conteyning 20 Morgans
& so propor9onably four Bushells of winter wheate p'' Annum as a quitt Rent.
To y° 2'' concerning their Priviledge of Trade or handling with y® Indyans :
The Governo" Order made above to bee observed.
To y^ 3'^, That they may bee excused y^ paym' of their Bm-gers Packt or Excise att Albany
& may be admitted to pay it at Schanechtade.
It is Ordered, That y" Packt or Burg'' Excise iipon Liquors for Schanechtade being not well
to be distinguisht at Albany, It is not thought fitt to make any Altera9on therein, but those of
Schanechtade may have liberty to take anothers Burgers Packt at home, over & above y* former
for drinke, that shall come there, as is practised at Alhany, the which to be disposed of by the
Magistrates for publick Charges, they being aceomptable for y° same to y" Generall Court at
Albany, as for any other their publique moneys, so to be sent to y" Governour for his appro-
ba9on.
To'y" ■i"', That they may have leave to impose a tax or Quotization to pay present Debts or
defray publick Charges.
Ordered, That y'' Magistrates of Schanechtade shall at this time have liberty to impose and
levy upon y* Inhabitants there the 300"' penny for those uses.
To y° last, That they may have a peculiar Seale for their own particular affaires relating to
their Towne.
It is likewise graunted and that a Seale shall be made and sent them with j'" first Convenience.
Lett* feom the Gov.eno* to Esopus, &c :
Gent.
I have just now received yo'^ of the IG"* Instant, and think you have done well to putt yo'-
selves in a fitting posture for all Events, & securing the Goods & Conxe of yo' Out-ffarms, w'^'" is
also done in these parts, where all is quiet, but have a Rumour, That Stanford Indyans are in
Arms, but have done noe harm : However It's thought they have noe good Intent in it. I doe
not know that I have any Brass Gunn of yours, but if you have Occasion shall notwithstanding
bee ready to send you one or more such Iron Gunns as are here, the least of which is a Small
Saker ; and if I can will gett and fitt up a Petrara for Capt. Chambers, having none in the Ifort
ready, & the Sloop in hast not to loose their Tide. I am
To"' affec'"^ ffriend
N. Torhe Octob. 19*\ 1675. E. Andeos. S.
New York Historical Recm'ds. 491
Tuesday y® 27"" instant is appointed a day of Humiliation and Prayers to Allmighty God for
the continuance of his Blessings to us ; which day is to bee punctually observed thorow the whole
Governm', & for which you are to give Orders accordingly.
Letter to the Governo" of Maktland.
1 writt to yon lately by a Ketch of this place, giving you an Acco' of ray return from
Albany^ & state of things here, ife of my Engaging Maques & Sinnehes, not anyway .s to injure
any Christians to the Eastward, & particularly in yo'' parts Southward, in their "Warrs with the
Susquehanna's ; but others apprehending it would bee difiicult to restrain those People, especially
Young Men, when soe farr abroad, & Opportunityes, I did endeavor to bee rightly informed of
things relating to that "Warr, & found that the SusquehanncC s being reputed by the Maques of
their Off-Spring, that they might bee brought to joine Peace, or Concorporate again, and soe take
away the Occasion of those Mischiefe or Inroads, though I find still the Sinneques wholly adverse
to it ; desiring their Extirpa9on, but hearing now of Indyan Troubles w'^'' hath lately occasioned
raising fforces in yo' parts, I have sent this Bearer expresse to wait on you herewith ; And if it
bee by the Maques or Sinneques againe to offer you my Service according to my former and this
Letter, which I hope & beleeve may bee effectuall, if taken in time. And therefore pray yo''
Answer & Kesolves as soon as may bee : And if you think good would desire some from the
Susquehannas to come to mee as soon as can bee, that so [ may Order Matters accordingly. "Wee
are (I thank God) very quiet, not the least stirr or Attempt on any part of the Government.
However have made all flitting Preparation for all Events. I am
S'. Yo' Most humble Servant
N. Torlce Octob' Sl'^' 1675. E. Andros.
Council Minute. Indian Affairs. Esopus.
At a CoimceU Oct"' 24* 1676.
Present
The Governor
The Secretary Capt. Dyre
Mr. Fred. FMllips.
*# * * ** ***
Letteis being brought from y" Commissaryes at Albany by Mr. Kiiaptoii, who had been
Commander there, concerning a peace newly made or renewed by them at the ffort betweene y°
Maques and MaJdcanders Indyans, though without leave. It is Ordered to be kept. It is likewise
Resolved, That there be at this juncture a prohibition of selling powder & lead to any Indyans
whatsoever at Albany, Unlesse it be to y" Maques & Sinners, The same to be under y^ penalty
of one hundred Guild" beaver for each quarf of a pound & so propor^onably for more or lesse or
Corporall punishment, extending to life as the Case may require ; Except allowed by the Com-
mander himselfe under his hand to some adjacent Mahicander Indyan well knowne to himselfe
or Magistrates, the quantity of one quarter of a pound for y" present hunting or to some few such
Indyans, who shall be knowne by thenr to be designed for y^ beaver hunting, who may by the said
492 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Commander be allowed one pound with Lead Propor9ionable. This Prohibi9on to continue for
y° space of six months after this date.
It is also Ordered & Resolved, That y* like Ord"^ be sent up to Esojnis, Only the alteration of
the words {Mutatis Mutandis) Instead of y" Comander the Justice or Cheife Officer to be incerted.
Upon y^ receite of a letter from y° Esopxis, relateing their great apprehension of y^ Indyans,
It is Resolved, That y^ Magistrates there be checkt for their needlesse feares and they are all
ordered to keep at their usuall habita9ons & places of abode, both at y' distant Villages & Out-
farmes, untill more apparent Cause to y° Contrary.
Ordered, That y" Magistrates doe give a present Ace', what is meant by the Indyans offering
to deliver up y'^ Articles made betweene Coll. Nicolls and them and who spake of it first, whether
private persons amongst the Indyans or Sachems. The Agreera* in y' said Articles sett forth
having been renewed with those Indyans this very Spring and themselves having no authority to
alter or make either Peace or Warre, nor to treate of either in y^ least, but to do their dutyes in
continuing things as they are.
Petition of Inhabitants of Tonkees, peaying to be excused feom joining the
PEOPLE of FoEDHAM IN CASE OF AN InDIAN INVASION.
To the Right honorable Edmund Andros Esq'' Gov'' Gen" under his Royal Highnesse of all
his Territoryes in America.
The humble petipon of John Heady Inhabitant of the place called Yonkers
Land, on the behalf of him and his neighbours consisting in 4 Familyes.
Sheweth with all Submission yo' hono" Pef living at a distance of a Long mile from the
Towne Fordham as that being comanded by M"' John Archer proprieto'' of the said Towne Ford-
ham, to come hee and his neighbours into his Towne and there to make Such Fortificagons as hee
Shall order. But yo' bono''' Pef^ and his neighbours being removed from the said M' Archer his
Towne above a mile, and we being strong enugh (or thought so) to resist this heathenish warr,
having a good and Strong blockhouse : And to remove and retire their Selves to Fordham
Should bee but an occasion of prey to the Heathens.
Therefore it's yo' bono" Pet" humble Request that hee and his Neighbours may not bee
bound to leave their houses, and goods and to please the humours of the said M'' Archer and
thereby perhaps to loose all what they have : But that yo"' bono'' bee pleased to graunt to yo'
bono" Pet" and to his Neighbo" to joyne togather and to make Such defences as (with the helpe
of God) to Secure them Selves.
Yo' bono'''' Pet" and neighbours being at all tymes ready to be helpfull to their neighbours
in a Christian way, Shall expect from yo' bono'' an order which shall be observed from
Yo'' bono" hiimble Pef'
"Which shall euer pray.
No*"- 8, 1675.
Ordered &c.
Whereac a petipon hath been presented unto the Governo'' by John Heddy on the behalfe of
hiraselfe & the other Inhabitants upon the plantation at Tounckers Land that in regard of their
distance from the Village of Fordham, & their having for the defence of their wives & children
already a wooden Blockhouse at their owne plantations & they may be excused from the giving
assistance to their neighbours at Fordham about their Fortifications, These are to certify that
New YorTc, Historical Recoi'ds. 493
Inhabitants upon the Younckers land are by the Go : order excused from any further worke at
Fordham they being vigilant at their owne place and keeping watch iipon all occasions.
Dated in N. Y. this 8 : day of Nov. 1675.
Copies of Certificate given by mee to John Heddy by the Governour to excuse them from
workinar at John Archers Fortification.
A Letter weitten to the JVLaqisteates at Esopus.
New Yorke, January 6"* 1675-6
Gent.
I rec"* both Yo" of the 25"" past, and am glad you are quiet, and in so good a posture for all
Events, in w* I pray continue yo'' vigilancy, And that no Christian show any apprehen(;on of
feare or Danger ; You'l do well as you menpon, and as is usuall, to send to the Iiidyan Sache-
macks, for confirming the ffreindship, according to the Agreement : The weather hath been so
hard, that wee have not heard anything from the Eastward, almost this three weekes ; When a
Ship from London, was arrived to Road Island, and some others there bound to this Place ; As
also a Boston Army &c marcht against the Narrogansett Indyans, who are reported to have
great Success, but no certainty ; I doubt not but will heare from time to time, from Albany,
according to which, you are to Order yo' selves in this Juncture, giving mee notice upon all occa-
sions. I Pray faile not to take care of the Wheat, which I am to have upon M'' Minvieles Acco' ;
As to the Dutch Debts, I can determine nothing in it, until! I see you, or have a more particular
Ace' of the same ; I doubt not y"' care, and then (God willing) all will do well with you, remaining
Yo"^ loving ffriend
E. Andros.
Council Minute. Westchester Indians. Indian War.
At a Councell, Feb' 26'" 1675-6.
** * * * * «*
Present :
The Governo'
The Secretary Capt Dyre
Mr Fred. Philips.
Upon reading Governo" Coddington's letter and Considera9on of other letters & retumes of
messages from other Colonyes :
Resolved, That it is not adviseable at this jimcture to make any application or send any
friendly message to y^ North Indians, but if they apply themselves, not to refuse hearing of them,
The other Colonyes viz' y° Massachxisetts, Conecticott & PUmouth principally engaged in y«
Warre not having made us acquainted with their concernes and some of them slighted our
friendly tenders, to continue our Endeavours as Christians and y" Kings subjects, for y^ good of
this Governmen' without fixrther application to the said Colonyes.
Eesolved, That y" Governour goe forthwith to Albany to settle matters there, It being of
very great import.
494 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
That y* Wickerscreek Indyans, if they desire it be admitted with their wives & children, to
plant upon this Island, but no where else, if they remove & y' it be upon y^ North point of y*"
Island neare Spiting Bevill ; The s"" Indyans to be protected comporting themselves as they
ought and all our other Indyans round, doing y" like, to be assured of Protection.
That a letter be written to y® Govern' of Roade- Island to acquaint him with y^ Govern"
o-oing up to Albany to take order there, having notice of y° Maques Indians being moved in
a warrelike manner against y* North Indians : That y' Govern' hath not time to write now in
answer to y" particulars of his letter, but shall have all due regard to them, of w"'' he shall give
him an Act at his returne.
Oeder DrRECTiNs LiECT. Geeeit Teunise to pursue Phillipp or other Noetu Indians.
By the Governour,
You are hereby authorised and required, with the Indian Guide order'd w"" you, forthwith
to s:oe eastward, & the furthist pairt of the Governm', or as farr as Caneticut river, to iinde out
Phillip or other north Indians, Lately within this Governm' and Lett him or other Sachems or
Commanders iu Chief know, y' having heard of there being in Warrlike Posture, intruded and
brought some Christian Prisoners in our Pairts, I have therefore sent you to demand the said
Christian Prisoners, brought by them into this Governm', and to Command and forewarne them,
from, or returning into any Pairt, of the Government, or Confines. If they should be divided,
into severall partys or Parts, you are then as you see cause, and have opportunity, to goe to each,
but to make no Longer stay, in any, then to deliver your messadge, and receive Such Prisoners as
they shall deliver, and refresch and rest your self, and without delay to return and make the best
of your way to me. Given under my hand and Seall in Albany the 4"^ March 1675-6.
"Was signed E. Andross.
Aggrees w"' y' Principall, Quod attestor
P. Livingston, Seer.
To Gei^rit Teunisse Leift to Cap'. Volekert.
Council Minute. Exajviination of "Westchestee Indians as to theie intention
TO join King Philip.
Present : Comand'' Brockholls etc.
March 29'\ 1676.
The Indyans of Wickerscreeke having beene sent to the 27"" ins' come now this day here.
Their names are Wissakane & Amone the two Sachems Sent for to come.
The occasion of their sending for was upon a Letter from y'= Go : intimating a mistrust of
them by report above.
M'. Sam. JEdsall Interpret'.
The matf being told them by the Interpret' they deny to have said or thought of joyning or
treating with North Indians or others not friends to this Governm', under whose protection they
desire to live, according to their Engagement w"* y'^ Gov.
The Sachems had each of them a Councell with them, without whom they were not willing
New Yorh Historical Recoi'ds. 495
to speake. They declare rather to Suffer either by Cliristian or Indyan, before they stirr then to
offer any harnie to any they desiring to Hve quietly.
They promise when they certainely know of any disturbance or like to bee, tliey will give
notice to y' Go. & they hope to have notice from hence of any hurt intended against them, and
they promise to bee true to their Engagem' to 3''^ Go. They desire as before fronr ]V[^ Philips to
have leave to come upon this Island & here about Oystering.
They are promist to have a Note to certify that they have liberty, behaving themselves as
they ought.
They desire liberty to send some young men with Canoes to M''. Pells for the Remainder
of their Corne, (having had but one halfe from thence already) efe to fetch about halfe a dousen
old men, women & boys from Greenwich that they left behind them. They are told, wee shall
speake to y" Govern'' about it but referre it to y" Go., who wee dayly expect. They say they shall
stay till then, when they will come againe.
Upon their friendly Comport, & foe that they came so willingly being sent for. They are pre-
sented with a Coate for y* 2 Sachems.
They pretend not to expect or desire them, their hearts being good without them, but they
being desired to accept of them for that reason receive them.
The.y are appointed to goe to Thmnas Laurens the baker on Pearle Streate to stay all night.
An Okdek about the out Faumes belonging to Hurley and Maeble-Towne at Esopus.
Whereas there are severall Farmes on Planta9one, belonging to Hurley and Marliletowne, in
Esopus, Seated Scatteringly, beyond or over that River or Kill, which not being convenient at
any time, and a Gen"" inconvenience, prejudice and great Charge, to all the Inhabitants of those
parts, to maintaine an extraordinary ffence, many Miles Long ; And the said Farmers or Planters
Houses, being also very uniitt and Beggarly ; I have therefore (by Advice of my Councell)
Ordered, and do hereby give notice, that all such ffarmers or Planters do with all convenient expe-
di9on, remove and provide themselves convenient Houses, within the said Townes of Hurley or
Marble-Towne ; And that no Cattle bee turned loose over the River, on Penalty of forfeiting the
same; And the Magistrates and Officers of Esopus are required to cause this Order to be Pub-
lished, put in Execution, and duly Observed ; Given under my hand in Nem Yorhe, this 10'" day
of April, 1676.
£. Andkos, S.
To the Magistrates of Esopus, to bee forthwith Published and put in Execution.
MmuTE OF A Tisrr to the Governor of tvvo Wiokeescreek Sachems.
Aprill 14, 1676.
There appeared the two Sachems of the Wickerscreek Indyans that were here last in y^ Go :
absence.
They desire to know of the Go : how matters above at AVf are with y° Indyans, for that
they have had no News of it. The Go: tells them that when hee came up hee found the
496 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Maques returned from following y^ North Indyans, that the MaMcan^' were fled, but hee sent
to them to come backe & that one of y'= MahicarV" going over being taken by the Maques hee
demanded him & being delivered sett him free, that some of them were come backe upon the Go.
promissing the protection if they should come, & stay if they wanted land that hee would supply
them. That hee left all well there.
That the Gov. coming at the Esopus the Sachemackers were with him — & all things were
well there also, & that some of them desiring land by the Hedouht Creek the Go : consented to
it. They pretend they would come upon this Island or any where neare, but being neare y'
Christian plantations their Cattle & horses would allways bee trespassing upon them.
Its answered if they receive Injury they may complaine & shall bee relieved. They are
expected to finde out some Necke easy to secm-e either upon this or Lo7ig Island. They pause
upon it ; After desire to joyne w"' the Stamford Indyans & to plant upon a Neck at Wickerscreeke
together & that they may have liberty to fetch some come from Stamford that they left, Its a
fallacy, & in no way belongs to them, they are offered all freedom of fishing or Oystering any
where hereabouts.
Their farme at Stamford is offered to bee bought. They will come again 10 days hence.
Minute of a meeting held with Watattanoc, Wickeesceeek and Stamfoed Indians.
Apr. 27, 1676.
Present — The Councell, the Mayor & Some of the Aldermen & others of w'" 2 Justices.
Severall Indyans appeared before the Governo'' in the Fort.
They say they belong to a place called Wayattano, at the head of Stratford River, with them
were some of Wickerscreeke & some Stamford Indyans. The Sagamore of Wickersecreeke, Wes-
secanoe came with them. They declare themselves to bee good friends & desire to continue so
& make a present of about ten deere skin, a beare skin & 4 small beavers, given at three times
repeating their desire of friendship, The Governo' accepts of it, & promises protection to them
within this Governm' but will not undertake any thing w"" out.
That hee had heard from the Wickerscreeke Indyans that they are good Indyans, & now finds
them so, & they may have all friendship & freedom here, so long as they behave themselves well.
The Governo' presented them with three Sachems Coates, one to the Wickerscreeke Sachem,
the other two to the two cheife from Stratford river.
Council Minute. Indian Affairs.
At a Councell, May y» 29'S 1676.
** * * * * ***
Ordered, That all North Indyans, that will come in may be protected & a stop to be put to the
Maques farther prosecuting s* North Indyans.
At a Councell May 30'", 1676.
Eesolved, The Govern' being intended for Albany the next weeke & Capt. The. Delavall
being now goeing up. That he be desired & authorized as soon as hee arrives there, to communi-
cate it to Serg' Sharpe, the present Command', & with said Sharjpe, by means of Arnold^ the
* Arnold Cornelissen VJele, for many years a famous Indian interpreter. Ed.
New Yorlc Historical Recoi'ds. 497
Intei-preter, send word to the Maqxies and Sennehes of y" Govern'''' said coming and that he desii'es
& Orders, that some of them will meete him there and particularly Carriconty ; The said Mes-
sage to be sent by a Maques from Albany, who is to be well paid and no further menc^on to any
others or talke thereof at Albany ; Also to send word by some good Mahicander Eastward (who
is likewise to bee rewarded), that all Indyans, who will come in & submitt, shall be received to
live under the protection of the Government and that the Govern' will bee there as afore, where
any of them may fi-eely come and speake with him and returne againe, as they see cause without
Molestation.
Memorand". That the ffrench do receive North Indyans under their Protection, and its
said, that five hundred of them are already there.
That the Governm' of Conecticutt hath likewise made an order, at their late Gen"" Court,
That any Indj'ans, that will come in, shall be received, have land assigned them & be protected
under their Government.
Minute of esttervtews between the Governor and StrsQUEHAimA Indians.
At a Meeting in the Fort of some Susquehamna Indyans from Deleware
the head of y° Bay & those parts, having beene sent for by the Gv :
June 2"'' 1676.
Conacheoweedo, 1 ^ ^.^^^^^^^^
bneeao. j
Jacolj The Go. tells them they are welcome & Iiee is glad they have come hither to see
LooeJcermoM him, & saith that if hee can doe them or any of their Nation Courtesy bee will
Interpret doe it. They are told that if they will come & live any where within the Gov-
Mr. Edsall ernm' the Go : will protect them, but cannot undertake it at great distance,
also pros* but The Governou'' saith he hath spoken to the Maqus already about them, and
understands they told him these were their brothers & children.
them not well The Governo"' bids them to thinke w' hee can doe for them with the Maques
nor Mr. Stej)?), : now at his going up, (w'='' will bee in few days). That having heard a good Ee-
V. Cortland. port of them hee is sorry from his heart of their trouble, and would willingly help
They speake them out.
Maques. They are wish* to goe eate & Drinke & thinke upon w' they have to say, &
come againe tomorrow. They are told further that if they are afraid & not well where they are,
if they will come into this Governm', they shall bee welcome & protected from their Enemys.
That the Go : will take Care the Maques & Sinnekes shall bee at peace with them & will also
make peace for them with Virginia & Maryland.
The Go : gave the 2 Sachems 2 Coates & to eate & drinke.
June 3" 1676.
The same Indyans appeared againe They being demanded what they now have to say. They
answer that they now have no mind to goe up to AW" but to returne to the Sauth River, to their
folkes.
The Go : saith it is well & further tells them that the Maques shall doe them no hurt, for he
hath spoken with the Maques about them already, & they have promised it, calling them their
brothers & Children & if they will they may goe & live with them.
63
498 Colonial Settlements on the Hudmn River.
The Go: asks tliera if tbey will goe & speake with their owue Nation about it & return an
Answer.
They say they are but two so can give no other answer than that they will goe to the rest of
their people. & tell them what the Go. said & will returne with an answer.
The 2 Sachems will returne themselves. They say they will when they come againe bring
some present with them to appeare like themselves.
The Go. tells them its no matter bee hath heard a good Report of them, & they shall bee
welcome whether they bring anything or not.
The Go : saith further that they should' say whether they will come into the Govemm' or no,
if they will not it is well, if they will bee wiU make provision for them, & they shall bee pro-
tected & welcome. So that when they return Tbey should make answer whether tbey will come
or no in briefe.
They bad given them to eate & drinke, so they departed well satisfyed.
Minutes of the appeaeance before the Governor of Wickersceeek Indians,
CLAIMING PAYMENT FOE THE YoNKEES LaND.
July 25'S 16Y6.
There appeared Claes the Indyan with others before the Governour and Wickerscreeke
Indvans etc. They pretend not to bee p"" for the Younokers Land. Mr. Delavall produces a
patent to H. Oneale and deed from El. Doughty, the record viewed of the Indyans acknowledge-
ment to have rec* satisfaction, Glaes was then ......
The Go : will speake with Mr. Doughty about it in a few dayes, when bee will answer them
farther.
Council Minute. The Authority of the Sheriff at Esopus defined.
* * * * *
Upon some misunderstanding of the place and power of the Sheriffe at the Esopus, Ordered,
That Capt. Chambers and Mr. Uall have notice, that the Sheriff is the person, who is to see the
Law putt in Execu9on and to apprehend & prosecute any Transgressors, as bee shall see cause,
though not to bee judge in the Case. (August 4, 1676.)
Council Minute. Indian Report of a meditated Invasion by the French.
At a Councell August 8'*' 1676.
Present
The Governo'
The Secretaiy Capt. Brochholes
Capt. Delavall Capt. Dyre.
The Occasion of meeting was upon y* receit of a Letter from the Govern'' of Canada with
New Yorh Historical Records. 499
j^rcs from Albany from the Commaud"' and tlie relation made there by Caniacho, y" llaques
Sachem (who is now come hither) of the approaching of the ffi-euch.
Resolved, To stand by y*' Maques as formerly.
A farther determina(;on to be made, when it is known, w' the Sachem hath to say.
At a Meeting of the Governo"^ and Council, Aug'" y*" lO"" 1676, when
Caniacho, one of the Maques Sachems of the first Castle declared
the occasion of his Coming downe to visitt the GoFerno^
There was another Sachem with him, wliose name was DeJiassiadagareere and some other
Indyans.
The Interpreter was Cornells Arnout, who came downe with them.
Caniaoko tells the having heard strange news above, which caused him to come hither, to be
The news was brought from Canada by an Indyan present with him, named Tayadoras
who related severall things spoken to him by an Interpreter in tlie presence and by Order of the
ffrench Govern'', The most tending to breede a distrust and difference betweeue the Govern'' (who
they call Curler) and y" Maques Indyans.
But Ganiacko declares his not believing those reports, jett iindertook the voyage to know
the truth and now saith he is satisfyed of their falcity and is ashamed of itt, so gave a band of
Sewant on behalfe of the Maques to the Governour.
The GovernT tells them, its a wonder, the Governour of Canada should discourse of things
of so great import to a private Indyan, he being no Sachem, and admires the more it being so
gi'eat an untruth.
The Govern'' acquaints them, that he intends to send up an answer in writing, to shew that
his heart is good and it shall be read to them here hrst.
The Indyan Tayadoras sett his marke in acknowledgement of the truth of what he had related,
the which is more fully and at large amongst y" Relations of Indyan Affaires.
Minutes of the appeaeance befoee the Gov" of Maquas Indyans, eepoeting on
Canada and Noetheen Indyans.
At a meeting in the Fort before the Governour & Councell of some Maquas Indyans vizt,
Caniaco & Dehassiedegareere, Sachems of the 1st Castle, Aug. lO"" 1676. Cornelis Arnout,
Interjjreter.
Caniaco says that they came down to the Go : having heard strange rumours of the war above.
That An Indyan now pres' by name Tayandoras has been att Canada where the Go : there
told him by his Intei-preter (the interpreter's name was Oqueeso in french Moris'^ Le Mon) that
the Go : of iT. Y. was not right and showed him a letter liee had written to him, that when the
war was done with the North Indyans hee would [fall upon] the Maquas and destroy them, that
they had small pres'' given them was only to blind them.
That if . . . not . . . the war with the North Indyans they would have fallen upon
them before now.
That they shall have another great pres given them yet before they be destroyed.
That the Go : of Canada gave Canonondage son of the fourth Castle a packet of lett" which
hee was to deliver with his, but knew not [to] whom they were whether for the father Jesuit or
500 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Rivet:
who else, the Indyaii had gone with a party of twenty more to the southward to fight and has not
come home. . .
[Hee says] that . . . left them some days ago having made p' of the way with . . .
and had some letters from a Jesuit in Canada to the Jesuit above.
That the Go : of Ca/nada was coming with 1000 men to Cat'uraxas, and had three Indyans
w"' them w'"" hee intend to send out one of the Maqas, another of the Onondagxies, another of
ih.Q Huniedes which he intended to send to the . . . Nations to come to them, other . . .
that . . . will fall upon them ... To give warning to the Maqas that they should not
refuse or delay their coming when hee should [come]
The French told him that the Sinnelces liad so well behaved themselves to the Jesuits of
which hee had two letters from them and doubted if yet alive so was now resolved to goe and
destroy the said Sinnelces & Cayugas.
That the Sennekes were upon the way to All^. when hearing these rumours & news returned
backe .... to the Onondagues & IIu .... the pres' of
therefore [they had] expressed themselves as they did & they might doe as they pleased.
That hearing these news in the Maqas land, it did very much .... there. That
Curler should prove soe to them, who they took to bee all one their heart & that Coniaco said he
could not believe it, biit would come & see which they approved of, M'here upon hee was come on
the behalfe of all the 4 Castles & therefore desires to know if there bee anything of ... .
which for his aco' he does not creditt. * « * *
* * (Destroyed and illegible.) * *
# * * * * *
The mark of / Tatandoeas.
in acknowledgment of the truth of what he has related.
CanjegTcoo had a blanket given him & the other Sachem & other 2 Indyans which were all
there present each a coat of Duffles.
A Commission granted to the Commissaetes of Schanectade, to keep a Couet
OF JuDICATUEE.
Edmond Andros, Esq' &c.
Upon the returne of a nominaijon of new Magistrates, By vertue of the Authority derived
unto mee, I do hereby in his Ma*'=^ name, constitute and appoint you, Alexander Glen, Sweer
Teunissen, Jan van Eps, Teunis Cornelissen Swart, and Daniel Jansen, to bee Commissaryes of
Schanectade and Dependences, "With Power, (any three or more of you) to keep a Court of
Judicature, the first in nomina9on to preside, and upon Equality to have the Casting Voice, to
heare and Determine all Causes, according to Law and Practice ; And all Persons whom it may
concerne, are required to give you that respect and Obedience, due to yo' Places, in Execu9on of
the Trusts reposed in you ; ffor which this shall bee to you and every of you a Sufficient Warr*.
This Commission to bee of fforce for the space of one whole yeare, or till further Order . Given
under my hand and Scale, in Neio YorTce, this ll"" day of August 1676.
E. Andeos, S.
New York Historical Records. 501
Council Minute. Indian Affairs.
At a Couucell Sept""' S"' 1676
******
A Letter from the Councell of the Massachusetts to the Govern'', desireing that severall North
Indyans, now in this Governm', who have been their Enemyes, may be secured and sent to be
delivered into their hands, The same being taken into consideragon.
Resolved, That it is not proper, but the same Liberty to be used by us, as they take to them-
selves, as there shall bee occasion.
As to any North Indyans, that are or shall bee received by the Mahicanders contrary to
Order, to be still delivered up to the Maques.
A Letter sent by the Goveeno"' Ord" to the Justice of the Peace and Offi-
cers OF Westchester.
Gent.
The Governo'' formerly thought to have sent Boats to fetch down yo' Timber and Stockadoes,
for the wharfe, But so it is, That all the Boates and Sloopes being Employed to fetch Stones, and
the hands of the Towne, in their Dayly worke about that businesse, it cannot bee expected from
hence ; I am there fore Comanded by the Governo'' to Lett you know, that he desires and expects,
that yo" will do yo"' best Endeavo'^% forthw'" to put yo"' Stockadoes «fe Timber (if any left) into
Rafts to bee floated downe, as the Townes of flushing, Jamaica, Hempsteed &c, are engaged to
do ; And you may assure those that are employed about that worke, that they shall have Satis-
faQon for the same. I am also to acquaint you, that though in the time of danger of the Indyans,
the Village of Eastchester was excused from giving their attendance, at the Towne Trainings, at
Westchester, yet now that matter being over, They are to be joyned to the Company as fornferly,
they never being Ordered wholy to be taken from them, but upon such emergent occasion, not to
go farre from their Habitations :
This is all I have in Charge, being
Gent.
Yo'' fEriend and Serv'
M. NiCOLLS.
N. YorTce, Sept.
19'" 1676
For the Justice of the Peace, Constable & Overseers of Westchester, & Dep*'' Constable of
Eastchester .
Council Mintjte. Indian Affairs.
Present At a Councell Oct*' ll'\ 1676.
The Governour
Capt. Brockholes The Secretary
Capt. Dyre Mr. Philips
Capt. T. Delavall
Major {^Robert~\ Treat Dep. Governo'' of Coneoticutt being j^resent,
Proposes, That one or more of y° Maques Sachems may come to some of their Townes to
502 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
renew friendship, That they may acknowledge their kindnesse in assisting them against their
Ennemyes, y" North Indyaus and gratify them.
And that what prisoners of y'^ j^orth Indyans are in this Governm' may be delivered up to him.
Its alleadged the Governo'' received none, till themselves made proclamation to receive all
those, that would come in and that he hath Security for them he hath received.
And that the Maques are our Indyans and are so to be acknowledged and will be of ill Con-
sequence for the Maques to treate or to make application to another Governm', the which Avill
breede a distraction amongst them.
Account of Presents gfven to Indiajt Scouts bt order of Coll. Schuyler.
6"* (Oct.) To the river Indians who had been captured when Jurian was killed and who run
away from the Enemy 2|- ells of Duffles, 1 shirt, 1 pan- Socks, the Duffles belong to mee, and by
order of Coll. Schuyler 2 lbs. of Powder 2 bars of Lead.
6"* (Oct.) To Awans a duffle coat, for his claim, upon the French woman and her child, from
my store by order of Coll. Schuyler.
6"". To WallanscacMes 1 Shu-t, and a pair of Socks by order of Coll. Schuyler.
To Quaqu£ndarous son 1 Kettle, 1 pair Socks, 1 knife, 2 bars of lead, by order of Coll.
Schuyler, because his father had sent him from the Susquehanna river to learn the condition ot
our place.
To Quaqicendarous son before leaving for his country he took along for his father 2 lbs of
powder, 3 bars of lead, and a pair of Socks.
27"^ Nov. Coll. SchuyUr sent to the store for himself for 2 bars of Lead, and 6 lbs Powder.
3"^ Nov. To the Sachim of Kanadagerea Oneidas was given for his endeavors last year to ani-
mate the Oneidds to take possession of their Castle \ lb. of Paint, 1 Shirt, 1 Hat, 1 pair of Socks,
12 bars of Lead, 6 lbs. of Powder, 1 Hatchet from the store.
18"' (Nov.) To Towenjourve and Hendrich who went with the french woman to Canada, each
a shirt, a hat, and a kettle from the store by M'. Banker, for the expedition to Canada, 3 lbs of
Powder, and 3 bars Lead to the same.
IS"'. To the Savage who joined the fire watch a knife, and to another one, also a knife.
Council Minute. Enlargement of the village of Kingston. Indians, Indian
Lands at the Esopus. French Pretensions.
At a CounceU March 12'", 1676-Y.
Upon the request of divers persons from Kingston in Fsopus, that they may have new Letts
laid out for them w'^out the Towne,
It is allowed, That Land shall be laid out for them near the Towne as desired, but their
buildings to be within y'^ Towne and such as want place to build, may pitch upon any vacant, the
which is to be ascertained to them by agreem' or by Order of y^ Magistrates to bee apj)rized as
vacant ground & so paid for, unlesse y" Owner will make like building thereon without delay &
where any Owner undertakes it, y"" party may choose other ground.
New Yorh Historical Hecvrds. 503
Ordered, That all strange Indyans, which come in, may live & be incorporated under y''
Maqrtes, Mahicanders, Ji'sqpus or other our Indyans and bee equally protected.
That a Co})ie of j" Agreem' & purchase made by Governo'' Nicolls be sent up to Esopus and
a perainbulaQon of y° bounds to be gone publiquely by Xtians and Indyans, the better to ascer-
taine them without delay and so a decision in a friendly manner of any Difference, that may
appeare, or not well Exprest.
If the Indyans neare y" Esopus will not sell their Lands together or be unreasonable, they
may keepe it and then particular men may apply to y° Governo'' for parcells, as there shall be
occasion.
Upon propositions from y" Maques sent by the Coinmand"' and Commissaryes at Albany.
That y° Govern"^ of Canada doth pretend some juiisdiction over y^ Maques Indyans.
Ordered, That y" Maques Indyans and Associates on this side y" Lake, (having been alwayes
under a part of this Governm') have nothing to do with y'' ffrench, only as they are our friends,
but in no case are to bee commanded by them ;
And that y" Commissaryes do send for y'' Maques Sachems and Father Bruyas and signify
this to y^ said Sachems before him and to y'' said Father, that y" Govern"" desires and does not
doubt his Comport accordingly, for y" Quiet of those parts pursuant to y*^ Friendship of our Kings
at home.
That y"^ Orders for timber be duly observed att Albany, and all timber not so fell'd and also
barked, (if not sawed in Winter) to be forfieted and if not so sawed, each hundred plancks to pay
two beavers per hundred and passe as refuse ; The Scout to see these Orders observed on Land
and y° Clei-ke of y'' Permitts, if shipt off.
Upon Complaint of severall abuses & disorders
Ordered,
That a Proclamation be issued forth to Inforce y" Law for y'' Prohibiijon of trading Liquors,
Guns, powder and Shott with the Indyans or carrying anything else to trade with them out ot
Towne on any pretence.
No Cannoes whatever to cany Xtians up to Esopus or y'' High Lands without speciall
Lycence.
The Indyans, that shall discover the breaker of y" Law and Orders herein, to have all or the
full value of that w* shall be so sold and those y' shall conceale or not discover it, to foi-fiet y^
like value and to be further punisht, as y° Case may require.
The like for Christians.
A Peoclama^on PEoniBiTiNQ Trade wrrn the Indtans, or going tip Hudson
RrvER IN Canoos.
By the Governo^
Whereas many disorders and mischiefe (and likelyhood of greater) have lately hapned by
Christians Trading with Indyans, contrary to Law, in Indyan Townes or Planta9ons, or abroad
in the Country or Rivers ; These are therefore by the advice of my Coimcell, in his Ma'"=^ name,
to require all Magistrates, Officers, or persons whatsoever, to bee very vigilant in their Dutyes
therein, that no person or Persons, Vessell, Boat or Canooes, do on any pretence, by Land or
Water, Trade with any Indyans, on penalty to forfeit the same, and to bee further proceeded
504 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Kiver.
against, according to Law ; And also, That after Saturday the 14^'' of Aprill next, no Canooe or
small Boat, go, or passe up IIudso?is Rivei\ to Esopus, or the High Land, without speciall
Licence, on like penalty ; And such as shall presume to do it, to bee secured with their Goods,
Canooes or small Boats, and safely conveyed to the Sheriffe of this City, or present notice given,
that they bee proceeded against as above, when the discoverer shall have all the said Goods, or value
allowed them, and any Sachem or Indyan, to have the like forfeiture for discovery ; But if any
Christian or Indyan do know and coneeale, or not discover the same as above, and can bee con-
victed thereof within one yeare, they shall bee proceeded against as principalis, and any that make
resistance as Criminalle, Of which all persons are to take notice at their perills ; This to bee of
force for the space of one whole yeare, from the 14"' day of Aprill next ; Actum in New York,
that 14"" day of March, in the 29"" yeare of his Ma"''" Eeigne, Annoque Dom. 1676-7.
E. Andeos, S.
OeDEK in CoUNCtt, DIRECTING THE MoHAWK InDIANS TO DESIST FEOM MAKING WAK
UPON Eastern Indians, with a letter from Gov" Andeos.
By the Governo"' and Councell in New York, March 28''', 1677.
Upon Intelligence, To prevent any Mischiefe that may happen betweene y" Maques and
English forces Eastward.
Resolved & Ordered ;
That y** Maques have J^otice & Order given them to send no more partyes farre Eastward
beyond our bounds, but recall such as are already out, till y' Governo'' can so settle things there,
that they may be in no danger of Christians, but received by them as our friends.
And if any Christians or Indyaus do come or speake to them of any buisnesse or Newes, that
they give us Notice and bring such to Albany or here and y' Governo"^ will take care, that all
things shall be ordred for their best advantage & profitt.
If Capt. Saleshury be come away. That Serj' Sharpe, Lieut' Martin Gerrittse & Lieut*^ Jan
Jansen Bhjcke?- do send for some Maques Sachem and deliver the above Order in the New Fort
by Aimold the Interpreter.
Matphias Nicolls, Seer. '
Letter.
I have but litle time and nothing to adde to y^ above, but that you take Order to putt it in
Execu9on by sending for some Maqxies Sachem and signify it, as is directed, Yourselves being
only named for to prevent the buisnesse noise or discourse usually made on the least matters and
this matter absolutely necessary to prevent any Inconvenience, that might otherwise (and likely
to) happen by default thereof. I am Your firiend
E. Andross.
Conference between Goveenoe Andeos and the Esopus Indians.
Present Kingston, the 27'" of Aprill 1677.
His Honor The Governor
Capt. Salisbury
Capt. Chambers
Mr. West
and the Magistrates
George Davit Interpreter. His Honor the Governor asked the Esopus Sachems, Sewera-
New Yorh Historical Records. 505
lean, Pomerewague, Kaelhoj), AnTcrop and the majority of the Esopus Indians, women as well as
men and youths, wliether they had any claims upon the land, occupied by us in pursuance of the
agreement made with his Honor, Governor Nicolls. They went out and after some time spent
in deliberation, Kaelcop said, that they did not think, they had sold land so far North, but they
were well satisfied we should have it, provided his Honor would give him a blanket, a shirt and a loaf
of bread. The Governor then inquired, whether that would satisfy them completely, to which he
replied. Yes, but if his Honor would add a piece of cloth, it would be well. He and tlie Sachems
and all the other Indians were told to point out or describe the boundaries, as they were to be
now. They described them as follows : Beginning at the Eonduyt KU, thence to a kil called
Kahakasnik North along the hills to a kil called Magoioasinginck, thence to the second fall, East-
erly to FrudeyacKkamick on the " Groote Revier" along the river South to Ronduyt Kil with
everything lying within these boundaries, good and bad, hills, valleys, waters, etc.
Kaelcop further declared, that he had ceded to the old sawyer his claim upon a kil, called the
Sawyer^s KU, and the land stretching up to the boundary of the land belonging to the Katskil
Indians along the river as far as the mountains above. "Whereupon his Honor, the Governor,
asked the Sachems and all the other savages, old and young, whether this was so ; they should
give a free and fearless answer. They replied, it was so and nobody else had any claim upon the
land. Questioned once more, whether they were satisfied with the aforesaid payment, they said.
Yes, fully. His Honor then gave to Kaelcop>, in presence of all the others, the articles agreed
upon as full pay, to wit :
A blanket a shirt baize for socks.
a piece of cloth a loaf of bread
All being well satisfied, his Honor said, he intended to have the boundaries reviewed for bet-
ter satisfaction and desired Kaelcop and some other Indians to go along and point out the land-
marks, for which they should receive extra pay. They accepted this proposition with thanks and
said, they were ready to do it at any time.
The mark of --4^ Kaelcop
for the Amogaeickakan family
The mark of ((J/^Y Ankeeop
for Kettstpowy
The mark of J^ Kugakapo
for the Mahow family
The mark of ^^CT} Wengiswaes
for the Kakatawis family
Pamieee Wack, .inf»* his mark
Sachem
Seneea Kau I \ his mark.
Sachem
Mamaeij Backwa ^jf Sachem,
in the name of all Esopus Indimis.
64
606 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
In presence of bis Honur the Governor and the undersigned.
Thomas Chambers E. Whittakee Silvester Salisbuky
(t. Hall Wessel ten Broek Will. Rodeney
JoosT Hendrick Jochemsen John West
DiECK SCHEPMOOS JoRIS DaVIT "E . De MeYEK
Testis : Wm. La. Montagne, Secr^.
Indian Deed to Lewis Dubois and others for land in Ulster County (New Paltz.)
To-day, the 26^'' of May in the year 1677, an agreement was made by the below-named par-
ties, pursuant to a bcense from the Hon''''^ Governor Edmond Andros, dated the 28"' of April
1677, with the undersigned Esojms Indians concerning the purchase of a certain tract of land on
the other side of Rondoid Kit.
Matsayay, Nehahaway, MagaJcahoos, Assmarahan and Wawawanis acknowledge to have
sold to Lewis Dubois and liis associates the land within the following boundaries: Beginning at
the high hill, called Moggoneck, thence Southeast towards the Great River to the point, called
Juffrouid's Hook in the Lmig Reach, by the Indians called Magaat Ramis, thence North along
the river to the island, lying in the Crum Elbow at the beginning of the Long Reach, by the
Indians called Liaphoos, thence West to the high hill at a place, called Waracahaes and Tawaer-
etaque, along the high hill southwest to MoggonecTc, including between these boundaries all con-
tained therein, hills, valleys, waters etc and a free passage to the Rondout Kil as convenient, as it
may be found. The Indians shall also have fully as much hberty and license to hunt all kind of
wild animal and to fish, as the Christians. This land the Indians have engaged to sell for the
goods specified here below
40 Kettles, 10 large 30 small 100 knives
40 axes 4 ancres of wine
40 addices 40 guns
40 shirts 60 duffels coats
100 fathoms of white wampum 60 blankets
300 " " black " 100 nails (?)
60 pairs of socks, one half of them small ones 1 schepel of pipes
100 bars of lead Wine has been given for the horses
1 keg of powder
The parties of either part herewith acknowledge to have agreed and have signed this with
their own hands.
Signed :
LowiEs Du BooYS Matsayay <^ his mark
Christian Deyo A his mark ™. <r\ , . ,
, TT W ACHTONCK y his mark
Abraham Haesbeoocq '"^
Andries Lefebre Senerakatst 5^ his mark
Jan Broocq -.^ n , .
Tj T. Mayakahoos ^^ his mark
Peter Deyo
Lowie BiNEViE Wawawamis //2, her mark
Anthony C. Respel "^
Neio Yorh Historical Records.
507
Abraham Du Booys Witnesses:
BuGi Feeee Jan Elton
IsAACK Dd Boots Jacomintje Slecht
Sqikon Lefebee Jan Mattysen
Agrees with the original :
De la Montagne Sec^
We the undersigned former joint-owners of the laud sold to Lewis Dubois and his associates
acknowledge to have received from them full satisfaction according to the agreement and there-
fore convey the said land with a free passage to them and their heirs forever, relinquishing our
right and title and freeing them from all further claims : in witness whereof we have signed this
with the Justice, Sheriff, Magistrates and others present on the 15'" day of September 1677 at
Hurley. Signed
Esopus Sachems
Sewakanamt <iC,j — . his mark
Pajstneeewach ^ his mark
Mamakooh ( her mark
Maheny
Haroman ^ his mark
Pagotaeamin ^ his mark
WiNGAWis \ his mark
Wessenach ^ his mark
Maccamossingh his mark
W itnesses
Jan Elton
Roeloff Ilendricks
Jan Waerd
Jan Harris
Alberdt Jamsen
Matsayay' his mark ^
ASSENERAKAN " (/t
Wachtonck " !_ ,
Wawamis :;s. her mai-k
Machkahoos his mark r^
Wawesaska (y his mark
Namas (7"-^ his mark
Tomachkapay (p-' his mark
Saagaeowon his mark
Sawunowis <-j/y his mark
Machkakamoca £^ — 9- his mark
Thomas Chambers
G. Hall
Wessel Ten Broocq
Dirck Schepmoos
Hendrick Jochemsen
Joost Adriamsen
Geri%t Cornelessen
Lambert Huysbertsen
Matsayay publicly proclaimed before the surrounding Indians that the land liad been paid
for, and they were all satisfied witli it.
CoxmciL Minute. The War of the Mouawks and Senegas against Maryland.
At a CouDcell June 6'" 1677.
Coll. Henry Courcey sent from the Governo"' of Maryland upon acco' of making a peace
with the Maques & Sinnekes Indyans, Present, as also Martin Gerrittsen of Albany & Mr.
Stephanus Van Cortlandt, w"' the Councell.
It was Proposed, whether it will be Proper to send any present of bands of Sewant or the
like by a Messenger, that is to goe to those Indyaus or not, It being aymed at to Speake with
them.
508 Colonial, Settlements on the Hudson River.
It's thought, that it will be best to send a band to each Nation.
Resolved, that the Commander and Co''' of Albany send to the Maques and SinneTces, to lett
them know, that there is a p'son come from Maryland, who desires to see and Speake w'" them
at Albany in four weekes time after the Messenger shall begin his Journey from thence, A band
of Sewaut to bee sent to each of the five Respective Castles as a token of his Intent to bee there.
If no bands of sewant, then the value thereof in strung wampum of about 20 or 25 gild'^
each.
Ujion Informacjon of some Injuryes done upon the River by the Maques & that they have
carryed away a man and woman of the Mahicanders.
Ordered, That the Commander bee writt to, that he send to some of the Maqiies Sachems &
Reprove them.
The same Messenger to carry 3 fathom of sew' to the Maques & give them notice of their
Coming to Albany, according to the Governo" order of this same date.
An answer likewise to bee given to some Mahicander Indyans, who are come hither & are
afraid of the Maques Indyans. They are five in all, to give them one hundred gild" strung
white wampum or sew'.
Council Minute. The Mohawks on the Waepath.
At a Councell June 11"' 1677.
* * * * »
Afternoone.
The Occasion was the Receit of Lett" from Albany sent by an Expresse from thence, Relate-
ing that eighty or one hundred of the 3faques Indyans had fallen upon some Mahicand" & North
Indyans at Phillip Peiters Bowery and the Halfe Moo77e, robbing the Mahicand" and carrying
the Others away Prisoners, butt they had returned some other Prisoners and Promised, the rest
should follow.
Also the Maques routing some of JJncasmen, four falling upon eighty & Destroying
Divers &c.
Moreover the Maques desire the Govern'' to come up to meete them at AThany in 15 days.
Whether adviseable the Gtjverno'' having already appointed a time, when he will be there,
Resolved not to alter his former Resolution upon their j)roposalls.
Peoceedings on the claim of New-Jeesey to have a Poet of Entet.
New Yoek.
Att an extraordinary Court in the City Hall, the 11"" of July, 1677.
Present.
The Governour and Councell.
The Court of Mayor and Aldermen.
&c.
Governo'' Philip Carterett of Neio Jersey, with Capt. John Berry & Capt. Wm. Sandford
Neto Yorh Historical Records. 509
of liis Councell, pretend to have Authority and orders for a distinct Port and Custom house in
Wew Jersey, and produce a Graimt or Indenture from his Roy" Highnesse to S" George Carterett
of Saltnom in the (^ounty of Devon Knight, Vice Chaniberlaine of his Ma"'= Household &c.
bearing date the 29"> of July in tlie 26'" yeare of liis Ma"'^>' Reigne, 1674, for part of the land
comprised in his Ma'"^ Letters Patents to his Ilighnesse, to the westward of the Manhatans and
Lorig Island, and hounded to the eastward by the Sea and part by Hudsons River, &c. as by said
Deed, to bee called Wew Caesarea or Ifew Jersey. — Also a Commission from S' Oeorge Carterett
to PMlip Carterett Esq' for the Government of said Neio Jersey.
Produce also a Commission from Commissioners of the Customes att London, Letter
and Instructions of y* 10"' of January 1673. to said Governour Carterett for Collector &c of the
Dutys on Tobacco, and other American Produce, nott giving bond to goe directly for England.
Coppy of said Governours five hundred pound bond of the l*' of Februaiy 1673. The Kings
Lettei- of the 26"" of November, in the So"" yeare of his Ma""'* Reigne; and acts of Parliam* for
said Dutys ; Which being all read, and Governo"' Carterett and Councell fully lieard thereupon,
and no more to produce ; The Dukes above specifyed Graunt or Indenture being the same for
said part, as the Graunt in 1664 was for all New Jersey, Vizt for the land to the westward of
Manhatans and Long Island, bounded by the eastward by the Sea, and part by Hudsons River,
and the other parts land bounds, (except by the upper part of Delaioare River &c) as per said Deed.
Resolved unanimously by the whole Court, and declared by the Governour as their Judg-
ment in Court, That they find no Port or Harbour graunted thereby to S' George Carterett or
Neio Jersey, (distinct or independent from this) But all Shipps or Vessels as hitherto enter and
Cleaer att the Custome liouse here, or Subordinate OfBcers thereof, with due regard to Governour
Carteretts or others authoritys for y^ Dutys on Tobacco and other produce of America, according
to acts of Parliament, and Orders thereujjon.
Letter from Gov" Andros to the Magistrates of Albany, declining to mef>t the
Maquas there and condemning the violence of the Mohawks towards the
mohegans.
Gen'^
Yo" of the 8"^ came to my hands yesterday, by the expresse you sent. In answer to the
Proposall made by the Maquas Sachemacks of ray coming up to speake with them in fifteene
dayes, I know no reason for it, having already appointed a certaine time of being there, if they
have any thing extraordinary to s&y, they may acquaint you the Magistrates with it, who will
transmit it to mee, or some of them may come hither.
As to the Insolence & violence used by the Maquas & North Indyans with them, in yo''
houses or quarters, upon the Mahieand" or any other Indyans received into protection, I much
admire at it, but since they seeme not to justify it, & yoa desire it, I shall passe it by, & it shall
bee buryed in Oblivion, but you may put them in Mind how I protected them in the time of the
warr, & gave their old men, wives & children, admittance w"'in our Towne & Fortificatjons, &
that I doe expect that whosoever doth or shall come in & submitt themselves & live quietly Avith
our Indyans, shall be protected from any outrage or force & I shall not suffer them to bee disturbed
or harmed, but shall looke upon any violence offered that way, as done to my selfe.
A draught of my Letter not sent Sz of y^ Go. sent to Alb.
July 12, 1677
By Major Ahramson Jochems.
510 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Council Minute. Indians veky unquiet and warlike.
At a Councell 16"' July 1677
******
A letter from Capt Salisbu7'y and one from Coll. Courcy of the lO"' men^oning an Intelli-
gence from father Bruyas and his letter also read fi-om Maques Castle, of forty O-neydas designed
to fall on our River Indyans at Cattskill and about an English girle among the Oneydas and
Capt. Salisbu7'y writing to father Bruyas reqnireiug the Indyans to bring her, also of report of
Sinneques coming in 10 dayes and advice for the Govern'' going up.
Advised and Resolved, That the Govern'' do nott goe up till appointed time y° latter end of
Aug'' and in y" Interim any Indyans may deliver their message, if occasion, at Albany to be sent
to the Govern'' or come to Yorh themselves.
Capt. Salisbury to be Checkt for writing about the girle w*" out order, but particularly for em-
ploying tlie Jesnite and upon all occasions and addresses, that he referre to what is past or if occa-
sion to the Govern'' & in no Case give any other answer or resolves of himselfe.
The Oneydes Answers to y*^ Propositions made to them the 20'"' July by y''
HON" CoLLONELL HeNRY CoURSEY Esq""^ AUTHORISED BY ChARLES LoRD BarRON
OF Baltamoee Lord Proprietor of Maryland in y^ Court house of Albanie
the 21 of July 1677.
M Ger van Sl.ichtinhorst, Intei-preter
The names of y'^ Sachems Sweensie — /Sa?richtoa — CanacJiynd.ia ■ — Cannantkaera.
1 They say wee doe also Lately approove of y' which y" Onnondages have now said, calling
them there fathers (as they doe Likewayes tlie Christians of this Government) and are willing and
Readie to obey the Command of y'= great King Charles who livetli over y'^ great Lake, meaning
our Souveraign Lord y° King of great Brittain &c, & doe Pressent one belt of Zew'
2 Wee doe recommend that j'ou will take care (as we shall on our Pairts) that y" Propositions
which you made Yesterday be Punctually observed. There is formerly one of our Indians wounded
by you, whicli occasioned our Plundering .... houses. We must also acknowledge
. Killed some hoggs & beasts . . . . , were hungry, but never .... any
Christians, doe Present twoo Otters
3'^ We are now come together to make y" Covenant, & doe again absolutly approove of y'
^ch yg Onnondages have done. But doe Let you know y' there are twenty of our Indians gone
out to fight ag'*' y'= Indians of Your Nation. We desire y' if y'^'' doe any hai"m, that it may be
excused this time, because it is Unknown to y'" and if we for y'^ future after our People are come
home shall use any hostility y' way, then you may thinke we doe not according to our Promise,
but are not Soe minded, & doe give 2 bevers.
This is a Draught Examined by me,
Rob'' Livingston Sec''
N. B. These Oneydes were present when y" Propos : were made to y° Omnondages & when
they gave there answer.
Ne%o Yorlc Historical Records. 511
Lettek from John Pynchox at Springfield to Capt. Salisbury at Albany on
Indian troubles.
Springfeild OctoL'" 5"' 1677.
Just at Night.
Capt. Salisbury.
Worthy S"' yesterday morning I Eecd. yo'' kind lines by JBenja Waite, whereby I understand
yo'' Simpathy with us in o'' sad disazter by y" Indians ; & yo' readyness in making strict inquiry
& greate forwardness to doe what Posible lys in yo" for us which I have abundance Cause to
acknowledge ife doc most thankfully accept from yo'" hands, & as to yo'' opinion of the Maquas
being free, & assureing me of their Innoceney, I doe fully Concur with yo", having Satisfaction
from what yo" writ & from Ben Waites Relation, But to put it out of all doubt, God in his
Providence hath sent in one of o"" Captivated men, Benoni Stehbvngs by name, w* is y* occasion
of these lines to yo"" selfe by Post, To give yo" an acco' there ofE & to desire yo" to Put y" Maquas
upon p^'sueing their own Enymys there being greate likelyhood of y* Maquas overtaking y"'
Benoni Stebhings came in to Hadly last night in y'^ nigbt, whose relation was Pent to me w'^'' being
but an lioure since I had it. I p'sently resolved upon sending Post to yo". Take his relation as fol-
loweth, The Company of Indians was twenty only about sixe or 7 Squasmade 26 in all, they were
this Country Indians belonging to Nalvotogy, all of y", but one a IN arrigansset. They came from
Canada, 3 Months agoe, & had bin Hunting, & were doubtfull whether to fall on Northamton or
Hatfield, at last resolved on Hatfield & Caryed away from HaifiAd 17 p'sons & 3 from Deere-
field, besides tbis man y' is come in, so y' they now liave 20 Captives with y™ 3 of y™ being men,
& all well as he says, when they took y'" At Deerefeild, after the noise & Cohoops were over at
Deerefeild, their first Inquiry was, whether there were any Maquas thereabouts & upon Informa-
tion y' some had beene there, & were supposed not to be far off, they were all liuslit, & Startled
& greately afraid & goeing silently away f ortbw*, they tooke up their lodging at Deerefield River
Mouth & next day crossed y" River viz Conecticot to y° east side of it, tlie next day crossed the
River againe, & againe afterward, they Passed y" River many tymes having Cannoes where in they
caryed y° woamen & cliildren being about 2 days journy above Squalcfieag, they sent a company
of y"" about half of y" to JVasshaway to call of some Indians y' have bin there all this tyme of y''
war & tooke this Benoni Stebhings along w* y™ thither Coming to Nashaway Ponds there were 3
Indian men & about halfe a score squaws w"" their children, these they went too to take along w""
y"" : having travelled from y° company they left 2 days to Sqioahheag & then from SquaJcheag
somewhat more than thirty Miles, to y° Indians neere Nashaway : who Pluck' up their Stakes
having Plenty of fish especially Eeles, &, many dryed hurtleberrys but noe Corne ; this Benoni
being sent w"" 2 women to carry Hurtleberrys ; Ran away fro™ them, & was p''sently p''sued by
some men & at one tyme was but a swamp between y™, but night Comeing on he escaped fro™ his
p'suers. He says y' one of y° Indians y' they Had fro" about Nashaway Ponds Semes to be a
Counsellor, & w"" him they Consulted much & spake of sending to y'^ English, but at last resolved
for Canada yet talk' of making a fort a greate way up the River & abiding there this winter,
talked also of carying the Captives to y" french &. selling y" to y^ french which he concludes, they
resolved on, but make but slow Passage, having so many women and children, He Concludes it
would be, it may be 20 days Er they gat to y" lake hunting by y'= way. It was Tuesday Morning
last that he escaped fro" y' p''ty w'='' caryed him w"" them nere Nashaway, and they had above 30
Miles to goe back to SquaJcheag, & then nere 2. d. journy more to y* Rest above Squahlieag : y"
way he says up this River is unpassable for English men & their goeing is by Barken Cannoes
much of y" way & then to y"* left side of y" Rivery*^ men foote it leaving y" worst way : The un-
512 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
PassaLleness of j'^ way tliis way renders it impossible for lis to p^'sue or doe any good. But y'
Conveying Speedy word to y" Maquas gives not only a Possibility but a probability of their over-
taking y"", w'''' deare S'' is y' end of those lines to yo" : To request yo" (If none of y" Maquas
Sachems be at Albany) to send at o' charge to y^ Cheifs of y^ Maquas & give y"" an acco* of mat-
ters & desire their Spedy p''sueing these Bloody villains & Enymys of y"" & forthw"', & w"'out any
delay by which meanes I hope this Barbarous Crew (who are Enymys to Peligion, Civillity & all
humanitj' & have so deepely Imbrewed their hands in most Innocent chtian Blood) may be met w""
on their returne before they come to y" lake or at y' Lake & so o"" Cajjtives Recovered for w^*" we
shall give y" Maqiias Sutable rewards. Good S"' Put forward y" Maquas to Surprise & cut oif
these villaines, Let y" know y* it will be a greate demonstration of their fidellity tfe freindship to
us & it is a very Likely opportunity for y™ to kill & Catch Indians whom the}' so much Hunt after.
And this man y' is Come horn says they dred y*^ Maquas, & all their feares was least some Ma-
quas should p''sue y"", they did not expect or think y* English could, & desired to get out of y'=
Maquas way at first goeing off from Deerefield & thinking they were got high Enough up from
them y" more secure & at rest : so y' now I believe they are at ease & will make
so slow progress having beside o' Women & children a p'sell of their owne women cfe children
to clogg y™ y' they may safely be taken And The lighting upon & destroying this Com-
pany of y"= Enyniy (being as it is S'' by him y' is come in y" remaining strength of this River
Indian) will be a breaking Blow to y™ & a greate meanes of o'' Security. I pray S" doe what yo"
Can to Ingage y* Maquas to go out forthw"" & to deale Effectually in it. We desire to doe o'
duty & to waite for y® salvation of God. S"" Excuse my Scribling. I am in greate haste to send
away y« Messenger to Westfield this Night : bee The need in getting y Maquas to goe out upon
y° Enymy before they get on y" Lake is all in all : If they can but come up with y" It will be easy
to take y", for I tell yo" their strength as y° man relates, & how they are clogged w"* women &
children, I doubt not of yo"" helpfullness in this Exigence -v,'"^ will abundantly Ingage us & w""
greate readyness shall sattisfie what yo" disburse : w"" my endeared Love & respects to yo" Corn-
ending yo" to y^ p'tection of y^ Almighty God, I remaine S"'
Yo'' very Loving ffreind & Servant,
John Pynchon.
Ben Waite is gon hom before this Intelligence came to me, He talk* of goeing to Canada before
& I suppose will rather be forward to it now then Backward, Posible he may be at Alhanj about
a fortnight hence in refference to a journy to y'^ french when if I be not gon to Boston (w*^'' I have
some thoughts to doe next weeke) I shall have opportunity again to write yo". Yale.
J. P.
These ffor his Honored ffriend Capt. Salislmry : Comander in Cheife atffort Albany.
Hast Post hast, for his Ma""'' speciall Service.
REGULA90N FOB MiLrriA Officees and Oedee coNCEENrNG Qurr bents at Esopus.
Cap' Thomas Chambers to Command both Horse & ffoot ;
Lieu' Geo : Hall next in Command as Capt. Jlio : Chambers Leiu'
The Eldest Lieu' in Commission of Hurley or Marbleton,
The Other Lieu' of s"* Towne.
Neio Yorlc Historical Records. 513
The Eldest Connnissiou of Ensigne or cparter Master iu absence of Superio'' w"' Regiila9on
to be Observed till ffurther Order Actum in JS^ew Yorke. Octob"" 6"" 1677
E. Andkos, S.
By the Governo'^
Whereas the severall ffiirmers Inhabitants Planters or persons of Kingston, Hurley, and Mar-
hleton in Esopus, have for these two yeares last Past, Since the Late Change of Governm', Neg-
lected to pay in their Quitt Rents, due ffor their Severall Tenures, as by their grants ; I do there-
fore by Vertue of My Authority under his Royall Highnesse, appoint and Authorize yo Lieu''
Oeorge Hall, to Demand, and receive, s* quitt Rents due for the Past & Present or ensueing
Yeare ; giveing a due accompt thereof from time to time ; And for so doing this shall bee to you
and every of them a sufficient Wai-r* & Discharge. Given under my hand in New Yorke, this
6"" of Octob--: 1677
E. Ajstdeos, S.
To Lieut. Geo. Hall, Receiver of the
Quitt Rents att Esojnis
Letteb from Gov^ Leveretp to the Mohawk Sachems, waening them not to
INJURE the friendly Indiajsts of his colony.
For the Sachems of the Maqitas.
Boston Oct. 12'" 1677.
You may by these Take notice that six of your men (as we Since understand) Lately
found neere Boston in the woods, who being well armed & in a . . . . posture, were by some
of our People Surprised & Cai-ryed to prison, <& there not knowing but that they were Enemy
Indians, till being Examined .... they were found to be Maquas as some of Albany .
. so thereupon were Avell used & are Sett at Liberty, by whom we send these Lynes to
lett you know how ready we are to hold and continue friendship with you which was so lately
renewed at Albany .... John Pynchon &, yourselves & hath bene by us in all respects
attended. However it Comes to pass that it hath bene a failui-e on your part by some of
by some of your men not observing of it and we the rather suggest because the Indians
your men who are now with us acknowledge their neglect of attending what was Concluded
at Albany, Namely to be friends to all our fi-iend Indians which M'as one of the great things we
aimed at. Now our then moving you to destroy the Eastern Indians our Enemies, we iiigaged
you not to meddle with our friend Indians, & .... to take Care of them who were Ti-ue
to us, in all the time of our war, & ventured their Lives for us, & now we must not Let them
Loose their Lives . . our friends, that having to Carry it
Man, as he was fishing Cloase by an English house, and Can-ying away two Squaws who were
about their occasions, at Hasanemesett, all which being contrary to the agreement made with
your Seines. Wee hope you will Cause your men to make full sattisfaction, for we have now an
opportunity in our hand & might detaine Some of those your men, but to prevent all ground of
disquiett to your spirrits, & being Confident you will do it, namely retume back those 2 Squa%vs
and forbeare all further mischeife upon or Toward our friend Indians, wee Sett in Liberty all
65
514 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
your men, resolvinge there shall be noe breach on our parts, but yet we will protect & defend
our Indians & therefore desire you give all your people notice of it, to be more CarefuU for
future, that no Spoile or wronge be done to any of our friend Indyans. Let none of yours come
TiQ&vQ Natiok PunTcqu . . Hasanemesett, nor Wamesttt, nor among any of ourTownes where our
friend Indians are, who are & will be friends to your Selues, as wee are, all being under his Majes-
ties protection, & therefore not to be disturbed by you. There are other Indians for you to fall upon,
whose persueing & destroying wee shall take kindly from your hands, namely a Parcell of Indians
who Came lately from Canada & fell upon Hattjield the same day when 4 of your people Lodged
in Jlattfield & were then kindly used the night before These Indians who Came from Canada
as wee Since Came to know by one of our Captives that is gott away from them, have Carryed
with them Twenty of our people, women &, children with three men, whom wee understand are
returning toward Cam,ada, It wiU be an acceptable Service to us if you Can destroy this parcell of
Indians. And may you be Instrnmentall for the Savinge or recoveringe of any of our Captives,
wee Shall give you good reward for the Same, we have further to lett you know, that now there
arising enemy Indians against us about Northhampton & those Towues, our people are upon their
guard, & Scouting forth, So that it may be hazzardous for your People wee not being able to dis-
tinguish betweene such enemy Indians & Maquas whom wee would not wronge & therefore
yom* men may not . ..........
Some one or two at most with a Letter in their hands may adventm'e into our Tovmes unarmed,
& .
them to be Maquas wee shall aiiord reliefe as need be . . . . . ' .
because of some four people who were Lately Taken, were .....
by taking the Enemy Indian for Maquas, whom also they should have avoided, wee have not to
adde at present But that wee are,
Tour ever Loving friend,
John Levebett, Gov'.
Extracts feom the Mikutes oe the Couet at Schenectady est eefeeence to the
puechase of the sec0nx> and thied flat on the mohawk rivee.
^T'^Mohawrni^T "^^^ ^°Py- Extract from the Minutes, Oct. 22* 1677.
No. 6. Daniel Jansen respectfully requests, that their Honors will give him let-
ters of recommendation, in consideration of his various services, that he may have the tliird
flat on this side of the Mohawk River.
Their Honors promise their countenance to the petitioner, Daniel Jansen, their colleague and
acknowledge that he has done much good service. The hon"''^ General shall therefore be written
to, on condition that the lands be duly paid for.
By Order of the Court
LuDovicus CoBES, Secr^.
Below stood
He shall have preference, when it is thought advisable to occupy the land. Done in New
Torh, Oct. 29, 1677.
Signed E. Andeos.
Compared by me : Ludovicus Cobes, Seer''.
True Copy. Extract from the Minutes Oct. 22, 1677.
JSfew Yorh Historical Records. 515
Jacobus Peech and Isaac de Ti'eux hiimbly request, that their "Worships will recommend
them to his Honor, tlie Governor General, for the second flat on this side of the Mohawk River,
provided they pay the proper proportion of the amount advanced for the piu'chase of all the
lands.
Theu" "Worships promise to recommend the case of the petitioners to his Honor, the General.
By order of the Court
LuDovicus CoBES, Secr''.
Below stood ;
They shall have preference, when it is thought advisable to occupy the laud. Done in Hew
York, Oct. 29, 1677.
Signed E. Andegs.
Compared by me : Lttdoviciis Cobes, Seer''.
Liberty Graijted to Louis du Bois & p^tner to Settle upon their lajjd at Esopus.
By the Govern o''.
Upon the Request of Louis du Bois & p''tners at Esopus that they may have Liberty to goe
and Settle upon the Land by them purchased on the Southside of the Redoide Creek, at then- first
Convenience, These are to Certify that they have Liberty so to do, Provided they build a Redoute
there first for a place of Retreate & Safeguard upon Occasion ; Actum in Ifew Yorke, Novemb"'
2\ 1G77.
E. AnDEOS.
An Order to M''. Stephanus Cortlandt to purchase land at "Wickers Creek.
"Whereas applica9on hath been made unto mee by divers Persons for lands at Wyckers Creek
or adjacent parts on the Eastside of Hudsons River, the which have nott as yett bene purchased
of the Indyan Proprieto'''', These are to Authorize & appoint you M^ Stephanus Cortlandt Mayo'
of this Citty if ffitting Opportunity shall present to treate with and agree for any part of the said
Land, for which there may be piresent Occasion of Settlem', or for the whole with the Indyan
Sachems or Proprieto'■^ Given under my hand in New Yorke, Novembo"" 16, 1677.
E. Andeos.
The Paym' to be made Publickly at the flort or Citty Hall att New Yorke.
Indian Deed for Land at Claveeeack.
{Fort Orange Records, Deeds, 3.)
Before me, Eolert Livingston, Secretary etc. appeared Wattaioyt and his sou Apjponewayett,
Wattawyps sister Sassioucha and her little sou Metschkekamek, all Mahicanders, living at Seho-
tack who declared to have received full and satisfactory payment from Mr. Gerrit van Slichtenhorst
for their title to a certain piece of land ; which they herewith cede and convey to him, at the
Cloverrack, between the bouwery of Jan Eoothaer and Major Abraham Staes, beginning at a fall
5 1 6 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
of the Kil called Kesie Ways Kil and reaching to the Kil of Major Ahr. Staes, with the meadows,
ishiuds and trees standing thereon etc. etc. Thus done and interpreted hy Arnout Cornelisse
Yiele at Alhariy the first of January 1677-8.
Tlie mark «*/^/ of Wattawyt made
Rich" Pretty 1^^ j^j^ Ps/ -^ own hand for himself
A.Teller. and his son.
The mark \^ of Sassioucha made by
Arnout Cor her own |_ hand for her herself and
Interpreter. j^ej. ^^^^
In my presence
TioBEKT Livingston, Seer''.
Letter from Sece'' Nicolls to the Magistrates at Albany on Indian affaies.
At a Couucell held in N. Y. the IS"" day of Jan : 1677-S.
Gent.
The propositions made to you by the Oneydes Indyans the 20"' December last concerning the
delivery of the Ilakicander boy, as formerly ordered by the Go : & also of y° party of SinneJces
& Oneydes which fell upon the Sicsquehannes Indyans behind Virgiiiia excusing their ignorance
of the Covenant made betwixt Col. Goursey & them &c, with yo'' Answere thereupon, which we
doubte not but will bee very well approved of by y® Go, & are glad to heare those Indyans doe
so well comport themselves & comply with y^ Go. orders, hoping they will still continue in their
duty we shall take Care by the first opportunity to give notice to Coll. Coursey of what hath past
upon this occasion. "We have not further, but take Leave.
By order of the Councell.
For y" Comand'^ & Comissaryes at Albany.
N. T. Jan. 17, 1677-78.
Order of Councell Jan. 15, 1677-78, in answ"' to the Proposi(,'on nip.de by the Oneydes
Indyans to y*^ Comand'' & Comissary^
Letteb from John Talcot of Hartfohd to Capt. Salisbury at Albany on Indian affairs.
Cap' Salisbury.
S" — My service being p'"sented hopeing yo'' prosperity, have Sent only to acquant you y' two,
Indians viz : Wontlioqum & Wopray cam from yo' parts as they say and being taken up heer were
examined, and now at yo' desyres have given y" a passe for ther returne, and commend it to yo'
Wisdom, whether it may not be a prudent way: When any of the Indians of yo' parts Shall
desyre to jorney into those pairts, that they receive y' passe or a Ticket from such as you shall
appoynt, and we shall doe the Lyke, for the truth is in such a Criticall tyine, wee are at a loss to
know how wee shall behave oiu- selves among the Indians, thar wayes arc so full of Tricks, and
know not friends from Enemyes, when wee meet y". Especially in the woods, o' peoplle are
at a losse, I make bold to suggest it to yo' consideration for preventing anie Inconveniencie, y'
oy'wyse may happen to y'" or our selves, Knowing y' a word from yo'self will be a Sufficient
New Yorh Historical Hecords. 517
clieke to the Indians, wee have no Newes only a catch is com Into Boston, with Intelligence that
a ffrench ffleet Arrested one Island called Tohagoe, Situat 60 or 70 Leagues from Burrhadosse,
that was planted by the Dutch, and Cutt off all men, women & children. Sparing non, which if
true is most barbarons & Inhuman creulitie, So to serve a Christian peopell, although one Ene-
mie in repute. People are generally weell with lis, the Small Pox yet remanes in Boston, beeing
spred upon the skirts of y^ Toun, and no Infection in y° man strets and body of y'^ Toun, 18
families Infected in Charleston, it being Lately Increased thar, I sent yon a letter the last
August y' I might have given you a visit, but o" Indians were frighted and returned, & now is
out of daite, it was in reference to one Muntoiv y' the Mohauhes, alias Moquas carryed off from
Boston, that belonged to o'' Indians, and with request of his returne, and that the Moquas will
keepe thar promise made to y" Gent, before y" hono'''^ Gov"' Andros
And not molest our Indian ffriends, but damnifie our Enemys. (What they pleased) but of that
I shall not Trobule you with, at this tym, I heare the Moquase are in the JVarraganset Cuntry and
have killed one of y" Surrendring Indians, that Live by JV^orwich Toun, first shott him through,
then cutt of his Scalpe and run away, & yet remane Squlking up and down in our Cuntrey, I
hard Majo'' Pinchon say that Uncass wold have sent Wampara to the Ilaquass, but y' Gent, of
o'' Collony for bid it, and that the S'^ Uncass had fomented this amongst the Moquase which I
thought good to acquaint you, that it is a most grose Lye, for this I cau assure you that o"' Gov :
and councell have given Uncass advyce from time to time yt he should keep his covenant with
the Mohcvukes to pay Wampim in Case he had made anie Covenant with them, wee alwayes told
him it was his Interest & Saftie so to doe, and Sundry tymes wold faine have had him send to
them what "Wampam was due by Covenant & he alwayes slighted our Motion, Saying nothing
was due onto them I mention it at this tym & the rather that I might take off an unjust
reflection or Imputation that may be cast upon us by Uncass and y' the Moquase may not bee
disgusted at us, for Councelling Uncass about keeping of his Wampam peay from them, knowing
that hee Needed no Such councell his covetous heart being Such a great freind to that Littel pairt
of the world hee haith in Possession, but I am sorry I have being so troublesome to you, hooping
you will grant me excuse for aU Erratas of this Natur, shall only add y' I am yo"^ affectionat
ffriend & Ser' Subscribitur
John Talcott.
fFor the Ilono'''' Cap* iSalishury, Commander in Chief at ffort Albany.
Hartford, Aprill
These may Enform any .... Collony that the Indians Wonthoqu?n,
& womjjray .... Lately com from ffort Albany .... upon thar desyres, have
heirby .... to return to the place from when . . . without any Lett or disturbance
. . . . themselves peaceably and suitably .... English.
]f John Talcott Ass'
of his Ma""*' collony of Coneticutt.
Copie of Majo'' Talcotts Letter to C. Salisbury Apr. 8'^ about two Indians of the Maquet
seized on for want of passport & releast.
Arrived here the 25"" 16Y8.
To bee answered.
The proposall of Ticketts approved of, & Signifyed to C. Salisbiiry.
518 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
Letter eeom Commandek Bbockholls to Gov'' Leete of Connecticut about
RrvEE Indians, detained at Winsoe.
Hon'"» S'.
By an Express This day from y" Command' at Albany am informed y' 3 of our River
Indians (young men) who were hunting eastward, in their progress fell neare Winsor in yo'
Colony and having exhausted their small Stock of Shott, for a new supply in order to y® prosecu-
tion of their Bever killing ; Two of y' 3 went to y^ Town of Winsor w"' a Bever skin or two for
a Eecrute of shott, y" third remaining at y° Indian ffire, and in Expectation of his Companions
Return wayted five days, but in y® time neither seeing nor hearing of them, under some appre-
hentions of ffeare hasted home, and made Relation of y® matter w* hath a Little amused our
Indians, where upon j^ ffather of y° absent ( Watiawyt by name) y" bearer here of immediately
Repaired to me at Yorh and made applycation desiring This my Letter to yo' hono' to Retume
his sons if taken by any of yo' people as is by them supposed and ffear'd, w'^'' if so These are to
Request yo"" most prudent favo' and firiendly assistance in ffreeing and Returning Those two
young men. Excusing their mistake if through Ignorance they have extended Their Rang too
ffarr or intrenched on yo"" Limits : Yet if detained may prove of very 111 consequence and kindle a
fflame not soon to be Extinguished ; Therefore my desires and further Request to yo' hono' is,
ffor y" preservation of y*^ Generall publique peace That you will be pleased to Give Such orders
for their Release (if w"' you) as may (in yo"' wisdom and Good Neighborhood) Be fit and Satis-
factory to their Relations and Nation, who as yet Continue Both ours and yo' ffriends, I have
ordered this Bearer To Take a Christian w"* him from Albany to your Colony, and pray y* if y''
said two young men bee at any other Town in yo' Govemm* y" whats mentioned, you will afEord
them yo' assistance, or ffurther as Occasion (w"' Safety) may Require, and in all things of y'^
Like Nature as flormerly, shall be still ready & willing To Retaliate ; and alwaise desirous of hold-
ing and maintaining a Good and Amicable Correspondence w"^ yo' hono"* self and all y° worthy
Gentlemen of yo' Colony while I am and Remaine
Hon''>'= S'
Yo' bono"* most afEectionate ffriend and humble Serv'.
ffort James in New Yorh A : B :
ApriU y« 16-1678.
Toj^hon''''^ T^^7Z Zeefo Esq' Gov' of Coneticutt Colony. These.
Note from Sece^ Nicolls to Subvetoe Anbeew Norwood to lay out land on
Staten Island foe Petek Ceoisson.
May 14, 1678.
I writte a note (upon Peter Croisson peti^on to C. Brockholls^ to M' Andr Nm'wood the Sur-
veyo', to lay out a Lott for him upon Staten Island neare the Lon^ Neck by the Fresh kill,
hee having bene formerly abused by Robt Rider then in, & his old neighbor at Ha/rlem having
bene unkind to him, desiring his returne of whats done.
M. N. S.
New Yorh Historical Records. 519
Letteb feom Rich" Woodhull at Seatalcott to Sece^ Nicolls, reporting a ett-
MOE OF A COMBINATIOlSr BETWEEN THE FeENCH AJSTO THE InDIANS.
Sii-.
I thought it my dutie to informe you of what M'' Tomson & the wife of John Poe hath De-
clared to me concerning an Indian who lives on the maine land heing a p''prietor of Setak that the
French at Cannada and the Indians on the maine have made a combination tliis Summer To cut
of the English. I have not had the Indian in Examination of it, but desire to acquaint you w"" it
first, and know your advith, in it before I stire in it, to Disturb the Indians, I Suppos y' Indian
might speak it in hope to geet Drink, I humbly request that you would be pleased to send som
directions about it that it might Stop the mouthes of timeros people, that are redy to tak up
every report for truth though there may be litle in it. Thus w"' my Service p'sented to Capt.
Brockholls I rest your humble Servant
KiCHAED Woodhull.
ffor Capt. Mathias Nicolls, Secretary at Neio York.
Eec"* May lY, 1678, brought yesterday.
M"' Rich'^ Woodhnll Seatakcott May 17—1678
Thought fitt by the CounceU to examine the Indyan of the Groimds of this report without
troubling the other Indyans.
Answered May 22, 1678.
LsTDLAN Deed for Land in Columbia Cotitsity.
(Fort Orange Records. Deeds 3.)
Before me, Robert Livingston, Secretary etc appeared a Mahicander Indian, called by the
Christians Knaep and by the savages Pamitachnatt, who having also authority from his mentie (?)
named Paunichkam, declared to have received full and satisfactory payment from Mr. Dirch
Wessels and Cornelis van Dyk for their right and title upon a certain piece of land, situate on
the East side of Hudson river back of Jan Ooms, about five English miles from the river, it
being a meadow called by the savages Takkichenon and reaching to or bordering on a piece of
woodland called Pamschenakassik, also upon another piece of land called Kehantik, having for-
merly been used as a cornfield, reaching towards the river. Etc. etc.
Done at Albany, June ll"', 1678.
The mark \ L of Kjstaeip
made by C — -/y himself.
The mark f^ of Tiamokenis
Richard Pretty made \\ by himself.
Jan Thomas h
Arnout Cornelisse Viele Intei-preter. In my presence
Ko. Livingston, Sec'y.
Lettee from Cap'' Salisbuet at Albany to Commandee Beockholst, about par-
ties OF Mohawks going on the war path.
Cap* Brockholls.
S'. Upon the 20'" of present I received a Lef from Scannecstada, y' there is 2 great troopes
goeing out of the Mantquas, fighteing to y'^ North one troope for the Unagoungas, but y^ other I
520 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
am in thoughts y' thay will goe, to wards Major Pynehons or that way, to say how many there ■
is in each troops I cannot Learne, and what j" Event will be, time muste bring to passe. I have
not had noe op''tunytie, to writ to Major Talkutt, since I have received his Let', but if you pleas
to Let me know any thing, what I shall, write, to hime, if op''tunity, Doeth present, I shall be
very Kedy, all is well at the present, but my poore Child is at y° present very sore, but I hope in
God he shall doe well, which is all at present from hime Y' is your very humble Serv'
Silee: Salisbury.
fforte Albany, y" 24"" of June, 1678.
Lettee feom Cap''. Salisbuet at Albaitt to Commanbee Beockholst ; eepoets
THE AEEIVAL OF A PAETT OF MoHAWKS WITH 22 NatICK InDIAJ^J PEISONEES.
Hon" S' Albany 27 June 1678.
This day there arrived here a troop of 60 Maquas with 22 Prisoners, to witt 3 men 17 women
2 Boys & 2 Crounes (?) who say they are frind Indians of y'= Miglish, whereupon I called y^ Court
forthwith and Eesolved to send y" Secretary & Aernout y® Literpreter to y'= Prisoners, to exam-
ine them from whence they were, who doe say they are Natioh Indians frinds to y* English &
under the Command of Major Guggine and say they were taken in a Indian Cornfield called
Magaehnah 6 mile from Suddberry, whereupon Tahaidons the fore fighter of y'' Maquase was
told & Eeminded of y^ Propositions made by Major Pinclion & Mr. Richards then agents of
N : England, that y'''' should befrind y"' friend Indians, and like wayse how y" Maquase
Promised to do them no harm, who answered and said they were taken about 6 mile from any
English Place & therefore did take them to be there enemies, Neverthelesse Tahaidons Promises
that they shall not be damnifyed till further order, but I cannot Eely upon his word. This is
that which hath now lately happened, I Desire that you would send me your advise there abouts,
by y'= first, I doubt not if y'^'' be frind Indians (as they say) but you or I will Keceive Letters
there anent Speedily, but if not Possiblie they will not trouble Them Selfs, but I doe Presume
hey are of there Praying Indians, because there is one amongst them that brought y*^ Indian
Bible here in Govern' Nicolls time, N"o more at Present
I am S' Tour very humble Serv' Silee : Salisbuey.
Letter from Cap' Salisbitby to Commander Beockholst on Indian affairs, most
OF the Natticks have been burned by the Mohawks.
Cap' Brockholls.
I have Received yours baring Daite ye 4the of July, Concerning Tyador y" Maguas fore
fighter, & his prissoners, y= Natick Indians which I doe beleive, that y*^ Moste part of them Are
burned eare this time, as I have hard from others Indians yt Comes Every Day out of ye Laude,
you say y' I shoulde Sequere them in my hands, or be put to be kep' in y*' hands of our frends, y"
Mohocanders all this was well, what you write, but the Ilauquas, Are not those sorte of
people, y' Deliver up ther prissoners, for nothing, I doe beleive, I coulde have Released them for
fl 200 or there abouts, but neaver had any orders. To Disburse any Money for another Collonys
New Yoi'h Historical Eecords. 521
Indians & if I shonlde then, the Gov' woulde be Angoriy, we haveing nothing to Doe with
them, nor Eeceive any proffitt by them, and with your leave my thoughts is, f if ye J^ew England
people had any kindness for them, thay would have sent a man, time Noffe to have bene at
Albany, to have spoken with Tyadory for he was Long anoffe, on his way but about 14 Days
affier, Sends me a Let^ to Desire me, to Threaten y^ Mauquas, for them, but I Doe think Such
sort of Tmplyment, will beeom them Selves better, y'= Copy I have Sent to in my Laste for in
Stead, of Sending of Such a Lef, if thay, had sent me order to have Disboursed for them 500 or
600 Gilders, to have Given y'' Mmiquas, then perhapes there Eyees might, have bene open, but
other ways they be as Deaffe as a stone. There are more troopes of y» Mauquas out as I Doe
here but Come not in our towne, but goe over by y« half Moons, I here f one troop Containes
of 30 ISTorth Indians & but one Mauquas in yer Company, What it will produce God knows
but I fere, it will not be good. This is all, at present from hmie whose Desire is to be Esteemed
your friend & humble Serv'
„ , . „ SiLv" Sausbuet.
^ort Albany y^
11«»' of July 1678.
Ffor the bono''* Cap* Anthony Brockholls at James fforte In Hfew York,
These.
Orders & Instructions for M". Samuell Ely and Benjamin "Waite, AGErrrs
OF Massachusetts on a Mission to the Mohawks with Peter de Voes yo"
Interpreter.
1 Tou are heerby ordered (according to yo"^ Comission) by the first opportunity and as spedely
& by the best way you can To Travle to y" Macquas Cuntry.
2 As soon as yea cane speake w"' any of the Macquas tell them yea are sent from y'= Gov"' and
Councell of the Massachusetts, and with a Message of great Concernment, which you are to Im-
pairt to the Seachems & therfor desyre a full meeting of all thar Seachems, or as many of the
cheife of them as can be procm-ed to whom when mett declare unto y™ from whom you are sent
& show y" yo'' Commission.
3 Then tell them y' y'' Gov'' and all the Inglish in these pairts, have bene (ever since thar first
coming hither) good ffriends to the Macquas, ct have Never don them any wrong, and have
estemed the Macquas to be ther ffriends, and so have alwayes Used y™ when upon anie occasion
they had com amongst us, as they well know and may remember. And Therfor that they think it
strange & can not but tak it very 111 that Last act of Hostilitie at Mayuncog, where they killed
three & carried away Captive Twentie four of our friend Indians, who are his Ma*'"'* Subjects w""
out any cause given by them y' wee know off, or any Complaint made to use by the Macquas and
so contrary to ther agreement & promise to Majo"" Pinchon at Albany j" Last yeare & at Boston
afterwards by a party of y"' y' Cam to Majo' Pinchon at Hadley and to M^ Salisbury at ffort
Albany, as hee Informes us, that they wold not kill or hurt anie of our Indian ffriends Especially
any of those belonging to Natick, which those did, and therefor telly" you are sent to know the
Cause & resone of ther thus acting as enemyes, <fe contrary to so many rejterated premisses ; and be
verie Carfiill to understand all thar answeres clearly and f uly, which you are to Sett doun in
wryting.
66
522 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
4 If they alleadge that ou' Indians have done them aiiie wrong, you may Tell them, that if y'
cane bee made appear, the Gov' & Councell will cause them to Make due Satisfaction, and io wold
have done befor upon Complaint & prooff.
5 Tell y'" as the Inglish vse to keepe tliar word and jjvomise w"' all Indians so they expected
the Lyke from them, above oy' Indians as seeming moi-e generous & Ingenous, & having Till now
of Laitt Never found it otherwayes ; but have now great Cause to complein & be offended, That
instead of restraning o'' Indian Enemyes w'*" are com amongst them, from doeing us or o'' ffriends
any hurt or Injurie, as they promissed Major Pinchon at AThanie, they should joyne w"" them to
Destroy kill & Captivat those y' are ou"' ffriends & Subjects & under o'' protection, which wee may
not suffer, for as wee will not willinglie wrong the least company of Indians that have not Injuried
us. So wee cane not beare to great ane Injurie & Indignitie from the greatest & proudest of
them all.
6 ly You are to propose to y" that if they bee willing & desirous (as the Inglish are) that peace
and ffreindship may bee preserved & continued betwixt us & them as formerly, that then they
wold send som of thar Sachems or cheife Men to Treat & conclud av'" ou"' Commissioned and those
of the oy'' CoUonyes who are also heerin concerned at Hartford about the midle of Sep"' next, or
at Hadley if they Lyk that place better, or rather then faile at Boston, if they chuse it rather,
that so thare may be a right understanding had off all thinges betwixt us & them, offences removed,
6 a firme peace setled for tyme to Come w"^*" if they accept & will Ingage to attend, and in the
Mean tyme promise to forbear any further attempts ag' our freind Indians, thar need litell mor
bee said to them but friendly discourse (when you may take occasion to tell y"", that all the Ing-
lish in this Cuntry are King Charles his Subjects (Tho under severall Govrments) and tharfor
what wrong is done to any of y" he will acco' it as done to all, and to himself also, who haith
Multitud of Men to revenge it if there should bee Need) and you may promise them a save con-
duct for thar coming and returne what ever the conclusion should bee, But if they absolutly re
fuse to attend any Meetings in any of the places propounded, then you are to demand of them
what thar Intention and Kesolution is for tyme to Come, in reference to on'' ffreind Indians, &
declare unto them that wee cane not distinguish y" from other Indian Enemyes, nor Look at them
other then Such, if heerefter they com so near to the Plantations & habitationes of the English
and that ag' thar Consent, and to destroy our ffreinds who have Subjected themselves under our
protection.
7 ly In the generall you are to understand y' wee much rather desjTe peace & ffreindschip w"'
the Macques then to have them our Enemyes iff it may bee oljteaned upon just & honorable
tearmes and thearfor yea are to treat them accordingly fforbearing all threatning and provoking
speeches, nor are yea tyed Exactly to declare unto y" the particulars of yo' Instructiones in order
as they are sett doun, but as may best suite w"" ther ansrs & preciding discourse.
8 ly If you finde y" Inclyne to a Complyance & shewing any reluctancy for what they have done,
and any reall desyre to keepe ffreindschip w*** the Inglish then you are to propose to them the
releasing of all the Capatives they have of our ffriend Indians, which yea may Tell them, will bee
taken as a reall pledge of thar Love & good will, and not forgotten by the English, when oppor-
tunity serves to Testifie thar Love & kynd acceptance thereof. But if yea finde they Carry them-
selves highly and proudly as bent to Quarells, slighting the English & refusing all former propo-
salls Tending to Peace, you may then tell them if it bee thar myndes & resolutione to break peace
& ffreindschip w"' the English, and to become thar Enemyes, without any Cause given by them,
that then they should doe well to declare it, that so wee may know how to Esteme of them heerefter.
9 ly You are to avoyd as mucht as possibile yea Can the Speaking w"' the Macquas in the
New Yorh Historical Records. 523
presence of any ffrier, Jesuits, or other ffrench or any of our Indian Eneniyes y' are amongst
them. Given at Boston in New England ll'" July 1678 and Signed by
Edwaed Rawson, Secf^ by Order of the Councell.
This is a true Coppy Examined by me
Rob'' Livingston Seer*''.
John Leveret Esq" Gov" of y'^ Massachusetts Colony in N". England w'"' y'"
Consent of y'^ Consell there
To M^ Samuell Ely & Benjamin Waitt.
Ton are appointed & hereby Commissionate & fully Impowred by y^ Gov'' & Councill of y'
said Colony with all Speede, to take your journey, & by y'= best ways & meanes you can to Repaire
into y* Maquas Countrey, & find out some of y'^ Maquas shewing this Commission, & acquaint
them, that you are sent by y'^ Gov"" & Councill aforesaid w"" a message, of great Concernment,
w'^'' you are to Impairt faithfully unto the Sachems of y° said Maquas, their frinds, in as full a
meeting of them all or cheifest of them as you can Procure according to y^ Instructions herewith
given & Committed to you, & your Prudent Mannagement thereof And when you have attayned
a cleere & full understanding of y' said Sachems Mindes, about what you are sent, by you & your
Interpreters, Peter de Voi's, best skill & knowledge you are at all Possible Speed & diligence to
make your Pepaire to y" Gov'^ & Councill in Boston, & declare to them, in writeing & what you
have had and Received from them In testimony whereof y'^ Gov'^ of y® Said Colony hath hereto
affixed the Seale thereof & Subscribed his name, 12 July 1678.
Sic Stibscrihitur, John Leveret, Gov.
This is a true Copy Examined by me,
Rob'' Livingston, Seer.
Letier from Peee Beuyas, S. J. to Cap^ Salisbury on Indian 'affairs enclosed
IN A LETTER FROM Cap'' SALISBURY TO CoMMANDER BeOCKOLST.
TioNNONTOGUiN, July 13"", 1678.
S".
I give this small Letter to this Sakemake to Let you know, that a party of the Mahingans
TaraTctons, have past this way with two prisoners of the Algonquins, who are Subjects under the
Conte of Frontenac, Major Andros did forbid those Indyans to make warre in those parts, & I
doubt not but heo will disapprove so unworthy an action, & will cause those prison" to bee
returned back out of the hands of those treacherous persons ;
You will infinitely oblige the Governo'' of Canada in yo' endeavo" to maintaine the peace in
those parts under yo" obedience, & that you will use those mutinous ones, with the like severity
he hath lately, shewne towards those Mahingans inhabiting about Canada, who brought away
those English prison", from Boston. It is the prayer which in particular is made by him that is,
S'', yo'' thrice humble & thrice obedient Servant,
J. Bruyas,
De la Corap* de Jesus.
524 Colonial Settlements on, the Hudson River,
The Superscription was,
Monsieur Salishury, Governeur, Alhanie.
Cap'. Brockhols.
I have not anything, to acquaint you with since my laste, only upon the 12 of this mounth
Come to this Towne, y* Greate Seacheni of y" Mauquas, called by y* JMame of Cannonundowa to
hand us his beavers & with all he brought me, a Lef from Fere Breuyas, the which I have herein
cloesd, y* when you have perused I pray you to give me your Advis & Let me have it gaine I
Likewis tould this greate Sachem what an Evell thing, thay have done in takeing the Waitticke
Indians, & Did Demands them as you Did advise in yours, he tould me y' thay was ther olde
enemys and Coulde say Littell, at y" present it, but when he Came into y^ Lande, he woulde Call
y'' Woulfe, y" Beare & Siellpott meaning there 3 houses togeather and woulde see what would bee
Done & he woulde Let me here by y^ ferste, I have written to M''. Wells y^ Laste month for pro-
vitions, for y"" Garrisson but Doeth not Let me here from hime neathr by provition or Let', I pray
you take some Care in it & Let there be som sent up by the ferst, for I have bought 3 barrells &
noNs^ its up, & here is not any to be gotten, Soe having noe more to truble you with, but Desires
to Remaine your humble Serv' to Command.
SiLVE. Salisbury.
fort Albany y^ IS"- of July, 1678.
S'', I have spoken to y^ Catkils Indians y' have those 2 prisoners about them, & thay have
promised me, y* the Indians, shall be forth Coming.
For Cap' Anthony Brockholls at fort James in JVew York.
These.
(Endorsed by Seer. Nicolls ;) that M"'. Wells hath already sent two barrells & sends now two
by T/io. Yerdun, for Pork M"'. Wells sayes they had enough, before, for fresh provisions not fitting
to be killed to save & old very scarce to bee gott.
Letter from Commander Brockholst to Cap''. Salisbury on the murder of
THE NatTICKS and THEIR NEGLECT BY THE !NeW EnGLAND PEOPLE.
Cap'. Salisbury.
I have rec'* yo''* of the 6"" & 11"' instant In the former were the pticular bills of the french-
mans Expences at Albany, w"^ you excuse upon occasion of the order from hence. Truly had it
beene imagined that it would have admitted such a Lasitude, wee should have beene more cau-
tious in giving it, for I am very confident it will bee scrupled at, if not downe right found fault
with by the Go :, & I know not how it can now bee put upon the Governo' of Boston to pay it.
Except Avee could have had it time enough to send when these Gents were there, for they have
already concluded with them & paid all their disbursem'', & pretences & so that this after bill will
hardly find acceptance which wee thinke it more convenient to Let it rest, till the Go:
comes. As to yo' owne enhansing the reckoning, or countenancing any extravagance to occasion
it, I can not thinke any of the Councell are of that opinion, but doe believe you will doe yo' best
to render a good ace' of all matters with you to the Go :
In yo' other of the ll"" concerning Tyados the Maquis forefighter & his carryeing the
Natuck Indian prisoners to their Castles, where its said they have burnt the greatest part of them,
If the Letter from hence came to you before they went away & you demanded those prison™
according to the directions therein, mee thinkes they should not bee so perverse to deny it, & it
New YorTi Historical Jiecords. 525
seemes very strange that the Peace betweene us should bee held upon such unequall & ticklish,
Teniies, that not withstanding wee deale with them in all Friendship jet they shall p'sunie to
breake it when they please without eontroiile, as now p''ticularly, their falling upon our Neighbo"
friend Indyans, contrary to their Engagem*, & to expect money for their delivery, They deserve
rather a Check for their Insolence, then to bee soothed up in it, If they have such Encouragem'
their next attempt may bee upon Christians, so they may bee p'' for their Eansome. I suppose
that Considera9on hindred the IVew Encf- men from sending money, neither could it bee expected
yon should liave disburst it for them, but its a wonder they neglected them so much as not to send
after them sooner, when they themselves might have come & spoken with them & heard their
reasons & not to impose the trouble on you, However its not thought amisse, that they should bee
made acquainted of their breach in this p''ticular with our jSTeighbo" ; which is not to bee endured:
The troope of 30 J^orth Indyans with one Maques onely gone out as you mention, seeme to per-
tend no good, & having begun this by a party of Maqttes, greater Mischeife may bee expected
from these others probably ag'' Christians as well as Indyans, which I pray God divert.
I have a Letter from M^ Griffith complaineing of Christopher Scaffe, who instead of making
him payment of what hee owes him, gives him ill words, which is an unreasonable thing, I pray
take some Order for Scaffes making M^ Griffith satisfaction, or Let him have his Eemedy at
Law ag*' him.
Thus having auswerd the p''ticulars of yo'' Lett" I conclude, remaining
Your humble Serv'.
July 20, 1678.
LETfEK FROM JoHN PyNCHON TO Cap'' SaJLISBUEY, EECOMMENDING THE MaSSACHUSETI'S
AGENTS TO HIS KINDNESS.
Springfield July 20«' 1678
Ca]it. Salisbury.
S", Having Reed order fro o'' Governour & Council to send away fro hence M'' SamP- Ely &
Benja. Waite who are Commissionated to treate y" Maqnas in behalf e of y° Natich Indians, Two
whereoff are goeing upon y' designe, w"* an Interp'ter sent fro o'' Councill Peter Van vorjs a
dutchmati who formerly Lived at Albany : so that there are five in all viz a Dutchman, 2 English
men & y' 2 Natich Indians. I am advised & ordered to acquaint yon w**" y^ affaire & to crave
yo' favorable aspect towards y"\ & p''moteing of y° designe v;"'^ is quietness & Peace among y^ In-
dians & consequently w'" y'= English In order to w""*" a right understanding betweene us & y^
Maquas is needfull, & y* they may know & understand o'' Praying Indians are o"^ Subjects, and
that w"^" is more his Ma"^' ; whose corporation in London for p'^pagating the Gospell in N. E. (some
where off are of his Ma''*'' Privy Councill) have desyred & advised y" securing & p'serving. of
them, & It will not be well resented by his Ma"'* right Honorable Corporation whereoff W Boile
is Governour, That the Maquas who are under Goverm' & order of y'^ English should w"" out
any cause destroy & captivate such his Ma"'^' good Subjects, w'^" I hope when known & Consid-
ered will occasion a stop to further p'"ceeding & p''cure release & d'lry up of y'= captives, y' they
have taken, I request yo'' furtherance of o'' Messengers there in & that they may as o'' Councill
Judges it best treate y" Maquas in their owne land, yo' civillity toward these o' Messengers & fur-
therance of y" that they may have free Passage to y'^ Maquas, will I hope tend to settlement of
Peace & quiet & p'mote all o' Interests, And unanimity among all y* English & setling Peace &
526 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
quiet betwixt all o'' Indians may be of grt. concernm', should y° French make any Incursions ■«•<=''
iff warr goe on betwixt o' King & them they may be like enough to attempt. Greate p'parations
for war are in Engld, & expectations y' it will be w"" France yet it is by some conceived to be a
measuring cast whether it will be or noe, for y^ Dutch Boggle at an Ihibition of French goods
for 3 years w'^" o'' King req'^ of y"" & all y' Confederates. A ship w^'^fre7ich goods at Weymouth
in Engld. was burnt according to ordinance of Parlam' &c : I suppose yo" have these things at a
better hand then I ; S' Edmond Andros is coming over & at Sea so y* yo" may expect his happy
arrivall at Yorke Spedyly, w* I pray God grant ; S' I have not to adde at p'sent but begging yo"^
Excuse for this Troble, w"" my endeared Love & reall respects to yo' self e & M" Salisbury, I am
S'', yo"' assured ffriend & Servant,
John PYNcnoif.
S'', it is reported y' one Nathanel Panumpum an Indian Murdered an English man nere
Braintry\&&i Sep* (by stabbing him in severall places, and then Eun away ;) is at or about Albany,
if it so prove y' he is there, Please to dlv"' him to o"" Messengers to bring away y' he may answer
for so horrid an act.
These, fibr y'= Honored Capt. Silvester Salisbury at y® fort in Albany.
Lettee from Capt. Salisbury to Comm" Beockholst on Indian mattees.
Capt. Brochhols
These Are to Let you know y' yesterday. Did Arrive here 5 people from Major Pynchon,
by ord'' of the Gov'' of boston, as you will see by y' Lef and y^ Commission Inclosed, & Sse
ordered to goe to y*" Mauquas Land, & to treate with them, and to see if they Cane gett y'' Natick
Indians againe, but I am very much afraid, y' thay will Come to Laite, for as I have hard, y* y^
moste p* of them Are burned, they Desired noe Assistance from me, only y' thay might have Lib-
erty to goe, which I have Given Leave, not seeing how I could avbyde it, & have sent Arnolt
alonge with them, into ye Lande, but not to Assiste them, only to goe alonge to heere, what there
Demandes is of the Mauquas, soe y' I may by y' next Give you An Account of there proceedings
but my thought is, y' y^ Mauq^ias will not answer them any tiling there in y'^ Lande, because y'
thay have Desired y' if any body that was strangers should Come for to speake with them, y' thay
muste speake at Albany, thay Demand of the Ilauquas y* thay will live in quiet and not to mol-
leste any of these nations of Indians as followeth viz, Mawyk Indians, Punquapok Indians,
Hassanamasasitt Indians, Wamasit Indians, neere Concord, Urikus Indmns & Martins Vineyard
Indians. Soey' if thay Doe prejudice to any of these nations in Confedrecy togather & if y' Mau-
quas will not be still then thay will fall upon the Mauquas with 800 Indians, & soe as one troop
Corns in another to goe for, but if thay will be quiat untill our Gov'^ good Arrivall thay will bee Con-
tent, & then to make a generall peace, I Doe not understand y' y^ English will have anything to
doe in y^ Warr, but if it Cane posable to make pease, soe S'' I Desire your advise if that the
Mauquas should not Consent to there Demands, what I shall Doe or behave myselfe in such a
Casse, Soe haveing no more at present, but I Kemaine
Your verry humble Servant, S'
July 23 1678 Silee. Salisbukt.
New Yai'h Historical Records. 527
Letter from Capt, Salisbury to Comm" Brockiiolst • the murder of the Natticks.
Capt. Brockholse
S''. These are to Let you know y' at y" present, wee bee at qiiiat, but howe Longe it will Con-
tinew God Doeth know, y*' Mauquas, Are verry much trubled, seineingly, at there Laste Action
in taking and buring of thos Natick Indian prisoners, for Contrary to what thay promised me,
thay have burned the moste parte of them, if not all, and finde thay have hard, y' 7iev} England
people Are very Angory with them, which makes y™ feerefull, y' thay shall Come & fall on them,
but I Doe here that y° Maquas, Are procuring beavers, and Zeaw', to give to y^ people of
New England, and to make, An Exseuse for there Misstake. This is all the News at y° present,
\\\efrench yt Came from Boston & New York staide here 3 Days & affter on y' 4"" Day tooke
there jorny to wards Cannaday and was very well sattisfied with y" -entertainment, y' thay
Received at New Yorke, and this plase, but not sattisfied with Boston Entertainm' & thay toaild
them, at Boston how kindly thay was Entertained at Albany, Soe thay of Boston gave them
y' answer, y* its nothing but Reason, for what was Exspended, they muste pay it againe, this depo-
sition is had from m"' De Lesignys owne mouth I Like wis Let you knowe y' with y"^ helpe of
the people of the towne, & ye hours, T have brought into ye forte, y* fountaine y' Lay with out,
after 14 days hard labour, & Doe hope it shall proove a very Excelent peece of work, for y^ well-
fare, of y^ Garrisson, & Doe hope y* all will be Compleated this weeke, but not with out Charges
to his Royall hynesse. Soe having noe more but Remaine your humble Serv' to Command,
SiLRE. Salisbury
ffort Albany y^ 25"'of July, 1678.
ffor the Houno'''' Capt. Anthony Brockliols at James ff arte in New York These.
Letter from Comm" Brockholst to Capt. Salisbury. Indian affairs.
C. Salisbury.
I have rec"* yo'^ of the 15"' currant, Tlie enclosed Letter from the Jesuite iaiher Brmjas who
eomplaines of the wrong done to the Indyans Avhich hee calls Mahinyans Tarrakions in taking
& carrying away two who who are subjects of the Count of Frontcnac, They
having beene forbid by o'' Governo"^ to make warre in these parts. Hee speaks somew' of pun-
ishing these who have done this Injury as the Governo' of Canada hath lately beene Severe with
those Indyans of Canada (whom hee calls Mahingans likewise that brought the prison" away
from Boston Governm'. As wee are ignorant what Seventy hath beene so wee
from thence but its thought requisite
you secure the two prisoners in the hands of Catskill Indyans which I take to bee the same
complaned of & take them out of their hands that (if understood to bee freinds) they may bee sent
againe to their people.
The Letter I have here enclosed sent you back. As to yo' discourse with the great Sachem
of the Maques Cannonundewa who brought , & yo"' demand of those .
Indyans taken & carryed away by them, you did very well in it, & theyl I hope advise together
for their returning them back againe. I have spoke to Mf. Wells about some proyissions for the
Garrison with you, who tells mee hee hath already sent you up two barrels .... & now
sends Two more by Thomas Verdun . . .hee sayes you had enough before . . There
528 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
had beene fresh provissions sent, but in this weather its not fitting to bee killd to save, & old pro-
vitions are very scarce, but however Care will bee taken you shall not want ; There is a vessel
arrived from London that liad 12 weeks passage, the Master brings . . Newes of the Gov-
erno" being prepar .... when hee came w'^'' was .... Aprill no warres the .
great prepara9ons. I sliall conclude having not further at present, & Remaine
July 28, 1678. Yo" humble Serv'.
The Maquase answer to y^ Peopositions Propounded to them this day by
M^ Sam'-"' Ely & Ben "Waite Messengers sent by y^ Gov" & Councill of
Boston & in y'^ Codet house of Albany this 1^'' day of Aug^''.
A" Dom. 1678.
The Names of y^ Sachems.
Camachhoo — Soriwezee — Karahize — Kaewannere — ■ Auworongee — Turie — Interpreted
by Aernout Corn. Viele.
1. They doe say, that y' English of If. England & they have alwaji^es been good f rinds, and are
so still, &, must Acknowledge to have been always welkom & well Received by y'^ English in
there Plantations, but neverthelesse that this is y^ ordained Place to hear Propositions in, lett them
come from what pairt they will, to speak w"' them, & were spoke to here Last year by Major
Pynchon &c in y'^ presence of y" Gov"' Gen".
2. You say there is a fault Committed in takeing away of those Indians at Magoneog, tis true
we acknowledge it. Butt in who lyes y^ fault ? it may be in our young Indians who are like
wolves, when they are abroad ; Possibly in y^ North Indians that live among us, & y" Indians of
Magoneog are not y'' lesse to blame, they not dwelling as frind Indians in y" Woods, haveing a
Castell so well fortifj'ed w'*' Stockadoes, which frind Indians need not have, therefore did Imagine
them to be Enemycs, for these Indians that live in or about y** English Plantations, w'out fortifi-
ca9ons, we did never any harm too.
You have spoken to us by way of discourse without giving of any Presents (though usuall
upon bussinesse of Consequence) and we shall answer you y** same way y' never by us is Practiced.
3. That which is now done by our Young Indians or Soldiers vizt y^ takeing of those Indians at
Magoneog, we give them no thanks for, neither was it by your order, but it is as we liave said,
when they are abroad are like wolves in y^ wood.
4. Brethren you had warrs w' y° Indian Enemyes before we, for when diverse of your touns
were burnt doun, then our Gov'' Gen" did Ineourage us, & told how his frindes in N. England
were Involved in a great warr w' Indians and that some of y"' Enemys were fledd to hosaeh,
■Incourageing us to goe out against them, and we and our Gov'' Gen" being as it were on body,
went out, upon his desire against them, and killd some and Putt y" Eest to y'= flight, & soo have
Continued in y° warr ever since, and if we came to night to your Praying Indians, why were not
we warned & bid hold up, & goe no further. Therefore y" Brethren may be assured of our good
heart & y° Continuation of Peace & vrindship on our sides.
5. The Brethren desire that we should Restore all y" Captives y' we have of your frind Indians
taken by our folks, w'^'' we doe not Refuse to doe. You desire likeways that we may come to
Hartford, hadley, or Boston, to treate w"" your Commissioners there, to that end there might be a
Right understanding of all affares betwixt us &c which we cannot Resolve upon to come & treat
in your Governm' This place being thereunto ordained, but let Major Pynchon (or any other
New Yorh Historical Records. 529
whom y^ Brethren please to send) come here cas he did last year, we shall then in his hon'' y" Gov-
Geu" Presence deliver up y^ Demaunded for Prisoners & treate of all Aiiares, seeing this is y^
house to hear Propositions in, as Major Pynchon well knows. The Governo'' Gen" & you of N.
England & we are one in one triple Allyance w* another.
Upon this following Proposition we cannot forbear (according to our Custom) but give a
small Present though of little value being a faddom of Sew'.
6. Brethren the Covenant that was made here last year betwixt Major Pynchon & us in the
Presence of y'^ Gov"^ Gen" is as fast firm & Inviolable as ever it was, and if our warring against
y^ Indians of y'' North in Generall doth not Please you, Pray aquaint us here therewith.
7. They doe Repeat again that y" Covenant made w"' y'^ Brethren is as firm as ever it hath been,
& doe Present some Zw' made Round as a Circle which y^'' Compare to y'' Sonne, saying that there
alyance is as firm and Inviolable as y'^ Sonne, and shall have such a Splendor as y^ beames thereof,
& say fm-ther more y* if any will speak w"" them, that this is j" appointed Place, as they of Mary-
land have done, & that in y" Gov. Gen" Presence.
8. Brethren There is a troop or 2 of our Indians out, against your and our Enemies, who know
nothing of this, & if they should come to your liabita9ons, let not them be kept fast, or any harm
done to y™ and if y"" should Ignorantly take any of your frind Indians then shall be no harm
done to them but Restored again to any whom you shall Commissionatt to Receive y^ same, w"" y®
Rest Provided our Gov"' Gen" be Present.
This is a true Coppy Translated, Compared & Revised p'' me
Albany Rob'' Livingston Seer'',
datum up supra
Letter feom Comm" Beockholst to Capt. Salisbuet, censueing him foe allow-
ing THE Agents of Massachusetts to go into the Mohawk countey.
Capt. Salisbury. N- Y- Aug. 2°^ 1678.
I rec'* two Letters from you this morning by the hands of M^ Hambleton, with the enclosed
Letter from Major Pynchon to you, & a Coppie of the Go : of Bostons Passe to two of his peo-
ple to goe to the Maques Laud. The Letter of greatest Concerne was without date, but doe
guesse it varyed not much from the ... the other being the 25*'' past. The matter being of
more than ordinary importance I forthwith Communicated it to the Councell, & upon serious &
Mature deliberation doe find that you have done unadvisedly, & quite contrary to the Governo"
practice & positive Orders (which you cannot be unacquainted with) to suffer persons of another
Government, to goe to the Maques upon any ace* whatsoever to treate with them in their owne
Land, & if they at this push them as to refuse to give their
Messengers any answere there, but to putt them off, both to the making of their demands, c%
receiveing their Answer at Albany (as you intimate) It will be very well (but no thankes to you
for it) who p^mitted them to goe in. Certainely yon cannot but remember this very thing of
goeing to treate with them hath attr Here came
p>-8on8 from the government of Conecticutt upon the same Errand, (of W^" one of them by name
M'. Willis one of the first the Councell) who used many Arguments that they might bee
p'mitted to goe to & treate with these people for a future good understanding betweene them & to
give them thankes for the diversion they had made of theii- Indyans enemyes Armes from them,
67
530 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
by their falling on & engaging agf them, then that after came their deputy Governo"' Major Treate
to reinforce what formerly had been pi'oposed who though all civilly treated by his hono' went
away with flatt denyalls of their making any treat with them unless at Albany, with the Governo"^^
approbation & in his presence, which afterward yoii very well know was admitted when Major
Pincheon & M'. Richards appeared there on behalf e of y^ two Colouyes (whose Interests are
Lincked) & Coll. Coursey upon another subject from the Go : of Ma/ryland. The Go : being
allwayes present, & Managing the discourse on all hands that they might not prove prejudiciall to
the Interest of his E. II'' in this Province ;
It is a thing of extraordinary Consequence & most uncertaine how the promises of those of
& treats on the other may worke with those Indyans, who formerly
lookt on none but o'' Go : for tlieir Patron & now will find him slighted by these Gent^ both who
sett up for themselves, & would make warre or Peace with our Indyans without our Consent or
privity, wee are all troubled to think how ill the Go. will resent this, especially when hee shall
reflect on the vast expences hee hath beene at, in obliging these people which now will probably
bee to litle or no purpose, if the Maqties should bee tempted to seeke . . . . It is somewhat
also to bee admired what the Go : of Boston for Indyans,
knowne sufhcientlj' to bee in this Government & in his haste hee takes no notice of our Governo''
or his deputy by whom they are to passe but directs them to goe to the Maques Land, &c In the
passe there is mention made of Instructions given them, but you particularise none of them, wee
hope thev had the good manners to shew them to you or that you demanded the sight & copy of
them which would have beene well to have sent down. Toii suggest, that the English will have
nothing to doe in y' warre, if there should be any ; tis not well comprehended by lis for the out
plantaQons at least, will bee lyable to outrages & Mischeifs on one side or the other, & it may bee
the whole Governm' rue for it : Major Pincheons plausible pretences to yoii & desyre of your
assistance in designe of sending their Messengers forward inight bee admitted
of some longer Considera9on, & it would have beene more acceptable to have sent them doune
hither, or to have kept them there, untill you had some advice or directions from hence, then the
sending Benjamin Waite & his Comerade downe was, who went in Quest of their . . neither
as yo'' saying understood that you could not avoyde their goeing, when but that one word of your
mouth I know would have put a stop to it, then- number or force was not so great, but the buis-
nesse being so f arre gone, wee can onely give our sentiment, but know not what to doe in it now but
Leave the rest to the Events & the Go ; Judgment & determina9on who will not bee absent much
longer.
As to what you mention in yo'' Last Letter, of the uncertainty how long things will bee
quiet with you, & the Maques being troubled about the jVatiick Indyans, who you thinke are
most burnt by them, what is past cannot bee recalled, but doe wish you had more vigorously
demanded these prison'^ out of the Maques hands, whilst with y" (as directed) which might have
prevented these apprehensions, but there is no living with the Maques at this rate, that they shall
take what prisoners they please either freind or foe & without a ransome destroy them. I shall
conclude & heartily wish there may bee a right understanding of these matters, that the Go : at
his Returne bee not too much displeased therewith w'^'^ I am not willing to question but you have
done to y^ best in yo"^ Judgm' so I remaine.
Neio Yoi'Tc Historical Records. 531
Letters from Capt. Salisbuey to Seck^ Nicolls and Commander Brockholst.
Indian affairs ; French Fort near to the Senecas above Cadarackqui.
Deare S^
I have not anything worth acquinteing you with onely on the 5 of this mounth about 5 in the
afternoone god was pleased to bestoe & blese me with a doughtr & as to other News is this y'
Takaghkaratt a foreiightr of y*' Maques has bene in y*^ North with 20 men & has met with a Neste
of Eoges of j" North Indians, y' hath Lived this 2 year by therselves without any coraspondeancy
with Christian or Indian, and have killed 5 & have tooke 6 alive, & yesterday M''. Windall of this
towne being at Scannecstada spoake with a Maiiquas that came from Cannada & he toulde him
y' there was Arived ivomfrance five Shipes with 2000 men and y' thay had found a Sylver mine
and y' thay was bilding by it a greate fort to Containe 80 great gouns & y' thay was bildeing
another for betwixte Cauderaque up y'' Lake Neere to y* Sennickes to get all the trade & to hinder
all thay Cane for Coming heere, this is all the news at present from him y' is your Loveing f reind
& Serv'.
Silve: Salisbury.
ffo7-te Albany y^ b'*" of Augs' 1678.
ffor Capt. Mathias Nicolls at James fforte in Neio Yorke.
These.
Capt. Brockhols.
S"" Tours I have Received bareing Daite y" 20'" of y* Laste mounth wherein you hinte, y' y°
Gov"' will be Downe Right Angry Conserning y'' Exspenee of the french when heere if he be it
Cannot be helped, for it is too Laite to Call yesterday againe.
S' y* 5 of this mounth God has bene pleased to Increase my fammily with a Littell Doughter,
& on y® 7 Came from y^ North a forefighter with a troope of 20 Indians under his Command his
name is called by y^ Mauquas Takaghharat and he haith Light on a Company of 15 North In-
dians that has bene from all manor of Sosyaty of Father Christians or Indians this 2 years thay
have brought alive 2 men 1 woman & 3 Litell boys & have kild 5 »fe 4 maid an Eskape Soe y'
• neste of murdei-ars is broken, the Mauquas Came through all the English plantations & was very
Glad of the Enteqjris, I had Likwis an Aceomp' given me by M''. Windall one of this towne
that he being at Scannecstada Spoake with a Mauquas y* Came from Cannada Lately and he
toulde hime y' there was 5 Shipes Arrived from france with 2000 men and y' thay had found a
Silver Mine not far from Queheclc & y* thay was goeing to make a greate forte and to put in 80
peeces of Ordeuanee, & more y' thay Are makeing Another forte a greate way above Caderrock-
que Neere to y" Sennickes to Ingrose all the traide possable they Cane, This is all the News y' I
have at present from hime y^ Remaines your very humble Serv'.
Silve. Salisbury.
forte Albany, y* 8"> of Aug' 1678.
fEor the Hon''"= Capt. Anthony Brockhols at James fforte, in New Yorke.
These.
Council Minutes. Measures to counteract French influences among the Mohawks.
August 20, 1678.
Two of the Comissaries of All : Marten Gerrits & Dirck Wessell & M"". Livingston the
Seer, were with the Go : to represent, That they do apprehend & finde that the Indyans both Ma-
532 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
quas & North Indians with the River Indyans, are like to bee drawne away from us by ihefrench
who come frequently amongst them, give great Encom-agemen'^ to them by giving them Land &
fforts, divers being already gone to them, to whom they have given 4 Forts, & put a head over
them done by the Go : of Canada one Cryne is made their Sachem, a Maques. Their opinion is
That the Maques may bee underhand advised to give all Encouragement to draw back the Indyans
that are gone to Canada whether Maques, North Indyans or Mahicand^^ by proposeing to make
them Forts bj' themselves & to have liberty to chuse a Sachem or head over them as the others
have, the which the Governo'^ will also countenance them in.
There was discoiirse whether it bee prop'' that those of Alb. who trade direct with Eng¥ should
handle with the Indyan, and thought not convenient.
Aug 22"'.
It being represented by M'. Martin Gerrits & MJ. Dirck Wesells, Two of the Comissaryes
at Albany deputed That divers of our Indyans of the Maqioes & Mahicand'^ with them are drawne
away by those of Canada by the great promises & Encouragements given them, which may prove
of ill Consequence, praying & desiring a remedy to put a stop to it, Orch'ed That all fitting En-
couragement bee given to the Maques, Mahicanders, our Indyans or others & land assigned them
to build forts together or a part in some convenient place if desired in y"^ Governm'.
Aug 23"*
The trading with the Indyans at Albany, & of the Inhabitants there trading into Europe
being complained of & enquired into. It is ordered That for the futm-e no person shall trade with
the Indyans at Albany, but the Inhabitants there, nor none of Albany shall so be Merchants &
trade over sea into Europe. That all Free men of New York who are allowed to goe up the
River, may sell to or trade with Christians att Albany paying the usuall Dutyes as formerly, &
former priveledges continued for these of Alb : at N. Y.
Council MrfroTE. Schenectady Affairs.
At a Councell Held in New Yorke, September the e*"" 16Y8.
The Commissaryes of Sohanecktade having made Applica9on to the Govemour, that the fifth
plaine or filatt Land on the other side of the Maques River may be disposed of for a Minisf
Reader &c.
And also that the Rest of the plaines or iflatts may bee at the disposall of the Court, Ordred
that the Land on this side to the South of the River may bee disposed of to bee settled and upon
returne of Surveys thereof Pattents shall be granted, but not on the other side until further Order.
An Extract out of the Records at Alb : signed by Robt. Livingston Seer. Concerning a mat-
ter in difference betweene Johannes Provost Sher^ of Alb : p" & Lodevicus Cobes Schout of
Schanecktade Def ' about two Boots* or Fines imposed or compounded by the s'* Schout above the
Regula(;on of Schanecktade, which gives no farther power then for 40 g'' bev''^ &c. There being
an arrest layd on 100 g''^ (p't of the !"■ fine) the w'^" was so to continue untill the Go : pleasure should
bee knowne ordered to bee determined according to former practice & last Regula9on & orders.
* The Dutch word " Boete," a fine. — Ed.
New York Historical Records. 533
Letters fkom Gov" Andkos to the Magistrates of Albany and Schenectady.
GeD'=. N, T. Oct. 31, 1678.
I have rec* yo" of the 25'" in answere Whereunto yon may take Notice, that all Indian
Trade is Strictly prohibited at Schanectcule, as in all other out places, as per Order, to be Executed by
the Co"^ &, Schout of Albany as formerly ags' all Infring"'" in said Schanectade as well as other out
places, & s'* Schanectade, As in Appeales to bee in this Case of trade, & all Cases relateinge to it
Concluded by the Co''' of Albany.
The Duke Intends the ffamily of Menslaers, their Just rights formerly enjoyed, to bee Con-
firmed to them, but without wronging any Others of w'^'' all Care and Eegard Shall bee had, &
therefore the Co''' and Offic"^* are to take Care there bee no disturbanceorNeedlesseExpencemade
by the Inhabitants, upon Reports or Rumor^ to their prejudice.
I have Ordered the 33J: & ^ Sches of Wheate and 60 Schepis of pease to y** Church OfSc'' for y^
Redeeming Slaves in Algiers as sent & not doubting yo"^ continued Endeavor' for all publick
Concerns as authorised I remain e,
ffor the Comissaryes & Schout of Alb. Yo'^ affectionate friend,
E. A.
Gent'.
I have together with a Lre from the Co''' at Alb. rec* yo'' order or Result of y° 21" inst'. for
obstructing the Sheriffe or Schout of Alb. doeing his duty in yo'' Towne, according to former
practice & orders relating to Indyan trade which priveledge & power of the Co''' & Schout of
Alb : I doe not understand to bee any way infringed or taken away from them, but as yo' fii'st
Settlement was onely for husbandry with Expresse conditions not to trade in yo'" Towne often
confirmed since, if you have in yo'' Late act or Shall trausgresse therein you must bee Lyable
to Seizure & concluded by any Censure therein, or determina^on of the Co" at Alb. or formerly
& in any of y" particular Concerns or Risks, you shall Allways find mee
For y" Commissary es of SchanecTcstade, Yo'' ajfectiouate friend,
iT. Y. Oct 31, 1678. E. A.
Indian Deed to Lewis Dubois for land in Ulster Co.
Appeared before me Wm. De La Montagne Secretary at Kingston in y* presence of Wm.
Ashfordhy and Joost Adrians two out of y" Court of Kingstown, Kenthamin, Kapetagin & Sema,
Esoims Indians, whoe acknowledged to have given unto Lewis Dubois their lands laying to y^
lands of Lewis Dubois & his partners, to y'= Lands of Sewahanamie & the Same on both sides
of y" Creeke and y'= land called in y^ Indian tongue Pawachta to Pakaseech, Wahaseek, Wakan-
Tconach, beginning from y" high mounts obliquary through y" woods to y*^ greate Swamp laying
between y* river. The said Indian doe confesse to have given y" said Land freely and not to act
anything against it & doe promise to free y"' said Dubois for further demand and doe transport y°
534 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
said Land free & Liber & not incombred for him & his heii'es and they have signed this into y®
records with their owne hands y^ 28'" Decbr 1678 at Kingstown.
Agreed with y" records Signed by y' marke of
Quod attestor E^petagin
Wm. De La Montagne by y' marke of Kentkamin
Secr^. by y'^ marke of Sema.
Petition of John Ward fob leave to purchase Indian Land neae Maebletown.
To his Excelentie, f
Sir Edmund Andross K' and Gov"' Gen" : Etcetara.
The humble petition of John Ward Sheweth y* he hath always been bound to your Hon''
for your former favors And humbly craveth Leave of your hon'' for one more y' is to have Leave
to buy ap' of Land from y' Esojjus indians cald Cochsingh it lyeth Almost behind Marhletown about
30 or something more acres And your petitioner Shall, Ever pray.
An order sent to Esojjes hereupon to have a patent at the retume.
Oedees To be Obseeved by all Mastees of vesells & Traders att Albany,
AT Importation & Expoetatton.
By the Govemour.
1. That no Sloop or vessell goeing up Hudsons River for Albany, doe unload any Goods by
the way, Entered for said place, imless by License & Certificate from the Officer & Magistrate of
Esopus.
2. That no Sloop or Vessell when Arived, & att Albany, unload any Goods or Merchandize
before Notice, & a permit for the same & time for the wayter to goe aboard.
3. That no Merchant or trader or Master, att Albany, doe ship or Receive on Board, any
Beavers or poltry, without a due & perticuler Entry, of the same, & Clearing, or permitt for it.
4. All which to be observed upon penalty of Seisure, as by Acts of Parlement.
New Yorks Aprill the ll"' 1679.
Past the office. E. A.
M. N. Secpy.
Letter from Thomas Chambers to Govk Andeos sending two sealed sacks of
wheat each of foue schepels, according to Ail order of Council.
fox Hall May y« 23"' 1679
Right Honorable.
S'^ according to an order received from yo"' Hon'' bearing date y" 25"* of Aprill 1679 I have
sent downe by Menls Hoogaboome two Baggs or Sackes of wheate containing four scheples each
bagge being exactly measured by y'' sworne meeters in preasence of y^ Maiestrates of this place &
New Yorh Historical Records. 535
soe cairfully sealed np w** y° same seale as in y° Margent. S'' Wee have heere above 200'^ of
Buckwheate w'^'' was not upon y' account of y' Excise w'='' I would desire yo'' Hon' to give mee
or what I shall doe with it, for it must be disposed of speedily, other wayes itt shall take
hurt w'* lyeing, having not further to acquaint yo"' Hono'' w"" at preasent but y' wee are (Blessed
bee God) all in good health, «fe in peace & quietness, soe wishing yo"' Hon'' all health and pros-
perity I humbly take leave & rest,
Yo'^ Hon" most obleeded Servant to remaine, Thomas Chambers.
Eight Honorable having heere 2 meeters & each of them have a Scheple soe y' wee have
marked y* Sackes w'" y* first letters of his name to whom y^ Scheple did beloug, the one hath F.
H. y^ other E. P.
iior y^ Right Honorable S'' Edmund Andross Govern"" Generall of all his Royall Highness
Teritories in America dXtffarU James this humbly present. N. Yorke.
Letter From Gov. Anbeos to Gov^ Carteret nsr New Jersey caxling upon
HIM for such contributions of material for the repair of Foet James, as
HAVE BEEN DELIVERED TO HIM.
S'
Having had Extraordinary Expence since my coming to the Government for the Fortifica-
tions & repaires (perticiderly) of this his Ma'"'^ Fort not yet Compleated, and for which as of pub-
lick Import to the whole Countrey, there was in the time of Governour Colve the late Dutch
Governour Severall Materialls Ordered to be provided, in the Severall parts round us, as lime &c
now wanted, some of which having been sence demanded & received by you ; This is to desire
you to take present Order, that Such lime or other Materialls received by you upon these Accompt
bee forthwith remitted here, to be applyed as designed, for the Repaires of this his Ma"'^ Garri-
son, It Importing his Ma""'^ Speciall Service & preservation of the whole Coimtrey
S'
Your affectionate & most humble Servant,
E. A.
Fort James in New YorJce
June 4*" 1679
Letter From Secr^ Nioolls to M"^ Billop at Staten Island, requesting per-
mission TO HAVE lime BURNT ON HER LAND, BY THE GOVERNORS OrDER.
Madam.
Here hath beene two Men with the Governour, Bartlett & CJias Smith, Complaining that
having (as formerly in other places) provided Shells & burnt a lime Kill upon Staten Island,
about a mile & a halfe from your house, jou have fors't them from thence, upon pretence that it
was y'' Land, & though out of fence, you would not suffer it ; The which the Gov"'' having referred
to mee, These are to Acquaint yon, and lett you know, that it hath been the Constant practice
(Throughout the whole Government, that all persons may & have had Liberty, & soe adjudged)
to cutt wood, timber, fetch stones, make & carry a way lime &c, upon & from any Land or Ground
not within Fence, though some regard to be had, near the habitation or planta9on of Such as are
536 Colonial Settlements on tlie Hudson River.
Settled, According to which j'Oii are also to have regard & not only Suffer those men to proceed
in their Lawfull Labour, (if without fence) but also to take care so to Satisfy them, that thej do
not further Complaine of your obstructing them, nor any other in the like occation.
I am Madam
Tour Humble Servant
M. N.
Neio YorTce June IS'" 1679
Council Minute. Reception of Colonels Kendall and Littleton Agents fbom
YiEGmiA to meet the five Nations at Albany.
At a Councell held in New Torke the 31=' day of July 1679 Present, S^
Edm.und Andross^ Governour, M'' MatJdas NichoUs Seer. Mr. Fred-
rick Philips & M'' Will"' Delavall of the Councell, Mr. Thomas,
Mayor'' of the City, M"' Cornelius Steenwyck, Mr. Nicholas De Meyer
& M'' Stephen Cortlandt of y^ same merch
Upon Applyca9on of Colonell William Kendall & Colonell Southy Littleton Commission" &
Agents from his Excelence S' Henry Chicheley the Governour & the Grand Assembly of his
Maj""^ Colony of Virgi7iia to y^ Governo' of this Colony relating to their treaty with the
Oneyades Indyans or others in confederacy with them who have made Inroades and Committed
Outrages in their Coimtrey.
Resolved & it is the opinion both of the Governo'' & Councell & the other Gentlemen of the
place present That it will be most proper & Safe to send to all the nations of the Magues, Oneyades,
Sinnekes &c to bee at Alhany to meet the S"^ Commission''^ or Agents of Yirginia there, about the
middle of September next in order to their Speaking or Treating with all of them concerning
their affaires. To which End an Expresse is forthwith ordered to bee sent up to Albany from
thence to give notice thereof to the respective nations of those Indyans to be at the place at the
time appointed.
By Order of the Governo"^ in Councell
Letter feom Gov^ Andkos to Capt. Salisbuet at Axbant, directing him to call
TOGETHER THE FIVE NATIONS AT AlBANT.
New Yoeke, August 8"', 1679.
Cap: Salisbury.
I hope you gott good Messengers (as ordered) to y" Maques and other Indyans westward, and
that they will bee at Albany accordingly about y" niidle of Septemb'' to speak with Coll. Kendall
and Coll. Littleton, deputed from Virginia when I also hope to be back from Pemaquid (for
which am ready to take y^ first wind) liowever s"" Gentlemen resolve to bee there soone to whom
pray shew all Cevility & fitting respect, they are sent upon occation of the Oneides Inroads with
whom and other Indyans sent for, y" must also give them all freedom to speak or treate, your
eelfe & Magistrates may bee p''sent if desired, and also to Advice or Assist them in anything
Neto Ycri'h Historical Records. 537
Else, they shall aske or may have occation for but their maiue or general! propersisions they have
resolved already. I am your
Affectionate friend and Servant,
E. Andeos.
Eor Capt. SllvesV Salisbury, Command'' of Alb.
These
CouNciLL Minutes ; Indians declaeed free and not slaves.
At a Conncell held in New Yorke December S"" 1679
Upon Complaint, that the Inhabitants of Easthampton doe frequently kill Southton mens
horses, upon ace' of Trespasse.
Ordered That any person or persons killino; horses upon pretence of Trespasse or otherwise,
to be proceeded against criminally.
That the Law & Order of the Co" of Assizes concerning small unsizeable stone horses, bee
strictly put into execuQon.
Resolved, That all Indyans here, are free & not slaves, nor can bee forct to bee servants.
Except such as have beene formerly brought from the Bay of CampeoMo & other foreign parts,
but if any shall bee brought hereafter withiu the space of six months, they are to bee dispose
of as soone as may bee out of the Government, but after the Expera^on of six months, all that
shall bee brought here from those parts shall bee free.
All Christian Servants that shall be brought into this Government shall bee recorded att y°
Secretarys office att importation by the Masters of Vessels or others that shall bring them, & they
have liberty to assigne them to another, for the time specifyde in their Indentures, & no such Ser-
vant be reassigned or transferred over to serve his time with another, without the Consent or
Approbacjon of the next Co''' of Sessions or Juresdiction, at great distance of the time of Co'''', by
the Appi-oba9on of two Justices of peace, one being the president or first Justice of said Riding
or Corpora^on to bee recorded in y° respective place & transmitted to the office of Records.
The killing of wolves by the Indyans, beiug taken into Considera9on that they doe not kill
the more for the paym' So not to bee p'* for y° future.
Resolved That Indyans being not willing to goe out to kill the wolves or valueing it, are not
to be p'' for them : And Christians beiug supposed the like, the same to bee represented to the
Co'''' of Sessions, Their payment being a great charge out of the Rates & the countrey in debt.
For the limiting of publick Charges at Sessions & Assizes.
That it be recomended to the severall Co''" of Sessions to assert what each man shall bee
allowed per diem giving their attendance there & the like for the Assizes.
There being differences, as to the prices of what is p"" in, upon ace' of the Countrey Rates,
It is likewise to be recomended to the Co"^" of Sessions for RegulaQon or asserting the prices
thereof, for this present yeare, & for the future to the Co''' of Assizes.
Defaulf' for not Training &c.
The fSnes to bee levyed according to Law. Wood for sale to bee l)y the Cord, as formerly
ordered. Stillyards not judged a Lawfull waight.
The ill Consequence of keeping Indyans to bee Servants or Slaves witliiu this Government
being represented and taken into Considera9on,
68
538 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Resolved That all Iiidyans here are ii'ree and not Slaves, no can bee forct to bee Servants,
Except Such as have been formerly brought from the Bay and other forraigne parts, but if any
Shall bee brought hereafter into the Government within the Space of Six months they are to bee
disposed of as Soone as may bee out of the Governni' but after the Expira(;on of s* Six months
all that shall bee brought here from those parts and Landed to bee as others, fEree Indyans.
By order of the Governour in Councell.
ConNCiLL Minutes. Spuyten Ddyvel to be viewed with eefeeence to a bridge.
Jan : 7'", 1679-80, At a Councell.
M"". Joanes, M''. West., & M''. Pinlwrne appeare according to order.
M^ Joanes putts in an abstract of a Lre from M'. Lewin & M''. Woolley, complaineing of the
great Losse, they are like to bee at, by the latitude left by the Co'''' of M''. Palmers jjaym' in
Tobacco, which they seeme to desire releife in, but being tendred a Review or appeale, M^ Joanes
& M''. West declare not to bee unsatisfyed in what is already past, M^ Pinhorne speaks dubiously
as to an Appeale that it might bee well for their employers, but saith hee hath uo power nor
directions to act therein.
They againe say matters being so farre they have no reason to complaine but are satisfyed
with all past proceedings here & desire neither Appeale nor Review, w'^'' might have beene had
of Course before as they say & for the hardship complained of by M''. Lewin & Woolly, they knew
no cause for it. If they had not rec'' this last Lre"^ for the complaining of y^ Tobacco, They had
no Cause of Comp'"*^ at all.
All former Orders about the prohibiQon of bringing dead Iloggs &c to Towne to bee put in
Execu^on.
The passage at Spiting devill to bee viewed & considered of, for a bridge &c.
Whether any store house is in the Yalley or at the Ferry.
No Store house or bolting Mills in the Valley, nor Water to bee kept there, but in lieu thereof
As well as at all out places, as Harlem, the Bowery, &a being under the Jiu'isdiction of the City doe
pay propor(;onably w"' them, or worke at the ffortification.
No Store house, bolting Mills or Trade at the Ferry or parts adjacent, nor any bolting Mill
unlesse for private use through the Governm' unlesse allowed of by the Go : & Councell.
A Comp'* about the Coopers of tiie towne making a private agreem' amongst themselves to
raise the price of Caske etc. Cleme Seahroke d; Evert the cooper named, ordered to bee sent for
this afternoon.
All appointed to meet at 2 O'clocke tomorrow afternoone.
Letter from Gov" Andeos to Philipp Caeteeett of New Jeesei-, complaining
OF his doings, and asserting the Dukes of York rights to New Jersey.
S'. Being advised of yo"' actings without any Legall authority to the great disturbance of
his Ma"'=^ Subjects, I doe here w"" send you attested Coppy of the K^ Lett" patents, & his R. H'
Comission for Lands & Territoryes, as also farther for authority & Jurisdiction over all persons
New YorJc Historical Records. 539
within those bounds etc, as by his Ma"''' S"" patent to his E. H' in which being comprized you are
therefore in obedience to his Ma"«^' said authority to forbeare & not presume further to assume or
exercise (distinct or) any Jurisdiction over liis Ma'"=' Subjects or any person, within any the bounds
of that his Ma"" patent to his s'' E. H' without Lawf ull power recorded as it ought in this place :
I doe also accpiaint you, that it being necessary for the Kings Service, & welfare of his
Ma""' Subjects living or trading in these parts, that Beacons for land or Sea Marks, for shipping,
sayling in & out & a fortificapon bee erected at Sandy Point, I have resolved it accordingly, but
having due regard to all Eights or propertyes of land or soile, shall bee ready to pay, or give first
satisfaction to M'' Mich''- Ilartshorne, or any assigned to or interested in S"* Sandy point, or place,
& not doubting your due regard & observance of the above, remaine S"" yo" affectionate friend &
Servant
N. Y. March 8"^ 1679 — 80 E. Adross.
For Go : Phil : Carterett at his house in Elizabeth Towne.
A DECLABA90N Setting Forth Cap''. Philip Caeteeetts actings in EELA90N to
THE Goveenm'' of New Jeeset to bee Illegall.
S"' Edrmind Andros Kn'. Leif. and Governour Gen" & Vice Admirall under his Eoyall
Highnesse, James Duke of YorTce and Albany &c of New YorTce &, Dependencyes &c in America.
Whereas upon Informa9on of the Actings of Cap*. Phillip Cartterett, Assumeing & Author-
izing others to Exercise Jurisdiction, without any Legall Authority, to the great Disturbance &c
of his Ma"""' Subjects within y° Bounds of his Ma"*^' Letters Pattents to his Eoyall Highnesse, I
have Sent to forwarn the S'' Cap*. Phillip Cartterett from Such his Illegall Actings &c, I doe
hereby by advice of my Councell by vertue of his Ma"^' Letters pattents and Authority derived
unto mee under his Eoyall Highnesse, In his Ma"'^' name further Eequire and Comand the S*
Ca])*. Phillip Cartterett, and all other pretended Majestrates and Officers Civill or Millitary, Au-
thorized by hiin to forbeare and not presume further to Assume or Exercise distinct or any Juris-
diction, over his Ma"<'' Subjects or any Person with in any y^ Bounds of that his Ma""'' Pattent to
his Eoyall Highnesse, and alsoe that noe person or persons doe any wayes Abett, Assist or observe
y^ Same, or any Such Illegall Authority, but they and all persons Forthwith to Submitt as they
ought to the Kings Lawfull Authority, Signify ed by his Ma"'' Letters Pattents to his Eoyall High-
nesse here Established, as they and every of them will answer the contrary at their utmost perrills
upon which I doe remitt all past Actings on S* Ace", and for the preservaQon of the peace and
Quiett of his Wd^'"^ Sul)jects In those parts, I doe confirme all the present Constables In their
Severall and Eespective Townes and precincts, and Shall bee ready to take further order for the
good and wellfare &c. of his Ma"'=' Subjects, Pursuant to his Ma"'=' S"* Letters Pattents and his
Eoyall Highnesse Comission and Authority to mee, Eespecting the Jurisdiction &c, without In-
trenching upon any mans Just Eight, Property, Freehold or Possession. Given under my hand
and y'= Scale of the Province in New YorTce tins 13*" day of March in the 32"' yeare of his Ma""'
Eaigne Annoq. Domini 1679—80 E. Andeoss.
One of the above Declaracjon Sent to Cap*. Philip Carterett and one to each of the ffollow-
ing Townes. (vizt) Berghen, Newark, Elizabeth Towne, Woodhridge, Piscataqua, Midleton &
Shrewsbury.
540 Colonial Settlements on the Htulson River.
LeTTKK FKOM SecR^. NiCOLLS to CapT. SanDFORD with the FOEEGOmG PEOCLA.
MATION AND INVITING HIM TO COME TO New YoKK.
S'.
I take tliis occasion to present yon my Respects at this particular Juncture of affairs, relating
to no Lesse then the Revolution or Alteracjon of Governm' & shall bee glad I may bee serviceable
to you in my Station. S'. Edm : Andros at length well considering the latitude of his Ma"*"
Lres. patents to his R. 11^ with all power of Governm', which by Commission hee invested in his
Governo'', & having Likewise due regard to the scantynesse of his R. H\ Conveyance by Lease &
Release to that part of his patent comprehended in New Jersey (I meane relating to Governm' of
which there is not one word incerted in the release, although sufficient for transferring Rights of
Land, thinking hiinselfe obliged in duty, to prevent disturbances that might otherwise ensue upon
y* jarring Consultapons to the detriment of his R. H^. Interest, hath thought fitt no longer to de-
lay the same but hath sent to Cap'. Carteret & all the Townes in order to their complyance, & it
is by his allowance & approba^on that I now send this to you, & give you my advice as a friend
not to act further but to repaire as soone as may bee to N. Y. where you may receive assurances
of a right understanding & have Satisfaction in all matters from the Go : with free liberty to re-
turne at y'' pleasure. This I doe engage to you, both as from the Go : & also from myselfe having
his word first, being fitt to preserve old friendship w"" Go : Carteret & all other my friends, &
desirous to appeare yo' affectionate friend & Serv' N. Y. March IS"" 1679 — 80.
Extract from the Concessions to New Jersey. (Drawn up est 1665.)
To those that goe over at first with the Go : anno. 1665, provided as in the Concessions ex-
prest to have 150 Acres of Land, & for every man servant the like quantity & for every weaker
servant or slave male or female above ll yeares old 75 acres, & to every Christian Serv' exceeding
the age afores* after the expira9on of their time of service 75 acres for their owne use.
To every Mast'^'' or Mistresse that shall goe before the 1" of January 1665, 120 Acres, & to
every able man servant provided as afores"^, the like & for every weaker Serv' or slave exceeding
the age of li as before 60 acres, & to every Christian Servant to their owne use the like.
It™ to every free man or woman that shall come into the s'' province to plant & within the s*
yeare 90 acres of land, & for every able Serv' the like, & or every weaker Serv' for Slave (aged as
afores**), 45 Acres & for every Christian Serv' that shall arrive the 2* yeare after the expira^on of
his or their time 45 Acres to his owne use.
It" to every such p''son that shall come within y** 3'''' yeare provided as afores*, 60 acres of land,
& for every able man Serv' the like, for every Weaker Serv' &c so earryed as afores* 30 acres, &
to every Xpian Serv' so earryed 30 acres, after the Expira9on, of his or her time.
All that shall come within thirteen yeares, to bee obliged, that for every Mast^"' or Mr*" that
shall have 100 Acres of Land, nor besides what is granted to his owne person that serves one able
man Serv' or 2 such weaker Serv'' &c.
The 7"* part of the land taken up to bee to the proprieto'''.
The half e of golden & silvei- mines reserved. The Quitt rent said to bee one penny or half e
penny p' acre, according to the value of the land, for what will bee layd out for particular per-
sons &c.
JSfetv York Historical Records. 541
CoimCTL MmoTEs: The towns in New Jersey to have delegates as othee
TOWNS of the neighborhood. The Question of Government in N. J. An
election in New Jersey ordered.
At a Councell New Yorke March 21"' 1679—80.
Upon Considera9on whether it will bee for his Ma""'^ Service to admit of Deputyes from the
Townes in Neio Jersey, as others o"' Neighbor' have.
Eesolved That it will bee necessary, & convenient for his S'' Ma"*^" Service, that they have
Deputyes &c.
New Torlce, at a Councell, etc. Mar. 23, 1679-80.
A Letter from C. Ph. Carteret Dated y" 20"' March in answer to the Go: of the S"",
brought by 0. TF". /Smidford, & M^ Johnson with other pap''s. vizt.
A Letter to Go. Nicolls from the Duke No. 18, 1664 relating to his E. H^ Grant to y^ L"
Berhely & S'' Geo. Carteret.
Another to Go : Lovelace from the Duke also dated No. 25, 1672 to assist etc. & declaring
Go : Nicolls Grant to C. Baker &c to bee Null, bearing date after the deed granted to y" L* B.
& S'^ G. C.
The K^ Letter to C. Berry dep : Go : Dec 9'" 1672. Another to 0. Ph. Carteret June
13, 16n. The K' Grant to the Duke — dated June 29"^. Nothing materiall in either Ires.
C. Sandford & M'. Johnson appearing (being sent for) declare not to know the Contents of
y® Letter brought by them, nor to have authority to speake any thing concerning it, but are as
private p''sons.
Eesolved, An answer to C. Carteretts Lres. & being inform'' the K' Lres. patents have not been
publisht or made knowne amongst them, That each Towne bee sent to who are to chuse Eepre-
sentatives to meete upon y^ 7"^ day of Apr. next at Woodhridge in order to y*^ K'' Service, & the
quiet of all his Ma"""^ Subjects in these p''ts.
An Order Sent to the Constable of Middleton in New Jersey, to issue writs
OF Election of Deputies to meet at Elizabeth, N. J.
S'^ Edmund Andres Kn. &c
Whereas by vertue of his Ma"''^ Letters pattents under the Great Scale of England and
Authority derived unto mee under his Eoyall Highnesse, I did the 13"" Instant give publick notice
of Illegall assumed Authority and Actings to bee forborne for y'= future, and did Confirme the
present Constables in their severall Townes aud precincts And that I should bee ready to take
Further order for the good and wellfare of his Ma'"'^ Subjects in your parts &c as therein at Large
Appears, By which Letters Pattents any former or other Letters Pattents or Grants whatsoever
are revoked and made Null as by s'' Letters Pattents at Large Appeares I doe hereby by advice
of my Councell in his Ma"" name Authorize & order that the ffreeholder and Inhabitants of the
Towne of Middleton and precincts have notice and doe meete together with all convenient Speed
and make choice of two Fitt persons to bee their Eepresentatives, who are to repaire to Elizabeth
Towne being the place ap])ointed For their assembling on Wednesday the 7"^ of Aprill next in
order to his Ma"" Service & quiet Settling the publick Concemes of your parts (having due Eegard
to all Just Eights Lands and possessions) And the Constable or his Deputy to make due Eeturne
542 Colonial Settlements on the Hvdson River.
with the names of the persons so chosen to the Secretaryes Office in this place ; Given under my
hand & the Scale of the province in New ijorTce this 23"" day of March in y"" 32*'' yeare of his
Ma"'=^ Eaigne Annoq. Domini 1680 .
To y° Constable of Middleton or his Deputy to bee Forthwith put in ExecuQou, the Like for
the rest.
Examined by mee M. N. Seer.
Paeticulaes of Gov. Andeos visit to Gov. Caeteeett in New Jeeset aistd the
discussions of theie claims to the government.
Monday Apr S'" 1680
It was Eesolved in Councell, That the Go : goe in person to-morrow in his Sloope towards
New Jersey, to bee there the next day being the 7*, the time appointed for the Dep" : to meete,
& that hee goe in a friendly way, with his owue Eetmue & some Volunteers too attend him, with-
out other Arnies then their Swords.
Tuesday, the 6*"
The Go: & his attend*' (as volunteers attend the Go : Mr. Ilorris, Nicolls, J^y^r,
Darrall, Willett, Collyer, James Graham, Mr. J. White, J. Wandall, S. Wilson,
J. West) went aboard about two o. Clock afternoone, toward N. Jersey having a briske Gale of
wind at W. S. W. or there about. In the Evening wee came up to Shooters Isl. where wee ran
aground & afterwards came to an anchor on Staten Jsl. side not farre from C. Youngs. It was
there proposed if not convenient to send some one to C. Carterett that very Evening to acquaint
him of o"" coming in peace w'^'' was resolved on. C. Collyer was pitcht upon, & (by his owne
Request) Mr. Samuel Willson to accompany him who went away to the point where they were
Challenged but declaring to bee friends went up the Creeks in Coll. Morriss boate, They
found p* of a Comp>' with C. Greenland at the point, and heard of another Comp^ by the way,
when they arrived at C. C'arteretts there were others in Armas who challenged them why & from
hence they were, & C. Saiidford with his sword drawne came to the landing place, & demanded
if they were friends, to the m^°'' C. Collyer replying yes, hee s** how shall wee know that, but let
them come ashoare. The boate came back, but they stayed all night.
Wednesday the 7""
The same boat was sent over to the point about SLx of the Clock in the morning, to bring
the Messeng'''' aboard, who were come dowue.
At their arrivall they gave ace' of their Reception & of C. Carteretts answer, That if the Go :
& his Retinue would come to him as friends, hee should bee welcome.
About an houre after, the Go : & Comp^ went in his pinnace & Coll. Morris boate up the
Creeke, There was at the point, Oapt. Greenland w"" part of a Company without Colours who
saluted the Go : they were relieved by another party from the Towne, just as wee went up the
Creeke.
The Go : etc. went ashoare a little below M'' Hopkins house, & walkt to C. Carteretts house
on the hill as we crost the hollow just by the house, there was part of a Company with C. White-
head at their head who making a passage for us, wee walkt through to where wee mett C. Carterett,
with Capt'' C. Sandford, C. Pike, & Capt. Bollen, Capt. Carteret inviting the Go : in to his
house in the Stockades, another party opened for to receive the Go : which was comanded by C-
Sandford, who gave a volley just as wee passed through.
New YorTc Historical Records. 543
A while after o"' being goue in, S"^ Edm. Andros acquainted C. Carteret Sz the rest with the
occasion of his coming to undeceive the people, and to shew his pretensions on his Eoy" Highnesse
behalfe to the Governm' There upon conaanded mee to read the K^ patent to himselfe & to re-
ceive the place & Coiintrey from the Dutch, which -was done Together with Go : Colves orders
under his hand & scale to all offic" to surrender unto the Go : & one particularly to W Ogden
the Schout for the surrender of I^. Jersey.
The K" patent to his E H" was likewise began to bee read, but the people crowding in to
heare it, being debarred by C. Sandford's Comand to the Marshall to keepe them out, which he
did somewhat Churlishly, S'' Edm. being unsatisfyed therew"" & not willing to trouble C. Carterets
house, he ordered mee to follow him out of doores, there to reade it in the open field without the
Stockados, that all his Ma"" Subjects there pres*, might heare the same, which was done accord-
ingly, also the Duke Comission to the Go : & the Kings order under the Signet, to resurrender
all back to his Roy" H' order etc.
Whereupon C. Carteret desiring S' Edm. &c to goe into the house againe where hee would
produce all his Eights to the Governm', he shewed the lease & Eelease from his E. H'' to S'
George Carteret, w'^'' was read by C. Berry, & pleaded to by him & Capt. Saudford, C. Carteret
in the midle betweene them, and C Bollen thereby, who read one of the letters with the signet
from his Ma"' to C. Carteret, there being also another to C. Berry as dep. Go : & 2 others the one
from his E. H.^ to Coll. Nicolls, another to Coll. Lovelace, relating his Conveyance to s'' Gov: &
order of assistance to his Go : or dep : There was also a Copie of another Letter part read from
the proprieto"^ to Coll. Nicolls, promising to Continue his Grants.
S'' Edm. Andros insisted upon his Ma'"'' Ires contents as being of greater force then the K* pri-
vate Lre* & the Conveyance by lease & release so very comon with other material! Argum'**, That
which they at last centred upon, was that S"^ Geo. was the s'' Assignee, & by vertue there of had
as ample power of Go""' as the D. himselfe, & both C. Carteret, Berry, Sandfm'd &
Bollen declared that they could to their uttermost hold & defend their Go™' untill the K'' pleas-
ure were knowne therein, who would onely bee judge in the Case with his Councell betweene his
E. H." & S'' Geo. Carteret. Sometimes they insisted upon the long possession unmolested, but a
while after the discourse was broke off.
After dinner S'^ Edm. walkt downe to the point accompanyed by C. Carteret & Capt. Berry
with a party of men in Armes, a guard being made for him, from the doore to the Stockados,
& after to the bank of the kill, each of the pty. giving a Volley. There was only one
Colour amongst them. The Souldry gave a volley or two at o"" going above, soe having a very
good wind we reached home before night.
C. Berry Talks of Appealing into ErujV-, w-^" hee s'^ They had already sent about it, but being
minded by S' Khn. That it was an Improp"" thing to doe before yt Judg-^', however they per-
sisted in it.
Petition of the iNHABiTAin's of Esopus foe a Ministee of the Gospel.
To the E' Honorable S^ Edmund Andros K'. Signo'' of Saucamares ; Lieutenan' and Gov-
erno"' Generall Undar his Eoyall Highnes James Duke of Torhe and Albany and Dependan*^
The humble Pettison of Severall of the Inhabittance of Esopus humbly sheweth unto yo'
Hono''
"Whereas this place is desstitute of a Ministar for the Instruction of the people ; It is our
544 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Ernest desiar and humble request, w"" all Submission, that _yo'' Hono'' will bee pleased to bee aid-
ing and assisting ; in the procuring one for us ; that can preache bothe Inglish and Dutche, w"^"
will bee most fitting for this place, it being in its Minoritty ; and having great charges is not very
able to maintaine twoo Ministars ; uethar to bee at the Chai-ge of Sending for one out of England
or Holand, and wee are Informed, M"'. Peetar Taschemaker is at Liberty, who is a person, well
knowne to yo'' hono'' and oficitted in this place, for sum time, And if to bee procured, is very well
aproved of and much dessired by moste, hee being a man of a Sobar life and conversason having
Deportted himseLfe to sattisfaction of y° Inhabitanse, Wherfor wee Humbly pray that your Hono'
will bee pleased to be Instrumentall in the same and yo"' Hono"" humble Petticjon''^ shall Evai- pray.
Harmon Gerritson Thomas Vandemarlc, Henrich Herriekson, Robert Blcherstaff, Andrie Pe-
tersen, An Broadhead, lioht. Paycock, Wm. Gray, Jacob Johnson van Eten, Richard D. Wiltson,
Melgur Clare, Robert Chisam, Tho^. Garton, John Cock, Georg Mailes, John Bigges, George
Porter, Jacob J arisen Pecker, Fredrick Peterson, Jeremiah Keetel, ■ William Janson, Thomas
Quynell, John Parton, Anthony Addison, Tho. Quick, Teunis Jacobson-, Clans Teunison, Arson
Garreson, Garett van Jflet, Henry Pawling, Gilbert Krorn, Gerrit Gisbert, his va'SiYkQ Peter a^
Hillibrand, Evert Price, ^ this is the mark of Warrener Hooris Beeck, Niekla£s Rosevelt, his
marke Jacob J ^ Basteyaensen, Hey man Albertson Roose, Arien Albertson Roosa, his marke Lamr
bart \ Hubertson, Roelof Swartwout, John Albertson Roose, his marke Garret H Carnelisen,
! I Mattys Blanchan, his marke Derick ^^ Keyser, Anthoine Crespel, his marke Albert
A Gowersen, Johannes de Hooges, Jan Joosten, Louys Pubois, W"K AsfmdMe, M . Garton,
TF™. Fisher, his marke Cornelius rj^ Per . . . , Ed. Whittaker, Jan Jansen Van . . . , his
marke Thomas ^-f-o Mattliews, William Legg, John Ward, Walter Panniell, John Hall, his
marke Thomas —J— Chadock, his marke Poidus 'V^ Poulison, his marke Hendrick AA
Aldersen, his marke Peter /'j" Petersen, Weynte Ariens jun"".
A Speciall warrant from the Goveenoitr to Summons Cap'' John Beret of New
Jersey to appeaee here before him & the Councell.
Whereas I am Informed That you still persist to act as a magistrate without any Legall
authority with in the bounds of his Ma'"'^ Letters pattents to his Eoyall Highnesse I doe hereby
Further by the ad\'ice of my Councell in his Ma''^^ name require & comand you Forthwith to
make your personall appearance to answer before mee and my Councell in this place what shall
bee alleadged against you on that behalfe. Of which you are not to Faile In default at your
utmost perrill ; Given under my hand and Seale in New Torke, this 30*'' day of Aprill 1680
Edmund Andros
To Capt. John Berry.
The Like was sent to Cap' William Sandford & Laurens Andriesen,
New Ym-h Historical Records. 545
A Commission to the Justices of the Peace of Sheewsbuet &c to keepe a court
OF Sessions.
S'' Edmund Andros Kn* &c. I doe 'hereby by advice of my Coimcell Appoint and order
that the sev. Justices of the Peace with in y^ Townes of MiddUon Shreiosbury and Precincts
doe Convene and meete together the Last Wednesday in August next Ensueing at Shrewsbury
then and their Hold and Iceepe a court of Sessions For the S" precincts, of which the Constables,
to give pnblique notice in their Sev. precincts and that as soone as may bee the S>^ Justices doe
meete and Returne mee the names of two Fitt persons of which one to bee clarke of the Sessions
and the S" Constables are Likewise Forthwith to sumons the ffreehold" and Inhabitants of their
Sev'"' Townes together to make choice and returne the names of three Fitt persons for keeping of
Monthly courts and Determineing of small matters. Given under my hand and Scale of the Prov-
ince in JSfeio TorJce this 25'" day of June in the 32"^ yeare of his Ma""^ Eaigne Annoq Dom-
ini, 1680.
To any of the Justices of the peace for Middleton Shrewsbury and precincts and every of
them.
M. N. Seer.
Absteacts of Indlan Deeds.
(Fort Orange Records, Deeds 3. )
Deed given by the Indians {CatsMls and Mahicanders) Maetsepeet alias Mahac mminaio,
Tamongwes alias Volkert, Fapawachketek alias Evert, Mamaetcheeh alias Johns, Kachhetowaa
alias Cobus and UneJceeh alias Jan de Backer to Capt. Sylvester Salisbury and Martin Gerritse
for certain parcels of land, situate at the Catsk.il, above the land of Evert de Goyer, consisting of
five great flats lying on both sides of the Kil, and being called the first Machachkeek, the second
Wichquanachtchak, the thu-d Pachquayack, the fourth Assiskmoachkok, and the fifth Potick
with the woodland for outlet to the cattle or free passage generally, the circumference of the
whole tract being four English miles. Albany July 8"" 1678.
Indian Deed of Land on Kinderhook Kil given by the Westenhook Indians Wieshaghcaet, his
two brothers Powhyates and Maxinhaet and their nephews Waespa,oJieek and Pinonak to Dirck
Wessells and Gerritt Teunise, the track consisting of four flats, lying on both sides of Kinder-
hook Kil, about one Dutch mile from Jan van TyserCs place; the two largest flats are on the
East side of the Kil aud the one towards the North contains about 27 morgens, the southerly one
about fourteen ; the other two flats are on the Westside of the Kil containing about twenty-five
and six morgens. The four flats with the woodland to the high hills are bounded at the South
by the land bought by Jan Bruyn of Painpoen and at the North by Matit minimaws land.
Albany, Octbr 1" 1679.
Indian Deed for Land given by the Indian owners Kashekan alias Calkoen, Waspacheek alias
Spek and Philippuwas, having power of attorney from Awannis, one of the owners, to Aimout
Cornelissen Yiele as a present. The land consists of three flats, through which a kil called
Mynachkee runs, one being of about twenty five morgens and lying on the Northside of the Kil,
the other two on the Southside containing together about twelve morgens. The grant includes
69
546 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
the above Kil from the river to the second fall called Mntajjan, a distance of about three English
miles, also the woodland adjoining it and stretching abont two Engl, miles to the North and one
mile to the South of the above described land along the river and back from the river as far as the
aforesaid second fall, including two small kils, one in the woods to the North, Avhich empties into
the river and is called Pahahemg, the other emptying into the largo I\j1 from the South. Albany
June 15, 1680.
Rob'' Livingstons Peti^on to puechase Land upon Roeleff Jansens Kill neeee
Catts kill and oedek theeeupon.
To his Excellency S' Edmund Andros R'h. Governo' Gen" under his Roy" Highnesse of
NewYorke and Dependences in America.
The humble PetiQon of Ro¥ Livingston of AJlmny Humbly Sheweth.
That where as there is a Certaiue tract of Land Lying upon Roeloff Johnsons kill or Creeke
upon the East side of Hudsons River, near Catskill belonging to the Indyan Proprietors not pur-
chased by any body hithertoo, and your humble Petitioner being Informed that the owners are
willing to Dispose of the same w"" the runn of Water or Creeke, Tour Excelly. humble Petition
ers requests your Excellencyes Graunt to purchase the same of the said proprietors who shall
Sattisfy them to their Content and produce A Retnrne thereof from the Court of Albany, hope-
ing that your Excellencye will then be pleased to Graunt him a Patteut Accordingly.
And he shall Ever be bound to Pray &c.
Granted to be Purchased according to Law And upon A Survey thereof Duly returned a
Pattent to be graunted him for A Bowery or farme there as Desired.
New Yorke the 12'" of November, 1680. E. Andeos.
A Lycense to Puechase Land on Each side Pocanteco att Wiskeesoeeeke bt
M". Feed: Phillips (Westchestee Co.)
By the Governour.
Upon Applyca^on and Desire of M . Fredrick Phillips for Liberty to purchase a parcell of
Land on Each side of the Creeke Called by the Indians Pocmiteco att Wiskerscreeke on the East
side of Hudsons River and Adjoynmg to the Land lie hath already Purchased And Confirmed to
him ; there to build and Erect a Saw-Mill or Mills thereon These may Certifie that I have Given
Lycence and Liberty to the said Fredrick Phillips to Purchase the said Land According to Law
and on Survey and Retnrne made to be Confirmed to him Accordingly. Given under my hand
in New Yorke the First Day of December 1680.
E. A.
Names of peesons applying foe land on Staten Island.
Pattents Humbley Desiered by thees under mentioned that have bin settled and Made
improvement on the north west side of Staten Hand nei-e Smoaking Poynt, viz.
John Bridges for 80 Akei"s, Francis Barbor 80 ditto, Cap'. Thomas Williams 160 ditto.
New Yorlc Historical Records. 547
Doctor Ge(yrge Lockert 228 ditto, Edmund Land 80 ditto, John Rendrixson 130 ditto, Peeler
Corson 80 ditto, Jacob Corson SO ditto.
Land Humbly desiered by tbees undermentioned being upon the South Side of Statten
Hand, viz.
Warrants past for all ]y;r_ JHchard Halle for 160 Akers, M''. William Darnall 21:0 ditto, Anthoney
ye first of Decern- m c^n ^■ 7 j
ber.1680. Yy/'e 80 ditto.
Land bumbley Desiered by the undermentioned upon the Northwest side of Statten Hand
being situated betwixt Black j^oynt and Jacoh de Mvffe^s neck viz.
John West 540 Akers, John Shottwell 80 ditto, Phillip Welles 160 ditto, Anonias Turner
140 ditto.
Desiered on tlie north side of Statten Hand in the Rare of Peeter Johnson & Claus Arents,
viz.
Peeter Johnson 80 Akers, John Vincent 80 ditto.
M"^. James Graham for A peece of Land on the North side of Statten Hand and Likewis for
Shuters Hand Adjacent, 126 Akers. M"'. Robert Ryder att the head of the Fresh Kill, Y 320
acres.
Land humbly desiered by thees undermentioned being Siteuated on the north side of Statten
Hand and knowne by the name of the Great Playne.
' Cornelius Corson for & Company 160
John Taylor Sargant 80
John Fitsgarratt 80
{^Daniel Thomas 80
Desiered on the Tittle Playne, John Shottwell 80, Daniel Shottwell 80, Francis Lee 80.
Pattents humbly desiered by thees undermentioned that have settled and Made Improvement
on the West side of Statten Hand.
Francis Harbor SO, John Bridges 80.
Edmond Arosmitlb 80
Jacob Corbett 80
Edw. Clarke 80
Era' Lee 60
■ Anonias Turnlr 120
Phillip Bendall 60
John Taylor 120
Akers.
Lambert Dorian 130 ) North side of Staten Hand, the front of
Wants past.
A Warrant for Survay of Land on the
North Side of flatten Hand neare Sioter Hand.
Seated by them or vacant.
Phillip Welles about 300
Governo'' Lovlace Land to the water side.
Jacob Cornelius 30 ) The Rare of Garrett Corson, Peeter John-
James Gilles 120 ) san.
Warrants past for the above.
£135 to be payed in 3 paym'^ by Equall Por^ons, in Winter Wheate or winter barley not
exseeding one halfe y" wheate att 4' p. bushell barley att first paym', 25"> March 1681, 2'"' 25">
March 1682, S"-" 25'" ditto 1683.
Pattents Humbly desired by thees undermentioned that have bin Settled & Made Improve-
ment on the South side of the Fresh Kill, there being no Claime or Improvement Made before,
viz.
548 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Robert Write desires 80 Akers, Frances Pew — 80 ditto, WilUam Elston —
SO ditto, Francis Waller — 80 ditto, Bic^ Curtis — 80 ditto, Daniell Stillwell —
80 ditto, John Morgan — SO ditto, George Garrett — 80 ditto, Abraham Lal-
man — ■ 80 ditto, Francis Uselton — 80 ditto, Bartell Lott — 80 ditto.
Robert Rider liumbley desiers A parsell of Land siteuated on tlie "West side of Statten Hand
at the head of the Fresh Kill Liene; on the East side of Peeler RucJclew.
Letters Feom Captaine Beockholls to Capt. Caeteeett.
Cap' Carterett: New Fw>t<? Aprill the 14"" : 1681
Pursuant to my Promise Inclosed is a Coppy of a Letter I Received from S" John Werden*
wherein a Conlirma^on and release is mengoned to be given of that Eight which heretofore hath
been Doubtful!, and when the Deeds themselves are produced to me shall yeild all Dae Conformity
and hence Regard accordingly, and Endeavour as much as in me lyes to serve you in whatever
you shall be Lnpowered and Commanded in any parte of the Governm' att present und'' my Com-
mand, and though you are noe wayes Concerned in said Letter, yett haveing relacjon to Newjersey
to which you make some Pretence am the Willinger to lett you know the Full Contents thereof
that you may not be Lead in Errors by Reumors and Reports which as you have Promissed I
Expect you will Avoyd For the Future And oblidge me to Remaine
Yo'' Affectionate fEriend and humble Servant.
Cap' Carterett :
S-- New Yarke Aprill the 18'" 1681.
I thought Since I had Given Soe Large Demonstragon and Assurance of my Readynesse to
Serve you in Whatever you shall be Impowered and sent you an Attested Copy of S"" John
Werdens Letter, you would have Followed its Directions soe farr or att Least yo' owne Former
practice and the present Intent and Designe of yo'' Neighbours of West Jarsey as before you act
or assume any power or Authority to Cause that Deed or Instrum' which gives it you to be pro-
duced and Shewed here and Recorded and not have obstructed or Delayed that by Sending Letters
and parte thereof which otherwise might meete with none Did you doe as you aught on yo'' parte
you may well thinke that Such Loose and Imperfect Coppyes soe unattested Carry Little Force
or Creditt with them and that it is not that nor yo'' Letf but his Royall Highnesse whole act and
Deed which signifies his "Will and pleasure ; that will by my Warrant and Discharge and that
Requires my Observance And as I am Ready to obey and Follow all his Ma"^^ and Royall High-
nesse Commands when made knowne to me as they aught soe I must Command you to Desist
medling with the Governm' till (if you have any such) you produce them to me and Cause them
to be Recorded here accordingly, when shall take such Orders as may Settle you in peace and
Quiett and wish you much happynesse and alwayes Remaine,
Yo"^ Affectionate ffriend and Servant &c
A. B.
* See for the letter N. Y. Col. Doc. Vol. in, p. 286.
New YorJc Historical Recorth. 549
A Letter From Cap^. Beockholls to S" John Wkeden EEaAKoiNo the New Jersey title.
New Yorke, May the 14'^ 1681.
Hono"" S^
Yo'' of the sLxth JSTovember past Received wherein Is Advised that his Royall Ilighiiesse was
pleased to Confirme and Release to the Proprietors of both Moyetys of New Jersey all their and
his Right to any thing besides the Rent reserved Whether as to Government or publique Dutyes
Referring to Respective Deeds to be produced which as yett have not been nor any thing Else
shewne, soe that Neto Jersey as S'' Edmund Andross Left it Remaines under my Command An-
nexed to the Governm' of New Yorke and if Devided From thence, "Will much Predjuce his
Royall Highnesse Interrest In those parts The Advise was very Convenient to Prevent any Doubt
or Inconveniency and shall be Attended and Observed Accordingly when what therein Men9oned
is produced and showne I have one thing of Greate Moment to acquaint you with which is the
Losse or att Least wise a present Cessation From payment of his Royall Highnesse Customs Es-
tablished here the time to w'^'' They were Limitted to be Received Being Expired in Novemb''
Last it being menponed in the Regulacjon of the Customs that it is to hold good for three yeares
from November 1677 which being Publiquely Knowne to the Merchants they all Refuse to pay
any Customes or Dutyes and Cap'. Dyre the Collector being now Very ill a Pinke from Lmidon
hath Unloaded her goods and Carryed them to their Warehouses without takeing any notice of
the Custome house or Officers absolutely Ref useing to pay any Customs. I have Done as much as
in me Lyes to maintaine and Supporte it Considering the Greate Charge of the Garrison and
Sold" which know not now how it will be Defrayed and have advised w* the Councell but
Finde noe Power or Authority to Continue the Same without ord" From his Royall Highnesse
of the w*^"" thinke fitt to Acquaint you and have Likewise Wrott to the Governo'' that his Royall
Highnesse may be Informed here of and Such ord" given therein as shall be thought Convenient
w* I Expect p'' First opportunity wee are else all well and Quiett Throughout the Governm' and
pray you may be and Continue soe att home and Remaine,
S^
Yo'' assured li'riend and most humble Servant
A: B.
A Letter From Captaine Anthony Bkockholls to the Governotje.
New Yorke, May the 14"> 1681.
Hono"'' S--.
Since yo'' Departure I Received a Lre From S'' John Werden wherein he advised that his
Royall Highnesse was pleased to Confirme and Release to the Proprietors of both Moyetyes of
New Jersey all their and his Right to any thing Besides the rent reserved whether as to Governm' or
Publique Duty Refering to respective Deeds to be Produced which as yett are not, soe that New
Jersey, as yo"^ Hono- Left it Remaines under my Command Annexed to his Royall Highnesse
Governm', And hope you will soe Informe and Advise his Royall Highnesse that it may Continue :
The Customs is now wholly Denyed to be payed the three yeares for which the Regula9on was
to hold good from JSTovember 1677 Being Expired and the Councell Have mett and Advised
thereupon but find noe power or Authority to Continue the Same Longer w'^out order from
Home. Soe that it will be wholly Lost or att Least Cease for the present And Capt. Byre being
now Very Sick of a Feavor A Pinke from London hath Unloaded without takeing any Notice
550 Colonial Settlements on the Hiodson River.
Either of Custorae House or Officers and Carrj^ed their goods to their Storehouses without paying
any Customs of the which I have Given S'' John Werden an account that liis Royall Highnesse
may be made acquainted there with and ord" taken For paym' of the Garrison w^'' 1 know not now
how it will be Defraj^ed liere Unlesse ord" From his Royall Highnesse to Continue the Same my
Lady and all Here are AVell and I pray God Keep it soe with you. Kemaine
S'
Yo'' ffriend & Servant
A : Beockholls.
Letters Feom Capt. Beockholls to Capt. Caeteeett eefuslng to acknowledge
Cap''. Caeteeetts authoeity in New Jeeset.
JVeio Yorle July the 26'" 1681.
Cap'. Carterett.
This Day Beceived Severall Papers from you by M''. Bullen and il"'. Leprery which have
been shewn and read in Councell but Find noe Power thereby for you to act in or Assume the
Government of N^ew Jersey and till you Pursuant to o'' Former Ord" andPesolves in Councell &
yo"' Paroll to me Produce and Shew a Sufficient Authority you are and I Doe hereby Require you
to Disist acting in any Publique Capasety and Remaine,
Yo'' ffriend and Servant
A.B.
Cap*. Carterett. Neio Torke July the 30''' 1681.
s^
Yo''^ of the 28"" Received by which I perceive that if any Incivility were in mine of the 26"^
(as I know of none) you are Resolved to Exceed But I Cannot aeknowhdge you A Governo'' nor
A Gentl : of that worth I Esteemed you till you performe your ParroU and Comply with o'' Former
Ord''^ and Resolves in Councell by Producing the power if you have any that makes you soe and
thinke you have noe Reason to be higher now then att yo'' first Comeing or in 1674 yo'' Reflects
I mind not but till am Better Satisfied have Just Cause to finde fault with and Complaine of
yo'' actings w''*' must Doe to yo' Superiors and must Still Declare against them and fonvarne yo''
further Proceedings being without any knowne Authority you abuse my kindnesse and Misconstrue
my plainenesse to you which if you take not better measures will Redound to yo'' Disadvantage
I wish you Better then I thinke you Doe yo'' selfe and am Sorry for yo'' unadvisednesse being
"Willing to Remaine
Yo"' ffriend & Serv'
A. B.
I was soe Kinde to give you a Coppy of S' John Werdens Lre. which thought you woidd
have better Complyed w'" and observed it perticulerly Directing to what I Desire and Expect.
ISfew Yorh Historical Records. 551
A Lettee Feom Capt. Ekockholls to S" John Weeden on the claim to New Jersey.
Nexo Torke July the SO'* 1681.
Hono"'^ S"'.
Since mine of the 25"' the Inclosed Demand of Staten Island hath Come to my hands with a
Coppy of the Dukes Grant but the Original] not having been shewn here and Eecorded as I Judo-e
they ought and hath been formerly Practiced Doe take Little notice thereof nor give any Per-
ticnler answer to the Demand the within Men9oncd Capt. Phillip Cartereit not haveing Produced
and Shewne any Sufficient power to make the Same or act as Governo'. But have in answer
thereto Commanded him to Desist Acting in and Assumeing the Government Till Such Au-
thority Shall be Produced and Shewne and am Kesolved not to parte with Staten Island without
Perticuler Direc9ons therein from his Eoy" Highnesse, It being soe Materially Necessary for
this Govemm' and never in their Possession who I. tliinke Incroach much on his Roy'll High'
Kindnesse to Clayme the Same I thought ffitt to Advise you there of that Suitable Ord' may be
Given accordingly and am
Hono'"'^ S''
Your AfEectionate fl'riend and humble Servant
A. B.
Peopositions of Minissestk Indians and answee theeeto.
Att a Councell held in Mew Yorh the 12"' day of Sepf 1681.
Present, Capt. Brockholls, W. Pidllips, M^ Courtlmid.
The Minnissinke Sachamaker Rathquack, spoake first, & Sayed.
That he was here last yeare & spoake with the Govei-uo"^ that is Gone of their goeing to Hunt
& they went as farr as the Spanish Indians who found to be Angry ^^eople & they fell on them &
killed 2 of there Indians then they gathered together & Sent out 20 of his stoutest men to see what
People they were & ord'ed them to Kill as many as they Could & they Killed 6 & brought nine
Prisoners of w'^'' 2 men & 2 weomen Escapefd Soe they brought but 5 home & gave. . .
This place being the old place & the first Citty here, they doe not Ruun about to other
places but alwa3'es Come here, to make their Covenant & speake of greate things in y" P''sence of
y" Sachem of Tappan, that as they have Alwayes had peace soe hope it will Continue as long as
they & their Children Live, c% though they are but poore people. And have not a Shirte to their
back, yett they will allwayes Keep their words & gave. . .
Although I have before Spoake of a firme peace yett it being Soe Good a thing doe againe
Repeate it & if any of his Indians shall breake it or Doe any hurte to the Ckristians he will Kill
them & this he speakes in y" P''sence of his Young men & will take Care it be Kept & p''formed
amongst all his Indians accordingly & gave.
Relates that his People haveing been hunting thought to Have bought good Cloaths for y"
winter but finding Rumm in every house their men stayed there & Drunk rum & Spent their
Beavers, & ab' 60 were Killed by Knives in their Drhike in 3 yeares, therefore Desires y"^ Cap'.
Ca/rterett may be sent to to forbid his people to sell Drinke to y" Indians & y' an Orde"' be made
here for that purpose least this land w* now in peace & quiett should be in warr gave 19 Dressed
Skins & 1 Otter & a Musse,
38 beavers in all.
552 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Answer to t^ Minissinke Indians Pkoposi9ons.
I am Glad to See yo"'" Safe Returns & that yo" have foinid out soe good a Country to gett
Beaver in believe yo" have behaved yo''selves as Stout Souldiers & am sorry for yo'' losse but that
must be Expected when wee Goe to Warr, w* I hope will not happen againe ; yo"' Endeavoring
to make an advantageous Peace that you may hunt in quiett. You Doe well to Come & Continue
y* Peace & friendship between us & soe long as yo" Doe well on yo'' Parts shall not be broake on o'^
12 Shirts, 6 fathom A Continued firme Peace is good & yo" Doe well to take Care of yo'' Young
"^■^.f 'n^l^""""^*"' men the Same be not broaken & wee will Doe the like on o'' parts.
S Rolls Tobacco, _ ...
yi grosse pipes. There is ord'''' und'' Create penaltj^es here to prohibite y® Selling of Eumm
to Indians, & shall Send to Cap'. Carterett that it be Soe there, but if they will Discover who
sells to y® Contrary they shall be punished.
A Letter from Cap''. Brockholle to Cap'^. Thomas Delavall at the Esopus
DESIREING HIM TO KEEP PEACE AND GOOD ORDER IN HIS DISTRICT, LATELY MUCH
DISTURBED.
New Torhi, Novemb'^' lO"" 1681.
Cap . Tliomas Delavall.
S". — Being Infoi-med that Severall Disord" and Troubles have and Doe Happen and Arize att
the Esopus tending to the Greate Disturbance and Breach of the Peace which you Being Cheife
Magistrate there aught to prevent and now Goeing to those partes Doe hereby Perticulerly Kecom-
mend the same to yo' prudent Care and Mannagem' not Doubting all other Officers will be Assist
ing on their partes and performs their Dutyes in Like Manner that the publike peace and Quiett
of the Inhabitants may be preser\^ed and the Generall publique good Advanced and Promoted.
To which end I would have all undue and Unlawfull Meetings of people without Authority pre-
vented and all Erreguler practices in procureing Subscriptions from the Inhabitants avoyded,
Being not Justifiable by Law And that you will take Care the Eight hundred GiW^ payable for
his Roy" High' use be Secured and Collected which is all att present wishing you a Good Voyage.
Remaine S""
Yo' Affectionate fii-iend,
A. B.
A Letter from Cap'^. Brockholls to Cap . Thomas De Lavall : Distribution
OF Land at the Esopus. Quarrels to be avoided.
New YorJce, January 12'", 1681-2.
Cap'. Thomas De Lavall.
S". — Yo''* of the Second Instant Received am Glad to heare of yo' Good Health But sorry
soe much trouble happens to you which thaught my Last would have Greatly prevented. To
the Matter of Disposall of Land Being the thing Cheifely Insisted on I thinke you much in the
Right when you Insist on the Observance of the Law which Gives perticuler DireCQons and is
the Rule for all to walke by, and the Best way to Prevent Disord'* According to which as yo'
selfe soe all Others Aught to Regulate themselves. Yo' many yeares Practice Being a Good and
Lively Example As for Building in out farmes if the Law be sylent in that Perticuler, the
New Yorli Historical Records. 553
Severall Orders of Former Governo" must be Enquired after and Observed But Certainly most
Neecessary in yo'' Parts to Keep togatlier in Towneships, and If any Act Contrary to be Pi-o-
ceeded against Accordingly. I Know yo'' Good jSTature Did soe Farr Condesend when here to
Passe by all Former Affronts From Justice Lewis De Bois and Hoped his Carriage and Comport-
ment "Would not Have Provoaked you Againe but finds my Expecta9on Deceived and a further
Tryall putt on yo'' Patience which I must Intreate you to beare as Easie as Possible their Being
att Present noe Other Eemedy to Prevent Quarrell and the Further 111 Effects, yo"' Assistance is
soe Neccesssary in the Publique Concerns of those Parts that Cannot any wayes Admitt the Lay-
ing Downe your Commission Butt Desire the Dilligent Execution thereof for the Generall
Good, in which you Never Have Been Wanting and shall Oblidge me to Eemaine S',
Yo'' Affectionate ffriend,
A. B.
A Lycence to Jacob Rdtgees & "W". Fisher to Puechase Land att Esopus of the Indians.
By the Comand'' in Cheife.
Whereas Jacob Rutgers of the Esopus Did on the ll"" of Aprill past make Applycapon to
the Court there for Liberty to buy of the Indians a parcell of Laud over the Redouht Kill Eye-
ing against his Land which the Said Court Granted him on Condipon If I Should Approve
thereof and the said Jacob Euttgers now desireing my Approbacjon These are to Certifie that I
have & Doe Hereby Approve of the Same and Grant Liberty and Lycence to the said Jacob
Ruttgers to purchase of the Indian Proprietors the said Parcell of Land makeing Due Returne
thereof to the Office of Records Here in Order for Confirmacjon and Improvement According to
Law Given under my Hand in New Yorke this 12'''' January 1681-2.
A. B.
A PROCLAMA90N Renewing A Former peoclama^on prohibiting trade with
THE Indians in their Townes and planta^ons in the Country.
By the Comander in Cheife & Councell.
Whereas Upon Complaint of many Disorders and Mischeifs that had Happened and were
Likely to Happen by Christians tradeing with Indians Contrary to Law in Indian Townes or
Plantacjons or Abroad in the Country or Rivers, There Issued out a ProclamaQon the 14 of March
167f Requiring all Magistrates Officers or Persons Whatsoever to very Vigilent that noe person
or persons Yessells Boate or Canoe, Doe on any Pretence by Land or Water trade with any In-
dians on penalty of fforfiture of all Such Vessells Boate or Canoes, and the Goods they shall soe
Carry to trade with or trade for. Which were to be Secured and Conveyed to the Sherriffe of
this Citty, or present ISTotice Given that they may be proceeded Against as Above, When the
Discoverer whether Indian or other to have all the said Goods or the Value Allowed them for
Discovery with Piinishm' for Concealing or not Discovering the Same, as in and by the said
Proclaraa9on may more att Large Appeare, Which being Limitted for one yeare from the said
Date is Expired. And Dayly Complaints Being made of Like Disord'' and Mischeifs Occasioned
by said trade with the Indians as Aforesaid These are therefore to Continue and Renue the said
70
554 Colonial Settlements on the Hndnon River.
Prodamagon and in liis Ma"''' name to Require all Magistrates and Other Officers fnlly to pntt the
same in Execii9on and to Exact and take the penaltyes therein Directed as Aforesaid from the
person or persons Offending or Acting Contrary there to till further Order, of which all persons
are to take Notice and Conforme themselves Accordingly Att their perrills, Dated in New YorTce
this twenty Eighth Day of January one thousand Six Hundred Eighty one* in the thirty third
yeare of this Ma'"'^ Reigne :
A. B.
To the Dep : Mayor and Ald''meu of the Citty of New Yorhe to be forthwith Published.
A Lycence Granted to Coenelts Van Buesum to Puechase Land of the In-
dians BACK OF THE HIGHLANDS ON THE HuDSON.
By the Comander in Cheife.
Whereas Cornells Van Bursum of this Citty hath made Applica9on For Liberty and Lycence
to purchase of the Indians a Certaine parcell or ti'act of Land Lyeing on the East side of Hudson
River Behither the High-Lands to Settle A fEarnie or Planta9on or for the Tmprovem' of Hus-
bandry, These are to Certifie that I have and Doe Hereby with Advise of the Councell Grant
Liberty and Lycence to the said Cornells Yan Bursum to purchase of the Indians the said Parcell
or tract of Land and to Settle A ffamie or Planta(;on thereupon, he makeing Due Returne thereof
to the Office of Records Here in Order to Confirmagon, and makeing Improvement and perform-
ing what the Law in Such Cases Requires, Given under my Hand in New- Yorhe this third Day
fFeV in the thirty Fourth yeare of his Ma''^* Reigne Aimoq. Domini 1681-2.
A.B.
A Lettee Feom Cap'^. Beockholls to Cap''. De Lavaxl. Inteenal disoedees
AT THE ESOPUS CONTINUE. DeFENCE OF THE DISTRICT. A " PeTEAEA " TO BE
SENT TO THE EsOPUS.
New Yorhe March 9'" 1681-2.
Cap'. Thomas De Lavall.
Yo" of the third Instant Received and Expected a Better Ace' of yo'' Partes then the Con-
tinued Disord' Especially Amongst the Magistrates whose Bnisnesse it is to Prevent it in Others
much more to Avoid it in themselves. I know not where the fifault Perticulerly Lyes But Beleeve
you will be noe wayes "Wanting, what you Men9on About Indian Reports Beleeve to be Ground-
lesse, But Commend yo'' Care to be truly Informed and to Putt yo'' selfe into A Good Posture of
Defence to Prevent Surprize, Have Gott onePreterereeof M''. Minviel and two Chambersf which
will Come to you in Lucas Sloope and shall speake to M''. Courtland for Another who att Present
is out of towne. It hath not benn Practiced nor Cann it be Expected that any Come from hence
to Assist att yo"" Court of Sessions but the same must be kept as formerly, I have Lately Re-
ceived Orders from his Roy" High^ for the Continuance of all Magistrates & Justices in their
Severall Stations till further Order w'='' Please to Communicate to the Rest, all is well here and
hope will Continue soe with you, Remaine
S'' Y"' affectionate ffriend
A. B.
* 1682. f A species of ordnance, 'Webster.
New Yoj-k Historical liecords. 555
A Lettp]e Feom Cap^. Brockholls to the Commisaries att Albany &c. on
THE EELATIONS BETWEEN THE New Yoi4Ji LnDIANS AND MakV-LAND.
New Yorhe March 29 : 1682:
Gentlemen.
Yo''^ of tlie 21"' Instant with the Indians Proposi9ons received hy which Perceive are Senci-
ble of wrong Done to the Christians in Maryland but Excused and Denyed by themselves and
Seeiueingly Desireons to Continue Peace and ffriendship Since whicli I have Received an Ex-
presse from my Lord Baltimore Concerneing the same Relateing that Nine Christians were
Killed by some of the Northerne Indians the Last Summer Suspecting those with whom Coll.
Coursey made A Peace in their Behalves att w* are much Troubled but have not (as was Re-
ported), Resolved or Declared Warr Against the Indians butt Expect Sattisfa9on Otherwise if
Possible, for whose Safety and tlie Prevention of the Like for the future I have Promissed and
Desire you to use all Endeavours Possible and that the Murtherers be Discovered And when next
you Speake with the Maquas and Seanecas or Others in Amity with us Acquaint them thereof
and Recommend to them the Continuance and Due Observa9on of the Peace and ifriendship with
us and that made with Coll. Coursey for Maryland to which in their Leagues with Other Indians
they must have A Perticuler Regard and not joyne with any to wrong or Prejudice the Christians
who Offer none to them Butt the Contrary and they need not Apprehend or feare Any Will.
They Keepeing their Covenant firme and Invyolable, you must Likewise give them in Charge
that they be very Carefull and Prevent Any of their Young men Rambling or Makeing any In-
cursions on the Chi'ibtiaua to the Southward, which is the Only Needfull att Present from
Yo'' Affectionate ffiriend.
A. B.
Letter from Cap'. Brockholls to my Lord Baltemoee and Councell att
Maryland, (on the relations between New York Indlans and Maryland.)
JSTew Torke, March 29'^ 1682.
Right Hono*"^
Yo" of the 4'" Instant per Cap'. RicTiarcl Hill yesterday Came to Hand whom kindly
Received and with all Speed Dispatched Am Extreamly Troubled att the Effusion of Christian
blood and Other Deprada9ons in your Province (which were not Before Informed of, and Although
Rumoured Unwilling to beleeve Hopeing their might be noe truth therein) to Prevent which as
it hath Alwayes been the Care and Endeavour of my Predecessors not only out of Christian Duty
but A Perticuler Respect wee Beare to your Province soe in my Station shall be as Dilligent and
Ready and noe wayes wanting to Doe you any Service therein; Assureing you that all his
Ma"'' Subjects in all our Leagues and Treatyes with Indians Have had Ahke Equall Esteeme,
And wee the same Regard for their Safty and Defence as our Selves, However Vyolated ; the
Northerne Indians whom you Charge to have been the Actors of those Mischeifs are soe Numer-
ous farr. Distant and of soe many Severall Nations that I know not whom to Aske Sattisfac9on
off and Have Little Cause to thinke the Maquas and Senecas who have Heitherto Continued true
and keepe their League with us should soe soone forgett that more Pertieulerly made for you by
Coll. Coursey (and wliich I Beleeved would Prove an Effectuall meanes For Future Quiett) butt
Rather that they thinke you Slight or fforgett them none from your Partes Haveing been to
Renue the Peace as is usuall and Expected by them wee Doeing the same yearly and if Duly
556 Colonial Settlements on tlte Hudson River.
Observed might be of Greate BenefEtt and Advuutage for the Preserva9on of Peace and quiett
and Continua9on of ffriendship The Very Rumour of what in yo" is Perticulerly Mengoned liath
been see Resented by this Government that the Maques and Sennecas haveing this month been to
Renue the Peace Doe wholly Excuse themselves and Deny to have had Any hand in Killing
the Christians in Ilaryland or Done Any Harrae to them and are Sorry to Heare Any is Done
and that they Seeke to Live in peace and not have Any "Warr with the Christians. I have Ord''ed
Strict Inqnirey to be made Amongst the Several! nations of Indians for the Murtherers and that
none Doe ramble or make Any Incursions in your Partes. And Doe not find the Indians Any
wise Inclynable to make Warr but all Desireous of the Continua9on of peace and ffriendship and
Am sorry the Present luncture of Affaires, will not admitt me to serve you as I Could wish and
Renue your Perticuler League which Judge Absolutely Necessary you give Order in and I thinke
was Promissed Should, and may prevent further trouble or Addresses In the meane time bee
Confident you shall not be out of my thoughts, And as farr as I have Power and Abillity will
Serve you and Indeavour the Peace and Qniett of all his Ma""^ Subjects Perticulerly yo'' Province
whose Happinesse and Prosperity I Rejoyce att as our Owne And yo'' Desires in all Respects
shall meete with as Ready Concurrence and Accomoda9on as Cann Possiblie bee Expected from
and is in the Power off".
Right Hono"'"
Yo' Affectionate Neighbour and humble Servant,
A. B.
A Letter from Cap''. Beockholls to the Commysaeies and Coixet att Albant
(iNFOEMING THEM THAT CoLONELS CofESEY AND LoYD, AGENTS FOE LoED BalTI-
MOEE, AEE coming TO AlbANY TO MAKE PEACE WITH THE NeW YoEK InDIANS).
Gentlemen. JSfew Yorhe, June the 10'", 1682.
This Accompanyes Coll. Coursey and Coll. Loyd who are Commissionated from the Lord
Baltemore and Province of Maryland to treate with the Indians and Procure A firme and Last-
ing Peace for which Haveing made Applyca9on Have Granted them Liberty, and Desire you to
be Assistant to them therein as Needfull my Occassions will not Admitt Mee to Come up There-
fore Desire that you or Some of you be Present att all Discourses or Meetings of the Indians
And see that Due Method Observed as may be Best for the Accomplishing the Same And Con-
tinuance of Peace & that you see nothing be Any wise to Farr Insisted on to Give Any Dislikes
or Predjuce Haveing Regard to the Peace made with Coll. Coursey Alone, w* is Perticulerly
Recomended to them And that all Treaty's And Discourses be in Publique to Maintaine the
Hono"' of o'' Goverimi* in all which not Doubting of yo"' Care & Circumspec9on And that from
time to time may have an Account of your Proceedings.
I Remaine, Gentlemen, yo'' Affectionate ffriend,
A. B.
Resolution of a Town Meeting on Staten Island about the pay of theie Ministee.
Att a Towne meeting held the 10"* Day of June 1682 By ord'' of Eich'^ Stillwell Esq' one of
his Ma*''"" Justices of the Peace.
Being put to the vote whether the Inhabitants would freely Consent that a Towne Rate
New YorJc Historical Records. 557
should be forthwith made in ord'' to y" Satisfaction & paym' of M''. Morgan Jones who by the
Choice & at y« desire of y^ Inhabitants aforesaid has Exercised the function of a Minister in this
Island this yeare hast Past, It was carryed in the affirmative for which there were thirty eiglit
votes & for the Negative but thirty one, "Where upon Orders tliat y<= Com'rs formerly Chosen &
appointed by the Inhabitants of this Island for that purpose doe cause a Rate to be made whereby
a Sufficient Summe of money may be raised for the imediate Satisfaction of y'^ s" M^ Morgan
Jones according to agreement & that they take some speedy Course that y" Same may be collected,
Ordered that this be presented to the Court of Sessions.
Per Fka. Williamson Cler. Cur.
Copia Vera.
Letter from the Commissionees op Maryland at Albai^ to Comm" Brockholls.
The Oneidas and Onondagas on the war path against Maryland.
Honored S^ Att Albany June 24, 1682.
The 7"" Day after oar departure from you being the 23''* instant, we arrived here at Alha^iy
& that day obtained the favour of the Commysares to come to us, who readily procured for us 5 belts
of peak to send to the five nations to come and speak with us, (which this morning
Arnold went away with) Since his going we have rec'' Informa^on y' there were gone
2 troopes of the Oniades down into Maryland. & a Third preparing to goe. The Conse-
quence of w'^'' wee believe may bee very ill to our Country. This S' put us upon Inquireing of y^
Commissayries whether yo' bono" instructions yo" were pleased to acquaint us w"", were put in
practice (viz. y' the S'^ Indians should not attempt any more to goe into Maryland or Virginia to
disturbs or destroye any of his Ma'"'^ Subjects there, & upon the discourse wee find y' y° Indians
have no such Commands layed upon them, Only some kind of words used to some . Indians
tending to y' purpose & this ill consequence, this
will be wee are here coming to treate for y" peace & they whom wee are to treate w"" are cutting
the throats of his Ma'"*^^ subjects in Virginia & Maryland in the meanetime, & this we con-
ceive arise in y' y'^ s" instructions were not soe positive or well carryed, as the quality of the affair
required. Now S"' o' humble request to you is y' y" will please to send up by y^ first y' comes this
way a power from under }'our hand to us to despatch away from hence some person y' wee may
employ for our money to goe after the s"* troopes, in such manner & wayes as wee shall find most
probable to draw y" back & prevent y'' going of the 3'''', & this wee the more earnestly desire, be-
cause wee understand some of the troopes are commanded by Susquehannas of whom wee have
too greate cause to believe y' they will bend their designs upon y" Xtians. 2'"'ly That this
being the only & greate affair M'ee came about, may not be slighted or neglected, in passing
through other hands soe y' wee may use all our endeavors for the preservation of his Ma'"'^
two Collonies, . . Request y' in case any Ship bee come from . . y' you will
please to communicate w'-'' us the news from tlience. All being secure in good order and quiett.
Henry Codrsey, Coll. Phil Lloyd.
Letter from the same to the same.
Forte Albany June 25 1682.
This aftemoone I rec* yo" by the hands of M'. Browne & though I writ yesterday joyntly
w"" Coll. Coursey I am unwilling to omitt making any particular acknowledgment of the favor y'
558 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
you have pleased by the covert of yours to bring mine soe safely to niy hands, & least I should
be behinde hand in my gratitude if any of . .In the escaped .... tumultuous Rabble
in Virginia have destroyed [my tobacco] in four counties computed to be 8 or 10 000 h.heads,
& . . persist notwithstanding }' 10 or 12 have beene slain, & many taken prisoners, yett
there was hopes y' they would bee fully suppressed in some short time, for y' the Governm' had
very timely secured all arms from them.
S'' The news you had of S'' Henry ChicJileys house being burnt is too trew, but my Lord in-
forms me it was not b}^ them, But by accident, whereby S'' Henry had a very great losse, saving
no part of his goods, S"' This w'-'' my humble service is all at present, from y'' very thankful as
well as,
Honor'' S"' y' very humble Serv'
Phil. Lloyd.
S' We have thought it necessary to despatch two of our attendants to Maryland to informe my
Lord y' some troopes of the Uniades, ife Unedagoes, are gone downe into our Contry & as we hear
under such capotaines as are likely to doe us mischiefe. Thatt he may take such course as best
pleaseth him to prevent the evill, & we have ordered them to waite on yo' bono'' for letters if
y° please to write thatt way, & I earnestly hope y' you will not fayl sending us upp a permission
to Imploy such persons as wee can agree w"" all to goe to those nations, & gett what Indians bee
can downe with him to recall those troopes, & see if he can make a peace between them & our
nayboring Indians, soe y' we may never see them more, for we shall never be att quiett so long
as their warre continues.
S' your most humble Servants,
Henet Coukset, Phillip Lloted.
We have further Information of some Quingoes troopes gone into our Country, & wee cannot
Letter from Coknelius van Dtck in regard to the Maryland Commission-
ers ; conference with the Five Nations called.
Ilono" S^ ATb. 26 June 1682
Yours accompanying Coll. Coursey en Col. Loid Rec* y^ 22"' instant and according to your
desyre, shall be assisted . . as shall be Requisited, and see y* due Method in every
Particular observed as formerly, wee did Procure y° 5 Belts of Zw' to send to y^ 5 Nations of
Indians that very day . . & next morning betimes, Aemout took horse and Proceeded on
his journey who intends w"" Gods Assistance, to be here again in 20 days tune. They have desyred
him to speak to y° Indians, to be all here att one time, soe y' the nearest Indians, must waite y^
furthest Indians comeing downe, & soo be here altogether, w''' indeed will bee more advantageous
to their Proceedings, y'= one being apt to accuse the other and So probably (as you intimated in
yours of y* 29"' March Last) y" Murtherers may be discovered.
They have not yett shown us there Propositions, neither have they divulged to us, what their In-
tentions were, and how they intend to Proceed, but as farr as wee can understand it a distance would
willingly draw us in there Line, & have y'^ People unanimous & to be Ranked in y" Covenant w'"
us being his Ma"<=^ Subjects, Alleaging that it is our dutyes Soe to doe, & our Preservation, Butt
Neiv YorTc Historical Records. 659
wee doe not judge it fit or Convenient . . for our Preservation or hon'' of y' Governm' to Insist
on y' Point, tliinliing it most Saife to Iceep our finger out of y fire, so ong as wee can, for if wee
did but once aggree to y*, That there Covenant & ours were one & y= same, then whatsoever Evill
done by y'' Indians to them, wee were obliged to Prosecute y"" Offenders, as done to ourselfe, by
vertue of s'^ Covenant, but wee shall acquaint y" Indians as you mention in yo'^ Letter by way of
discourse after y" Propositions. That they are ... his Maj'' subjects as well as wee & y' in
violating y" Covenant w"" them, they cannot Expect any Reliefe or assistance from us, & Recom-
mend to them the Continuance & due observation of y" Peace made w"' Col. Coursey, and y' they
must have a Particular Regard in there Leagues w"' other Indians, not to joyne w"" any to wrong
or Prejudice y° Christians, and to prevent there young mens goeing out a fighting to y" South-
ward, for fear of making Incursions on y" Christians, which wee think is as much as neighbours
can doe, Except wee make no difterence at all betwixt our Peace & there Peace, and our warr and
there warr.
This is all y^ aco' wee can give you. at p''sent of Proceedings till wee are Certainly Informed
of y^ Intentions when wee shall also give you a particular ac'. Expecting a line from you p' y°
first. Wee Remaine,
Your most humble Serv''
Y*^ Comis. of Alhanie.
CoENELTs Van Dyck.
To the Honored Capt. AntJio. BrocklioUs, Comander in Cheefe at N. Yorke.
A Letter Feom Cap^. Beockholls to mt Lord Baltemoee att Maryland.
Indian affairs.
R'Hon"'". New Tor^-e June 30'" 1682.
Yo'' Lordships of the 15"" Past by Coll. Coursey and CoU. Lloyd Gratefully Received and
to them Doe Give all faith and Credence Being Persons truly worthy of and Capable to Performs
yo'' Lordshij^s Coraands and Countrys Service. For the Expediteing of which what Capable to
Serve them in Hath in noe Case Been wanting And they are now att Albany where my Occasions
would not Admitt me to waite on them my Selfe But have ordered all in place to Serve and Give
all Assistance to them in their Negotia9on. This Day Received two Letters from them by the Bearers
Hereof In which they Intimate to ha\'e Received Informa9on that Some Troops of Indians ai-e
Gonn towards y' Parts of Avhich Have noe Certaine Advise And Haveing Formerly on yo" by
Cap', mil Ordered the Contrary, Cannot Absolutely Creditt the same Butt shall Give Renued
Orders for the Generall Safety of liis Ma"" Subjects Especially in yo' Province and Virginia.
The Enclosed Came under Cover to me by A Yessell that Arrived here From London the 27'"
Instant which by this as the first and safest Conveyance I Forward to yo'' Lordship have Little of
News Butt that all is Quiett and his Roy" High' well att London Am Sorry to here the Tumidt
in Virginia is Gott to Such A Head Butt hope they' bee Snpprest without much Losse all well
here as I hope it will Continue with yo"' Lordship, To whom the Tenders of my most Humble
Service with full Assurance that I am and will Remaine
R' Hono"'".
Yo'' Lordships most faithfull and Humble Servant,
A. B.
560 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
A Letter Feom Cap'' Beockholls to the Commtsaeies att Albany. Indian
AEFAIES.
Gentlemen. New Yorke June the 30"" 1682.
Yo''s of the 26"" this Afternoon Received and this Day two from Coll. Coursey and Coll
Lloyd Intimateing that they are Informed that Severall Troops of the Oniades and other Indians
are Gonue And Goeing For Maryland &c which they Feare to be of 111 Consequence. Butt
Haveing noe Account there of From yo'' Selves or Other Hands being A Matter of Importe
And wholly Forbiden Give Little Creditt there to However would Have you Advise And
Assist them in all Neccessary For his Ma'"'^ And Coiintrys Service Especially to Prevent Any
Incursions or ffurther Trouble in Maryland. And if true to Diverte them the Methods Men-
9oned in yo''^ for the Indians Meeting I will Approve off And Leave fEurther ConsideraQon to
yo'' Prudent Mannagement Being well Acquainted And more Experienced In Such Affairs.
Your Apprehensions are Good About Hanking us in the Covenant with them And Judge most
Proper to be Answered as you MenQon with Eegard to o'' Perticul'" Honour And Interest and
Generall Safety of all his Ma"'^' Subjects Lett all Proposicjons be Considered and Agreed on Be-
fore Spoake to the Indians And Prevent as miach as Possible Private Persons Babbleing and False
Reports w* Breed Confusion, the 27"^ Arrived A Shipp from London Little News butt that
the Duke was there and all Quiett. Lett me here From you by all Opportunityes I Remaine,
Gentlemen, Yo'' Affectionate ffriend,
A. B.
A Lettee Feom Cap^ Beockholls to Coll. Cotjrset and Coll. Lotd at Albany.
Indlajst affaies.
Honored S'^ New Yorke June 30"' 1682.
Yo''s of 24"" And 25"' Instant this Day About noone Came to Hand And Am Glad to here
of your Good Health and Safe Arrivall Butt sorry you should be Informed of Troops of Indians
Goeing Towards Maryland A tiling soe Perticuler Forbiden And which the Commysaries noe
wayes Advise me off which makes me Doubt the Truth However Have Given Orders to the Com-
mysaries And all in place to Advise and Assist you in all Necessary to prevent any Trouble to his
Ma*'^^ Subjects in Maryland or Else where and if Such Reports be true to Diverte the Indians
from Such Inten9ons &c Question not but yon will meete with Full Sattisffac9on Accordingly
the 27"' Instant Arrived A Shipp from London by whom Cap' Baxter A Leiften* in the Gar-
risson Little News butt the Dukes Being in London And all Quiett there. I wish you a Speedy
and Sattisffactory Dispatch In yo'' Negotia9on That I may have the Happinesse to Enjoye yo'
Good Companys much Acceptable to
Hono" S"
Yo' most humble Servant,
A. B.
A Letter Feom Cap^ Beockholls to Coll. Cottesey and Coll. Loyd att Albany.
Indian Teoubles.
Hono*'^ S™ New YorJce July the 4*" 1682.
Yo's of the 24"' and 25'" June I Answered the 30* Ditto since which yo''s of the First of
July is Come to Hand in Answer to which I am Strangely Surprized and much Admire soe
New YorTc Historical Records. 561
Groundless A Eeporte as that of Indian Troops Gone to Maryland Should Gett soe much Creditt
as to give you the Trouble of an Exjjresse whicli Possibly may Allarum those parts with Greater
Feares and Jealosies then ever which Haveing fully Enquired and Examned After Cann finde
noe Cause for nor could I have thought you would have made Proposi9ons to the Coinmysaries
his Ma"°^ Subjects in that Manner yo"^ Buisinesse According to the Commission you Produced
Being to treate with and Coufirme A peace with the Senecas And Other Indians According to
the Articles made by CoU. Coursey in which wee are requested (if need be) to Give you All
Assistance And I thought Before you went From Hence yon had A Full Assurance thereof and
of o'' Keall and Neighbourly Inclynapon to Serve you And all his Ma'''=" Subjects in Such Methods
as o' Long Experience hath Given us to Know is most UsefuU Neccessary and Expedient pur-
suant to which wee Sent Orders to the Commysaries And those in Place to Assist and Advise
you Accordingly. The matter Being Cheifly to Coufirme or Renue a Peace Formerly made may
more Properly be Done and Accomphshed without soe much Threats of Warr or Giveing them
Opportunity of Greater Feares or Jealosies then they have The Method that heitherto Kept us
in Peace And by o"" meanes the Rest of his Ma"""^ Subjects Both East and West is Certainly Best
Still to be ffollowed And not to be Led by New Coiincells Out of the Usuall and Common Road
in which wee are best Understood as wee are Acquainted with the Indians soe best know our owne
Condicjons And Consequently what most suitable for Both, Should be Glad if in my Power to
have A League and Confederary with Maryland. Butt Doe not find you Any wayes Authorized
to Propose, or conclude the Same being A thing of Another Nature then Confirmeing A Peace
with Indians which I Cannot Apprehend soe Diflicult as Rencbed The Neighbourly Affection
this CoUony Beares to yo'' Province hath Alwayes and shall Indure A Greater Readynesse to serve
them then Any yo"^ Threats Cann Oblidge nor Cann they bee Received Kindly not Expecting
Such Unsavory Returnes Especially from yom- Selves whom yo' Capacity Place And Circum-
stances might have kept to more Moderate termes, I Presume to know my Duty and shall Alwayes
be Accomptable for the Same to my Superiours and Duly Discharge my Selfe Accordingly And
now hope you will Proceed to your Buissinesse Pursuant to yo' Commission And if Any thing
to Add Relateing to the Pisscattaways or Other yom- ffriend Indians may Act therein as shall
thinke fitt wee not Concerneing our Selves to be Oblidged or Ingaged for them Butt have
Ordered you all Assistance and Advise possible which May Freely Accept From those in Place
Without Any Apprehensions or Jealosies, or that Any thing but his Ma''"*" Service and Preserva-
9on of Jiis Subjects is Designed And Intended by,
S"
To' Assured ifi-iend and Seiwant
A. B.
A Lettee fkom Cap^ Beockholls to the C0MMTSAEIE8 ATT Albakt. Indian teotjbles.
Gentlemen. ^e,o Torke July the 4'>' 1682.
Yo'' of the 28'" June and 1^' of July hj Mertye Gerriitsen Received and much Admired you
meete with soe much Difficulty About A matter Soe Plaine and Easie as these Gents Message
and Negotiation is Being only to Coufirme A Peace which you all know was Formerly made with
Coll. Coursey Alone And if they Cann Add Anything in BehaKe of the Piscattawayes or Other
their ffriend Indians itt is theii- Owne Concerne and wee noe wayes to be ObUdged or meddle
71
562 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
therein o'' Assistance is Only Desired if need be And that to Procure the Indians to Come to
Speake with them and to see that noe thing be Proposed or Done in Prejudice to the Honour and
Interest of our Collouy About which by my two former Have Advised you Desireing you to be
Present att all Discourses And see all Done in Publique wee Have nothing Perticulerly to Pro-
pose or say to the Indians but when Doe shall in our Usuall Manner Generally Enclude all his
Ma*"*^ Subjects I Could not have thaught Prpposi9ons would have Been made to you in Such
Manner Being from their Buisenesse and Commission Butt Expected They would Shew and make
yoii Acquainted what they intend to say to the Indians which you must see and Approve of Be-
fore Declared and Proceed in o"" former Accustomary Method by which wee have Hitherto
Enjoyed A Long peace and Enclyne not to New Councells or Projects which may Produce Con
trary Effects. I have Sent A Coppy of their Commission for yo"" Better Sattisffac9on And
Desire your Care and Dilligence with all Courtesie and Civillity Being for the Generall Good
and Hono'' of the CoUony butt more Perticulerly yo'' Selves whose Trade they are not to meddle
with Lett me Heare From you by all Opportunities I Bemaine
Gentlemen
Yo"" Affectionate fiEviend
A. B.
A Leti'ee from Cap''. Beockholls to Coll. Henet Cottrset A2^d Coll. Phill
LoYD, agents of Maeylajsd at Albany. Indlan teoubles.
July the 15''' 1682.
Honor* S".
Yo" of the 11'" Instant this Day Received with M''. SMcjte'nhorst DeclaraQon Concerneing
Indians &c. which if true Cannot Apprehend is Designed or Intended to hurte or anoy his Ma"*'
Subjects in Maryland and Virginia nor Judge the Same Sufficient to Declare or make them the
Kings Enemyes who heitherto have and hope will Continue in Peace and ffriendship with us and
all his Ma"" Subjects o' Neighbours. But as wee never have Concerned o'' Selves in their Differ-
ences Quarrells and Disputes with Other ]S'a9ons of Indians Especially soe Bemote soe thiuke it
noe wayes Adviseable or Serviceable to the King or Country to Doe it now The Supply of Am-
muni9on Being A Principall Parte of o'' Trade have noe Cause to Forbidd till they are Really
knowne and Declared to be o"' Enemyes and then Selfe Preserva9on as well as o"' Perticuler Regard
to your Parts &c will Oblidge us to take all Due Coui'ses and Ord''^ to Prevent the Same Butt
hope when the Indians and you Speake togather the Peace may be soe Friendly and Amicably
made and Confirmed that these matters Premised may Give you and us noe Further Trouble.
I was sorry att the Occassion Butt Could Doe noe Lesse then Resent yo" which much Surprized
me and I must now Lett you know that none is more Zealous for his MaJ''' Service and Good of
his Ma"'"' Subjects in Generall nor Ready to Assist you in this your Negotia9on And to Endeavour
the Quiett Peace and Tranquility of this and the Provinces of Maryland and Virginia then my
Selfe to the Utmost of my Capacity who Desires Only to be truly Understood and Esteemed as I
Really and Sincerely am.
Hono'''' Sirs
Yo^ Assured ffriend and Humble Servant
A. B.
New York Historical Hecoi-ds. 563
A Letter feom Cap''. Brockholls to Governo" Carteeett, giving him permission
TO USE A Meadow on Staten Island, without acknowledging Cap". Caetbbett's
eventual claim to it.
Sir. August, 1082.
I have heard that you Formerly Cutt Grasse and made Hay on Statten Island butt whether
you have an absohite Right to the Same by Pattent or only on Suffei-ence am not Sattisfied in
B-itt Doe Hereby Grant and Confirme to you the Liberty to Cutt Grasse and make Hay as
formerly (the meadow not Being Appropriated or Layed out to Any Perticuler Person) till
further order and if Any Molest you in yo"^ Legall Possession you know how farr the Law will
give you Sattisfac^on to which must have Eecourse as Occassion I cann Serve you noe further in
this Perticuler butt Remaine Sir.
To' ffriend and Servant
A. B.
A Letter from Capt. Brockholls to the Lord Baltimoee. Peace made
between Maeylaito and the New Toek Indians.
E' Hono"'*. New TorTce August the li'" 1682.
This Aceompanyes those truly worthy Gentlemen Coll. Henry Coursey and Coll. Fhilleman
Loyd yo'' Lordships Imbassedors, who after Long Patience have att Last accomplished A Happy
Issue and in this their Treaty ife Negotia9on Acted and Done as much as Possible & which I hope
will Prove and Continue for the Peace And Quiett of all his Ma*"=^ Subjects Especially those of
yo"" Lordshipps Province and Virginia in the Obteineing of which noe Service or Assistance this
Collony or my Selfe Could Afford them was wanting nor Ever will be on the Like or any Other
Occassion it should Happen which God Prevent and be Assured I shall never Omitt to mind the
Indians on their Partes to keepe and Performe their Promisses as often as Opportunity to Dis-
course them and to Endeavour the Good of . all in Generall, I write noe Perticulers by Reason
those Gentlemen are soe Capeable fully to Informe yo Lordshipp Butt beg yo'' Excuse if the
Present Condition of the Governm' hath not Capasitated me to serve you as Willing none being
more Ready then my Selfe on all Occassious Fully to Demonstrate that I am
Yo"^ Lordshipps most humble Servant
A. Brockholls.
A Letter From Capt. Brockholls to the Lord Baltimoee.
R' Hon"'' JSfew Yoi'ke, Sept. 21'" 1682.
Since the Departure of Coll. Coursey and Coll. Lloyd by whom was my Last to your Lord-
ship have Received Informapon from Coll. Coursey that some of our Indians have taken severall
your Friend Indians Prisioners and will Carry them Away and have done some hurte to the
Christians which am Extreamly troubled att butt being gone before Late Peace made cannot be
Imputed to a breach thereof however that I might in noe wise be negligent or wanting to Serve
your Lordship or Province (though Could ill be Spared hence) have made a Voyage to Albany
on Purpose to Acquaint the Indians therewith and Endeavour their Releasem* and speak with
Some of the Cheife my Selfe, Coppy of which with their answers is Enclosed who seeme Like-
wise sorry att the ac^on, and have Sent to the Rest butt as yett noe answer and Doubt not butt to
564 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Rvoer.
Gett all the Friend Indians, they being alive releas'd and SattisfacQon for the Damage Done to
the Christians when knowne. For the Accomplishing of which nothing of Care paines or Indns-
try shall be wanting in me, and two Dayes since Returning From Albany Received yo"' Lordships
of the 18"' past Conteineing Expressions of Gratitnde farr Transcending the Deserts of your
humble Servant who Cann never Sufficiently acknowledge yom* Hono''s Kindenesse and Favour
therein haveing Already Received Greater Obliga(;ons From your Lordship then Capable to Repay
and as already soe Shall Still Continue my Endeavours to Divert our Indians From Visiting your
Parts Espetially to Disturbe or Prejudice any of his Ma"" Subjects which I hope the Late peace
will be a good Step to Attaine, shall Greatly Rejoyce to see your Lordship in these parts & hope
when so neere nothing will Hinder or Divert but all Forward and Incourage soe good an Incly-
na9on though truly not in A Capacity to Receive soe noble A person as yoiu* Lordship, Cap'
JVicoUs is not yett Arrived but Expected shortly about three Dayes Since arrived A Ship From
London little new's all things att home Remaiueing quiet and as they were, nor Any Orders for
Settlem' of this Province of the Disposall of which is Various Reports I shall be Allwayes ready
to Serve your Lordship And Province on any Occassion and to Demonstrate that I am,
Right Honourable
Tour Lord'^ps Most Humble and Faithfull Servant,
H. Bkockholls.
A Letter Feom Capt. Beockholls to the Magistrates and Court att Albany.
Gentlemen. New Yorke October 25«' 1682
The Messuage From the Maquas was this Day read in Councell which finde very Uncer-
taine and DoubtfuU of Complyance, of which Expect further Account Butt thereby Observe
That Robert Sanders Continues his Meddleing Taiketive humor Concerning himselfe with Indians
In matter of Publique Imports to the Prejudice and hurte of the Governm' as well as perticuler
Persons of w"* SeveraH Complaints haveing been formerly made and now Committed the like
offence, I would have you fully to Examine and be Sattisfied therein and as he shall appeare faulty
that he be Censured therefore by fine or otherwise as you shall thinke fitt that thereby if possi-
ble his Tongue may be Confined to his perticuler Concernes if any thing further from the Indians
Lett me be Speedyly Informed thereof and presse what you Cann, the Releasem' of the Indian
Captives. I am.
Your Affectionate ffriend A : B.
Endorsed.
Since the writeing of this have Received the Messuage from the Maquas of the 20"^ Instant
w'^'^ is Something in Complyance mth our Desires and perceive the Rest are not Deteined but stay
on their owne acco"' of which Shall Acquaint my Lord Baltimore and Expect an Account of
their Meeting att Tionondoge as Soone as possible.
A Letter From Capt. Bkockholls to the Magistrates & Court att Esopus.
Gentlemen. Wew Yorke October 25'" 1682
I have by the Advice of the Councell Pursuant to his Roy" High^ order Continued the
Present Magistrates and Justices in the Exercises of their Severall Functions till further Orders
Neto Yoi'h HistmHcal Records. 565
And to Supply the Tacancy by the Death of Capt. Thomas De Lmall have Inclosed A Commis-
sion to Capt. Thomas Chambers to Act as Justice of the peace Accordingly; your Designe of
Building A Prison and Court House is well Approved of and the Charges must be borne and
Defrayed by all the Inhabitants in the Severall Townes Propor^onably to be Collected in the
best manner as usuall, I have Lately had an Account of Towne Troubles Occassioned by Lewis
BSois att the Last Court of Sessions and y* the Same was putt of on his Account which and the
Former Complaintes of his ill Carriage hath made me Resolve to Remove him Therefore by the
first Opportunity send me the names of two fitt persons Inhabiting neere him to be putt in Com-
mission of the peace which shall be Sent before winter, all well here and hope wiU Continue soe
with you. I am Gentlemen,
Your Affectionate ffriend
November the 13th : 1682: A. Brockholls.
A Commission was Granted to Abraham Haesbrooke to be Justice of the Peace For Esopus.
A Letter From Capt. Brockholls to the Lord Balthioee.
R' Hono*'" New Yorke October 26'" 1682.
I have at Length obteined Some Effectuall Issue of ouv Endeavours for Releasem of the
Indian Captives 14 thereof being Released. Accordingly as the rest may and I beleeve are att
their Liberty either to Returne home or stay with the Northerne Indians, Butt am Certainly In-
formed that Some Doe Deny to Returne to their Country haveing A more Pleutifull one and
better Provission where they are. Those willing to Retm-ne Judge will Goe over Land else
Should have taken Care to Transporte them by Water and Shall Continue Indeavours that none
be forceably Stayed but all att Liberty to Goe to their Country orstay as they thinke fitt. An
Opportunity presenting by the Beai-er M' Edward Antill bound for your Province, Could not
Omitt to Acquaint your Lordship of the above and of my Continued Endeavours to Serve you
and Province for which as Occassion need no other Prompter then your Lordships Commands,
have nothing of news to Imparte, butt to begg your Lordships Acceptance of my humble Service
with full Assurance that I am,
R' Honourable,
Your Lordships most humble and faithfull servant,
A. Brockholls.
A Letter From Capt. Brockholls to the Lord Balttmoee.
R» Honourable. New YorTce November IT"', 1682.
This Accompanyes 14 of your Indians willing to Returne this winter the Rest att Liberty
butt the Cold weather soe neere Approaching Likeing the Provission and Entertainem* to the
Northward are not willing to Returne till Spring, therein have fully Accomplished your Lord-
ships Desire and my Earnest Endeavours though not without Some Difficulty, which Resolved to
wade through to Serve your Lordships as Shall in any thing Else for the Good of the Province
and his Mat'''' Subjects in Generall hopeing you will StiU beleeve that I am,
R* Honourable,
Your Lordships most humble Serv' A. B.
566 Golmiial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Contract to sell land on the East side of Hudson's Rivek neae Magdalen Island.
(Fort Orange Records, Vol. Notarial Papers 1677-1695.)
This day, the 3"^ of January 1682-3 appeared before me, Adrian van Ilpendam, Notary
Public residing in Neio Albamy, and before the undersigned witnesses an Esopus Indian, called
Capt. Jan Bachter, who engages himself herewith to the effect, that he will not sell the land,
which belongs to him with all its privileges on the East side of the river near Magdalen Island!,
or the kils and creeks to anybody else, but to those, who have given hira already earnest-money
upon his promise of the said land, to wit Jaco^ Jamsen Gardenier and Juria/rv Teunissen van
Tajppen and Ha/rnum, van Oansevoort, The aforesaid Indian acknowledges herewith, to have
already received as earnest-money half a barrel of good beer and in confirmation hereof he has
signed this act with his own hand in the presence of Jan van Loon and Pieter Pietersen Wog-
gelom as witnesses.
New Albany, date as above.
As witness and This is the mark AS of Capt. Jan Bachten, made by
Interpreters |[ ^^^^-^^ ^^^^^ j ^^^.^jfy^
Jan van Loon JT
Pieter Woggelom Adrian van Ilpendam, Not. Publ.
A Letter From Cap'' Brockholls to Cap'' Chambers Justice of the peace ait
Esopus.
Cap' Chamlers. • New Torke January IB"" 1682-8.
¥"ours of the 28'" Past by the Indian Post yesterday Received with the Good News of peace
And Quiettnesse in your Partes as here and hope will Continue, I thought Debois being putt
out of Commission would have Ceased Giveing you further trouble which find he Does not but
if Persists Troublesome Such Legall Course must be taken as may make him Quiett. The Sallery
Allowed in the Law was Long Since taken off and none payed to any in the Governm'. your Care
in Restoreing the Indian Child is much Commended It being Insufferable That any thing Should
be taken by force from the Indians much more their Children, And if the Inhabitants trust Any
of them it is on their owne Perill and Risque Being without Remedy for Recovery imlesse will-
ingly payed by the Indians but in noe Case any force to be used towards them. An Ordinary
for Entertainm' of Strangers Judge very neccessary and if an honnest Sufficient man will under-
take the same may be Lyceuced and Authorized as the Law Dii-ects. have Nothing of News but
Dayly Expect our new Govern'' when all things may be well Settled, In the meane time your
prudent Mannagem* for the Preserva9on of the peace and Publique Good to be Continued I am,
S^
Your Affectionate ffriend,
A. B.
New Torh Historical Records. 567
Petition of Feancois Maetinou, John Boulyn and othees of Staten Island ask-
ing TO BE EXCUSED FROM CONTEIBUTING FOB THE SUPPORT OF A MlNISTEB.
To the Right hono"''''' Capt. Anthony BrockTiolst Coman* in Chief e, and the hono'''''' Coimcel of
Nev} YorTce, etc :
The humble Petition of francois Martimyu, & Jno. Boidyn inhabitants of Staten Island,
for themselves and in behalfe of the Major Part of the Inhabitants of S'^ Island,
Most humbly Shew & Complaine, That at the last Court of Sessions held at Gra/vesend,
jo' petiou", when ordered to Contribute towards the Maintaniance of a Certaine person called
Joanes Moy^gan a pretended minister in ord" but by reason of his 111 life & Conversation, is much
doubted of by y'' pet", w* s"* order of the Court of Sessions was obtained by the meanes of Jus-
tice Stilwel without any Summons given to the jjetit" but only uppon the Misinformation of the
s* Stilwel alledging that the Major part of the Inhabitants had consented thereunto, w"'' y'' petit"
are reddy to make appeare is a great falsehood, for soe it is that the Major part of the s** Inhabit-
ants although several times attempted by the s* Stilwel and some few others to dispose the petit"
thereunto, yet the petit" have alwayes refused, and still do refuse, to give any consent to the
calling or maintainance of the s'' Joanes ; And yo' petit" are further Informed that the s* Stilwel
is Empowered to make the taxe for the same at his discretion ; and are threatened by the Constable
Thomas Walton for to straine uppon yo'' pet" Estates for the same.
Wherefore y"'' pet", do humbly Implore to yo"' hono" humbly requesting that a Stopp may
be made to the lUeageU proceedings of the s^ Stilwel / and that y"' hono*^' will please to graunt
the pet", with the s"* Stilwel a hearing of the whole matter, or otherwise that the same may be
remitted by way of an appeale to the Court of Assizes ; where the Petit" doubt not but will be
releived from the oppression of s** Stilwel, and obtaine justice & Equity,
And as in duty bound shall 'ever pray viz. This is the mark /y made by francois
Martinou Jan boilin
January 15"^ 1682-3.
Letters from Justice Sttllwell to Secretary West m relation to the foeegoing- petition.
Staten Island Januaiy 19'" 1682-3.
S^. — I Received yors of y° 15"" instant & was much Sui-prised when I perused y*^ inclosed
Petition, but more to see y° confidence or rather y* impudence of y" Subscribers, who assume to
themselves a power w* I am very confident they can no more produce, then they are able to prove
what they have in the said Petition alleadged — I have discoursed w"" Severall of y" Inhabitants
of this Island since the receipt of yo" & have not yet found one man, that knew any thing of
the Petition, either English or Dtotch, & if there be any others concerned in it beside y* Sub-
scribers they are onely some few of y ffrencli & Walloons, As to the matter contained in y° peti-
tion it is all false, for M'. Morgan Jones was hired pubhquely at a Towne Meeting, most of y°
Inhabitants being present & in particular, Framcis Martina one of the Petitioners, who did then
& there approve of the Choice as will be most easily proved ; Soe did likewise the major part of
y° rest. & afterwards at another Towne Meeting the S"* M'. Morgan Jones was againe confirmed
& his Salary voted to be paid him as by the inclosed will playnly appeare. At this Towne Meeting
there were present Sixty nine of the Inhabitants ; the greatest appearance I ever Saw at Such a
568 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
meeting on this Island, & it was carryed in favour of M^ Jones by the Major part the Sub-
scribers of y*" Petition being both then there present : afterwards the s^ order was presented to
the Court of Sessions who confirmed the same & this is y' whole truth of the matter, I never did
anything of myself but by y'^ good likeing & by y* approbation of the Major part of the Inhabit-
ants, neither did I ever heare y' M^ Jones was a person soe Scandalouse as they represent him,
nor doe I know any thing concerning his ordination but from his owne mouth, but I beleive hee
was quallified as hee ought to bee, because hee was recomended to us by S"' Edmund Andross
who I presume would not knowingly encourage Soe ill a man — As to what they Charge me with-
all about my being iinpowere to make a Tax for his payment according to my discretion 'tis a very
great untruth for I never concerned myself further therein, then by my warrant to Convene the
Comrs who by the Unanimouse consent of the whole Island are annually Chosen & appointed to
make all Rates and Taxes for the defraying publique Charges, and it was by them the Rate was
made & none else. The Reasons formerly opposed against M^ Jones when his time of payment
drew neere, were none of those specified in the Petition : All that ever was alleadged against him
was by the french & Dutch, who said hee not being of their Nation they coiild not Understand
him, & therefore were not obliged to pay an English Minister pleading the articles made w""
Generall Nicolls ; & in truth those are their reasons still although in their petition they Cloake
it w"" other pretences, however they were allwayes out voted & everything was concluded accord-
ing to the opinion of the Major part as the Law directed. Thus S'' I have given you the whole
truth of y^ matter, & doe desyre that Capt. BrocJcholls & y* Councill may be theirewith
acquainted not doubting but they will take into Consideration the abuse w"'' is offered to mee, in
this false & Scandalous Petition, when my reputation is soe neerely Concerned, & my authority
brought into Contempt, for if such things as these are Countenanced, it will tend to y*" destruction
of the peace of this Island, which I have hitherto carefully preserved & for the future wiU doe
my endeavour to continue the same whilst it is comitted to my Charge, having noe reason but to
hope I shall be justified in aU my lawfull actings by their Authority — If my presence bee
needfull at N. Yo7'ke upon advice given mee I shall be there, & am i-eady to Confirme what I have
here writt by sufiicieut evidence in the meane time it is my humble Request to the Councell that
noe stop may be put to our proceedings in this businesse for M'. Jones hath beene long out of his
money : wants it extreamly & 'tis a greate Shame hee is not yet paid, having honestly performed
his part, Pray give my humble Service to Capt. Brockliolls & accept the same yo''self from
Yo'' affectionate friend & humble Servt.
RiCHAED StILWELL.
M'. West.
I wrote you at large oti the 19* of this instant in answer to yo" of the IS"' but the badnesse
of Y weather hath not afforded an opportunity of conveyance. Since w'''' I have heard y' y" Peti-
tion" have made it their businesse to send roimd y" Island to perswade y* People to deny their
former act & deed, concerning M''. Jones w"' promises if they would soe doe that they should pay
him noething, & otherwise telling them that they muste pay a greate deale more then they really
oiight to pay ; I am greately troubled at such proceedings & now hope y' y" Councill will consider
how much I am hereby affronted, & by their authority put a stop to such irregular dealings w**
will be acknowledged as an obhgation by S"'
Yo'' ffriend & Servant,
RiOHAED StILLWBLL.
Statten Island Jan. 24:"^ 16S2-3.
This for M"". West, Secretary att Nexo Yorh.
New YorJc Historical Records. 569
A LtCENCE to FFEANCI8 EuMBOUTS AND GuLTNE VerpLANKE TO PURCHASE LaND
OF THE Indians on Hudsons Eivek, (Fishkil, Dutchess Co.)
By the Commander in Cheife.
"WTiereas Francis Eumhotds and Gulyne Verplmike have by their Peti^on Desired Liberty
to purchase A Quantity of Laud Lyeing on Eudsmis River not yett taken up or Purchazed from
the Indians as may be A Suitable and Convenient Settlem'. Por Each of them thereon to make
Speedy Improvem' These may Certifie that the said ffrancis Rumlouts & Gulyne Ver Flanke
have hereby Liberty and Lycence to purchase of the Indians A Quantity of Land on s" Kiver
Accordingly of which Survey and Eeturne to be made According to Law. Given under my
hand in JVew Torke this 28*'' Day of February 1682 (1683).
A.B.
A Letter From Capt. Beockholls to Cap'. Chambers att Esopus.
ISfew Yorle, Aprill 6'" 1683.
Gentlemen.
Contests and Disorders w"" you appointed to keep & Preserve Peace and order Amongst his
Ma*'*^ Subjects and to Shew good Patterns and Examples for the Same is the unwelcomest News
that Cann be And I thaught not to have found Such Spuitts Soe Easely heated with Passion or
by Prejudice Incensed the whole matter intimated to me by yours of the third Instant Giveing
noe Provoca9on for the Same, Your Duty and office is to Distribute Jiistice EcpiaUy And Impar-
tially to all And that with Moderayon And meekenesse the Law being your Rule and Guide and
in all matters where any Perticuler Judgm' or Opinion is Over voted Silently to Give way and
Accquisse without Resentment of which hope never to heare more Complaints att this time most
Unseasonable when our Governour is Dayly Expected who I would have finde us in a Good and
orderly Condi9on and not in Confusion I see noe Cause for the Removeall or Suspending of M"".
Mountagne but as he hath been an Officer for many yeares Amongst you soe must Continue, and
liope he will not now be wanting in any parte of his Duty the Constable or President of the Court
upon equall Division hath the Casting Vote and you might Easiely have been Sattisfied therein
without this Ti-ouble which find is Occassioned more by humor tlian merritt. Such Fiudes are
of ill Consequence Rendring Authority Contemptable And Obstructing the Due Course of Justice
Which is not to be Denyed or Deferred to any and hope will not be Occassioned but all Truly
Discharge their severall Dutyes and Trusts to the Honour of God and Good of his Ma"'" Subjects
I am
Gentlemen
Your affectionate fEriend
A. B.
To Capt. Thomas Chambers Justice of the Peace to be Communicated to the Constable and
Inferior Magistrates att Fsopus.
570 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
A Lettee to Capt. Gaevis Baxtee Commandee att Albany.
Nevj Yorke Aprill 6"" 1683.
Sir.
By Letter from the Commisarjes of the Second Instant Am Advised of A Barborons and
Cruell Act Committed by A Maquas Indian on a Boy att Albany and that they have Secured the
Indian And Sent for the Sachems to whom the whole matter with its Circumstances must be Ee.
lated and the Indian kept in Safe Custody till its fully knowne whether the Boy will Recover or
not for as I understand he is Dangerously wounded, And by Another of the fourth Instant Am
Advised the Indian has Confessed the fact if the Boy Dyes notice being Given A .Commission
will be Sent to try the Indian for the miu'ther And he must be Proceeded against as the Law in
such Cases Directs of which the Sachems may be Likewise Acquainted And that he has noe other
usage therein Then if one of the Christians has Committed the like fiict for raurther will not be
hid nor the murtherer Goe Unpunisht please to Communicate the Above to the Commissaryes
This to your Selfe being in Answer to theirs have Orders About the Trade up the Eiver And
Expect the Governour very Spedyly Capt. WicoJls Being Arrived, Glad all else well in your Parts
and hope will Continue, I am, Sir, your affectionate ifriend
A. B.
A Lettee Feom Capt. Beockholls to M". Sam''"'. Geoome att East New Jeeset.
M"". SantIK Groome. New Yorke Aprill 7'" 1683.
S^
This Day had Perusall of A Letter from you dated the 29* past Directed to one Stennitts
A Tennant on his Roy" High' Farme and Planta9on att Hasemus there in Requiring him to
Come and Even Accounts And agree with you about the Rent for the Same in which matter I
thaught none would have meddled bub my Selfe he not being Accountable for the Same to any
butt his Roy" High" or Deputy of whom he holds and Possesses the said farme and Soe hath Done
and Payed Rent to him and his use only ever since the Settling or this and the Province of New
Jersey under his Ma'''^ if you or any one have to Demand from the said farme my Selfe in be-
halfe of his Roy" High" the Chiefe own" and Proprietor must and will Answer the same it not
being the Buisnesse or in the Power of the under Tennera* to make Any Termes or Agrement,
And that Right & Possession which the Authority of East neiu Jersey for Soe many yeares past
have Allowed and Admitted his Roy" High" to hold and Enjoye I thaught you would noe wayes
Endeavour to Distroye but Rather Countinance and Encourage And therefore wonder att this
your Proceeding therein And hereby Lett you know that I must & will maintaine and Assert his
Roy" High" Interest and Right in the Said farme to the Utmost and maintaine his Tennant in
the Quiett Possession there of with whom you are not to Expect any Account or Agreem' to be
made but what Ever your Pretences or Desires are therein Lett be Communicated to me that his
Roy" High" may be made Acqainted therewith And you Shall have all friendly and ISTeighbourly
Satti8fa90u from
S^
Toiu' Affectionate ffriend
A. B.
Neto YorTc Historical Records. 571
Quitclaim foe land and a fai.l called Pooohkepesingh, given by an Indian.
(Fort Orange Records, Vol. Notarial Papers 1677-1695.)
This lifth day of May 1683 appeared before me, Adrian van Ilpendam, ISTotary Public in
New Albany, and the undersigned witnesses a Highland Indian, called Massany, who declares
herewith that he has given as a free gift a bouwery to Pieter Lansingh and a bouwery to Jan
Smeedes, a young glazier, also a waterfall near the bank of the river, to build a mill thereon.
The waterfall is called FooghJcepesingh and the land Minnissingh, situate on the Eastside of the
river. He acknowledges this gift herewith in presence of their Honors the Commissaries Cor-
nelis van Dyh and Dirch WesseUen Ten BroeJc, who themselves have heard two Indians testify,
one called Speck and the other Vechpaidmo, that the aforesaid Massany had surrendered the afore
said land to the said Pieter Lansingh and Jan Smeedes, without retaining for him or for his
descendents the right to claim hereafter even a stuyver's worth from them ; also that the said
Indian Massany is the lawful owner and inheritor of the said land!
The foregoing has been interpreted in the presence of their said Honors, the Commissaries,
by the wife of Jurian Teunissen and the aforesaid Indian has signed it with his own hand at
New Albany, on the date as above.
As witnesses This is the mark \/^ made by
Gornelis vam, DyTc Massany ,/ ^^ himself,
Dirch Wesselsen which I certify
Adeian van Ilpendam Not. PubHc.
A Letter From Capt. Beockholls to Capt. Chambers att Esopus.
S' New YorTce June 29*" 1683
Have Received yours of the 25* Instant and Enquired Into the Difference between Hurly
and Pauling which find Occasioned by a Grant given by the Governour to said Pauling for
twenty Acres of meadow or thereabouts neere there towne which j'ou are ordered to Lay out and
if the towne have any Perticuler Clayme or Property in the same Prior to the said Grant they
Aught to have a faire tryall therefore in yom* Courts of Sessions p"' Jury and then if Either
Party Disatished with the Judgm' may make their Applyca9on to the Governour and Court of
Assizes by appeale which is the only proper method for Determineing all Controversies, You
Should Likewise take Care that none Purchaze Land of the Indians without Lycense first Obteined
as the Law Directs the Kemissenesse in the observance thereof haveing made Contest between
John Ward, Cornelis Sivits and Andries de Witt who as am Informed without any Lycence
have purchased of the Indians a Piece of Land called Cuchsinh which was Perticulerly granted
to John Wa)'d to purchase the Right whereof thinke not fitt att Present to Determine butt Leave
till the Governors Arrivall, only in the meane time building and Improvem' thereon by any may
be stayed till the Right and Property therein be fully knowne and Desided and the trouble of
many Orders Especially Contradietive which rather Enlarge then Lessen the Difference Presented.
I am,
Tour Affectionate Friend A : B :
572 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Miver.
Abstbacts of Indiai^ Deeds.
(Port Orange Records, Vol. Kot. Papers, 1677-1695.)
Laud at Niskayuna.
Rhode, Sachem of tne first Mohatoh Castle, Sagoddioquisax, Sacliem the second Castle and
Todorasse, in place of his grandfather the late Caniaclikoo, sell in presence of the other Mohaxoh
Sachems to Jan Mangelse, a piece of woodland near Canastagione on the other side of the river,
stretching up the I'iver froui the upper end of the land of Ryk Claesen van Bokhooven at a tree
marked with the mark of Harmen Vedder and Barent Ryndertsen and running along the river
over a kil, called by the Indians OtsTcondaraogoo, included in the sale, to a large oak tree, marked
by the Indians' and Jan Mangelse's mark and stretching into the woods, as far as Jan Mangelse
or his heirs shall have occasion to use it. Albamnj, March 4"', 1682.
Land at Catskil.
Wanjiachquatin, an old £Jsojms Indian, Mamanauchqua and her son Cunpaewn, TJsa/waiv-
neen alias Squinting Jacob and other Esopus Indians sell to William Loveridge sen"' hatter, their
wood land reaching from the mouth of the kil, where the house of William Lovei'idge now stands
southwards along the North or Hudsori's River to beyond one half of the great bend, where the
trees are marked W and from the River Westwards to a fall up Kaetershil called Quatawichnaak
and then along the East side of the Kaetershil, where it empties into the Catskil and then along
the Catskil to the house of TF™. Loveridge and to the North river, with all the kils, creeks, flats
etc except a field bought by TF™. Loveridge from Jan Conell. Albany, July 19, 1682.
Land in Pntnam County.
Bond and Mortgage given by an Indian of the Highlcmd, Tapieas, for a debt, to Lawrence
van Ale and Oerrit Lansing, secured by his land situate upon Hudson^ s River, on the Eastside,
nearly opposite to the Danskamer, it being a flat on the Westside of a Kil called Wynachkee,
beginning at the second fall, where Aernout Gornelissevus land ends.
Land on RoelofE Jansens Kil (Livingston Manor, Columbia County.)
The Mahicander Indians, owners of the land on Roelof Janserus Kil east of Hudson's
River, a little below the Catskil viz ; Ottonowaw, Tataemsheet, Maneetpoo and two squaws
Tamaranachquae and Wavianetsaioaw, also Auxhys, Newameen, & Maquoavfie as representatives
of MamaranecMak, absent at the Esoptis, Takanitto, Tamaranachqua^s son, Attoqtiassovma
her brother, representing Kachkanawaw and Sausquas declare in the presence of several members
of their tribe, that they have sold and conveyed to Robert Livingston all their land on Roeloff
Jansen^s Kil, situate on both side of the Kil which the Indians call Sankhenak and consisting of
three flats and several small flats, together with the woodland kils, creeks and all their rights and
privileges, the land running along the River Northward from Roeloff Jansens Kil to a small kil
opposite the Catskil, called Waohanekassik, and Southward down the River to a place opposite to
Sagertyes Kil, called by the Indians Saaskahampka and further Eastward through the woods to a
copse, called by the Indians Mahaskahook. Albany, July 12"" and 18"' 1683.
For Saratoga.
The Mohawk Sachems of the flrst and second Castles, Roode, Saggodiochquisak, Aihagari
and Taiskanounda, representing their tribe, then present declare to have sold and conveyed to
Cornells van Dyk, Jan Jansen Sleeker, Peter Philippsen Schuyler and Johannes Wendel, a tract
of land called Sarachtogoe or by the Maquas Ochseratonque or Ochsechrage and by the Mahv
New YorJc Historical Records. 573
canders Amissohaendielc, situate to the North of Albany, beginning at the iitmost limits of the
land bought from the Indians by Goose Gerritse and Fhilijjj) Pieterse Schuyler deceased, there
being a kil called Tioneendehouwe, and reaching Northwards on both sides of the Kiver to the
end of the lands of Sarachtoge, bordering on a kil on the Eastside of the River called Dionoerv-
dogeha and having the same length on the Westside to opposite the kil, reaching Westwards
through the woods, as far as the Indian proprietors will show and the same distance through the
woods to the East. They surrender all the land, kils, creeks, woodland etc except liberty to hunt
and fish.
Albany, July 26, 16S3.
Under the same date, as the foregoing deed, the Mahicander Indians renounce their claims
upon the fore described lands, which they might have upon it, " because in olden times the land
belonged to them, before the Maquaes took it from them."
Deed of gift to Arnold Viele by Mohawk Sachems.
Before the Commissaries' Court for Albany, Colony Eenselaerswyck etc. appeared the fol-
lowing Maquaes Sachems, representing all the three tribes of the Maquaes, owners of a certain
piece of land, lyeing above Schinnechtady on the Northside of the river, covering about 16 to 17
morgens, over against the flat, where Jacobus Peek lives, called by the Maquaes Wac/dcees/ioka,
which flat the Maquaes herewith cede, transfer and convey to and for the benefit of Aernout
Cornelise Viele, Interpreter, in consideration of his having great trouble every day with travelling
to their land, to the Sinnehus and to the North and in his other-duties among the Savages. The
transfer is made by them in their quality of lawful owners and proprietors of the aforesaid land
and they convey it to Aernout Cornelise, his heirs and successors, free and unencumbered,
without burden or tax, giving him, Aernout Cornelise, his heirs and successors full power and
authority etc.
Interpreted by Ahus Cornelise at the Courthouse in Albany, Sept. 26, 1683.
Dirch Wesselsen fif
Jan Jansen Bleecker The mark yf y of Tioskanoenda
l^ the Turtle
The mark j^ of Arcs -pj^^ mark VV^ o^ Oweadachane
the J^ Interpreter V\> the Bear
The mark "^VV ^^ Tahaiadoeie
VC - the "Wolf.
574 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
Acco'^ OF WHAT Estate the Inhabitants of Westchestee have given in to be
1683.
Rated this yeaee.
Oabriell Leggatt
6
10
2
3
3
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
07
10
Thomas Hunt Juii"'
8
20
4
5
3
2
4
2
0
0
0
0
3
0
12
1
Thomas Williams
6
20
2
4
2
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
3
0
8
8
William Collard
4
6
0
4
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
0
Joseph Hadly
0
15
0
3
2
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
3
0
5
11
Josiah Hunt
6
6
2
4
0
2
1
1
0
0
0
0
3
0
6
1
Thomas Farrington
6
9
0
4
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
4
11
John Forgason Seiir
6
60
2
7
u
2
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
12
4
William Richardson & his man
8
20
8
3
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
30
2
0
13
7
John Crumwell Sen''
4
10
2
6
0
1
2
1
0
0
0
5
3
0
8
1
John Hunt
8
14
2
1
3
4
2
2
0
1
0
12
1
0
9
8
Widdow Oakly
7
10
0
6
0
2
3
0
0
0
0
10
2
0
5
2
John Buclihy
5
li
0
1
0
1
2
0
0
0
0
7
3
0
3
4
Edward Waters & his man
12
20
2
3
3
3
2
1
0
0
0
5
3
0
11
3
Tliomas Vaile Sen'
0
2
2
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
3
5
Samuell Vaile
3
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
2
2
Hichard Ponton
7
15
2
3
3
2
2
0
0
0
0
4
4
0
7
11
Joseph Hunt
3
12
2
4
1
0
3
1
0
0
0
10
0
0
7
5
Derrick Garretson
1
2
0
1
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
11
Edward Hornet
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
4
Robert Maning
0
0
0
5
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
6
John Ferris & his Son
30
50
4
6
5
7
6
1
0
0
0
30
3
1
0
2
Robert Huestis
14
17
2
5
2
2
3
1
0
0
0
0
5
0
10
1
John Nelson
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
11
James Miller
%
8
0
2
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
6
Thomas Pritchet
7
6
0
4
2
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
1
0
5
5
Thomas Mullinex & his Son
14
24
4
6
6
6
2
1
0
0
0
9
14
0
16
7
Nicholas Bayly
12
15
2
5
2
3
4
1
0
0
0
0
18
0
10
9
John Turner
3
6
2
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
4
5
Sa7nueU Palmer
12
13
2
3
3
1
3
1
0
0
0
6
6
0
9
1
Thomas Baxter
14
10
2
0
5
4
2
1
0
0
0
4
3
0
8
9
Joseph Palmer
4
13
2
4
4
0
3
1
0
0
0
5
4
0
8
10
John Forgason Jun'
0
0
0
3
0
3
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
4
9
John Quenby Sen"^
12
19
2
4
3
2
2
2
0
0
0
9
3
0
11
5
John Quenby Jutf
3
0
0
1
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
8
Edward Hubbert
2
4
2
2
2
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
5
3
John Winter
2
4
2
2
2
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
5
3
Isaac Dickerman
6
12
2
4
0
3
2
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
7
9
Henry Gardner
3
8
2
4
0
2
2
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
9
Matthew Barnes
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
4
Joseph Tajylor
3
6
0
3
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
10
Thomas Hunt Sen'
20
40
4
10
2
8
9
1
0
0
0
12
10
0
18
4
Nathan Bayly
6
14
2
3
2
0
2
1
0
0
0
2
3
0
7
8
John Palmer &, his man
20
16
2
5
0
2
3
1
0
0
0
0
8
0
11
7
Richard Osburne & his man
15
12
1
6
4
4
4
1
3
0
1
0
8
0
13
6
Matthew Pugsby
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
6
John Jennings
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0 0
Sum totall
0
0
0
1
6
17
10
2
The Estimations of Westchester ffor y" yeare 1683.
Neto Yorh Historical Records. 575
An Act to divide the PEo^^NCE and Dependenctes into Shiees and Counttes
Passed Novembee 1" 1683.
(Dougan's Laws.)
Haveing taken into Considerapon the necessity of divideing the Province into respective
Conntyes for the better governing and setling Courts in the same, Bee It Enacted by the Gov-
emour Councell and Representatives and by the authority of the same That the said Province bee
di\'ided into twelve Countyes as followetli :
The Citty and County of New YorTce to containe all the Island Comonly called Manhattans
Island Mannings Island and the two Barne Islands, the Citty to be called as it is JVew Yorke
and the Islands above specifyed the County thereof.
The County of West Chester to containe West and East CJiester, Bronx land, ffordham,
Anne Hooks Week, Hichhells, Minfords Island and all the Land on the Maine to the Eastward
of Manhattans Island As farr as the Government Extends and the Yonckers Land and North-
wards along Hudsons River as farr as the Highlands.
The County of Ulster to containe the Townes of Kingston, Hurley and MarhleTowne, ffox
Hall and the New Paltz and all the villages neighbourhoods and Christian Habita9ons on the West
Side of Hudsons River from the Murderers Oreeke neare the Highlands to the Sawyers Creeke.
The County of Albany to containe the Towns of Albany, the Collony of Henslaerswyck,
Schoneoteda, and all the villages, neighbourhoods and Christian Planta9ons on the East Side of
Hudsons River from Hoelof Jansens Creeke and on the west Side from Sawyers Creeke to the
Sarraghtoga.
The Dutchesses County to be from the bounds of the County of Westchester on the South
Side of the Highlands along the Eastside of Hudsons River as farr as Moelof Ja/nsens Creeke
and Eastward into the woods twenty miles.
The County of Orange to begin from the Limitts or bounds of East and West Jersey on the
West Side of Hudsons River along the said River to the Murderers Creeke or bounds of the
County of Ulster and Westward into the Woods as farr as Delaware River.
The County of Richmond to containe all Staten Island, Shutters Island and the Islands of
meadow on tlie Westside thereof.
Kings County to conteyne the Severall Townes of Boshioyck, Bedford, Breuklin, fflattbush,
ffiattlands, JSfew Utrecht and Gravesend with the severall Settlements and Planta(;ons adjacent.
QuEENES County to Conteine the Severall Townes of New Towne, Jamaica, flushing,
Hempsteed and Oyster bay with the Severall Outfarmes, Settlements and Planta9ons adjacent.
The County of Suffolke to Conteine the Severall Townes of Huntington, Smithfeild, Brooke,
haven, Southampton, Southold, East Hampton to Montauk Point, Shelter Island, the Isle of
Wight, ffishers Island, and Plumb Island with the Severall Outfarmes Settlements and Planta-
90ns adjacent.
Dukes County to Conteine the Islands of Nantuckett, Martins Vineyard, Elizabeth, Island
and Noe Mans land.
The County of Cornwall to Conteine Pemaquid and all his Royall Highnesses Territoiyes
in those parts with the Islands adjacent.
And for as much as there is a necessity for a High SherifEe in Every County in this Province
Bee It therefore Enacted by the Governour CounceU and Representatives in Generall Assembly
mett and by the authority of the same, That there shall be yearly and Every yeare an High
■ Sherriffe Constituted and Commissionated for Each County And that Each Sherriffe may have
his under Sherriffe Deputy or Deputyes.
APPENDIX A.
Extracts from the Narrativk of the Oaptivitt of Father Isaac Jogues, of
THE Society of Jesus, among the Mohawks, in 1642 and 16i3, with notes
BY John Gilmary Shea.
(Reprinted from "Collections of the N. Y. Hist. Society, Second Series.")
Reverend Father in Christ,
The Peace of Christ :
Wishing to write to yoiir Reverence, I at iirst hesitated in what language to do so, for after
so long a disuse, almost equally forgetful of both, I found equal difficulty in either. Two reasons,
however, induced me to write in the less common idiom.* I shall be better enabled to employ the
words of Holy Scripture which have at all times been ni}- greatest consolation, " amid tlie tribula-
tions which have found us exceedingly," (Ps. xlv. 2 ;) I also wished this letter less easily understood.
The exceeding charity of youi- Reverence, which in other days overlooked my manifold trans-
gressions, will excuse me if, after eight years' intercourse and residence with savages, nay, a savage
now in form and dress myself, aught be here wanting in correctness or decorum. I fear still more,
that, rude in language, I may be more so in knowledge, " nor know the time of my visitation,"
(Luke xix. 44,) nor remember the character imposed on me by God, of preacher of his Gospel,
Jesuit and Priest. This induced me to write to you, that if this letter should ever reach your
hands, I may, though living here in this hard land amid Iroquois and Maaquas, be helped by your
masses and the prayers of your whole province. This aid, I trust, will be more earnestly given,
when from a perusal of this letter you shall have seen both how much I am indebted to the Al-
mighty, and in what need I am of the prayers of tlie pious, in which, I am aware, I have a pow-
erful shield.
We sailed from the Hurons on the 13th of June, 1642, in four small boats, here called canoes ;
we were twenty-three in all, five of us being French.\ The line of travel is in itself most difficult
for many reasons, and especially because in no less than forty places both canoes and baggage must
be carried by land on the shoulders. It was, moreover, now f Till of dangers, from fear of the enemy,
who every year, by lying in wait on the roads to the French settlements, carry off many as prison-
ers ; in fact. Father John de Brebeuf had been all but taken the year before. Besides this, they
not long previous had carried off two Frenchmen, but afterwards brought them back to their
countrymen unharmed, demanding peace on most unjust terms, and tlien conducted themselves in
a very hostile manner, so that they were driven off by our cannons. On this they declared, that
if they took another Frenchman prisoner, they would torture him cruelly, like their other captives,
and then burn him alive at the stake.
* The letter is written in Latin.
t The place from which they departed was the Mission-house of St. Mary's, on a little river now called the
Wye. Traces still exist to mark the site of this cradle of European colonization in Upper Canada. It was at
first at some distance from any Huron town, but some years after this date, ou the ruin of the frontier towns,
a village was grouped around it.
73
578 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson River.
The Superior, conscious of the dangers to which I was exposed on this journey, (one, how-
ever, absolutely necessary for God's glory,) assigned the task to me in such a way as to leave me
at liberty to decline it if I chose. " I did not," however, " resist, I did not go back," (Isaias 1.,)
but willingly and cheerfully accepted this mission imposed upon me by obedience and charity.
Had I declined it, it would have fallen to another, far more worthy than myself.
Having therefore loosed from St. Mary's of the Hiorons, amid ever-varying fears of the
enemy, dangers of every kind, losses by land and water, we at last, on the thirtieth day after our
departure, reached in safety the Conception of the Blessed Virgiti. This is a French settlement
or colony, called Three Hivers, from a most charming stream which just there empties by three
mouths into the great Eiver St. Lawrence. We returned hearty thanks to God, and remained
here and at Quebec about two weeks.
Having transacted the business which had brought us down, we celebrated the feast of our
holy father, Ignatius ; and on the second of August were once more on our way for Huronia.
The second day after our departure had just dawned when, by the early light, some of our party
discovered fresh foot-prints on the shore. While some were maintaining that they were the trail
of a hostile, others that of a friendly party, Eustace Ahatsistari, to whom' for his gallant feats of
arms all yielded the first rank, exclaimed, " Brothers ! be they the bravest of the foe, for such I
judge them by their trail, they are not more than three canoes, and we number enough not to
dread such a handful of the enemy." We were, in fact, forty, for some others had joined us.
We consequently urged on our way, but had scarcely advanced a mile when we fell into an
ambush of the enemy, who lay in two divisions on the opposite banks of the river, to the number
of seventy in twelve canoes. As soon as we reached the spot where they lay in ambush, lurldng
in the reeds and tall grass, they poured in a volley of musketry, for they were well supplied with
arms, riddling our canoes, but killing none : one Huron only was shot through the hand. At the
first report of the fire-arms, the Hiirons, almost to a man, abandoned the canoes, which, to avoid the
more rapid current of the centre of the river, were advancing close by the bank, and, in headlong
flight, plunged into the thickest of the woods. We, the four Frenchmen, thus left with a few
either already Christians, or at least Catechumens, offering up a prayer to Christ, faced the enemy.
We were, however, outnumbered, being scarcely twelve or fourteen against thirty ; yet we fought
on till our comrades, seeing fresh canoes shoot out from the opjiosite bank of the river, lost heart
and fled. Then a Frenchman named Rene Goupil, who was fighting with the bravest, was taken,
together with some of the Ilurons. When I saw this, I neither could nor cared to fly. Whither,
indeed, could I escape, barefooted as I was ?* Conceal myself amid the reeds and tall grass I could
indeed, and thus, perhaps, escape ; but could I leave a countryman and the unchristened Ilurons
already taken, or soon to be ? As the enemy, in hot pursuit of the fugitives, had passed on, leaving
me standing on the battle-field, I called out to one of those who had remained to guard the prison-
ers, and bade him place me beside his French captive, that as I had been his companion on the
way, so would I be in his dangers and death. Scarce crediting what he heard, and fearful for him-
self, he advanced and led me to the other prisoners.
" Dearest brother," I then exclaimed, " wonderfully hath God dealt with us ; ' but he is the
Lord, let him do what is good in his sight,' (1 Kings, iii. 18 ;) as it hath pleased him, so hath it
come to pass, blessed be his name." Then, hearing his confession, I gave him absolution. I now
turned to the Huron prisoners, and instructing them one by one, baptized them. As new prison-
ers were constantly taken in their flight, my labor was constantly renewed. At length, Eustace
* To keep their canoes free from sand and gravel, the Indians required all to enter them barefoot. Few
even of the missionaries were exempted from this rule.
New Yorh Historical Records. 579
Ahasistari, that famotis Christian chief, was brought in : when he saw me, he exclaimed
" Solemnly, indeed, did I swear, brother, that I would live or die by thee." What answer I made
I know not, so much had grief overcome me. Last of all, William Couture was dragged in : he,
too, had set out from Huronia with me. When he saw all routed, he had, with the rest, taken to
the woods, and being a young man, as gifted in body as in mind, had by his agility left the enemy
far behind ; but when he looked around and could see nothing of me, — " Shall I," said he to him-
seM, " abandon my dear Father a prisoner in the hands of the savages, and fly without him ?— not
I." Then, returning by the path which he had taken in flight, he gave himself up to the enemy.
Would that he had fled, nor swelled our mournful baiid !— f or, in such a case, it is no comfort to
have companions, especially those whom you love as yourself. Yet such are the souls who, thouo-h
but laymen, serve God and the society among the Hurons, with no views of earthly reward.* It
is painful to think even of all his terrible sufferings. Their hate was enkindled against all the
FrencJi, but especially against him, as they knew that one of their bravest had fallen by his hand
in the fight. He was accordingly first stripped naked, all his nails torn out, his very fingers
gnawed, and a broad sword driven through his right hand. Mindful of the wounds of our Lord
Jesus Christ this pain, though most acute, he bore, as he afterwards told me, with great joy.
When I beheld him thus bound and naked, I could not contain myself, but, leaving my keep-
ers, rushed through the midst of the savages who had brought him, embraced him most tenderly ;
exhorted him to offer all this to God for himself, and those at whose hands he suffered. They at
first looked on, in wonder, at my proceeding ; then, as if recollecting themselves, and gathering
all their rage, they fell upon me, and with their fists, thongs and clubs beat me till I fell sense-
less. Two of them then dragged me back to where I had been before ; and scarcely had I begun
to breathe, when some others, attacking me, tore out, by biting, almost all my nails, and crunched
my two fore-fingers with their teeth, giving me intense pain. The same was done to Rene Goupil,
the Huron captives being left untouched.
When all had come in from the pursuit, in which two Hurons were killed, they carried us
across the river, and there shared the plunder of the twelve canoes (for eight had joined us). This
was very great ; for, independent of what each Frenchman had with him, we had twenty packages,
containing Church plate and vestments, books and other articles of the kind — a rich cargo, indeed,
considering the poverty of our Huron mission. While they were dividing the plunder, I com-
pleted the instructioii of such as were imchristened and baptized them. Among the rest, was one
sere octogenarian warrior, who, when ordered to enter the canoe to be borne off with the rest, ex-
claimed, "What! shall I, a hoary old man, go to a strange and foreign land? Never! here will
I die,"' and there he died, for absolutely refusing to go they slew him on the very spot where he
had just been baptized.
liaising then a joyful shout, which made the forest ring, " as conquerors who rejoice after
taking a prey," [Isaiah ix. 3,] they bore us off, as captives towards their own land. We were
twenty-two, three had been killed. By the favor of God our sufferings on ttat march, which
lasted thirteen days, were indeed great ; hunger and heat and menaces, the savage fury of the
Indians, the intense pain of our imtended and now putrifying wounds, which actually swarmed
with worms. No trial, however, came harder upon me than to see them five or six days after
* Goupil aud Couture were what are called in the old French writers, Doniies, tliat is men given: they were
not religious of the order to which they attached themselves, but laymen, who, from motives of zeal, gave them-
selves to the missionaries, to be employed as they saw fit. There probably never was a set of more humble and
heroic men than the Donnes of the early Catholic missions.
580 Colonial Settlements on the Hudson Hiver.
approach ns jaded with the march, and, iii cold blood, with minds in nowise excited by passion,
pluck out our hair and beard and drive their nails, which are always very sharp, deep into parts
most tender and sensitive to the slightest impression. But this was outward ; my internal suffer"
ings affected me still more, when I beheld that funeral procession of doomed Christians pass be-
fore my eyes, among them five old converts, the main pillars of the infant Huron Cliurch.
Indeed I ingenuously admit that I was again and again unable to withhold my tears, mourning
over their lot and that of my other companions, and full of anxious solicitude for the future. For
I beheld the way to the Christian faith closed by these Iroquois on the Murons and countless
other nations, unless they were checked by some seasonable dispensation of Divine Providence.
On the eightli day we fell in with a troop of 200 Indians going out to fight ; and as it is the
custom for savages when out on war parties to initiate themselves, as it were, by cruelty, under
the belief that their success will be greater as they shall have been more cruel, they thus received
us. First rendering thanks to the Sun, which they imagine presides over war, they congratulated
their countrymen by a joyful volley of musketry. Each then cut some stout clubs in the neigh-
boring wood in order to receive us. After we had landed from the canoes they fell upon us from
both sides with their clubs in such fury, that I, who was the last and therefore most exposed to
their blows, sank overcome by their number and severity, before I had accomplished half the
rocky way that led to the hill on which a stage had been erected for us. I thought I should soon
die there ; and so, partly because I could not, partly because I cared not, I did not arise. How
long they spent their fury on me lie knows, for whose love and sake it is delightful and glo-
rious thus to suffer. Moved at lengtli by a cruel mercy, and wishing to carry me to their country
alive, they ceased to strike. And thus half dead and drenched iu blood, they bore me to the scaf-
fold. Here I had scarce begun to breathe when they ordered me to come down to load me with
scoffs and insTilts, and countless blows on my head and shoulders, and indeed on my w^hole body.
I should be tedious were I to attempt to teU all that the French prisoners suffered. They burnt
one of my fingers, and crunched another with their teeth ; others already thus mangled they so
wrenched by tlie tattered nerves, that even now, though healed, they are frightfully deformed.
Nor indeed was the lot of my fellow sufferers much better. * * *
My sufferings were great in themselves, heightened by the sight of what a like cruelty had
wreaked on the Christian Hurons, fiercer than all in the case of Eustace / for they had cut off
both his thumbs, and through the stump of the left one they, with savage cruelty, drove a pointed
stake up to his very elbow. This frightful pain he bore most nobly and piously.
The following day we fell in with some other war canoes, who cut off some of our compan-
ions' fingers to our great dread.
On the tenth day about noon, we left our canoes, and performed on foot the rest of the jour-
ney, which lasted four days. Besides the usual hardships of the march came that of carrying the
baggage ; hunger, too, was ever increased by the ever increasing want of food, so much so that
for three days wg ate nothing but some berries once gathered on the way.
* * * * *
On the eve of Assumption, then, about three o'clock, we reached a river, which flows by their
village {Ossernenon). Both banks were filled with Iroquois, who received us with clubs, fists and
stones. As a bald or thinly covered head is an object of aversion to them, this tempest burst in
its fury on my bare head. Two of my nails had hitherto escaped, these they tore out with their
teeth, and with their keen nails stripped off the flesh beneath to the very bones. When satisfied
with the cruelty and mockeries which we thus received by the river side, they led us to their vil-
lage on the top of the hill. At its entrance we met the youth of all that district, awaiting us in
Neio Yorh Historical Records. 581
a line on each side of the road, all armed with clubs. Conscious that if we withdrew ourselves
from the ranks of those chastised, we no less withdrew ourselves from those of the children, we
cheerfully offered ourselves to our God, thus like a father chastising us, that in us " he might be
well pleased." Our order was as follows: in the front of the line they placed a Frenchman, alas!
entirely naked, not having even his drawers; Bene Goupil was in the centre, and I, last of all,
closed the line.
*****
We had but just time to draw breath on this stage when one, with a huge club, gave us
Frenchmen three terrible blows on the bare back ; the savages now took out their knives and
began to mount the stage, and cut off the fingers of many of the prisoners, and as a captive meets
with cruelty proportioned to his dignity they began with me, as my manner of acting sliowed me
to be in authority among the French, and Hurons. Accordingly an old man and a woman
approached the spot where I stood ; and he commanded her to cut ofE my thumb ; she at first
drew back, but at last when the old wretch had three or four times repeated the order, as if by
compulsion she cut off my left thumb where it joins the hand.
*****
On the following day, the Assmnption of the Blessed Yirgin, after spending the morning on
the stage, we were taken about mid-day to another village {Andagioron), about two miles distant
from the first. As I was on the point of starting, the Indian who had brought me, loth to lose
my shirt, sent me off with nothing but an old and tattered pair of drawers; when I beheld myself
thus naked, " Surely, brothei'," said I, " thou wilt not send me off thus naked, thou hast taken
enough of our property to enrich thee." This touched him, and he gave me enough of the hempen
bagging, in which our packages had been put up, to cover my shoulders and part of my body.
But my flesh, mangled by their blows and stripes, could not bear this rough and coarse cloth. On
the way, while scarcely and at last not at all covered by it, the heat of the sun was so intense, that
my skin was dried, as though in an oven, and peeled off from my back and arms.
As we entered the second village blows were not spared, though this is contrary to their iisual
custom, which is to be content with making prisoners run the gauntlet once. The Almighty,
doubtless, wished us to be somewhat likened in this point to his Apostle, who glories that he was
thrice beaten with rods, and though they received us with fewer blows than the first, these were
more cruelly given, being better aimed from there being less of a crowd, and some struck con-
stantly on the shins to our exquisite pain.
The rest of the day we spent on the stage, and the night in a hut tied down half naked to
the bare ground, at the mercy of all ages and sexes ; for we had been handed over to the sport of
the children and youth, who threw hot coals on our naked bodies, which, bound as we were, it was
no easy matter to shake off. In this manner Indian children make their apprenticeship in cruelty,
and from less grow accustomed to greater.
In this village we spent two days and nights, with scarcely any food or sleep, in great anguish
of mind as far as I was concerned ; for from time to time they mounted the stage, cutting ofl' tiie
fingers of my Huron companions, and bindiiig their clenched hands in hard cords so tightly drawn
that they fainted, and while each suffered but his own pain, I suffered that of all. I was afflicted
with as intense grief as you can imagine a most loving father's heart to feel at the sight of his
children's misery, for, with the exception of a few old Christians, I had begotten them all recently
in Christ by baptism.
*****
Never till now had the Indian scaffold beheld French or other Ciiristian captives. Hence,
contrary to usual custom, we were led around through all their villages to gratify the general
582 Colanial Settlements on the Hudson River.
curiosity. The third indeed [Teonontoge'ii) we entered scatheless, bnt on the scaffold a scene met
my eyes more heart-rending than any torment ; it was a group of four Hurons taken elsewhere
by another party and di'agged in to swell our wretched company. Among other cruelties, every
one of these had lost some lingers, and the eldest of the band his two thumbs. As soon as I
reached them, I began to instruct them separately on the articles of faith, then on the very stage
itself I baptized two with rain-drops gathered from the leaves of a stalk of Indian com given us
to chew ; the other two I baptized at a little stream which we passed when led to another village.
At this place, cold setting in after the rain, we suffered extremely from it as we were eiitirely
uncovered. Often shivering with cold on the stage, I would, unordered, come down and enter
some hut but I could scarcely begin to warm myself when I was commanded to return to the
scaffold.
* -X- * * *
They next hung me between two poles in the hut, tied by the arms above the elbow, with
coarse rope woven of the bark of trees. Then I thought I was to be burnt, for this is one of
their usual ^preliminaries ; and that I might know, that I had thus far borne any thing with forti-
tude or even with patience, this came not from myself, but from Him who gives strength to the
weary. Now as though left to myself in this torture I groaned aloud, for " I will glory in my
iniirmities that the power of Christ may dwell in me " (2 Cor. xii. 9), and from my intense pain I
begged my torturers to ease me some little from those hai"d rough ropes. But God justly ordained
that the more I pleaded, the more they drew my bonds. At last, when I had been hanging thus
aboiit a quarter of an hour, they unloosed me, as I was on the point of fainting. I render thee
thanks, O Lord Jesus, that I have been allowed to learn, by some slight experience, how much
thou didst deign to suffer on the cross for me, when the weight of thy most holy body hung not
by ropes, but by thy hands and feet pierced by hardest nails !
Other chains followed these, for we were tied to the ground to pass the rest of the night.
What did they not then do to my poor Huron companions, thus tied hand and foot ? What did
they not attempt on me ? But once more I thank thee, O Lord, that thou didst save me, thy
priest, ever unsullied from the impure hands of the savages.
When we had thus spent two days in that village, we were led back to the second {Anda-
goron) which we had entered, that our fate might be finally determined. We had now been for
seven days led from village to village, from scaffold to scaffold, become a spectacle to God and to
his angels, as we may hope from his divine goodness, a scoff and jeer to the vilest savages, when
we were at last told that the day should end our lives amid the flames. Sooth to say, this last act
was not without its horrors, yet the good pleasure of God, and the hope of a better life, where
sin should have no place, rendered it rather one of joy. Addressing my French and Huron com-
panions, for the last time, I bid them be of good heart, and amid their mental and bodily suffer-
ings to think " diligently upon Him that had endured such opposition of sinners against himself ;
not to be weary, fainting in their minds" (Heb. xii. 3), but to hope that the morrow would unite
us to our God, to reign for ever.
Fearing lest we might be torn asunder, I especially advised Eustace to look towards me when
we could not be together, and by laying his hand on his breast and raising his eyes to heaven, to
show contrition for his sins, so that I could absolve him, as I had already frequently done after
hearing his confession, as well on the way as after our arrival. Acting on my advice, he several
times made me the sign.
The sachems, however, on further deliberation resoh'ed that no precipitate action was to be
taken with regard to the French prisoners, and summoning us before the council they declared
that our lives were spared. To almost all the Hurons they likewise granted hfe ; three only were
New Yor-h Historical Records. 583
excepted, Paid, Eustace, and Stejphen, who were pnt to death in the three vilLages which make
lip the tribe ; Stephen in Andagoron, the village where we were • Paul iu Ossernenon, and Eustace
in Teonontogen.
*****
Towards evening of that day they carried of William Couture, whom they regarded as a
young man of unparalleled courage, to Teonontogen, the furthest village of their canton, and gave
him to an Indian family. (It is the custom of these savages, when they spare a prisoner's life, to
adopt him into some family, to supply the place of a deceased member, to whose rights he, in a
manner, succeeds ; he is subject thenceforward to no man's orders but those of the head of the
family, who, to acquire this right, offers some presents.) But seeing that Rene and I were less
vigorous, they led us to the first village, the residence of the party that had captured us, and left
us there {Ossenienon) till some new resolution should be taken.
After so many a long day spent fasting, after so many sleepless nights, after so many wounds
and stripes, especially after such heart-rending anguish of mind, when time was, so to speak,
given us at last to feel oiir sufferings, we sank into a state of helplessness. Scarce able to walk or
even stand erect, nor night nor day brought a moment of repose, from many evils, but chiefly
from our still untended wounds ; all this state was rendered more trying by the myriads of lice,
fleas and bugs, which it was not easy to keep from us with maimed and mutilated fingers.
Besides this, we suffered from hunger ; more true here than elsewhere is the saying :
"Non cibus utilis segro."
So that, with nothing but unripe squashes to add to their American (or, as we Europeans call it,
Turhish) corn, carelessly bruised between two stones, we were brought to the verge of the grave,
especially Rem, whose stomach refused this food, and who, from his many wounds, had almost
lost Ills sight. The Indians then seeing us fail day by day, hunted up in the village some small
fishes and some bits of meat dried in the sun or smoke, and pounding them, mixed them with our
sagamity. After three weeks we were just recovering from our illness, when we were sought to
be put to death. The two hundred Indians who had maltreated us so on the way, advanced into
New France, to the point where the i-iver Iroquois,* so called from them, empties into the river
St. Lawrence : here seeing a party of French engaged in laying the foundations of Fort Rich-
elieu, they thought they could easily kill some and carry off the rest as prisoners. Accordingly
the whole two hundred, in a single column, almost all armed with muskets, rushed almost unex-
pected on the whites engaged in their various works. At the first onset of the foe, the French,
though but a handful compared to the hostile forces, flew to arms, and so bravely and successfully
withstood their savage assailants, that after Idlling two and wounding many more, they put the
rest to flight. The war party returned furious, and as though they had been greatly wronged,
who had gone forth to do wrong, demanded the death of such of us as were yet alive. " It is
a shame," they cried, " that three Frenchmen should live quietly among us, when they have so
lately slain three of our braves." Amid these complaints Rene's safety especially and my own
were brought into great jeopardy. He alone, who as he gave, so protecteth life, wardeth off the blow.
[Sept. 7.] On the eve of the nativity of the Blessed Virgin, one of the principal Holland-
ers, who have a settlement not more than twenty leagues from these Indians, came with two others
to effect our liberation, f He remained there several days, offered much, promised more, obtained
* The Sorel, or Richelieu.
1 This was the celebrated Arendt Van Curler, so highly esteemed by the French and Indians. The latter
even gave his name perpetually to the English governors. He was the constant friend of Father Jogues, and
after many ineffectual attempts to ransom him, by the charitable contributions of the Dutch colonists, aided him
to escape.
584 Colonial Settlements on tJie Hiidson River.
nothing. But as they are a wily and cunning race of savages, in order not to seem to refuse all
that a friend asked, but to concede something to his desires, they lyingly asserted that they would
in a few days restore us to our countrymen. This was perhaps the wish of some of them ; but in
the latter part of September (for constant rains had put oS. the matter till that time) a final coun-
cil was held on our fate, although ostensibly provisions had been prepared and men appointed to
take us back. Here the opinion of the few well inclined was rejected, confusion carried the day,
and some clamorous braves declared that they would never suffer a Frenchman to be taken back
alive. The council broke up in alarm, and each, as if in flight, returned to his lodge or the village
whence he came. Left thus to the cruelty of bloodthirsty men, attempts were constantly made
on our lives. Some, tomahawk in hand, prowled around the cabins to find and despatch us. How-
ever, towards the close of the council, God had inspired me with some thought that induced me
to draw ray companions together, without the village, in a field belonging to the cabin where I
was. Here, ignorant of what had transpired, we lay hid in comparative safety, until the storm
under which we should all have fallen, had we remained in the village, was somewhat calmed.*
* Tliis letter, addressed to the Provincial of the Jesuits in Paris, was written at Rensselaerwyck Aug. 6th,
1643, after Father Jogues had managed to escape with the assistance of Domiue Megapolensis.
Index of Names
VOL. XII (NEW SERIES YOL. I) AND YOL. XIII (NEW SEMES YOL. 11.)
A.
Abell, Lucas, xii, 492.
Abelleu, Gerritt, xiii, 153, 202, 348.
A.berdeaiie, si I, 544.
Abergaveny, xii, 544.
Abrahams, Cornells, xiii, 233.
Abrahams DeUght, xii, 544, 547.
Abrahams, Jan, xii, 200.
Abrahamsen, Isaac, xii, 63.
Abrahamsun, Teunis, xiii, 338.
Abuses iu land grants, xiii, 33.
Accomack, Va., xii, 503, 571, 583, 587, 655, G59.
Ackerman, John, xil, 634, 646.
AcUerman, John, jr., xii, 624.
Ackerman, Mary, xil, 659.
Achinkeshaky, xiii, 14.
Blockhouse at, .53, 55. See Hackeiuack.
Achter Col, xii, 131, 518, 519; xiii, 216, 221, 476.
English people desire to settle on the, xiii, 193,
195, 308.
Addams, Fenwyck, xii, 569.
Addison, Anthony, xiil, 438, 448, 544.
Adrian, Dirck, xiii, 230.
Adriaeusen, Jost, xii, 325; xiri, 401, 507, 533.
Adriaensen, Maryn (Van der Veere), xiii, 10, 12, 13, 22.
Adrianson, John, xiii, 414.
Aepje's Island (Schodack), xiii, 26.
After Coll, xiii, 455. See Achter Coll.
Agawam (Springfield), xiii, 308.
Agriculture, xii, 418, 420, 450, 485, 506; xiii, 79, 171,
231, 293, 333, 337, 342, 353, 374. See Plantation;
Orain ; Villages.
Ahasimus, N. J, XI II, 1, 2, 55, 233, 282, 299, 366, 570.
See Saersimons.
Albany, xii, 463, 506, 513, 543 et seq., 556, 560, 633;
XIII. 464, 466, 468, 481 et seq., 491 et seq., 496,
499, 504, 509, 512, 517-8, 521-3, 524-5, 528-9,
531-2, 536, 563-4, 570, 578.
commissioners of Maryland at, XI I, 508, 510, 557
trade of. xiii, 426, 439, 532, 534.
trade with Indians at Oimited), XI 1 1, 491.
New Englanders trading at, 458.
jurisdiction of the court of, xlll, 490.
called "Willemstadt, xiii, 478.
See Fort Orange; Fort Nassau; Willemstadt.
74
Alberts, Dirck, xil, 491, 517, 530 etseq., 540, 649.
Alberts, Hubert, xii, 291.
Alberts, Jan, xiii, 245, 246.
Albertsen, Albert, xill, 45.
Albertsen, Arian, xill, 415, 448.
Albertsen, Hans, from Brunswick, xil, 178.
Albertsen, John, xiii, 449.
Albertsen, Storm, xiil, 283.
Albertzen, Wouter, xili, 212.
Aldersen, Heurick, xiii, 544.
Allard, John, xil, 506.
Allen, Anthony, xn, 613.
Allerton, Isaac, petition of, xil, 160; one of the eight
men, xili, 16 ; mentioned, xii, 60, 63, 71, 98, 120,
126, 142 et seq., 154 et seq., 158, 161, 168, 173, 204,
208; XI 1 1, 55 et seq.
Allvn, John, secretary of Connecticut, xiii, 403.
Alrlchs, Jacob, xii, 132, 166, 169, 175, 184, 197, 212,
215, 216, 221, 232, 246, 249, 252, 253, 254, 255,
258, 259, 260, 262, 264, 265, 266, 267, 269, 272,
280, 383, 383, 388, 290, 391, 393, 393, 394, 396,
304, 305, 307, 309, 317, 318, 336, 337, 328, 330,333,
333, 335, 343, 847, 348, 349, 351, 357, 374, 421, 443.
vice-director of the colony of the city of Amster-
dam on the South river, xii, 132, 166.
letters from, xii, 163, 173, 185, 187, 192, 194, 197,
198, 300, 301, 304, 305, 218, 216, 222, 223, 224,
226, 338, 339, 331, 335, 236, 242, 243, 245, 247,
248, 250, 253, 257, 272, 284, 285.
letters to, xii, 280.
death of, xn, 389, 305.
Alrichs, Pieter, xn, 292, 321, 351, 354, 855, 357, 358,
368, 391, 395, 404, 414, 447, 450, 453, 454, 459,
460, 461, 462, 471, 476, 484, 485, 488, 491, 492,
493, 496, 504, 505, 506, 508, 509 et seq., 513, 517,
521, 533, 530, 535, 544, 548, 589, 591, 599, 608,
633, 633, 633, 634, 647, 649, 650.
letter from, and William Toon, xn, 493.
sheriff and commander at the South river, xn, 509.
Alsop, Mr., XIII, 381.
Alstoue, Arthur, xn, 665.
Altena,'xi'i, 188, 193, 303, 207 et seq., 238, 255, 257,
263, 273, 274, 278, 294, 302, 309, 314, 315, 316,
329, 339, 340, 349, 350, 355, 356, 366, 376, 379,
388, 386, 389, 393, 403, 412, 419, 423, 427, 429,
485, 437, 445, 449, 451.
586
Index.
Altena, Fort Christina (so called), xii, 188, 193.
strength of garrison at, 255.
Englisli commissioners at, xill, 356.
Alward, .John, xii, 605.
Amboyle, xi 1 1, 405.
Amersfoort (Flatlands, L. I.),xii, 99; xiii,;66, 124, 154.
order for the safety of, xill, 45.
Amersfoort, Holland, xiii, 154.
Ammersland, xil, 647.
Aminonseu, Hans, xii, 412.
Anderson, Hendrick, XI i, 469, 470.
Anderson, Laes, xil, 527.
Anderson, Will, xii, 587.
Andreas, Peter, xil, 490.
Andresen, Carl, xil, 529.
Andrew the Fin, xii, 647.
Andrews, Frederic, xii, 648.
Andrews, Peter, xii, 648.
Andries, Q-ertruy, XI 1 1, 194, 212.
Andries, Lo wrens, xill, 233, 234, 360, 544.
Andries, Mensje, xii, 304.
Andries, Mons, xii, 107, 137, 141, 153, 155, 158, 162.
Andries the Weaver, xiii, 280.
Andriesen, Andries, the Fin, xii, 366, 426, 470, 491.
Andiiesen, Arent, xiii, 253.
Andriessen, Christian, xiii, 202, 245.
Andriesen, .Jacob, xiii, 77, 78.
Andriesen, James, xii, 339. 340.
Andriesen, Jan, xii, 26, 40,' 49, 178, 181 et uq.
Andriesen, Jan, from Berenbach, xii, 67.
Andriesen, Jan of Riga, xii, 186.
Andriaensen, Joost, xii. 210.
Andriessen, Lars, xii, 530, 535, 557, 559, 634.
Andriesen, Lucas, xiii, 312, 352.
Andriesen, Mary, xii, 339, 340.
Andriessen, Pieter, xii, 312 ; xiii, 5, 341.
Andros, Sir Edmund, Gov., xii, 521, 529, 530, 532,
535, 540, 545, 561, 571, 577, 578, 580, 582, 583,
587, 588, 590, GOO, 601, 604, 609, 610, 611, 612.
613, 614, 61.5, 616, 619, 620, 626, 632, 645, 646,
649, 650, 651, 653, 656, 657, 660, 662, 664; xiii,
485, 489, 492, 494-5, 500-1, 504, 506, 512, 514
517, 524, 526, 534, 536 539-41, 543-4, 546, 549.
letters from, xii, 513, 516, 518-9, 528, 538,542-3,
554, 566, 581-2, 584, 585, 608; xiii, 483-3,
490-1, 493, 509, 533, 535-6, 538.
letters to, xii, 535, 539, 545, 571, 575-7, 587, 590,
620, 624, 632, 645, 650, 653-5, 661; xiii, 534,
549.
visits Governor Carterett of New Jersev, xiii
542.
Anies, Goestaffsen, xil, 107.
Anthony, AUard, xii, 97, 208; xiii, 41, 69, 160, 360,
456.
Antliony, Nicholas, xill, 456.
Antill, Edward, xiii, 565.
Antonios Nose, a fortification recommended to be built
at, XII I, 464.
Antonissen, Cornelis (van der Slyck), Indian interpreter,
XIII, 18, Catskil granted to, 20.
Apauamis, part of AVestchester so called, xiii, 402.
Apopcalyck (Communipaw, N. J.) granted to Egbert
Woutersen, xill, 22.
Apequenamingh (Apoquimini), Md., xii, 357,437, 446,
450, 464, 477, 539.
Apoquemini Kil, xil, 508, 511, 517. 527, 548, 618.
Appel, Jan Lawrenscn, xii, 53.
Appleboom, Harald, Swedish Mmister at the Hague,
XII, 47 n.
Applegadt, Bartholomeus, xiii, 478.
Applegadt, Thomas, xiii, 4T8.
AquehongaManacknong, Indian name for Staten Island,
XI 1 1, 455.
Archer, John, xiii, 421, 424, 459, 471, 492.
Fordham Court to be held at the house of, x 1 1 1 ,
483.
Arents, Claus, XI I, 447.
Arentsen, Claes, xiii, 233, 862.
Arentsen, Hendrick, xill, 231.
Aressick Island, xiii, 2.
.4.rgansen, Claes, xiii, 271.
Argansick, xiil, 381.
Arians, Dirck, xiii, 212, 246.
Ariaus, Joost, xiii, 246, 450.
Arianson, Henr., xiii, 413.
Arien's Kil, xii, 513, 517.
Ariens, Weynte, jr., xiii, 544.
Arienson, Peter, xill, 413.
Arlington, Earl of, xii, 460; xiii, 472.
Armeperal, xiil, 9, (Armepperahin.)
Arnestead, Daniel, xii, 665.
.Vroencmeck, xii, 300.
Arosmith, Edmond, xni, 547.
Arromsinck, N. J., xill, 316.
Arsen, Bartel, xii, 394.
Arsen, Cornelis, xiii, 419.
Arsen, Jan, xiii, 119.
Arte, Gerrit, xill, 411.
Artse, Bartolomeus, xii, 339.
Artsen, Jan, xill, 115, 117, 154.
Arthur Cull, xiii, 405. ^its Achter Gull.
Ashfordby, William, xill, 401, 533, 544.
Ashman, John, xil, 490, 648, 651.
Ashman, Robert, xil, 490, 648.
Askud, John, xil, 491.
Assawarnou Creek, xii, 583.
Assawoma Inlet, xii, 577.
Assnerus, Henrick, xil, 248.
Augsburg Confession, XII, 105, 446, 529. &ee Lutherans.
Avery (Auere), John, xil, 559, 578, 582, 586, 589, 603,
604, 605, 624, 625, 626, 637, 631, 633, 634, 635,
653, 654, 659.
letter from, xii, 582.
Awiehaken (Weehawken, N. J.), granted to Maryn
Adriaensen, xiil, 22.
Awme, a liquid measure, xil, 187.
Axton, George, xil, 544, 549.
B.
Bachtamo, Indian name for God, xiii, 375.
Backer, Bone, xii, 648.
Backer, Claes Jansen, xill, 37.
Backer, Jacobsen, xiii, 228.
Backer, Jacobus, xii, 295, 296, 311, 342; xiii, 178, 377.
Backer, Jan, xiii, 9, 230.
Backer, Jan Barentz, xill, 212, 214.
Backer, John, xill, 473. •
Backer, Nicholas, xiii, 252.
Backstcad, John, xii, 597.
Bagge, Bent, xiii, 374, 388.
Bagyn, Jacob, xii, 193.
Baliia de todos los Santos, xii, 55.
Bailey, John, xili, 405.
Baker, C, xiii, 541.
Baker, Mr., xiii, 468.
Balsch, Isaac, xii, 665.
Index.
587
Baltimore (Baltlius More), Lord, xii, 247, 248, 250, 252,
299, 330, 324, 337, 333, 347, 360, 417, 437, 457,
496, 504, 510, 528, 571, 653, 662, 668; xili,
163 n, 555, 564.
letters to, xiil, 555, 559, 563, 565.
Baltimore, Mr., x:i, 437.
Baltimore, the youujj, xii, 43.0.
Bamboes, Herman, xiii, 140. See Jacohsen, Harman.
Bancker, Gerritt, xiii, 99 et seq., 193, 253, 465, 502.
Barbadoes, xii, 64, 89, 469, 472, 532, 607.
Barber, Francis, xiii, 540-7.
Barends, Jan, xii, 539.
Barens, Fred (baker), xii, 153.
Barents, Andries, xiil, 202, 212, 247.
Barents, Christian, xii, 225.
Barents, Frans, xii, 595.
Barents, Jan, xiii, 246.
Barents, Janneke, xri, 339, 340.
Barents, Marcus, xii, 336.
Barentsen, Frederic, xil, 138.
Barentsen, Jacob, xiii, 2, 30, 195.
Barentsen, Jan, xii, 184, 307; xiii, 98, 230.
Barentsen, Thj-s, xiii, 206.
Baret, Samuel, xiii, 66.
Barker, Ambrose, xii, 660.
Barker, John, xil, 549.
Barker, Thomas, xii, 639.
Barksteede, Joshua, xii, 647.
Barnegat, xii, 831, 334; xiii, 312.
Barnes, Benoni, xii, 665.
Barnes, Matthew, xiu, 574.
Barneson, John, xii, 649.
Barnson, Corn, xili, 410, 415.
Barnson, John, xil, 555; xiii, 411, 414.
Barnstaple, xiil, 406.
Baron, Michael, xil, 471, 473, 608.
Barrett, John, XI I, 665.
Bartels, Harmen, xiii, 306.
Bartes, Barent, XI ii, 40.
Bartlcson, Mathias, xii, 460, 470.
Bartlctt, XIII, 535.
Barton, John, xii, 665.
Bassett, Robert, xiii,66.
Bastiausen, Harmen, xiii, 398.
Bastiausen, Jacob, xiii, 544.
Basliansen, Teunis, xili, 360.
Baswell, John, xil, 665.
Batcheller's harbor, xii, 544, 620.
Baton, Machicl, xii, 593.
Batten kill, Indian name for, xili, 573.
Bawcom, Peter, xii, 544, 641, 661, 665.
Baxter, Garvis, commander at Albany, letter to, xiii
570.
Baxter, George, xiii, 18.
Baxter, Tom, xin, 488, 574.
Baxter, Captain, xiil, 560.
Baxter, Lieutenant, xii, 41.
Bayard, Balthazar, clerk of Berger court, xiil, 363.
Bayard, Mc, Secretary, xii, 512; xiii,473.
Bayard, Peter, xii, 647.
Bayly, Nathan, xiii, 488, 574. -
Bayly, Nicies, xiii, 488, 574.
Bear or Godfried's Island, xii, 245, 246, 247.
Beales, Robert, xii, 647.
Beck, Mr., xil, 217.
Becker, Jan, xii, 283.
Becker, Jan Juriansen, xil, 296, 290, 339 et seq.
Bedloo, Cornelius, xill, 456.
Bcdloo, Isaac, xiii, 431, 456.
Bedwell, Robert, xii, G47, 665.
Beeck, Warrener Hooris, xiii, 544.
Beeckeman, Cornells, xili, 40.
Beekman, Hendrick (son of Wm.), xii, 320.
Beekman, Henry, xiii, 403.
Beekman, William, Commissary for the W. I. Company
at the South river, xii, 219, 230, 232, 238, 242 et
seq., 246, 348, 259, 260, 369, 272, 273, 288, 295,
296, 302, 314, 337, 328, 329, 338, 839, 375rfsfy.,
881, 382, 386, 387, 388, 389 et seq.. 386, 898, 399,
400, 401, 403, 412, 417, 421, 422, 425, 437, 429,
517.
Commissary at the Esopus, xiil, 885, 401, 408,
428, 486, 442, 443, 452.
letters from, 253, 2.j5, 257, 264, 265, 282, 283, 286,
289, 392, 293, 298, 300, 306, 309, 312, 315, 318,
321, 322, 324, 331, 338, 334, 336, 343, 844, 345,
346, 349, 850, 351, 3.54, 355, 356, 358, 359, 360,
361, 363, 364, 368, 379, 381, 384, 887, 391, 395,
403, 406, 410, 411, 412, 418, 414, 415, 417, 418,
419, 423, 481, 433, 433, 434, 435, 436, 437, 438,
446, 447, 448, 449, 451.
letters to, 259, 837, 380, 409, 416, 424, 443.
petition of, for cadet's pay for his son, xil, 339.
son born to him, xii, 335; another, 410.
brother of, xii, 350.
Justice of the Peace at Kingston, xiii, 566.
Beekman, Mr., xii, 642, 648; xiii, 469.
Beekman, Mrs., xii, 339.
Beer, Cornells Willemseu, xil, 110.
Beercn Island, xiil, 348, 898.
Beetmau, Mr., xii, 855.
Beets, Goodman, xiii, 41.
Benckes, Jacob, xii, 507; xiii, 473, 476.
Benckson, Andries, xii, 586.
Bendall, Philipp, xiii, 547.
BeufuU, William, xili, 66.
Bengson, Mathys, xii, 415.
Bcreutsen, Hans, xiii, 75.
Bergen, N. J., xiii, 207, 214, 231, 234 et seq., 268, 271,
294, 818, 360 et seq., 383, 395, 479, 589.
wants a clergyman, XIII, 332. See Ordinances.
Berkeley, Lord John, of Stratton, proprietor of New
Jersey, xii, 56-3, 568, 579, 592; xiii, 469, 471, 486,
541.
Berisford, Christopher, xiii, 407 et seq., 417, 421, 426,
428, 432 et seq., 442, 443, 448, 450, 452.
Bermuda, xiil, 425.
Berrown, Michiel, xil, 649.
Berry, John, Deputy-Governor of New Jersey, xil,473,
486, 492, 494 et seq. ; xiii, 467, 478, 508, 543.
letter to, from King Charles II, xiil, 469.
summoned before the N. Y Council, xili, 544.
Berry, William, xil, 647.
Berry, Willm, jr., xil, 665.
Bestevaer, Jan Jansen, xii. 110.
Bethlehem, Albany county, xiii, 193, 345.
Betts, William, xiii, 441.
Beverwyck, xiil, 36, 39, 114, 133, 186, 198, 230, 351,
255, 258, 304, 382, 887 et seq.
Bichason, Walter, xii, 647.
Bicker, Gerrit, xii, 86.
Bickerstafif. Robert, xiil, 418, 448, 450 et seq., 544.
Biggs, John, xili, 418. 436, 448, 4.50, 544.
Bijcker's in Virginia, xii, 356.
Biles, William, xil, 646, 659.
Billing, Edward, xii, 579.
BUlop, Capt. Christopher, xii, 580, 581, 584, 593, 595,
599, 607, 613; xiii, 485.
588
Index.
Billop, letter to, xii, 584.
Billou (Bileaii), Peter, xiii, 20fi, 424.
Binckson, John, xil,4G8. Sue Coidngsmar'k.
Binevie, Lewis, xiil, 500.
Bintgen, Thomas, xii, 186.
Bishop, John, xiii, 406.
Bitter, Frederic, XII, 137, 139.
Bhxck Point, Staten Island, xiii, 547.
Bhick, William, xii, 615.
Blackwood, Phine, xii, 630.
Blanchan, Matliies, xiii, 212, 238, 246, 404, 445 el
448, 544.
Blank, Juriaen, xii, 80, 31, 32, 149; xiii, 326.
Blcecker (Blycker, Bleycker), Jan Jansen, xili,
504, 572-3.
Blind Brook, xiii, 403.
Blinks, Richard, xii, 544.
Block, Uans, xii, 292, 331, 369, 402, 462, 475, 490,
506, 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, 540, 553 ct seq.
Block Island, R. I. See Red Island.
Bloem (Blom), Rev. Harmanus, xiii, 111, 186, 189,
312 et seq., 229 et seq., 292, 311, 318, 336,
37.3, 416.
goes to the Esopus, xili, 102.
inhabitants of Esopus ask for his installation,
engaged as minister, xiil, 130.
comes to take the charge at Esopus, xiii, 155.
letters from, xiii, 311, 373.
letters to, and consistory of Wilt^vyck, xiii,
Bloemert, Ariaen, xii, 62, 63.
Blooniiuburg, Sullivau county, xiii, 340 ?i.
Blotke, Hans, xii, 649.
Boathman, Uriu, xii, 648.
Boecker, Jems, xii, 49.
Boelsen, Jan, xii, 607.
Boen, Andries, xii, 607.
Boers, Lars, xii, 137, 143, 153, 158.
Boes, Nicolas, Capt., xiii, 473.
Boertjen's inn, xii, 156.
Bogardus, Rev. Everardus, xii, 36, 27.
Bogardus, William, xiii, 279, 303.
Boghard, Harman M., Commissary, xiii, 22.
Bohemia River, Md., xii, 337.
BoUen, James, Secretary of New Jersey, xi 1 1, 406,
542-8, 550.
Bombay Hook, Del., xii, 368, 477.
Bones, Ensta, xii, 648.
Boners, Hans, xil, 490, 491, 649.
Bontemantel, J., xii, 234.
Boollassen, Peter, xii, 648.
Booniptjes Hook, Del., xii, 166, 215, 221, 368.
508.
Boon, Francis, xiii, 88, 109, 110 123.
Boon, John, xiii, 396.
Boone, Mr., xill, 421.
Bordingh, Claes, xiii, 250, 204, 205, 803.
Bore, Joshua, xii, 615.
Borgh, Mr., xil, 335.
Borsboom, Peter Jaeobsen, xiii, 353.
Borton, Wm.,xil, 586, 605.
Bostiek, Thomas, xii, 647, 665.
Boston, XII, 39, 41, 03, 249, 437, 532; xiii 102,
29.5, 890, 493, 512, 517, 521, 523-4, 526-8, 5
Englishmen from, at Port Orange, xiii, 107.
Governor of, xiii, 190.
Bottien (Buttein), Jcllis, xiii, 202.
Boudt (Bout), Jan Evertsen, xii, 3, 10, 18, 60.
Boulsa, John, xii, 048.
Boulyn, John, xi 1 1, 567 et seq.
103.
Boutje, Willem, xii, 96.
Bovatz, Andries, xill, 302.
Bow, John, XIII, 315.
Bowery, the, xiil, 538.
Bowman, Mr., xii, 646.
Bowne (Boune), "William, xiii, 43.
Boyd, James, xii, 524.
Bover, Alexander, xii, 30, 83, 38, 44, 49, 137, 142, 158,
178 et seq., 182, 193, 353, 255, 257, 283, 290, 308,
371.
letter from, 43.
Brabander, Jan Jansen, xiii, 212, 230, 409.
Bradborne, John, xii, 492, 534, 549, 020
Bradford, "William, Gov. of Plymouth, xii, 53.
Braey, Gisbert, sergeant, xn, 133 et seq.
Braintree, Mass., xiii, 526.
Braley, Richard, xii, 586.
Brand, Bernard, xii, 620.
Brantsen, Cuelis, xiii, 154.
Brantsen, Evert, xii, 223.
Brantz, Corn., xiii, 212.
Brasey, Richard, xii, 605.
Brasev, Robert, sr., xii, 586, 605.
Brasidy, Robert, jr., xn, 586, 605.
Brate, Abram, xii, 665.
Bratesman, Jurian, xii, 585.
Braun, "William, xn, 414.
Brazil, xn, 55, 87.
Bread and Cheese Island, xn, 648.
Bredon, Thomas, Gov. of Nova Scotia, xill, 234.
Breen, Daniel, xn, 533.
Bremen, Adam, xn, 153.
Breukelen (Brooklyn, L. I.),xii, 66,99; xiii, 103, 134,
187, 391.
Dominie Bloom preaches at, andMidwout, xiii,103.
minister at, xili, 155.
Brewer, Seneca, xn, 647.
Brewery, xn, 375, 379, 443.
Bridge over Esopus Kil, xiii, 86, 91, 98.
Bridges, John, xn, 627; xiii, 546-7.
Bridges, Mrs. , x i n , 404.
Briggs, John, xn, 544, 647, 665.
Brightwen, "William, xn, 615.
Brinekloe, Jnc, xn, 647, 657, 665.
Brinckloe, "William, xn, 649.
Brindley, Luke, xn, 615.
Brinson, Daniel, xn, 624.
Brinson, Darius, xn, 646.
Bristol, England, xn, 663.
Britton, Lionell, xn, 659.
Brittaine, Nathaniel, xrn, 442.
Broadhead, Mrs. Ann, xiii, 426, 438, 443,449, 544.
Broadhead, Daniel, Capt., xiii, 404, 406 et seq.
Broadway, Edward, xn, 008, 010, 635.
BrockhoUs, Anthony, Capt., xn, 536, 537, 540,545,
592, 595, 603, 663, 660, 667, 608, 069; xin, 485,
494, 498-501, 518, 551, 567-8.
letters from, xn, 668; xin, 518, 524, 527, 529,
548-53, 554-6, 559, 560-6, 569, 571.
letters to, xn, 663-3; sin, 519, 530, 524, 526, 527,
558.
Broen, Thomas, xn, 37, 49, 53, 57, 124, 141 et seq.,
149, 155, 158, 161, 182, 370, 373.
Broerscn, Jan, XII, 342; xin, 79, 81, 103 et seq., 119,
154, 202, 214, 230, 410, et seq.
Bronck, Jan, xlll, 482.
Bronck, Jonas, xni, 5.
Bronck, Pieter, xin, 898.
Bronkx River, xin, 20, bridge over, 441.
Index.
589
Brooklyn, L. I. See Brevkelm.
Broundish, John, xiii, 66.
Brouwer, Phil. Hendr., xiii, 203.
Browne, Daniel, xi i, 499, 545, 588 et seq., 624, 638.
Browne, George, xli, 646,659.
Browns, John, xiii, 395.
Browne, Mr., xiii, 557.
Brunei, Lewis, xii, 136.
Brusten, Mr., xii, 60.
Brayas, Father, xiii, 503, 510, 538, 527.
letter from, xlll, 523.
Bniylet in France, xll, 145.
Bruyn, Hendrick, xlil,212.
Bniyn, Jan Hendrick, xlii, 396, 397.
Bruyn, Jan of Pampoen, xiii, 545.
Bruyn, Peter, from Rendsburg, xill, 154, 213.
Bruyn, Thomas, xn, 107, 136, 183.
Bryant, Anthony, xll, 304, 560.
Buckby, John, xlli, 574.
Bucklew, Peter, xiii, 548.
Budd, John, xii, 634.
Budd, Thomas, xii, 650.
Burhans (Boerhans, Buirhans), Jacob, xlli, 153, 30^,
330, 247.
Burhans, Jan, xiii, 451.
Burhans, John Jacobs, xin, 413.
Burlington, N. J., xii, 48, 615, 634, 633, 046, 050.
Burton, J no., xii, 647.
Busaine, Mattys, xii, 140.
Buttein (Bottien), Jellis, xiii, 153.
Butterfield, the, at Esopus, xiii, 444.
Butterworth, Daniel, xiii, 414.
Buys, Jan Cornelissen, land granted to, xlii, 37.
Buys, Juste, xii,426.
By rams River, xiii, 24.
c.
Cabot, Sebastian, xiii,486.
Caderaqui (Caderrockque, Cauderaque), fort near, xiii,
531.
Cage, Richard, xiii, 407, 418, 448, 483.
Cahoos, the, xiii, 185.
Calc Berge (Bald Mountains), xiii, 444.
Callcoons Ilook, xii, 648.
Calton, XII, 549.
Calvert, Charles, Governor-General of Maryland, xii,
478, 528.
Calvert, Philipp, Governor of MaiTland, xii, 847, 856,
357, 417, 422, 500.
Campanius, John, xn, 28 », 30.
Canada, xn, 48, 131, 542; xin, 89, 92, 118, 133, 176,
305, 511, 524, 531.
governor of, xin, 498 ct seq.
claims jurisdiction ovir the Mohawks, xin, 503.
Mohawks invade, xin, 28.
Canaresse, Indian name for Boomptjes Hook, xn, 160.
Canastagione (Niskayuna), xni, 573.
Caniff, Ermod. xin, 66.
Caniskek (Athens, Greene county), xin, 397.
Cantwell, Edmund, Captain, xn, 496, 500 et seq., 506
et seq., 515 et seq., 518 et seq., 533, 535, 527, 529,
531, 536 et seq., 542 et seq., 553 el seq., 560 et seq.,
576-8, 582, 587-8, 592, 594-5, 597, 602, 605,
607-8, 611-3, 614, 630, 633, 633, 638, 641-5, 649,
651.
letters from, xn, 505, 545, 578, 631-3.
letters to, xn, 516, 518, 519, 538, 543, 554, 555, 683.
Cape Cod, xii, 48.
Cape Fonda, xn, 48.
Cai^e Henlopen, xn, 48, 194, 305, 215, 231, 331, 414,
508, 577, 583, 669.
Cape Malabar, xn, 48.
Cape May, xn, 346, 650.
Capito, Mattheus, xn, 351, 421; xiii, 312, 330, 387,
246, 259, 267, 274, 819, 836, 341, 347, 351.
letters from, xn, 338; xin, 367.
Carcoon's Hook, xn, 482.
Cardoso, Isaac, xn, 136.
Carl, Anthony, xiii, 154.
Carl Gustaf, King of Sweden, xn, 87.
Carle, Jacob, x n i , 448.
Carle, Thomas, xin, 434.
Carman, Caleb, xn, 648.
Carman (Carreman), Michael, xn, 385, 338, 243, 248,
285-6, 291, 293, 299, 301, 306, 315.
Carolus, Laurentius, xn, 491, 544, 550, 620, 622. See
Laers, Domine.
Carolusen, Hans, xlll, 247, 340.
Carr, Andrew, xn, 490, 491, 552, 018, 630, 648.
Carr, John, Captain, xn, 461-2, 464, 466,473-7,480,
485, 488, 490, 493, 497, 501, 506-7, 526-7, 530,
534-5, 587-40, 589, 606, 618, 643, 649.
letter from, xn, 503.
letters to, xn, 488, 508.
Carr, Nath'l, Capt., xn, 574.
Carr, Patrick, xn, 492.
Carr, Sir Robert, xn, 457, 458, 460.
Carsten, the Norman, xin, 280.
Carstensen, Claes, the Norman, xin, 31.
Carstensen, RoelofE, xn, 94.
Carterett, Sir George, of Saltrum, Proprietor of New
Jersey, xn, 568, 579; xin, 469, 471, 472, 486, 509,
541, 548.
Carterett, Capt. James, xn, 484, 486, 493; xin, 461 et
seq., 466 et seq.
letter from, xin, 463.
letters to, xni, 461, 466, 467, 468.
Carterett, Philipp, Governor of New Jersey, xn, 484,
486, 519, 524, 526, 545, 649; xni, 405, 461 et
seq., 467, 471, 477, 508, 539-41, 551.
estate of, in New Jersey, seized by the Dutch, xin
477.
visit of Gov. Andros to, xin, 542.
letters to, xin, 535, 538, 548, 550, 563.
Cartwright, George, xn, 458-9.
Cathcrwood, Jno., xn, 567.
Catskil, xin, 20, 26, 28, 74, 76, 290.
Indian lands at, xin, 481, 572.
Catskil Mo\mtains, xin, 99.
Caturaxas, French going to, xni, 500.
Cay, Hendrick, xin, 388.
Cedar Neck, xn, 616, 631, 646.
Census of the Delaware District, xn, 646.
of the New Jersey towns, xni, 476.
Chadock, Thomas, xin, 544.
Chaffan, James, xn, 649.
Chambers, Thomas, xin, 69, 72, 79, 81-2, 86-9, 93-7,
100^, 115-6, 130, 122, 128, 154, 164, 166, 178,
194, 212-5, 230, 236^1, 245, 247, 249, 351, 256,
275, 817-8, 329 et seq., 338, 845, 348-9, 351 et seq.,
369, 377, 401, 408, 411, 438, 432 et seq., 436, 446
et seq., 451 et seq.. 459 et seq., 468, 470, 482, 490,
498, 504, 506-7, 512, 565.
letters to, xin, 484, 566, 569, 571.
letters from, xni, 77, 78, 335, 534.
Chamnis, Edward, xn, 608.
590
Index.
Champion, John, xii, 615.
Chaptanke, Md., xii, 631, 640.
Charlus I of England, xil, 48; xlli, 486.
Charles II of England, xii, 468; xiii, 469.
letter from, to Capt. Berrv, xili, 469.
Phil Carterett, 473.
Charleston, Mass., xiii, 517.
Chew, Mr., xii, 539.
Chiepiessing, xii, 478, 494, 636, 643, 651, 6.55.
Chicheley, Sir Henry, Gov. of Virginia, xlll, 536, 557.
Cliisara, Robert, xiii, 544.
Chnltserae, Del., xil, 648.
Christina, Del., xii, 468, ^^.^ Fort Christina.
Christina kil, xii, 141, 175, 508, 532, 581. See Min-
guaea kil.
Christina, Queen of Sweden, xii, 73, 413.
Christiansen, Paulus, xiii, 153.
Christofels, .Johannes, xin, 206.
Claerhout, Walraef, xn, 432.
Claes, the Norman, xlii, 36, 148.
Claes, the Smith, xn, 178.
Claesen, Abbe, xn, 191, 192.
Claesen, Hendrick, xn, 491.
Claesen, Jacob, alias De Vrint, xn, 4.5, 307, 317, 335.
Claesen, Jan, xni, 206.
Claesen, Pieter, xn, 491.
Claesen, Tjerck (De Witt), xni, 313, 330.
Claessen, Dirck, xn, 164.
Claessen, Frederick, xni, 203.
Claessen, Valentin, xni, 153.
Claessen, WUliam, xn, 158, 511.
Claiborne, Col., xni, 146.
Claiborne, William, jr., letter from, to Dir. Stuyvesant,
xn, 406.
Clare, Melgur, xni, 544.
Clark, Walter, xni, 396.
Clark, Wilham, xn, 633, 624, 6.54, 659.
letter from, to Gov. Andros, 620, 654.
Clarke, Edward, xin, 547.
Clasen, Leendert, xn, 158, 161.
Classen, Dirck, xin, 233.
Classen, Peter, xn, 529.
Classen, William, xn, 142.
Classis of Amsterdam, Holland, minutes of the, xin,
405, 416.
letters to, 384, 390, 393, 423.
Clauson, Claus, xin, 414.
Clauson, John, xn, 648.
Clauson, Peter, xn, 648.
Clauson, William, xn, 648.
Claverack, xin, 345, 389, 396-7, 51.5.
farm at, leased, xni, 186.
Clayton, William, sr., xn, 615.
Clayton, William, jr., xn, 615.
Cleft, Samuel, xn, 624.
Clement, Abr., xn, 586, 588, 589, 605
Clement, Mrs., xn, 624.
Clementson, Jacob, xn, 647.
Clemmy, Abraham, xn, 545.
Clemontee, Olle, xn, 491.
Clentz, Gottfried, xin, 153.
Clerck, Mr., xin, 381.
Clcyn (Kleyn), Elmerhuysen, xn, 114, 133, 135 et scq.,
158, 161, 169, 205, 290, 299, 303, 321.
Cleynschmidt, Marten, xn, 282.
Cliford, Tlios., xn, 065.
Clock, Abraham Martensen, xin, 61, 71.
Cloeck, Cornells, xn, 443.
Cloughkawakanoe Creek, xni, 400.
Clute, Johannes, xni, 396, 397.
Cobes, Ludovicus, Sherifi of Schenectady, xin, 388,
489, 514, .533.
Cock, E-ick, xn, 544, 551, 586, 620.
Cock (Koch, Kocx), Gerrit, xn, 440, 443.
Cock, Jan, xn, 586.
Cock, John, xni, 544.
Cock, Lanse, xn, 533, 524, 560, 636.
Cock, Lars, xn, 647.
Cock, Lawrence, xn, 544, 551, 586, 620, 651.
Cock, Mon-is, xn, 586.
Cock, Otto Ernest, xn, 544, 551, 557, 559, 620, 634.
Cock, Peter, xni, 17, 44, 330, 366, 425, 463, 491, 505-6,
519, 527, 530, 535, 544, 545, 550, 551, 557, 559, 620,
634.
Cock, Peter, jr., xn, 586.
Cocksingh, Indian name for a tract of land in Ulster
Co., xin, 534, 571.
Coddington, Governor, xin, 493.
Coelen (Cool), Cornells Jansen, xni, 16, 17.
Coen, Adrian Dircksen, xn, 40.
Coen, Jacob, xn, 117.
Coenratsen, Comelis, xn, 59.
Coerten, Myndert, xin, 206.
Coertsen, Evert, xin, 233.
Coettrier, Hendrick, xn, 429.
Coettrier, Jacob, xn, 429.
Coffin, Abraham, xn, 545.
Cohanzy, xn, 650.
Cohocksinks Creek, xn, 551.
Cohoes, N. Y., xni, 308.
Colard, Wm., xni, 488, 574.
Cole, Samuel, xn, 650.
Coleman, Henry, xn, 463, 469, 470, 648.
Coleman, Lar.s, xn, 648.
Collens, Geo., xn, 646.
Collier, John, Capt., xn, 556, 558, 572, 576, 581, 590,
649.
letter from, xn, 577.
Collissen, John, xn, 589.
Collyer, Mr., xin, 542.
Columbia County, xin, 519, 573.
Colve, Anthony, Capt., Governor, xn, 507, 509, 512 ;
XIII, 47"3, 476, 535, 543.
letter from, to John Ogden, xin, 477.
Comegys, Corn., xn, 337.
Comunipaw to be fortified, xin, 253. See Oemoenepa.
Concord, Mass, xin, 526.
Conell, Jan, xin, 572.
Coney, John, xn, 665.
Coninck, Thomas, xin, 156.
Coningh, Frederick de. Captain, xn, 89, 91, 93, 95, 99,
144, 272; xin, 63.
Coningsmarc, Count, supposed son of, xi i, 463, 465, 468,
469. See Biiiclson, John.
Connecticut, xn, 537; xni, 493, 497, 539.
Connecticut river, xn, 39; xni, 308, 494, 511.
Conrad, Sander, xin, 101.
Conradus, Mathias, xn, 471.
Consistory of Sweden, xn, 307.
Consistory of Wiltwyck, xin, 306, 307, 311.
Constable's Hook, granted to J. J. Roy, xin, 19.
Content, Md, xn, 619.
Cooke, .^nthonv, xin, 412, 418, 448, 451.
Cooke, Edward, xn, 586, 605, 634.
Cooper, William, xn, 646.
Corn, Nicholas, xn, 26.
Coorncl, Thomas, land on Broncks River granted to,
XIII, 20.
Index.
591
Coppenou, Jan, xiii, 79, 341.
Corbett, Jacob, xiii, 547.
Coresen, Claes, xiii, 234.
Corhold, Powell, xii, 648.
Corlaer's Flat, L. I., xiii, 27.
Corlaer's Hook, xiii, 10.
Cornells, Jacques, xill, 253.
Cornells, Jan, xill, 233, 234.
Cornelissen, Gerritt, xiii, 306, 449, 507, 544.
CorneUssen, Hendrick, xiii, 40, 77, 104, 119, 203, 312,
340.
Cornelissen, Isaac, xiii, 221.
Cornelissen, Jacques, xill, 465.
Cornelissen, Jan, xiii, 410, 414.
Cornelissen, Lawsa, xii, 470.
Cornelissen, Lourens, skeppel, xi i, 185, 187.
Cornelissen, Marten, xili, 253.
Cornelissen, Peter, xii, 55, 56, 59.
Cornelissen, Tennis, xiii, 200, 253.
Cornelius, Harmen, xii, 496, 532, 605, 620.
Cornelius, Hendrick, xiii, 406.
Cornelius, Jacob, xiii, 547.
Cornelius, John, xil, 586.
Cornell, Richard, xii, 524, 527.
Cornelj's, Laers, xil, 545.
Comh ill's Neck, xlli, 403.
Corson, Cornelius, xiii, 547.
Corson, Garrett, xiii, 547.
Corson, Jacob, xiii, 547.
Corson, Peter, xiii, 547.
Corteljou, Jacques, xii, 133; xili, 219, 244, 314, 382,
421, 438, 443 et seq., 458.
Cortes, John, xii, 665.
Cos, Claes Pieterseu, xiii, 37, 233.
Coudrey, Elias, xii, 586.
Coudrey, Josias, xli, 605.
Courcev, Henry, xii, 301, 310, 312, 315, 355, 435; xiii,
507, 510, 516, 530, 555, 558 et seq.
agent of Maryland to treat with K. Y. Indians,
536 et seq.
letters from, and Col. Lloyd, 557.
Courcey, James, xii, 607.
Cousseau, Mr., xii, 472.
Cousturier, Mr., xii, 357, 434, 447, 449, 466.
Couwenhoven, Pieter, xll, 491. See Wolphertsen, Van
Couwenltoven.
Coventry, Henrj', xiii, 469._
Cowdry, Joseph, xii, 646.
Crab, Peter, XII, 649.
Crabbe, Jacob, xii, 137, 140 et seq., 149, 158, 177, 181,
319, 335, 338.
Cram Kil, xii, 551.
Crane, Robert, xii, 69.
Crane Hook, Del., xii, 536, 532, 535, 539, 645, 648.
Crate, Johan, xll, 282, 289, 293, 395, 303, 310, 333,
335.
Crawford, David, xiii, 419, 430.
Crawford, James, xii, 490, 493, 543.
Cregier, Francis, xir, 323. 321, 331, 359, 375 et seq., 399
et seq., 410, 423.
Cregier, Martin (Cruger, Cruvger, Cryger), Captain
Lieut., XII, 03, 93, 97, 132, 103, 175, 186-7, 196,
200, 203-4, 318, 333, 255, 259, 360, 261, 263, 266,
267, 269, 373, 375, 378, 386, 388, 304, 308, 309,
310, 316, 335, 343 e« seq., 360, 370, 459, 479, 494,
496, 518, 522, 542, 544, 546, 662; xiii, 151, 178,
268, 272, 278-9, 385 ei seq., 293, 299, 303, 311,
314, 317, 330, 322, 323, 348, 350, 351, 353, 358,
362, 366, 377, 382.
Cregier, letters from, and Secretary van Ruyven, xir,
262, 206, 3S0; xiii, 273, 386.
letters to, xiii, 284, 287, 289, 292, 295, 296, 302,
304, 323.
journals of, xiii, 314, 323.
Creiipel (Crespel), Anthony, xiii, 195, 330, 246, 446
448, 506, 544.
Creupelbos, , xiii, 315.
Crewcorne (Creekehorne), xii, 645, 650, 658.
Cripps, Jolin, xii, 615.
Croeger, Willem, xiii, 154, 203.
Crompton, Thomas, xii, 637 et seq., 633, 639 et seq.
Crooked kill, xli, 191.
Croon, Dirck Janscn, xiii, 88, 109, 110, 122.
Croon, Peter Claesen, Commissary, xll, 110.
Crosson, Pierre, xii, 314, 326; xlli, 518.
Cruder's Neck, xii, 574.
Cruger. See Cregier.
Crum Elbow, the, xlll, 506.
Crump, Gysbert, xiii, 448, 450.
Crump, Henry, xiii, 448.
Crumwell, John, sr., xiii, 574.
Cruyff, Elbert Gerbcrtsen, xiii, 309.
Crynneri, Jan Cornelissen, land granted to, xiii, 38.
Cm-ler, Arent, xii, 67; xlii, 15.
letter from, xiii, 15. See Van Curler.
Curler, name given to the English Governors by the
Indians, xlii, 499.
Curtis, Juo., XII, 647.
Curtis, Richard, xiii, 548.
Cuyper's Island, xii, 399.
Cuyper, Jan Jansen, xii, 36.
D.
D'Albo, Andries, xii, 218.
Dalbo, Elizabeth, xil, 648.
Dalboo, John, xii, 586.
Dalboo, Peter, xii, 544.
Dalva, Antonio, xili, 351 et seq., 408 et seq., 415.
Damen, Jan Jansen, one of the eight men, xiil. 10.
Dandrada, Salvador, xil, 117.
Daniel, Maurice, xii, 548, 620, 636.
Daniel, Walter, xiii, 544.
Daniels, Jacob, xiii, 154.
Daniels, Johan, xii, 415.
Danielsen, Jan, xll, 425-6.
Danskamer (Dancechamber), the, on Hudson's river,
XIII, 333, 352, 573.
Dareth, Jan, xiii, 168, 264, 265, 271. 274, 278, 283, 336,
378, 380, 399.
journal of, xill, 380.
Darnall, William, xlli, 547.
Darrall, Mr., xili, 543.
Danes, David, xii, 644.
Danse, Euan, xll, 665.
Davenport, flumphrey, xill, 456.
Davids, Christ., xili, 73, 90, 104, 105, 115, 170, 186
333, 347, 265, 287, 289, 331, 338, 423.
patent to, for land in the Esopus, xlil, 69.
Davids, Judith, xll, 635.
Davids, Thos., xii, 635.
Davidsen, David, xii, 33, 44, 49, 53, 371.
Davidsens, Kit, River, xiii, 170.
Davis, Nicholas, xiii, 396.
Davis, Thomas, xii, 586, 605, 625.
Davit, George, interpreter, xili, 504, 506.
Davits, Margaret, xii, 340.
Dawson, John, xii, 665.
592
Index.
Deacon, George, xri, 608.
Dead Men's Bones, xiii, 451.
Deale, xli, 6G7, 669. See Horehil.
Dear Point, xii, 647.
De Boogh, Gerritt Hendricksen, xii, 387, 401.
De Capur, Jan, xii, 312, 316, 331, 346, 377, 391, 397,
404, 40.5, 413, 415, 433, 451, 479.
Decies, Thomas, xii, 62.
Decker, Mr., xii, 410.
Decker, Jacob Jausen, xiii, 544.
De Commer, Jacob, surgeon, xii, 381 et seq., 401 et seq.,
432.
De Cru.so, Thimoty,'Xii, 111.
De Decker, Abr., xii, 111.
De Decker, Johan, councillor of N. N., xii, 108, 111,
210, 312, 348; xlll, 80, 186, 206, 214, 221, 231,
240, 247, 254, 260, 204, 368, 278, 283, 289, 336
et seq.
letters from, xiii, 260, 265, 3G8.
letter to, xiii, 278.
Deerfield, xi 1 1, 511.
De Forreest, Isaac, xiii, 38.
Deforest, Madis Lars, xii, 534.
De G-ardous, Frangois, xiii, 153.
De Goyer, Dirck, xili, 114, 153, 213.
De Goyer, Eldert, xiii, 292.
De Goyer, Evert, xiii, 545.
De Graefif, Dirck, xiii, 119.
De Graeff, Urbanus, xiii, 153.
De Groot, Gerrit, xii, 387, 398, 406.
De Haes, Annitje, xil, 150.
De Hae.s, 'Gabriel, xii, 154, 156, 158, 161.
De Haes, Johannes, xn, 150, 530, 535, 536, 538,
560, 561, 563, 589, 606, 634.
De Haes, Marietje, xii, 150.
De Haes, Roeloff, xn, 149, 177, 179, 180, 181.
De Hinse, Jacob, xii, 177.
De Hinson, Jacob, surgeon, xiii, 113, 439.
De Hit, Willems, xn, 181.
De Hooges, Johannes, xiii, 544.
De Hulter, Johan, xiii, 70, 71, 97, 158, 176.
De Hulter, Mrs., xni, 86, Q3 et seq., 98, 230. See De
Laet.
De Jager, Cornells Herperts, xn, 337, 308.
De Jonge, Peter, xn, 130.
De Laet, Johanna (Mrs. de Hulter), xni, 71, 98.
De la Praire, Mr., xn, 486.
De la Poterie, Governor of Trois Rivieres, xni, 89.
Delavall, Thomas, xn, 469, 472, 497, 506, 507, 525,
577, 592, 595, 600, 602; xni, 403, 406, 414,445
et seq., 452, 466, 468-9, 496-8, 501, 536, dead 565.
letters to, from Capt. Brockholls, xni, 552, 554.
Delaware, the District on the, as a place of exile, xn,
20, 131.
the duke's laws introduced in, 561.
weights and measures in, 578.
trade of, xn, 459, 462, 481, 506-7, 564, 566, 573,
593, 606.
privileges granted to the inhabitants of, xll,
507.
defenses of, 487, 493, 501.
magistrates of, xn, 533, 538, 557-9, 563, 566, 581,
585, 590, 608, 610, 634, 669.
letters from, xn, 539, 575, 590, 600.
letters to, xn, 513, 566, 581, 585.
Delaware bay, xn, 313, 484.
Delaware falls, xn, 531, 541, 611, 633, 626, 645.
court of, X n , 646.
feny at, xn, 520.
Delaware bay, xn, 457, 459, 460 et seq., 463, 467, 469,
472, 473, 474, 475, 480, 484, 487, 494, 497, 498, 500,
501.
Delaware, xi i, 506, 513, 514, 530, 536, 537, 543, 545, 553,
556, 559, 560, 561, 565, 567, 579, 580, 581, 585, 592,
593, 594, 597, 610, 611, 613, 616, 617, 630. 639, 636,
640, 650, 651, 660, 666, 669.
Delaware, Lord, xni, 486.
Delaware river, xin, 484.
De Lesigny, Mr., xlii, 537.
De Loper, Hendrick, xn, 466, 485.
De Lucena, Abr., xn, 117.
De Meyer, N. Capt, xn, 033; xin, 416, 506, 530.
De MuHe, Jacob, xin, 547.
De Necker, Gillis, xni, 114, 117, 153.
Denne, John, xn, 544.
Dennis, Robert, xin, 406.
Denny, John, xn, 651.
Denton, Daniel, xni, 405.
De Peyster, Joannis, xn, 308.
De Pruyn, Abr., xii^ 341.
De Raeth, Henrick, Capt., xn, 195, 199, 342.
Derby, Conn., xin, 21.
Derckseu, Abel, xin, 153.
Dericke, Gilbert, xn, 649.
Dericksen, Gisbert, xn, 471, 589.
De Ring, Mr., xn, 643.
De Ringe, Amelius, xn, 636 641.
De Ringe, Matheus, xn, 641, 649.
Pe Ringe, Paulus, xn, 636.
De Ringh, , xn, 312.
Deringh, Nic., xn, 334, 341, 354, 438.
De Ruvter, Admiral, xn, 334.
De Ruyter, Claes, xn, 57, 63, 63, 126, 363, 413. 419,423.
De Ruyter, Claes Jansen, Indian interpreter, xiii, 48,
86, 99 et seq., 104, 148, 150, 168, 170, 173, 174, 178,
201-2, 207.
De Ruyter. See Ruyter.
De Ryke, Jan Cornells, xn, 236.
Do Schilder, Jan, xni, 299.
De Shaw, John, xn, 647.
De Sille, Nicasius, Councillor of N. N., xn, 77, 83,
91-7, 99, 118, 120-4, 127-8, 144, 165-9, 171-3, 174,
184, 193, 195-6, 310, 212, 226, 295-7, 311, 313, 339,
388; xin, 54, 61, 69, 80, 138, 160, 166, 171, 178, 186,
306, 314, 331, 340, 243, 347-8, 253, 313, 317, 322, 357-9,
377, 388 et seq.
Desjardins, John, Dr., xn, 534-7.
De Treux, Isaac, xin, 515.
De Visser, Jan, xn, 98.
De Vogel, Matty, xn, 140.
De Vogelaer, Jacob, xn, 440.
De Vos, Harmen, xni, 234.
Devos, Mathiason, Mathias, xn, 586.
De Vos, Matheus, xn, 170, 340.
De Vors, Peter, Indian interpreter, xin, 521, 533. See
Van Voris.
De Vries, David Pietersen, xn, 38 7i. ; xni, 6, 7.
De Vries, Frederick, xin, 6.
De Vries, Regnier, xn, 203.
De Vrint, Jacob, xn, 250, 337. See Clnesen, Jneoh.
De Wael, Jacob, xin, 448.
De Winter, Bastian, xin. 253.
De "Witt, Andries, xin, 571.
De Witt, Claes, xn, 256.
De Witt, Jan, xn, 340.
De Witt, Peter, xn, 530, 655.
De Witt, Tjerck Classen, xin, 238, 239, 245, 240, 251,
256, 284, 318, 327, 407, 413, 431, 440, 451.
Index.
593
De Wolf, Abel, xiii, 99 et %eq.
Deyo, Christian, xiii, 506.
Deyo, Peter, xlll, 506.
D'Hiaojossa, Alex, Lieut., xii, 163, 165,204, 318, 227,
230, 335, 337-9, 243, 358, 263, 264, 365, 269, 270,
282, 383, 386, 287, 289, 390, 393, 398, 394, 395,
296, 298, 399, 301, 803, 805, 306, 308, 309, 310,
311, 313, 318, 321, 333, 325, 327, 338, 339, 333,
333, 334, 335, 343, 345, 847 et seq., 854, 356,
357 et seq., 868, 373, 375 et seq., 384 et seq., 888,
dSdetseq., 392, 396, 397, 398, 400, 403 et seq..
406, 408, 411 et seq., 416, 431, 423. 437, 434, 437,
442, 447, 448, 449, 451, 460.
letter from, xii, 880.
letter to, xii, 881.
Dickenson, Walter, xii, 635, 6^2 et seq.
Dickerinan, Isaac, xiii, 574, 657.
Dicks, Robert, xii, 544, 573.
Diliotb, John, xiil, 448.
Dirck, .Jan, xiii, 361.
Dirck, Paulus, from Luxemburg, xiii, 206.
Dircks, Abel, xiii, 117.
Dircks, Gysbert, xii, 534.
Dirckseu, Barent, one of the Eight Men, xiii, 16.
Dircksen, Jan, from Bremen, xiii, 26, 69, 388.
Dircksen, .Joris, xiil, 8.
Dircksen, Lucas, Sergt., xii, 119, 148, 153, 179.
Dircksen, Peter, xui, 77, 79, 81, 100, 104, 115, 213.
Dirck, Evertje, xil, 131.
Directors of the W. I. Company, letters from, to Dir.
Stuyvesant, xii, 47, 73, 78, 74, 85, 86, 90, 113,
119, 128, 131, 183, 185, 214, 215, 216, 333, 271,
287, 326, 332, 359, 407, 424, 437, 484, 440, 443,
445; XIII, 21, 28, 26, 27, 33, 34, 35, 68, 70, 73.
75, 80, 98, 99, 121, 129, 149, 155, 158, 187, 339.
letters to, from Dir. Stuyvesant, xii, 346, 249,
254, 388, 304, 317, 336, 833, 347, 373, 389, 408,
421, 453, 455; xiii, 100. 107, 110, 123, 180, 163,
176, 189, 190, 204, 333, 372, 890.
from the Council of N. K, xiii, 181, 390.
to the Council of N. N., xli, 88, 90, 91.
to Vice-Director Beekman, xii, 443.
Dirrick, Lichten, xlli, 245, 246.
Dishaa, Jno., xii, 665.
Ditarman (Dickerman), Isaac, xlli, 488.
Doedesen, Meyndert, xii, 197, 300.
Domenicus, Regnier, xii, 54, 140, 178, 180.
Dorchester County, Md., xii, 638, 639.
Dorian, Lambert, xiii, 547.
Doughty, Elias. xiii, 498.
Doughty (Douthey), Francis, xiii, 18.
Douglas, Wm., xii, 472.
Douw. See Jansen, Volelcert.
Douwes, Anne, Capt., xii, 94, 103.
Douwes, Hester, xiii, 346.
Douwesen, Harmen, xiir, 804.
Douxen, Paulus, xii, 649.
Downer, Harman, xlil, 33.
Doxy, Ralph, xli, 513.
Drake, John, xiii, 489.
Drake, Samuel, xiii, 420, 489.
Drake, Samuel, jr., 489.
Driessen, Berene, xiii, 75.
Drisius, rev. Samuel, xiii, 59, 391, 393, 405, 420, 433.
letters from, to Classis of Amsterdam, xni 390,
393.
Droochetraeder, Herm, xii, 532.
Drumers Neck, xii, 547.
Dubois, Abraham, xiii, 507.
75
Dubois, Isaac, xiii, 507.
Dubois, Lewis, xiii, 212, 238, 246, 407 ei sea., 448, 450,
506-7, 515, 533, 544, 558, 565-6.
Dubreuil, Mathien, xii, 882 <;!; seg., 406.
Duck Creek, xii, 544, 600, 619, 638, 636 et sen.. 639,
644, 047, 651, 656, 661, 666.
Duke's laws, the, xii, 561.
Dumont, Walrave, xiii, 353, 212, 351, 407, Am ct seq ,
418, 446.
Duncke, William, xii, 648.
Du Parck, Jan, xii, 815, 839; xiii, 212, 247, 338.
Du Pre, John, xii, 586, 605.
Durham, Robert, xii, 615.
Duten, Jan, xii, 49.
Dux, Paulus, XII, 490.
Duyts, Laurens, xiii, 5.
Dyck, Hendrick, xii, 381, 383, 385, 386, 392, 431.
Dyckman, Johannes, xiii, 247.
Dyre, Capt. Wm., xii, 536, 537, 540, 542, 545, 593,
594; xiii, 483, 485. 491, 493, 498, 501, 543, 549.
E.
Eager, Thos., xiii, 448.
Easineh, part of Ulster Co., so called, xiii, 403.
Eastchester, xiii, 420, 433, 441, 501.
Assessment Roll of, xiii, 488.
contributions of, xiii, 433.
Court at, XIII, 474.
Easthampton, L. I., xiii, 537.
East Jersey, xiii, 486.
Eaton, Sam, xii, 83.
Eaton, Theo., Gov. of New Haven, xii, 70, 83.
Ebel, Peter, xii, 57, 181; xiii, 48, 304, 314, 317,
833.
Ebbingh, Jeronimus, xiii, 98, 158, 176, 313, 352, 446.
Eck, Evert Hendrickseu, xii, 533, 534, 535.
Eckhoff (Eeckhoft), Jan, xii, 106, 136, 346, 148, 154,
158, 179, 181-3.
Edmonson, ,Tohn, xii, 578, 631.
Edsall, Samuel, xii, 449, 490, 493, 533-5, 541, 570;
xiii, 370, 359, 494, 497.
Edwards, Harmen, xiii, 233, 360.
Eets, Hendrick, xiii, 186.
Egbert, Barnard, xii, 535, 543.
Egbert, Heindrik, xii, 158.
Egbertsen, Barent, xii, 649.
Eken, Bernard, xii, 490.
Elbertsen, Elbert, xiii, 45.
Elders, Jacob, xii, 207, 218.
Eldertsen, Luycas, xii, 58.
Elgar, Thomas, xiii, 412, 418.
Elit, William, xiii, 67.
Elizabethtown, N. J., xil, 486; xiii, 405, 473 et seq.,
539.
patent for, by Col. Nichols made void, xiii, 471.
delegates of N. J. to meet at, xiii, 541.
Elkinton, George, xii, 615.
EUett, Ch., XII, 647.
Elenburgh, N. J., xii, 010.
Elsenburgh in Sweden, xii, 145.
Elston, William, xiii, 548.
Elswort, Staffel, xlii, 315.
Elsvs^ck, Hendrick van, xii, 83, 101, 104, 110-1.
Elton, .Jan, xiil, 507.
Ely, Samuel, agent of Massachusetts, xiii, 521, 533,
535, 528.
Emmens, Elias, xil, 135, 137-8, 140, 179.
Endicott, John, Gov. of Mass., xii, 50; xiii, 224.
594
Index.
Euglish, the, XII, 48, 64, 186, 205, 215, 247, 249, 250,
253, 254, 255, 257, 258, 264, 271, 274, 275, 278,
280, 306, 316, 337, 338, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347,
349, 375 et aeq., 414, 416, 427, 430, 436, 437, 440,
443, 449, 510; xiii, 8, 10, 21, 23, 30, 379, 389,
393.
from Boston, xiil, 224.
of Connecticut, xill, 887.
from Hartford, .xiil, 101, 107.
of Long Island, xii, 99; xiil, 41, 270, 322.
of New England, XI 1 , 34, 39, 50, 62, 82, 113 ; xi 1 1,33.
of Nova Scotia, xiii, 224, 297.
of Virginia, xli, 200, 247.
at ttic Newesinghs, xiii, 193, 195, 208, 239, 281,
311, 314.
intrigues with N. N. Indians, xili, 363, 390, 392.
ill Westcliester, xlii, 36, 62 et seq.
claims of, on the South river, xii, 52, 63, 242-8,
250, 253, 355, 362, 333, 347.
English river, xii, 357.
Eiiloos, Abraham, xii, 544, 548.
Enloos, Pr., XII, 317, 222.
Ercks, Paul, xiii, 74.
Ericksen, Erick, xii, 470.
Ericksen, Jan, xli, 491, 568, 648.
Ernest, Otto, xii, 524.
Erskin,John, xii, 490, 649.
Eskels, Abr., xii, 253.
Eskelson, Bartel, xii, 647.
Eskelson, Lawsa, xii, 469, 470, 648.
Eskelson (Escholsen), Hattys, xii, 490, 649.
Espating, N. J., xin, 479.
Esselse, Mathys, xii, 107.
Esopus, XI I, 216, 255, 267, 270, 297, 301, 305-6, 310,
315, 484-6, 438, 463, 513, 542; xiil, 69, 71, 73,
70-8, 81, 84, 86, 89, 91, 98, 102-4, 111, 114, 118,
124, 135, 154, 158-9, 1G6, 170, 187, 192, 195, 221,
228, 240-3, 245, 256, 272, 280, 283, 286, 391-3,
332, 354-5, 382, 385, 428 et seq., 440, 443 et seq.,
457, 464, 496, 498, 515, 534, 543, 552-4.
Indian name of, xiii, 47.
called Wildwyck, x III, 195; Kingston, 432; Swa-
nenburgh, 480.
boundaries of, xiii, 418.
dominies or State-house at, xiii, 429.
government of, xiii, 420, 475, by English laws,
438, 471.
new village at, xiii, 220.
population of, xiii, 79.
taxes, XI n, 211, 470.
trade of, xill, 458, 403.
Esopus, Great, xiii, 77.
Esopus kil, XI II, 99, 304, 333, 334, 340-353, 418.
Esopus, Little, xiii, 100.
Esopus, the, Mutiny, xili, 406—115.
Eues, Thomas, xii, 015.
Eues, Witten, xii, 492.
Eustace, John, xii, 491, 648.
Eustasen, James, xii, G20.
Eustason, Urmus, xii, 648.
Evans, Mr., xll, 68.
Eversen, Arent, schoolmaster, xil, 423.
Eversen, Cornelis, jr., xil, 507.
Evert, Mr., xii, 318.
Evert, the cooper, xili, 538.
Evert, the precentor, xil, 390.
Evert, the fin, xil, 470.
Evertsen, .Cornells, jr., xiii, 473, 470.
Evertsen, Trientjc, xiii, 321.
Eyfgrauw (Ifgrouw), Ele, xii, 148, 161.
Eymans, Johannes, xll, 153, 154.
Fabricius, Rev. Jacob, xii, 466 h, 473, 513,531, 539,
531, 533, 534, 535, 537, 538, 539, 540.
Factor, Cornelis M., xii, 376, 381, 385, 391, 399.
Faen, Jacob, xii, 548.
Farington, Thomas, xlii, 488, 574.
Farling, Henry, xiii, 419.
Fen, Benjamin, xii, 83 ». ; xiii, 308, 210.
Feudal, Josias, Governor of Maryland, xii, 248, 253,
261, 320, 333.
Fenix, Sander, xii, 179.
Fenwyck, Jolin, Major, xll, 542, 545, 559, 561, 565. 566,
568, 579, 592, 594, 595, 597, 598, 599, 600, 602, 606,
609, 610.
Ferch, Michar-l, xiii, 117.
Ferguson, Huraplirey, siii, 409 e< sej., 414.
Ferris, John, xiii, 574.
Ferry between Bergen and the Manhattans, xiii, 214,
234.
Field, Samuel, xii, 646, 659.
Finances of N. N., xili, 372.
Finchard, Cornelius, xlii, 413.
Finehold, Corn, xiii, 448.
Finland, Penn., xii, 109, 191.
Fins, XII, 105, 126, 130, 169, 287, 298-301, 306-8,
336, 345, 350, 384, 406, 426, 451, 463-4, 508, 533,
536, 539.
Firis, John, xiii, 488.
Fish, Gasper, xll, 544, 549, 551, 620.
Fisher, William, xlii, 407 et seq., 414, 418, 436, 448,
450, 544.
Fishkill, Dutchess county, xiii, 569.
Fiske, Jasper, xii, 586.
Fitzger.ald, John, xiii, 547.
Flamman, Jan, Captain, xii, 97, 137, liO et seq., 140 eJ
seq., 195, 201.
Flatbush, L. I. See Midwout.
Flatlands, L. I. See Amersfoort.
Flayle, Thomas, xii, 648.
Fletcher, Mr., xll, 499.
Flipsen, Frederick, xlli, 76. See PJiilipps.
Florissen, Joris, xil, 406, 409, 410, 418.
Floyd, Charles, xii, 490.
Flushing, xlll, 421. See Tlissingen.
Ford, Wm., xii, 544.
Pordham, xiii, 459, 493.
bi'idge at, xi ii, 441.
manorial court to be held at, xiii, 471, 483.
Forgason, John, xiii, 488.
Forgason, John, sr., xlll, 574.
Forgason, John, jr., xlli, 574.
Forcken (Focken, Foker), Gerritt, xiii, 212, 407 etseq.,
413, 445, 449.
Fort, about twenty leagues north of Albany, proijosed,
XIII, 35.
Fort Albany, xiil, 395, 397, 399.
Fort Altena, xii, 175, 183, 198, 202, 304, 311, 313, 220,
236-7, 341, 356, 307, 316, 446; xiii, 333.
condition of, xii, 299, 307, 439.
Fort Bevcrsreede, xii, 38, 43, 45, 46.
Fort Casimir, xii, 72, 75-7, 83, 85, 98, 100-3, 115, 119,
132, 138, 139-40, 145, 151, 160-7, 170, 173, 175,
177 ctseq., 197, 305.
called New Amstel, xii, 133.
condition of, xii, 135.
Index.
oyjj
Fort Casimir, Indian name of, xii, 100.
inhabitants of, xii, 158.
(New Castle, Del.)
Fort Christina, xli, 28 (note), 29, 90, 98, 100-2, 104,
106-7, 109, 119, 132. 173, 175, 188, 193, 207, 253,
314, 423, 441, 445.
called Altena, xii, 132.
(Wilmington, Del.)
Fort Elsenburgh, xii, 29, 101.
Fort James, xii, 458-9, 463, 482; xiii, 395.
Fort Nassau, Fort Orange so called, xiii, 479.
Fort Nassau, on the Delawai-e, xi i, 26, 28 (note), 32, 39,
41-3, 53, 56, 370 et seq.
demolished, 73.
Fort New-Amstel, xii, 174.
Fort on the Sandhook, xil, 105.
(Fort Casimir.)
Fort Orange, xii, 48, 55, 64, 108, 117, 196, 199-301,
308, 237, 255, 872; xiil, 21, 23, 36, 39, 72, 77,
79, 83, 86, 88, 90, 95, 98, 101, 105, 107, 114, 131,
162, 168, 170, 175, 178, 188, 190-1, 193, 203, 315,
219, 223-4, 244, 250, 254, 273, 375, 277 et seq.,
283-3, 294, 296-7, 299, 302, 317, 334, 330 et seq.,
345, 348 et seq., 355, 308, 378, 383, 388 et seq., 390.
bricks from, xli, 236.
called Fort Nassau, xiii, 479.
Canada Indians to be eucom'aged to come to, xi 1 1,
35.
condition of, xiii, 258, 303, 309.
conferences with Indians at, xni, 73, 93, 108. See
Albany, ^ew-Albany, Wlllemstadt.
Fort William Henry, xii, 508, 509 et seq.
Fourloung, Edw., xii, 586, 605.
Fowlebeard, Hen., xiii, 409.
Fowler (Fouler), Joseph, xiii, 41.
Fox Hall, XIII, 448.
erected into a manor, 468.
France, Hubertus, xii, 58(3.
Francis, OUe, xil, 648.
Francis, Robert, xii, 544, G;j5.
Franfon, Arian, xiii, 448.
Franien, Oloflf, xii, 107.
Fransen, Dirck, xii, 584.
Fransen, Hinricli, xii, 539.
Fransen, Olle, xii, 470.
Frazer, Robert, xii, 605.
French, the, of Canada, xil, 90; xiii, 109, 183, 176,
305, 335, 483, 519.
on Staten-Island, xlii, 391, 567.
prisoners among the Mohawks, xiii, 15, 113.
Mohawks at peace with the, xiil, 33.
Mohawks at war with the, xiii, 38.
must redeem their own jjrisoners, id.
the Mohawks promise assistance against the, xiii,
479.
menacing Englisli Indians, xiii, 484.
receive North Indians into their protection, xm,
497.
reported as meditating an invasion, xm, 498.
French fort cut off by Mohawks and Senecas, xi ii, 175.
Fredericks, Thomas, xiii, 234.
Fredericksen, Wm., xm, 9.
Fredricks, Herman, xii, 493.
Fredricks, Michael, xm, 549.
Freeman, Francis, xm, ^Ql et seq.
French, Edward, xm, 414, 418, 448, 451.
Frere, I3ugi, xm, 507.
Fresh Kill, S. I., xm, 518, 547-8.
Fresh river, the, xm, 58, 150, 381, 387.
Freshwater river, xii, 48.
Frontenac, Comte de, xm, 534, 527.
Frounsen, Simon, xii, 665.
Frudeyachkamick, place on Hudson's river, xm, 505.
Fugitive servants, xii, 195, 305, 311, 21.5, 238, 247, 350,
355, 394, 397, 801, 310, 313, 821, 846, 406, 414, 416,
427, 450, 453, 503.
Fuller (Wheeler?), xii, 338.
Fur trade, importance of, xm, 27.
Futcher, William, xii, 638.
Fuyck, the, xm, 231.
G.
Gabry, Timothy, xil, 311; xm, 416.
Galdert, William, xm, 315.
Gansevoort, Harmen Harmeusen, xm, 78.
Gardener, Henry, xm, 488, 574.
Gardenier, Jacob Jansen, xm, 566.
Gardiner's Island, xii, 338.
Gardner, Thomas, Capt., xm, 334, 336, 227.
Garland, Susan, xil, 624.
Garret, Carl, xm, 153.
Garrett, Evert, xii, 649.
Garrett, George, xm, 548.
Garretson, Arson, xm, 544.
Garretson, Derrick, xm, 488, 574.
Garretson, John, xii, 649.
Garretson, Martin, xii, 556.
Garton, Thomas, xm, 544.
Garton, M., xm, 544.
Gegout, , XII, 476. See Jejow.
Gemoenepaw, xll, 253; xm, 86-7, 171, 233-4, 353,
268, 382, 350 {Communipaw, N. J.)
Gemoenepaw Kil, xm, 23.
Gerardy, Johannes, xli, 54.
Gerraert, Philipp, xil, 30.
Gerret, Jan, xii, 149.
Gerrett, Mars, xii, 490.
Gerritsen, Albert, xm, 330, 247.
Gerritsen, Adrian, xm, 88, 93, 110, 316, 482.
Gerritsen, Arian, xm, 346, 414.
Gerritsen, Barent, xm, 313, 230, 336, 245.
Gerritsen, Dirck, xm, 238, 234.
GeiTitsen, Evert, xii, 490-1; xm, 271.
Gerritsen, Gerrit, xm, 231, 333, 352, 368, 294.
Gerritsen, Goose, xm, 243, 264, 266, 304, 387, 417, 573.
Gerritsen, Harmen, xm, 544.
Gerritsen, Hendrick, xm, 398.
Gerritsen, Jan, xil, 178, 181; xm, 202, 248, 346.
Gerritsen, Jan, from Oldenburg, xm, 330.
Gerritsen, Martin, xm, 504, 507, 530-1, 545, 561.
Gerritsen, Olfert (Wolfert), xm, 33.
Gerritsen, Reymck, xli, 143.
Gerritsen, Wessel, xil, 95.
Gerritsen's Bay, xii, 333.
Gertsen, Martin, xii, 534.
Getes, John, xii, 665.
Gibbons, Ric, xm, 396, 398.
Giker, Hoye, xii, 410.
Gilljert, Isaiah, xm, 66.
Gilbert, Matthew, xm, 308.
Gilbert, Obadiah, xm, 66.
Gillengrey (Guldengreis, Gulengreyn), Elias, xii. 71,
141, 143, 151
Gilles, James, xm, 547.
Gillis, , XII, 167.
Gillman, Charies, xm, 406.
Ginby, John, xm, 488.
596
Index.
Gisbert, Gerrit, xiii, 544.
Glen, Sander Leendertseii, xil, 63; xiii, 233, 307, 405
48y, 500. See Leendertsen, Sandi-r.
Glocester, xii, 544.
Glover, John, xii, 636 et seq., 005.
Goden, John, xiii, 489.
Goden, Samuel, xiii, 489.
Goebertsen, Albert, xiii, 104.
Goefers, Albert, xiil, 154.
Goesey, Jafetli, xii, 665.
Goldinge, Wm., .xiii, 395, 396.
Goldsmith, , xii, 620.
Goodyear, Stephen, Dep. Gov., xll, 82.
Gorsuch, Richard, xii, 506.
Gottenburg in Sweden, xii, 110.
Gouldsberry, Robert, xiii, 433, 448.
Gouldsmid, Mr., xii, 355, 433.
Governor's Island. See Noteii Island.
Govertsen, Albert, xiii, 314.
Gowersen, Albert, xiii, 544.
Graaff, Dirck Hendricksen, xiii, 81.
Graeffs, Jan, xiii, 154.
Graevenraet (Greveraet), Isaac, schout of Esopus, xiii,
401, 416, 458, 470, 482.
Graham, .James, xiii, 543, 547.
Grain, xii, 63, 64, 134, 168, 186, 194, 303, 204, 206,
222, 236, 244, 393, 354, 418, 481, 663; xiii, 313.
at the Esopus; xiii, 77, 154.
Gravesend, L. I., xii, 51; xiii, 39-41, 43, 47, 270, 356
358, 393, 396, 398, 416, 567.
Gray, John, xili, 67.
Gray, Samuel, xil, 638.
Gray, William, xiii, 544.
Great Mohawk Flat, xiii, 344.
Great Plain, S. I., xiii, ,547.
Great Plot, the, at the Esopus, xiii, 333, 348, 353.
Gregory, John, xiii, 216, 221.
Greenbush, Rensselaer county, N. Y., xiii, 156.
fort at, 264.
Greene, William, xii, 647.
Greene county, Indian deed for land in, xiii, 482.
Greenland, Captain, xiii, 543.
Greenwich, Conn., xill, 24, 495.
Greyn (Grien, Gryne), Otto, xii, 126, 135, 143, 157.
Griffin, Richard, xii, 665.
Griffith, Mr., xiii, 525.
Grilsaw, John, xii, 647.
Groencnbergh, Coustantinus, xil, 106, 139 «< seg., 148,
154-5, 158, 177.
Groenendyke, Peter, xii, 523, 571, 582.
Groeningen on the Delaware, xii, 544, 647.
Groome, Samuel, letter to, .xiii, 570.
Grotenhuysen, Sheriff, xll, 323.
Grover, James, xiii, 270, 315, 395-6.
Groves, Philipp, xiii, 221.
Groves, Thomas, xii, 647, 665.
Guggine, Major, xiii, 520.
Guilyck, xiii, 154.
Guldengrys. See Oillengrey.
Gun, Deacon Jasper, xiii, 308, 310.
Guudey, Charles, xii, 639, 639.
Guneson, Arian, xiii, 411.
Guy, Richard, xii, 608, 610, 635.
Gybbinks, Sergeant, xiii, 315.
Gylart, , xiii, 75.
Gysbcrt, Merten, xiii, 230.
Gysbertsen, Albert, xili, 313, 230, 336, 338-9 351
356, 318. '
Gysbertsen, Fred., xii, 429.
Gysbertsen, Gysbert, xiii, 313.
Gysbertsen, Lubbert, xiii, 37.
H.
Hack, Dr., xii, 343.
Haekensack, xii, 312, 815; xiii, 147 201 294 321
333, 361, 386. See AchUnkesuchj. ' - ' '
Hackister, John, xii, 638.
Hadley, Mass., xni, 381, 511, 521-3, 528.
Hadly, Joseph, xiii, 574.
Hadson, Rev. Warner, xiii, 384.
Haen, Diick Cornelissen, xii, 184.
Haersimons. See Ahaumus.
Haesbroocq, Abraham, xiii, 506, 565.
Hagell, Jan, xiii, 271.
Half moon, the, xiii, 387, 508, 531.
Halfway Ground, xill, 438.
Hall, George, xiii, 401, 408 et seq., 415, 418, 448, 451,
483, 489, 498, 506-7, 513.
letter to, from Secretary NicoUs, xu i, 484
Hall, .John, xili, 544.
Hall, Thomas, xii, 333, 326; xiii, 16, 215, 304, 429
et seq., 444, 446.
Halle, Richard, xiii, 547.
Ham, Conrad, xill, 153.
Haman, Jan, xii, 158.
Hambleton, Mr., xiii, 529.
Hamel, D. V., Secretary, xiir, 156.
Hamel's Neck, xiii, 3.
Hamelton, Jan, xiii, 302.
Hamer, Richard, xiii, 407 fi sej'., 415.
Hamilton, William, xli, 578.
Hancock, Richard, xu, 569, 608, 635.
Hand, Jurian, from Poland, xu, 153.
Hand wick, Jan, xu, 490.
Hanouw, Jurian, from Poland, xii, 137.
Hans the Norman, xiii, 346.
Hansen, Andries, xiii, 153.
Hansen, Gertrey, xiii, 230.
Hansen, Harman, xu, 134.
Hansen, Lawrens, xu, 137, 160, 193.
Hansen, Michiel, xu, 99.
Hanson, Matys, xu, 211, 366, 425.
Hanseson, Hans, xu, 649.
Hansjen, Cleyn, xu, 411.
Hap, Jacob, xui, 178, 213, 315, 330.
Hap, Jacob, widow of, xiu, 446.
Hap, Jacob Jansen, xiii, 83, 94-5, 115.
Hap, William Jansen, xiu, 345.
Harboken. See Uoboken.
Harcke, William, xui, 59.
Hardenbroock, Adolph, xui, 234.
Harder, Pieter Pietersen, xu, 381, 392, 396, 401 st. ecq.
Harding, Thomas, xu, 615.
Harlem, xu, 355; xiu, 459, 518, 538.
Harlem river, xiu, 460. •
Harman, Marcus, xu, 153.
Harmansen, Frederick, cadet, xu, 134.
Harmansen, Jan, from Lemmct, xui, 13.
Harinen, Henry, xu, 620.
Harmens Choice, xu, 620.
Harmens, Douwe, xiu, 233, 234.
Harmens, Fytje, xui, 253.
Harmensen, Barent, xui, 331, 346.
Harnienson, Martin, xiu, 246.
Harmensen, Pieter, xu, 26, 38, 44, 49, 180, 371.
Harmensen, Thomas, xiu, 414.
Harmons, John, xu, 471.
Index.
597
Harmsen, Marcus, xiii, 153.
Harmseu, Martin, xiii, 95, 153, 203, 313, 314.
Harris, John, xiii, 507.
Harrison, town of, Westchester county, xiii, 403.
Hart, Robert, xii, 646.
Hart, Robert, jr., xii, 586, 605.
Harte, Daniel, xii, 544.
Hartford, Conn., xil, TO; xili, 38, 60, 64, 101. 345,
516, 532, 538.
Hartgers, Peter, XIII, 88, 93.
Hartop, .John, xii, 549.
Hartshorne, Richard, xiii, 539.
Harwood, Thomas, xii, 586, 633.
Hasanemesett, xiii, 513^.
Hasselt, Peter, xili, 371.
Hastcoren, Franz Barentz, xiil, 316.
Hatfield, Mass., xii i, 511, 514.
Haverelle, xlil, 406.
Haverstraw (Haverstroo), xili, 84, 147, 167, 363, 373,
375, 386. See Rumacheiumk.
Hawthorn, William, Major-General, at Fort Orange,
XIII, 101.
Hayden, William, xili, 489.
flaye, Jno., xil, 665.
Haym, Conrad, xiii, 203.
Heady, John, xiii, 492.
Heathcote, George, xii, 570; xiii, 485.
Hedge, Samuel, xii, 592, 608.
Hedly, Richard, xiil, 489.
Hedyer, John, xlll, 441.
Heerraans, Augustine, xii, 63, 67, 70-1, 93, 359, 261-2,
265, 288, 301, 305, 310, 312, 343, 345, 406, 414,
416, 422, 448, 481, 503, 553^; xiii, 147.
letters from, xii, 337, 555.
Heerraans, Caspar, xil, 511, 517, 549, 586.
Heermans, Ephraim, xii, 511, 573, 575-6, 581, 584, 586,
590, 593, 595, 599, 000, 608, 611-2, 619, 636,
668-9.
letters from, xii, 641, 662, 663.
Heiffer, Thomas, xii, 647, 665.
Hellegat, xll, 333; xiii, 37,43.
Hellekas, Jacob, xiii, 40.
Helm, Israel, xii, 463, 474, 490, 506, 519, 533^, 537,
557, 559, 561, 572, 586, 591, 632-4, 636, 648.
Helm, Jurian, xiii, 165, 350.
Helrasly, Joseph, xii, 579, 585, 635.
Helyard, John, xiii, 489.
Hemmes, Brandt, xii, 393.
Hempstead, L. I. (Hemstede), xii, 317; xiii, 39, 270.
Henderson, Evert, the Fin, xii, 439, 425.
(Iver, the Fin.)
Hendrick, Adrian, xiii, 234.
Hendrick, Hermen, of Deventey, xii, 436.
Heudrick, the Rider, xlli, 203.
Hendrick, from Utrecht, xill, 301.
Hendricks, Dirck, xlii, 153, 407, 414.
Hendricks, Jochem, xlil, 153.
Hendricks, Johannes, xii, 353, 493.
Hendricks, John, xiii, 414, 448.
Hendricks, Harmeu, xiii, 195, 403, 407 et seq.
Hendricks, Roloff, xiii, 414, 507.
Hendricks, Ryck, xiii, 306.
Hendricksen, Bertie, xii, 470.
Hendricksen, Dirck, xiii, 78, 104.
Hendricksen, Evert, xii, 470.
Hendricksen, Geert, xiii, 98.
Hendricksen, Haimen, xiii, 115, 330.
Hendricksen, Harmen, cadet, xii, 388 et seq.
Hendricksen, Herman.from Deventer, xii,381 eise2'.,405.
Hendricksen, Jacob, soldier, xii, 33.
Hendricksen, Jan, xiii, 339.
Hendricksen, Jan, of Marcus Kil, xli, 471.
Hendricksen, Jan, from Struckhousen, xil, 178.
Hendricksen, Phil, xiii, 253.
Hendricksen, Bernard, xii, 548.
Hendrickson, John, xii, 544, 547, 648; xin, 547.
Hendricksen, Peter, xii, 630.
Hendrix, Hendrick, xili, 213.
Hendryck, Harmans, of Bielefeld, Corporal, xii, 134,
151, 154, 158.
Henerics, John, xii, 470.
Henrichscn, Dirck, xiii, 104, 117.
Henrickson, Hendrick, xm, 544.
Henriesen, Bravert, xii, 491.
Henry, John, xii, 471, 41)0; xiii, 418.
Henry VII, King of England, xiii, 486.
Herasmus, Jan. xil, 345.
Herbertsen, Andries, XIII, 109, 110, 132 192-3, 319,
344.
Herbertsen, Elbert, xm, 345.
Herder, Peter Pietersen, xil, 353.
Hermansen, Peter, xii, 160.
Hermens, Marges, xm, 117.
Hermens, Pieter, sii, 180.
Hermsen, Berent, xm, 115, 117, 119.
Herrisons, Peter, xil, 615.
Hey, Fraugois, xm, 153.
Heyinans, Albert, X III, 312, 230, 239, 346, 311, 318,
351, 414, 436, 445 et seq., 448, 450, 460.
Heymensen, Albert. See Roose.
Heyn, Jan, xii, 65.
Higgins, Thomas, xm. 115, 117.
Highlands, the, xm, 29, 147, 354, 363, 503, 554.
Hill, Nicholas, xm, 66.
Hill, Richard, xii, 586, 005; xm, 555, 559.
Hill, Thos., XII, 665.
Hill, William, xm, 406.
Hillebrantsen, Peter, xm, 118, 126, 213, 231, 407, 413,
544.
Hillyard, John, xil, 600-1, 647, 665, 668.
Hinks, Mathews. See Cmiingsmarc.
Hinssendorp, Corn., xm, 303.
Hitchcocks, John, xm, 488.
Hobbert (Hubbard), xm, 315.
Hoboken (Harboken, Hobockan, Hobokan-Hacking),
XII, 98; XIII, 1, 3, 67, 399, 305.
Hodges, Barnarci, xii, 653, 657.
Hoemoett, Marcus, xm, 154.
Hofman, Martin, xm, 114, 117.
Hog Creek, xii, 610.
Hogelandt, Cornells, xm, 154, 196.
Hoghbome, Corn., xm, 413.
Hog's Neck, L. I. See Gerritsens Bay.
Holies, Jo., XIII, 487.
Hollingworth, William, xii, 343.
Hokncs, Obadiah, xm, 396.
Hoist, Barent, xm, 366.
Holsten, Barnard, xm, 414.
Holsten, Mathias, xil, 648.
Holt, .Jo,, XIII, 487.
Honingh, Dirck Cornelissen, xll, 184, 187, 208.
Hoochteylingh, Jan Willemsen, xm, 366.
Hoofman, Hans, xil, 470.
Hoofman, Martin, xii, 494.
Hoogeboom, Menis, xm, 534.
Hoogenburgh, Engel Cornelissen, xii, 137.
Hoorn, Claesje, xm, 338.
Hoorn, Meyndert Jansen, xii, 443.
598
Index.
Hosack (Hoosick), xiii, 380, 538.
Hopkins, .Mr., secretary for the N. J. towns, xiii, 466,
475, 478, 543.
Hopman, Hans, xii, 133, 135 et seq., 151, 471, 544, 547,
648.
Hopp, Jacob, XIII, 446.
Horekil (Deale, Del., Sikonesse), xii, 201, 215, 321, 339,
335, 337, 343-3, 254, 373^, 383, 385, 391, 315,
331, 331, 334, 344, 362, 414, 416, 436, 450, 459,
473, 475, 479, 481, 484, 496-7, 499-501, 503, 505-
8, 511, 513, 515-6, 523, 524, 537, 543, 544, 545,
546, 556, 559, 561, 562, 571, 576, 578, 585, 587,
588, 589, 594, 600, 601, 604, 609, 612, 616, 620,
633-3, 631, 634, 635, 653, 657, 659, 664, 669.
magistrates at, letter from, xii, 054.
Hornbeck, Wardener, xiii, 448.
Hornet, Edward, xiii, 574.
Horton, .Joseph, xiii, 403.
Horton, William, xiil, 409, H8 ct seq.
Hoskin, Kolf, xii, 640.
Hoskins, Robert, xii, 634.
Houghton, William, xiii, 418.
Howard, Thomas, xii, 638.
Hoyle, John, xlll, 487.
Hoyt, John, xiil, 489.
Hoyt, Moses, xiii, 489.
Hubbard, Mr., xiii, 404.
Hubbert, Edward, xiii, 574.
Hubertson, Arient, xiii, 411, 414.
Hubertson (Huybertsou), Lambert, xill, 413, 544.
Hudde, Andries, xii, 31, 33-4, 41-6, 53, 68, 83, 114,
133, 135 et seq., 138-9, 158, 160-3, 168, 170, 175,
178, 183, 103-3, 207, 318, 383, 386, 388, 393, 398,
299, 301, 303, 310, 313, 314, 315, 335, 345, 353,
366, 371, 383, 386, 388, 391, 430, 433-3, 435, 439.
dead, 446; xiii, 37.
secretary and surveyor at the South river, 115.
letters from, 33, 36, 38, 370, 374, 430.
Hudson, Henry, xiii, 486.
Hudson's river, xill, 515, 554, 573.
ti'afHc on, 503, 534. (Groote river.)
Huested, Robt., xiii, 488, 574.
Huggens, Thomas, xill, 188.
Hulard, Ward, xiii, 488.
Hulke, John, xii, 649.
HuUengreen, Elias, xil, 412.
Hulst, Laurens, xil, 537.
Hulter, Mrs., xil, 196.
Humphreys, Alex., xii, 647, 665.
Hunt, John, xiii, 488, 574.
Hunt, Joseph, xiii, 488, 574.
Hunt, Josiah, xiii, 488, 574.
Hunt, Thomas, sr., xiil, 488, 574.
Hunt, Thomas, jr., xiii, 488, 574.
Huntington, xili, 194.
Hurley, xiii, 341 (note), 439, 443 ct seg., 446, 459, 475,
483, 495, 507, 513, 571.
boundaries of, xi 1 1, 443 et seg.
order for the settling of, xiii, 435.
Huss. See Huys.
Hussey, Frederick, xiii, 411, 414, 418, 436, 448,
450.
Hutchins, Charles, xii, 493.
Hutchinson's, xiii, 404.
Hutchinson, Ralph, xii, 534, 525, 617, 641-2.
Hutchinson, Robert, xii, 621, 643 ti »«}.
Huyberts, Arian, xiii, 313, 446.
Huyberts, Marietjo, xiii, 186.
Huybertsen, Lambert, xiii, 346, 445, 448, 507.
Huygen, Hendrick, xil, 30, 32, 33, 36, 37, 38, 55, 57,
133 et seq., 146, 174-5, 188-90, 192, 207, 344,
357-8, 365, 376 et seg., 406, 413, 415, 418, 419,
420, 433, 430, 439.
letter from, xii, 434.
Huygen, Maryken. xiii, 213.
Huys (Huyseu, Huss), Jacob Jansen, xil, 71 195, 198,
304,308,214,223,250,316,331. ,
Huyt, Randal, xiii, 315.
Hyshebon, John, xii, 496.
Immigration, xi I, 130, 163-4, 183, 194, 316, 337, 231, 293,
350, 360, 427, 431, 436, 447, 579, 584-5, 592,
601, 650, 663; xill, 8, 108, 130, 193, 195, 208,
427.
invited, xiii, 434.
encouragement of, xiii, 485.
Indian Affairs, Commission for, continued, xiii, 463.
Indian brokers, runners and scouts, xii, 300, 334, 434;
XI 1 1, 73, 175, 503.
Indian castles, xiii, 380.
Indian customs. See Kintekoy.
Indian corn plantations, xlii, 393.
Indian, description of the, coimtry west of Esopus,
XIII, 372.
Indian lands, licenses to purchase, xiii, 395-6.
at Esopus, XIII, 553 et seq.
near Schenectady, XIII, 489.
in New Jersey, xiii, 478.
deeds fori, 2, 5, Schodack, xiii, 26.
in Westchester Co., xiii, 34, 402.
for an island in Hudson's River, xiii, 192.
Mahicander's Island near Albany, xiil, 193.
in Greene county, xiii, 397, 481-3, 545, 573.
Columbia county, xiii, 399, 515, 519, 545, 573.
Ulster county, xiii, 506, 533, 553.
Putnam county, xiii, 554, 573.
Saratoga county, xiii, 573.
Dutchess county, xiii, 569.
Staten Island, xiii, 455.
Indian murders and outrages, xii, 193, 197, 337-8, 343,
417,462,477, 484, 487-8, 503, 519; xiii, 11, 16-7,
23, 49 etseg., 77-9, 83, 93, 136, 245.
Indian names, for places in Columbia Co., xiii, 573.
in Greene county, xiil, 545.
Albany county, xiii, 193.
Ulster county, xiii, 533.
Indian River, xll, 574, 616.
Indians, xii, 34, 39, 115, 126, 129, 138, 149, 156, 161,
186-7, 193, 201, 242-3, 247, 252, 254-5, 357, 263,
366, 283, 290, 292-3, 295-6, 308, 311, 318, 339
etseg., 343-4, 355, 368, 370, 409-10, 414, 446,
449, 462 et seg., 466, 475-7, 493, 505, 510, 518-9,
524, 526, 528, 541-6, 553, 556, 576, 585, 501, Oil,
615, 623, 633-3,645, 650, 655, 658, 660; xill,
13, 16, 30, 39-41, 45, 48, 59,69, 77, ISO, 337,484.
conferences with, xii, 533, 541.
attack New-Amsterdam, xii, 98-9.
make peace with Maryland, xi i, 357.
to be treated leniently, xiii, 23.
treaty of peace with, xiii, 147.
war among the, xill, 90.
declared free and not slaves, xiii, 537.
soldiers called Wauwapifs/e^, xni, 173.
Indians, trade with, xii, 157-8, 480; xiii, 175, 194,
I 227, 353, 373, 436, 491, 503, 553. See Ordinanees.
Index.
599
Indians, tribes —
Agawam, xill. 308.
Algouquins, xlll, 524.
Armewamese {^Armewamui), xii, 34, 430.
Catskil, XIII, 119, 122, 126, 161, 229, 261, 368, 275,
284, 286 et seq., 291, 308, 335, 345. 379, 437,
505, 524, 527, 545.
proposals made by, xiii, 161 H acq.
unfriendly to the Dutch, xili, 207.
threatened by the Oneidas, xiii, 510.
Cayugas, x ii i , 500.
Eastern, xiii, 504.
'E.so^ns, {Warynmooncks), xii, 313,318, 446, 530;
XIII, 47, 88, 96-7, 99, 100, 104-5, 113-14,
119-20, 122, 126, 131-3, 149-52, 156-7, 161,
164, 169-73, 174, 17S-9, 190-1, 194, 202, 304,
223, 229, 245, 250, 255, 261, 264, 270-3, 282,
384, 287, 293, 394, 331, 325 et seq., 363^, 373,
375, 377, 386, 423, 437, 503, 533, 573.
strength of, xii, 303.
conferences with, xiii, 93, 103, 106, 137, 105,
373, 331, 504.
other Indians intercede for, xiii, 167-8.
treaty of peace with, xiii, 179, 377.
nearly destroy Wiltwyck, xiil, 345, 350.
cede their lands to Gov. Nicolls, xiii, 399.
French, xiil, 176,527.
at war with the Mohawks; not to be allowed to
cross the North river, xlii, 34.
trade with the, xill, 35.
at the Cahoos, xiii, 185.
Hackensack, xlii, 172, 394, 305, 314, 350, 361,428.
renew the peace with tlie Dutch, xi 1 1, 476. See
Oratamin, chief of Hackensack.
Hasanamasett, xiii, 526.
of Haverstroo, xiii, 84, 172.
Highland, xiil, 90, 104, 123, 229, 284, 387, 300,
440, 572. See Wajipings.
Kennebeck, threatened with war by the Maquaes,
XI 1 1, 190, 298, 309.
also called Ouakonque, xiii, 298.
Kiohtawanghs, xiii, 376, 399, 300, 303-3, 364-5.
Kis Kightkonk, xiii, 303.
Long Island, xiii, 16, 147, 380.
renew the peace with the Dutch, xiii, 58.
at war with Narragansetts, ib.
allies of the Dutch, xiii, 75.
Mahingans Taraktons, xlli, 524, 527.
Mantas, xii, 346, 414, 463.
Marsepinghs, xl 1 1, 384, 386, 295 et seq., 333, 375.
Mawyk, xli i, 536.
Minissiuks, Minissinghs, Menissings, xli, 306, 315,
438, 446; xui, 167, 339, 376, 380, 384, 389,
294, 334 et seq.
conference witli, 551.
Minquaes, Mingoes, xii, 39, 30-3, 34, 36,40, 43
46, 55, 57-8, 61, 66-7, 99, 193. 393, 313, 317-8,
331, 343-4, 346, 357, 363, 418-19, 430-1, 434,
438; XI 1 1, 95, 106, 133, 337, 361.
assisted by the English of Maryland, xil, 346.
intercede for the Esopus Indians, xiii, 164.
Minquaes, Black, xii, 419.
Minquaes, Southern, xiii, 35.
Mohawks, Maquas, Maques, Mauquas, Mohoacs, by
the French called Iroquois, xii, 98, 306,
308-9, 313, 439, 530, 540, 553-6, 573; xiil,
15, 18, 34-5, 88-9, 92, 106, 109, 112, 123,
133-3. 149, 167, 190-1, 305, 307, 340, 350,
253, 355, 364, 373, 375, 378, 382-3, 286, 291,
Indians, tribes —
397-8, 302, 308, 310, 336 el seq., 345, 355'
375, 378 et seq., 389-90, 430, 433, 437, 439,
440.458, 460, 464-5, 477, 479. 483, 491, 494,
496-7, 500, 501. 507-9, 511, 513, 517, 519-32,
525-31, 536, 555, 564, 570, 572-3.
the Dutch endeavor to keep the, friendly to
the French and English, xlli, 23.
invade Canada, xiii, 28.
renew the covenant with the Dutch, xiii, 72.
conference with, at their castle, xiii, 112.
at Fort Orange, xiii, 108, 122, 224, 479, 528.
Massachusetts people call for the assistance
of, XIII, 511.
Massachusetts send agents to, xiil, 521.
plunder a fort in Nova Scotia, xiii, 234.
cut off a French fort, xi 1 1, 175.
in the Narragansett country, xiii, 517.
make war on Canada Indians, xi 1 1, 34.
make war on Northern Indians, xiii, 519.
Maryland desires peace with, xili, 507-8.
French influences.among the, xiii, 531.
names of two castles, xi 1 1, 479.
divided into three castles, xiii, 534.
letter of Governor of Massachusetts to, xiii,
513.
Mohicans, Mohegans, Mahicanders, xll, 98, 520;
XIII, 18, 72, 113, 122, 126, 132,161,167,
170, 172, 339, 361, 374, 383, 391, 299, 303,
308-10, 330, 345, 378, 387, 420, 439, 458,
496, 501, 503, 507, 509, 520, 532, 545, 572.
propositions by, xiii, 161.
intercede for the Esopus Indians, xiii, 168.
peace between, and the Mohawks, xiii, 440,491.
ofNalwetog (Nalvotogg), xi ii, 308, 511.
Narragansetts, xii, 543; xili, 493, 511.
at war with L. I. Indians, xill, 58.
Natick, captured by Mohawks, xi ii, 520 et seq.,
524-6, 530.
Nevisinks, Nevisans, xii, 308, 519; xiii, 84, 163,
190, 204, 239, 311, 314, 316, 423.
of New Jersey, xi 1 1, 261, 276.
of New York, relations of, with Maryland, xiii.
Northern, xli, 59; xili, 225, 397, 390, 493^, 496.
499, 501-2, 508-9, 525, 538, 555, 565.
Northern or Onejagese, Onojakes, or Soquachjck,
XI 1 1, 398, 355, 389. See Soquachicks.
North River, xiii, 17-18, 35, 53, 518.
Onconntehocks, xiii, 378.
Oneidas (Hunides, Uniades), xlii, 500, 503, 536.
castle of, called Kanadagerea, xiil, 502.
intend to fall on the Catskil Indians, xlii,
510.
answer of the, to the propositions of the Mary-
land agent, xiii, 510.
at war with the Susquehannas, xiii, 516.
going to Maryland and Virginia, xlli, 557,
560.
Onnogonges, Onagongas, xlll, 379, 381, 519. Sea
Kenneieks.
Onoudagas, Unedagoes, xlil, 355, 500, 510, 558.
Pacamtehock, xi 1 1, 379 et seq., 389.
of Pacomtuck, xiii, 308.
of Pajassuck, xi 1 1, 308.
Piscattaways, xiii, 561.
Praying, xiii, 530, 535,538.
Punquapok, xili, .526.
Quingoes, xiii, 558.
600
Index.
Indians, tribes —
Raritans, xir, 235, 208, 312; xiii, 7, 28, 163, 204,
239, 314.
trade with, xiii, 23.
formerly living in Westchester Co., xii, 25.
Rechowacky, xiii, 322.
of Reweglinonk, xlli, 303.
Senecas, Sinnecus, Sinnekes, Sinneques, xii, 131,
344-6, 357, 362, 409-13, 418-19, 432-6, 439,
543, 553^, 664; xiii, 72, 95, 106, 113, 133,
240, 250, 255, 291, 308, 355, 361, 423, 491,
497, 500, 510, 531, 536, 555.
strength of, xli, 430-1.
conference with, xrii, 184.
Maryland desires peace with, xiii, 507.
attack the Susquehannas, xlii, 516.
of Sinsincks, xiil, 302, 303.
Southern, xill, 95, 106.
South river, xii, 30, 57-8, 135-6, 337, 844 et scq.,
357, 362, 389, 410, 417, 430, 435, 438, 572.
Sowquackicks, xiii, 308, 377, 381.
Spanish, xiii, 551.
Stamford, in arms, xiii, 490-^96.
Staten Island, xiii, 172, 261, 276, 305, 311, 428.
claim not to have been paid for their lands,
XIII, 452.
Susquehan nocks (Susquehannas), xii, 338, 488,
543, 546, 553-4, 557-8, 560, 573; xiii, 557.
the offspring of the Mohawks, xiii, 491.
in conference witlr Gov. Andros, xiil, 497.
attacked by Oneidas and Senecas, xiii, 516.
of Tappaan, xiii, 300, 438.
Uncas, XIII, 508, 526.
Wamaset, xiii, 526.
Wappings, Wappingers, Wappingoes, or Highland,
XI 1 1, 17-8, 47, 104, 148, 150, 282, 286, 290,
292, 299, 302, 304, 314, 324, 334 et seq., 345,
349, 3G3 et seq., 371, 420, 437, 440.
the English of N. E. resolve to make war upon,
XIII, 27.
at peace with the Dutch, xiii, 167.
intercede for the Esopus Indians, xiii, 172.
peace with, renewed, xm, 388.
Westenhook, XIII, 545.
Wiequaeskeck, Wyckerscreek, Westchester, xm.
53, 59, 276, 299, 300, 302-3, 864-5, 440, 460,
495.
not willing to join King Philipp, xm, 494.
allowed to take refuge on Manhattan Island,
xm, 494.
of Wissatimewag, xm, 308.
Inkhorn, Andrews, xii, 648.
Inons, Symon, xii, 647.
Insten, Jan, xil, 137.
Isaac, Mr., xii, 647.
Israel, Isaac, xil, 136, 147, 447, 450.
Iver the Fin, xii, 425.
J.
.Tackson, Christopher, xii, 586, 605, 040.
Jackson, Jolin, xii, 524; xm, 489.
Jackson, Samuel, xii, G51.
Jackson, Tliomas, xii, 490, 491.
Jacob, Hendrick, xil, 490.
Jacob, Masten, xil, 136.
Jacob, my Friend, XII, 430.
Jacobs, Arent, xm, 212.
Jacobs, Arian, xii, 180, 181.
Jacobs, Henry, xii, 525, 015.
Jacobs, Jan, xii, 146, 164.
Jacobs, Marcus, xii, 472. Bee Long Fin.
Jacobs, Thomas, xii, 490.
.Jacobsen, Aert, xm, 230, 247.
Jacobsen, Geertruy, xii, 149.
Jacobsen, Hans, xii, 37, 55, 57.
Jacobsen, Hendrick, xii, 614, 648.
Jacobsen, Herman, alias Bamboos, xm, 76-7, 80, 87.
.Jacobsen, Jan, xm, 40.
Jacobsen, Capt. Jan, xii, 131, 126.
Jacobsen, Jan, gunner, xil, 140.
Jacobsen, Jan, from Reeneu, xm, 200.
Jacobsen, Peter, xm, 236, 237, 341.
Jacobsen, Rutger (van Schoenderwort), magistrate of
Fort Orange!; xm, 36, 192-3, 216, 302, 304, 327,
348.
.Jacobsen, Thomas, xii, 532, 534, 583, 620, 636.
Jacobspu, Tunis, xm, 410 et seq., 544.
Jacques, Henry, xm, 406.
Jacquet, Jean Paul, vice-director on the South river,
XII, 87, 113, 115, 120-1, 124-5. 129, 133, 135 et seq.,
144, 158, 160-1, 167-9, 170-5, 191, 219, 283, 357, 490,
558-9, 564-7, 589, 599, 608.
Jagersland, xil, 409.
Jamaica, L. I., xm, 315.
James I, of England, xii, 48, 51 n., 252; xm, 480.
Jamieson, David, xm, 573.
Jan the Brabanter, xm, 302. 213. See Brahandcr.
Jan, the Englishman, xm, 233.
Janes, Robert, xii, 491.
Jan Evertsen's kil, xm, 33.
Jans, Anneke, xm, 392.
Jans, Catrine, xi i, 144, 154.
Jansen, Albert, xm, 507.
.Jansen, Andries, xll, 107, 471.
Jansen, Anthony, xm, 48.
Jansen, Barent, xii, 107; sm, 21.
Jansen, Bercnt, from Oldenburg, xm, 153.
Jansen, Carel, xli, 30, 471.
Jansen, Charles, xil, 544, 547, 648.
Jansen, Claes, xii, 57, 140, 180; xm, 367.
Jansen, Corneli.?, xii, 58, 539, 630; xm, 313.
Jansen, Cors, xii, 193.
Jansen, Daniel, xm, 500, 514.
.Jansen, Dirck, xii, 470; xm, 91, 157, 177.
Jansen, Dirck, from Oldcnbm-gh, xm, 315.
Jansen, Elias, xm, 371.
Jansen, Francis, xm, 8.
Jansen, Poppe. See Otithout.
Jansen, Gcrrit, xii, 178; xm, 9.
Jansen, Harman, xli, 46, 49, 134, 137, 139, 158, 371,
539.
Jansen, Hendrick, xii, 403, 506, 524, 529.
Jansen, Hendrick, of Bremen, xil, 529.
Jansen, Henr., from Jever, xii, 381 et seq.
Jansen, Hubert, xm, 154.
Jansen, Jacob, xii, 525; xm, 26, 119.
Jansen, Jacob, from Amsterdam, xm, 15.
.Jansen, Jan, xii, 529; xm, 79, 81, 104, 119, 414.
Jansen, Jan, from Ainesfoort, xm, 195.
Jansen, Jurian, xii, 490-1; xm, 342.
Jansen, Lauris, xm, 48.
Jansen, Marten, xm, 45.
.Tansen, Mathys, xii, 491.
.lansen, Maurits, xm, 4, 5.
Jansen, Michael, xii, 54, 217; xm, 37, 01, 67, 233-5,
252, 294.
Index.
601
Jansen, Mons., xii, 471.
Janseu, Otto, xiii. 366.
Jansen, Paul, xii,151, 160-1, 170, 175, 182-3, 470.
Jansen, Paulus, Sergt., xiii, 153.
Janseu, Peter, xii, 138.
Jansen, Phil., xll, 151, 177, 403.
Jansen, Philipp, from Vollenhooven, xii, 388.
Jausen, Roeloff, xiii, 17.
Jansen, Stoffel, xlii, 304, 378.
Janseu, Sybrandt, xi t, 539.
Jansen, Volkert (Douw), xii. 110, 123, 192, 219-20, 227,
243, 259, 264, 366, 279, 399, 417, 446.
Janseu, Walraven, xil, 293.
Jausen, Willem, xii, 529; xiii, 81, 100, 103, 119, 195,
214, 230, 233-5.
Jansen, Mr., xii, 226.
Janson, William, xiii, 544.
Jantzen, Marcus, xiii, 153.
Janz, Herman, xii, 106.
Jecsons, Christopher, xll, 665.
Jcgo, Pieter, xii, 491, 525, 534, 614-5. See Oegmi.
Jellissen, Peter, xiii, 202, 212.
Jemands, Andries, xili, 206.
Jenkins, Francis, xil, 613.
Jenkins, Mr., xii, 496.
Jennings, John, xili, 574.
Jersey City, N. J., xiii, 366.
Jessop, Edward, xili, 41.
Jesuits, XII, 131, 543; xil I, 16, 114, 499.
Jews exempted from military service, xii, 06.
not allowed to trade on the South river, 118.
.Toakims, Heudr., xiil, 446.
Joanes, Mr., xiil, 538.
Jochem, Peter, xii, 38.
Jochems, Abramson, xiii, 509.
Jochemsen, Bareut, xii, 216, 244.
Jocherasen, Dirck, xiii, 354.
Jochemsen, Hendrick, xiii, 312, 330. 336-7, 246-7, 249,
351, 356, 330, 351-3, 506-7. See Joahims,Yohmm.
Jockum, Peter, xii, 586.
Joeseu, Jurian, xii, 158.
Johnson, Albert, xii, 471.
Johusou, Andries, xii, 469.
Johnson, Arent, xii, 620, 636, 649.
Johusou, Charles, xii, 470, 638.
Johnson, Cornelius, xii, 623.
Johnson, Dereck, xii, 649.
Johnson, Garrett, xii, 448.
Johnson, Henry, xii, 555, 589, 647.
Johnson, Jacob, xii, 533, 534; xill, 448.
Johnson, John, xli, 492, 605, 620.
Johnson, Mathias, xli, 648.
Johnson, Peter, xiii, 547.
Johnson, Robert, xil, 665.
Johnson, Simon, xil, 469, 471.
Johnson, Mr., xiil, 541.
Johnz, Dirck, xiii, 318.
Jones creek, xil, 544.
Jones, Daniel, xii, 647, 665.
Jones, Ebenezar, xiii, 489.
Jones, Gabiiel, xii, 647, 665.
Jones, Griffith, xii, 637, 653, 658, 665.
Jones, Henry, xii, 534.
Jones, Rev. Morgan, xiii, 557, 567-8.
Jones, R., xii, 505.
Joues, Robert, xii, 491, 493.
Jones, Mr,, xii, 477, 647; xiii, 466.
Jongh, Jacol), xil, 355, 356, 366, 368.
Joorson, Oly, xii, 555, 589.
76
Joosten, Baes, xii, 319.
Joosten, Jacob, xiii, 195, 330.
Joosten, Jan, xiii, 243, 246, 408, 431, 436, 445, 447-8,
544.
Joris, Jan, xiii, 153.
Journals of Dir. Stuyvesant's visits to the Esopus, xiii,
81, 182.
Journal of a voyage to the Nevesinghs, xiii, 314.
Journal of the Esopus war, xiii, 333.
Journal of the messengers sent to make peace between
the Mohawks and Northern Indians, xiii, 380.
Jouwes, Tomme, xii, 338.
.Judd, Michael, xil, 524, 525.
Juffrouws Hook, xiii, 506.
Junstersen, Juers, xii, 471.
Jurcksen, Paul, sin, 119.
Jurgen the Fin, xii, 191.
Juriaen, Hans, xii, 537.
Jurriaen, Jan, farmer, xil, 153, 325.
Juriaensen, Jan, xil, 141, 148, 155, 170, 175, 226, 283,
390-1. See Becker.
Juriansen, Jurian, xil, 491.
Juriauseu, Tryntje, xiii, 74, 339-40.
Justen, Jan, xil, 107, 141.
K.
Kaeterskil, the, sin, 573.
Kaghnuwage, first castle of the Mohawks, xiii, 112,
479.
Kahakasuik kil, xill, 505.
Kahauksen creek, xiii, 400.
Kaik, Pieter, xii, 211.
Kakarikonk, xii, 30, 36.
Kanadagerea, Oneida castle, xiii, 502.
Kanagaro, second Mohawk castle, xiii, 479.
Kanjchko, xiii, 389.
Karstensen, Jau, xiii, 154.
Kasten, Wolfgang, xiii, 154.
Kechkawes kil (Maharnes river), XI 1 1, 24.
Keen (Kyn), Jurian, xii, 425, 490, 648.
Keene, Jonas, xii, 537.
Keesienweyshook, near Albany, xiii, 303, 309.
Keesjeways kil, xiii, 516.
Keetel, Jeremiah, xiii, 544.
Keetel, Jochem, xill, 388.
Kelv, Mies 0., xiii, 488.
Kendall, Thomas, xil, 615.
Kendall, William, xili, 536.
Kensey, John, xii, 635.
Kent county, Md., xil, 350.
Kent, Stephan, xill, 406.
Kerstensen, Kerst, xil I, 212.
Keskeskick. xiii, 5.
Kessen, Charles, xil, 620.
Kett, John,- xii, 648.
Keyser, A., Commissary, xii, 43, 64.
Keyser, Dirck, xii, 331; xiii, 544.
Kichtawangh (Sleepy Hollow), xiii, 14, 17-8, 276, 299,
301, 303, 364, 375, 386.
Kieft, William, Director of N. N., xil, 28, 32, 40, 48,
52; XIII, 3, 4, 6, 13, 14, 15, 17-33, 38, 84, 135, 300.
Kiersted, Hans, xiii, 292.
Kiersted, Sarah, xiii, 276, 280, 394, 371, 377, 386.
Kil van Col, xiii, 19, 37, 366, 280-1, 314.
Kinderhook, xiii, 388, 399.
Kinderhook kil, xiii, 545.
Kinaguariones, Battlefield of, xiii, 465.
King Joha, six, 544, 573, 589.
602
Index.
King Pliilipp's war, xii i, 493-4.
Kingston, xiii, 44G, 451, 459, 468, 470, 482, 503, 533.
laid out, XIII, 85.
Esopus, so called, xiii. 432.
town of, boundaries of, xiii, 443 ct seq.
called Swanenburgh, xi 1 1, 475. See Esopus; WiU-
wycl:
Kinsessing (Upland, Pa.), xii, 29, 3G, 191, 300, 411,
438, 648.
Kintekoy, xil, 485, 524; XI 1 1, 235, 299, 334, 372.
Kip, Hendrick, xi i, 120, 149. 150, 303, 312, 318-9, 375-7.
Kip, Hendr., jr., 381 et seq., 899 et .teg., 405, 417.
Kip, Jacob, XII, 120.
Kip, Jacob Hendricksen, xii, 53, 54, 71.
Kip, Mr., XII, 368, 449.
Kipshaven, Jolin, xil, 522, 588-9, 603-4, 622, 627,
634-5, 638, 652, 654.
Kipshaven, John, jr., xii, 620.
Kip's Island, xii, 461.
Kirke, John, xii, 586, 605.
Klaessen, Pieter, xii, 339.
Klaesen, Willem, xil, 522.
Klingh, Moens, xii, 37.
Knapson, C, xil, 633.
ICnapton, Mr., xill, 491.
Ivneuwles, Jan, xii, 342.
Knyf, Captain, xiii, 467.
Kock, Jan Gillisen, xiii, 74. See Coei.
Kock, Pieter, xii, 312, 356, 446, 475. See Cock.
Koerens, Pieter, xii, 385.
Kooko, OUe, XII, 648.
Koomenakanokonck Island, xii, 461.
Krora, Gilbert, xiii, 544.
Kryger. See Cregier.
Kuiist, Jan Barents, xiii, 446.
Kuyper. Gerrit Jan.sen, xill, 99, 100.
Kuyter, Jochem Pitersen, one of the Eight Men, xiil,
16, 49, 71.
Kycketan, Virginia, xiii, 146.
Labatie, Jean, xiii, 15.
La Chaire (La Ceire, La Shiere), Francis, xi 1 1, 414, 445,
449. .
Lachair, Solomon, notary public, xii, 120; xiii, 211.
Laers, Domine (Laersen, C'arolus Laurentius), xii, 150,
307, 355, 357-60, 366-8, 433, 446, 470-1, 529, 648.
Laersen, OUe, xii, 491.
Laersen, Nils, xii, 150, 168, 172.
Laersen, Paul, xii, 470-1, 491.
La Grange, Arnoldus de, xii, 618.
La Grange, J. de, xll, 391, 396, 402 rf .sc^., 405, 411,
415, 416, 419, 420, 422, 424.
letter from, xii, 390.
La Grange, Joost de, xii, 018.
La Grange, Marg.arct de, xi i, 018.
Lalman, Abraham, xiii, 548.
Lambertz (Lammertsen), Jan, xiii, 212, 230.
Lambertz, Peter, xili, 126, 153.
Lammensen, Jan, xiii, 230.
La Montagne, Jean de, Vice-Director at Fort Orange,
XII, 37, 41, 51, 58-9, 77, 83, 91, 97, 118, 120-4,
415; XIII, 13, 18, 41, 43, 55, 69, 72, 74, 88, 92,
96, 105, 108, 113, 115, 122, 126, 132, 150, 161, 192-3,
216, 221, 244, 253, 255, 258, 261, 265, 282-3, 292,
299, 304, 307, 330. 355, 378, 383.
letters from, xiii, 89, 115, 123, 131, 133, 175.
letters to, xiii, 117, 135, 143, 161.
La Montagne, Rachel de, xiii, 271, 283.
La Montagne, William de, secretary at Kingston, xiii,
401, 451, 506-7, 533, 569.
Land, Edmund, xiii, 547.
Land, Samuel, xii, 589.
Lansing, Gerritt, xiii, 572.
Lansing, Hendrick, xili, 479.
Lansingh, Peter, xiii, 571.
La Prairie, Mr., xiii, 467, 550.
Laquire, Jan, xiil, 153.
Lardt. Mr., xii, 61.
Laurens, Paul, xiii, 154.
Laurens, Peter, xii, 130, 182.
Laurens, Thomas, baker in Pearl St., N. T., xiii,
495.
Laurensen, Hendrick, xill, 154.
Laurensen, Laurens, xii, 27.
Lauter, Caspar, xiii, 153.
Lauwerts, Pieter, alias Leertouwer, xii, 137.
Lawes, Richard, xiii, 208, 210.
Lawrence, John, xii, 536-7, 540.
Lawrence, William, xiii, 421.
Lawrence, Mr., xii, 525; xiii, 483, 483.
LaAvrensen, Arent, xiii, 271, 383.
Lawrson, Marcus, xii, 470.
Lawrson, P.aulus, xu, 470.
Lawry, Gawan (Garvin), xii, 579; xili, 487.
Lawsa, Neals, xii, 471, 490, 648.
Lawson, Heniick, xii, 648.
Lawson, Paulus, xu, 648.
Leblein, Joannis, xiii, 202, 212.
Leek, Wm., xiii, 487.
Lee, Francis, xlll, 547.
Leem, Simon, xu, 124, 183.
Leendertsen, Jacob, xlll, 233.
Leendertsen, Sander, xil, 102, 181, 182; xiil, 109, 132.
See Olen.
Leendertsen, Paulus. See Van der Orist.
Leete, William, Governor of Connecticut, letter to, xi 1 1,
518.
Lefebre, Andries, xill, 506.
Lefebre, Simeon, xiii, 507.
Legs, William, xin, 544.
Leggatt, Gabriel, xiii, 574.
Lemmes, Hendricksen, xii, 539.
Le Maitre, Claude, xiii, 206.
Le Jloine, Simon, Jesuit father, xlli, 114.
Le Mon, Mons'r, xiil, 499.
Leverett, Governor of Boston, letter from, to the Mo-
hawk sachems, xiii, 513; mentioned, 523.
Levey, Gabriel, xu, 647.
Levick, Richard, xu, 638.
Lewin, Mr., xiii, 538.
Lewis, the Frenchman, xill, 115.
Lewis, Thomas, xu, 488, 506.
Lewis, Walter, xu, 586, 605.
Leysler, Mr., xu, 662.
Lichtvoet, Jan, xu, 63.
Lille, James, xu, 586, 605.
Lime, Is.aac, x ii , 649.
Liming, John, xu, 586, 605.
Linbergge. Mathins, xu, 649.
Lindr.aycr, Ilendr. Cornelissen, xill, 407.
Listen, Morris, xu, 543, 651.
Little Crock, xu, 578, 652.
Little Cupper's Island, xili, 192.
Little Plain, S. I., XIII, 547.
Littleton, Smith, xili, 536.
Litschoe, Daniel, xu, 77, 108.
Index.
603
Livingston, Robert, xiii, 494, .510, .TIS, 519, 533, 528,
531-2, 546, 572.
Livingston Manor, xiii, 572.
Lloyd, John, xil, G(i5.
Lloyd, Philleman, agent of Maryland to treat with
N. Y. Indians, xiii, 550, 558 t< .sej.
letters from, and Col. Courcey, to Capt. BrockhoUs,
XIII, 557.
Lock, Claes, xiii, 293.
Lockert, George, doctor, xiii, 547.
Lodem, Bachio, a Polish nobleman, xiii, 130.
Lodewick, Thomas, xni, 293.
Lorn, Sweu, xil, 580.
London, Md., xii, 019.
Long Fin, the, xii, 464, 406, 468, 469, 471, 473, 481,
497, 501, 536.
Long Hook, on the Delaware, xii, 048.
Long-Island, sii, 131, 163, 323-1,561, 661; xlii, 27-8.
40, 49, 53, 60, 124, 300, 363, 384, 392.
Long or Mahicander's Island, near Albany, xiii, 193.
Long Neck, S.L, xiii, 518.
Long Reach, the, xiii, 506.
by Indians called Magaat Ea
Loockermans, Govert, xii, 55, 56, 57, 59, GO, 61, 62,
04; XIII, 28, 81-2, 200, 312, 314, 317, 377.
Loockermans, Jacob, xiii, 378 eJ seg., 497.
Looman, Hendr. Jansen, xin, 213, 245.
Lootman, Jan, xiii, 81, 154, 195, 203, 301, 414.
Lopcr, Jacob, xii, 51.
Lord, Capt., xlii, 297.
Loseu, James, xii, 620.
Losereclit, Jan, xiii, 233.
Lott, Barent, xiii, 234.
Lott, Bartell, xiii, 548.
Loucks, Richard, xii, 005.
Lourensen, Andries, Sergt., xll, 297, 301, 300, 310, 311;
xiii, 80-7, 89, 91, 99, 100, 110, 119.
Lourensen, Lourens, xlll, 77, 78, 177.
Lourensen, Peter, xii, 95, 179-80, 323, 391, 395, 404,
412, 418; XIII, 314.
Louwrens, Arent, xiil, 233, 360.
Love, Timothy, xii, 544.
Lovelace, Dudley, xiii, 401, 443 et seg., 447, 452, 462,
406.
Lovelace, Francis, Governor, xii, 463, 467, 495, 503,
505, 514, 517, 520, 538, 500, 501, 563, 573; xiil,
419 et seg., 433, 433, 429, 445, 455 et seq., 481,
541-2, 547.
letters from, xii, 400, 473, 476, 477, 485, 488, 500,
503, 613, 017, 018, 658; xiii, 422-4, 420-7,
439-42, 461, 466.
Lovelace, Thomas, xii, 486; xiii, 456.
Loveridge, William, sr., xili, 572.
Lubbersen, Cornells, xiii, 271.
Lubber.sen, Tyes, xlll, 233.
Lubberts, Fred, xii, 153.
Lubbertsen, Gysbert, xiil, 37.
Lubbertsen, Jan, schoolmaster, xili, 37, 233^, 300.
Luby, Jacob, xiii, 300.
Lucas, John, xil, 634.
Lucas, Nicholas, xii, 579.
Lucas, Robert, xil, 624, 659.
Lucassen, Evert, xiii, 388, 399.
Lucassen, Peter, xii, 429, 436.
Ludekens David, surgeon, xii, 201, 205.
Lumley, Edward, xii, 050.
Lute, Samuel, xii, 508.
Luten, Walraven, xiil, 200.
Lutcr, Caspar, xii, 383, 386.
Lutherans, xii, 432, 473, 494, 512, 529; xiii, 384.
Luycassen, Andries, skipper, xii, 44, 55.
Luyck, Aegidius, Uoraine, xii, 302, 363.
Lyfleringh, Mr., xii, 436.
Mo
Machawamock, Indian name for Beeren island, xi 1 1, 398.
.MacTscn, Niels, xii, 420.
Magaat Kami.s, Indian niime for the Long Reach on
lludsou's river, xiii, 506.
Magdalen island, xiii, 21, 324, 566.
Magowasinginck kil, xiii, 505.-
Maguncog, xiii, 521, 528.
Maharnes river, Conn., xiii, 24.
Mahicander's (Long) Island, near Albany, xlii, 193.
Mailes, George, xiii, 544.
Maine, xiil, 355.
JIakeey, Daniel, xil, 555.
Mallock, Erick, xii, 544, 552, 620.
Malison, Sander, xii, 030, 640.
Malster, Wm., xii, 608, 610, 650.
Mamakating, xiii, 340 (note).
JIamarranok, Indian sachem, xiil, 17.
Mamaranock, Westchester Co., xill, 403, 431.
Mamorinack river, xiii, 403.
Man, Abraham, xil, 006, 634.
Man, Edward, xii, 544.
Man, Mr., xii, 663.
Mangelse, Jan, xiii, 573.
Mauing, Robert, xiii, 488.
Manitou (Manetto), xii, 315, 435.
Mannaat, Gerrit, xiii, 306.
Manning, John, xiii, 399, 428, 456, 472.
Mausa, Hanse, xii, 648.
Manslanst, Pieter, xii, 529.
Mantaes Hook, xii, 370.
Mara, Isaac, xii, 158, 160, 163.
Marbletown, xiii, 420, 429, 447, 457, 459 et seq., 475.
482, 495, 512, 534.
so called, xi ii, 430.
boundaries of, xi 1 1, 443 et seq.
allotment of land at, xi 1 1, 449.
bridge at, xiii, 451. See A'ew Dorp.
Marcellis, Hendrick, xiii, 74.
March, Hugh, xiii, 400.
Marchand, Black, xili, 67.
Marcus, Johannes, xii, 45, 46, 49.
Margin, David, xii,665.
Markham, Wm., Gov. of Penn., xiii, 663, 067-8.
Marius, Pieter Jacobsen, xiii, 203.
Marloe, Gregory, xii, 579, 584.
Marquesse Hook, xii, 048.
Marquesse kil, xii, 648.
Marriages, xii, 137, 149, 153-4, 150, 360, 512, 596, 634.
Marriott, Wm., xii, 544.
Marsepain, Marsepingh, L. I., xiii, 58, 147.
Marsh, Paul, Capt., xii, 572, 588-9, 597.
Marshall, John, xii, 491.
Martens, George, xii, 665.
Martensen, Cornells, xii, 129, 375.
Martcnsen, Hendrick, xin, 89, 195, 202,230, 240,413.
Martensen, Peter, xiii, 312.
Marthyn, Robert, xii, 140, 142.
Martinon, Francis, xiii, 567 et seq.
Martinson, .Tolin, xii, 649.
Martinson, Martin, xii, 047.
Martins Vineyard, xii, 056; xiii, 526.
Martyn, Capt., xii, 147.
604
Index.
Marylaiifl, XI I, G5, 247-50, 252, 254, 258-0, 261, 265,
208, 278, 286, 288, 294, 297, 299, 301, 305-0, 308,
310, 321, 324, 331, 333, 330, 343-0, 355-6, 358-9,
860, 303, 375, 389, 414, 410, 419, 422, 427, 435-0,
439, 446, 448, 450, 457, 404, 479, 480, 481, 493,
494, 497-8, 500, 501, 503, 508, 510-1, 513, 543,
543, 553, 557, 558, 560, 564, 571, 576, 577, 583,
598, 600, 606, 612, 623, 025, 626, 029, 639, 642,
653, 057, 063; xiil, 140, 150,497, 507, 555, 557.
agents of, at Albany, xiii, 557.
letters from, xiil, 557.
letters to, xiii, 500, 502.
governor of, xi 1 1, 530.
letter to, from Gov. Andros, xiii, 481.
Maryties Hook, xii, 412, 547.
Massachusetts, sii, 52, 69, 543; xiii, 136 h., 163, 493,
501, 524.
agents of, on a mission to the Mohawks, xiii, 521
et seq.
Massan, Hendrick, xii, 648.
Mastemaekers Hook, xii, 38, 44, 45
Mataen, Andries, xii, 491.
Matapan Falls, xiii. 545.
Matliews, James, xii, 570.
Mathews, Samuel, Governor of Virginia, xil, 201;xili,
146.
Mathews, Thomas, xiii, 409, 418, 446, 448, 451, 544.
Mathiason, Neets, xii, 648.
Mathiason, Peter, xii, 555.
Mathiassen, Mathias. xii, 642.
Mathies, Samuel, xili, 194, 195.
Matinnekonk, xil, 30, 36, 401.
Matinikonk House, xil, 480.
Matinikonk Island, Delaware river, xil, 484-5, 487,
506, 611, 014-5, 647.
Matlock, "William, XII, 615.
Matsa, Neals, xii, 471.
Matse, Jan, xii, 470.
Matsen, Niles, xii, 151, 491, 550-1.
Matson, Erick, xil, 409, 470.
Matson, Jan, xii, 539.
Matson, John, xli, 470.
Matson, Margaret, xil, 470.
Matson, Mathias, xii, 470, 048.
Mattison, Ard, xiii, 413 rf sei/.
Mattison, Mathias, xii, 143, 158, 647.
Mattson, Andrew, xil, 048.
Mattson, Nicholas, xil, 105.
Mattysen, Jan, xiii, 507.
Maurice river, xil, 050, 651.
Maurits, Knut, xiii, 154.
Maurits, William, xil, 136-7, 141, 149, 155, 161.
Mauritsen, Cornelis, xii, 38, 49, 136, 149, 152, 157-8,
177, 371.
Mauritius river, xiii, 3, 20.
Maverick, S, xii, 458, 459.
May, Edward, xiil, 31.
Mayen, Pieter, xii, 182, 290, 301, 307-8, 334, 340.
Meaker, Robert, xiii, 06.
Meautinnemin, chief of L. I., xiii, 147. See Tiipoumrjh.
Meenssen, Peter, xiii, 439.
Meertens, Maria, xiii, 247.
Megachkamio, xiii, 25.
Mega])olensis, Rev. Johannes, xii, 99; xiii, 25, 101-2,
405, 416, 423.
letter from, xill, 423.
Mcgapolensis, Rev. Samuel, XI 1 1, 384, 405, 433.
Meggeckcssou, Mcggcckasjouw (Trenton Palls, N. J.),
XII, 255, 273, 386,"315, 355, 370, 384, 413-4, 440.
Melis, Engel, xii, 153.
Jleloen, Jacob, xiii, 153, 202.
Melyn, Cornelis. patentee of Staten Island, xill, 6, 8,
9, 16, 27, 30, 33, 47, 51, 63, 75, 121, 300, 206, 224.
Melyn, Jacob, xiii, 473.
Melyn, Mr., xiii, 468.
Merrite, Thomas, xii, 493, 617, 653, 057.
Merten, George, xii, 601.
Mespath, L. I., xili, 105, 108.
Mespath kil, L. I., xiii. 41, 75, 31.5.
Metselaer, Martin, xiii, 95.
Mctzer, Joris, xiii, 117, 153, 203.
Meyer, Nich., xiii, 313, 352. Sec De Meyer.
Meynders, Maritie, xiii, 370, 374.
Meyndertsen, Meyndert (van Keeren), owner of the
Colony behind the Col, xiii, 9, 19.
Michiels, Jan, xii, 533.
Micliielsen, Daniel, skipper, xiii, 121.
Michielsen, Dirck, xil, 139.
Micliielsen, Lambert, xii, 107.
Midwout (Flatbush, L. I.), xii, 99; xiii, 44, 66, 102,
134, 384.
Middelburgh, L. I., xiii, 66, 370.
Middletown, N. J., xiii, 474 et seq., 478, 539, 541, 545.
Mifflin, .John, sr., xii, 624.
Mifflin, John, jr., xii, 624.
Milford, Conn., xiii, 308, 306.
Military, the, xi 1 1, 134, 143, 153, 201, 205, 323, 236, 248,
259, 208 et seq., 359, 395, 406, 424, 448, 510, 520.
Miller, Hans, xii, 649.
Miller, James, xiii, 574.
Mill Hook, XII, 648.
Mill Kil, the, xiii, 389.
Mills, XII, 151, 219, 237, 368-9, 482, 581; xiii, 404,
451.
Mills, Richard, xiii, 392.
Millstone River, xii, 519, 541.
Mincgkaghoue, N. J., xiii, 334.
Minerals and Mines, xii, 33; xiii, 19, 21, 99, 100.
Minnisingh, a tract of land east of Hudson's River,
XIII, 571.
Minquas Country, xii, 166, 197, 308, 815, 331-2.
Minquas Kil (Christina Kil), xii, 28 (note), 29, 166,
337.
Minsterman, John, xii, 648.
Minuit, Peter, xii, 29, 36, 876 e« seq.
Minvielle, Gabr., xii, 524, 527; xiii, 493, 554.
Mitten, Robert, xii, 665.
Mitten, Thomas, xii, 665.
Mitten, William, xii ,605.
Mochgeychkonk, xiii, 48, 67.
Moenissen (Monsen), Hans, xii, 313, 491, 586.
Moers, William Martensen, xiii, 77-81, 90.
Moesman, Arent, xiii, 348.
Moggoneck Hill, xiii, 506.
Mohawk River, xiii, 15, 514, 533.
Mol, Pieter Cornelissen, xii, 184.
Mol, Reyer Lammersen, xil, 179, 180.
Molenaer, Peter Jacobsen, xiii, 236.
Molestine (^laelstevn), Alexander, xii, 511, 522, 545,
572, 574, 586-9, 597, 604-5, 637, 634-5, 638, 653.
Jlolestyne, Henry, xii, 630.
Moll, John, XII, 530, 531, 532, 539-40, 544, 545, 558,
559, 560, 563, 576, 589, 599, 606, 620, 634, 630,
669.
letter from, xii, 643.
Mollart, , XII, 414.
Monsen, Card, xii, 471.
Montagnie. See La Montagne.
Index.
605
Monussing (Westchester Co.), xiii, 460.
Moor, Mr., xil, 68, 286.
Moore, George, xii, 490, 544.
Moorman, Harmer, xii, 319.
Morgan, Charles, xiii, 315.
Morgan, John, xli, 544, 651; xlii, 548.
Modtius Creek, xii, 547.
Morris, Mr., xill, 543.
Morris, William, xii, 107.
Mott, Jacob, XII, 647.
Mott, James, xii, 647.
Mound, Clinton, xiii, 450.
Mouverensen, Martin, xiii, 231.
Moymansy, xii, 648.
Mudde, a grain measure, xii, 172.
Mud Kil, XI I, 511.
Mulberry Swamp, xil, 652.
Mulcucx, Thomas, xiii, 488.
Mulk, Erick, xii, 586.
MuUinex, Thomas, xiii, 574.
Munnick, Evert Willem, xlii, 348.
Murderkil, Delaware, xii, 498, 654.
Murdick, Robert, xii, 589.
Mutiny at the Esopus, xiii, 406.
Mynachkee Kil, xiii, 545.
N.
Naamaus Creek, xii, 547.
Nanoseck Island, xiii, 192.
Narington, xiii, 380.
Narowatkongli, N. J., xiii, 316.
Narragansett Countrj', xiii, 517.
Narraticou Kil, xii, 61, 373.
Nasshaway (Nashua, N. H.), xiii, 511.
Natick, R. I., xiii, 514, 521.
Nayack (Nayeeck, Neyick, Nyack) (on L. I.), 25, 35, 60,
147, 361, 321, 375, 392.
Naylor, Edward, xiii, 227.
Neagers House, xiii, 225, 236.
Neale, Francis, xii, 544.
Neale, Jas., Capt., xii, 320, 334.
Nealson, Hendrick, xii, 470.
Nealson, Mathias, xii, 470.
Nealson, Neals, xli, 470.
Necken, Stephen, xiii,44.
Nederhorst, Lord of, xii, 131; xiii, 39. See Van
Needham, Robert, xiii, 398, 400, 406, 414.
Neelsen, Jonas, xii, 588.
Neeyeck Kil, xii, 49.
Neilsdon, Peter, xii, 648.
Neilson, Hendrick, xii, 648.
Neilson, Jonas, xli, 648.
Neilson, Mathias, xll, 648.
Neilson, NeiLs, xii, 474, 648.
Neilson, Olle, xii, 648.
Nelisen, Hans, xlll, 16.
Nelson, John, xiir, 574.
Neuman, Thomas, xiil, 66.
Neus, Jacob Adriaensen, xiii, 93 et seq.
Neuten Hook, xiii, 388.
Nevesinks, Navecinx, xii, 355, 452, 493, 520; xiii,
29, 31-3, 84, 100, 312, 314, 322, 356, 358, 365, 395,
398, 477, 484.
Nevisinks, patent for, by Col. NicoUs, made void, xiii,
471.
Nevesinghs Kil, XIII, 316.
Nevill (Newell), James, xii, 593, 608, 610, 635.
Nevill, James, letter from, xii, 650.
Nevius, Johannes, ex-Alderman, xiii, 41.
New-Albany, xiii, 560, 571.
NewAmstel, xii, 132, 175, 189, 197, 301, 310, 220 et
seq., 233, 354, 255, 258, 261, 263, 366, 373, 391, 393
293, 295, 398, 301, 303, 304, 305, 307, 314, 315, 316
319, 332, 335, 339, 335, 336, 340, 343. 351, 354, 355,
358, 363, 868, 374, 387, 383 et seq., 387, 388, 389, 393,
397, 408, 410 et seq.. 417, 419, 422, 434, 427, 430, 431,
433, 436, 437. 439, 446, 447, 448, 451, 453, 454, 511
517.
Newark, N. J. See New Work.
Ne wberry , x 1 1 1 , 406.
New-Castle, xii, 178 ei seq., 462,464, 471-4, 477, 480,
481 et seq., 484,487, 494.
incorporated, xii, 496, 500, 501, 503, 513, 515, 516,
521, 532, 533, 526, 529, 530, 533, 533, 534, 538,
543, 544, 545, 553, 554, 556, 560, 561, 562, 563,
566, 585, 589, 593, 594, 598, 601, 608, 609, 610,
613, 618, 621, 633, 634, 636, 645, 649, 650, 660,
666, 669.
New Dorp, or "Villages at the Esopus, xiii, 319, 221-2,
246, 256, 359, 383, 417, 428, 442. See Burley, Mar-
hhtown .
New England, XII, 278, 304-5, 356, 417, 543;xiii,
60, 73, 162, 205, 340,458, 521 et seq.
New Gottenburg, xii, 33, called Katteuburgh Island,
133.
New Harlem, xiii, 134,242, 283, 299, 303, 421. See
Harlem.
New Haven, xii, 52, 69, 82?i; xiii, 21, 304.
New Hooveu (New Farm), xii, 37.
New Jersey, xi i, 484, 545. 559, 563, 565, 568, 579, 584-5,
594, 610, 614, 635, 649; xiii, 455, 469, 472, 570.
Col. NicoUs' patent in, xiii, 486.
courts of sessions in, xiil, 545.
claims a port of entry, xi 1 1, 508.
election of delegates in, xiii, 541.
title to, XI 1 1, 539^2, 549 et seq.
concessions to, xiii, 540.
Dcp't Gov. of, summoned before the N. Y. Coun-
cil, 544.
New Leyden, xii, 406, 420, 423.
Newman, Francis, xii, 83.
New Orange, name of New York, xiii, 473.
New Paltz, Ulster Co., xni, 506.
New Salem, xii, 593, 594.
New Seven Hooven, xii, 630.
New Spain, xii, 338.
New Sweden, xii, 73, 87, 132.
Newton, Brian, Capt. Lieut., xii, 41, 51; xiii, 43, 45,
63, 86, 134, 144, 163, 195.
Newton (Nuton), Henry, xiil, 41.
Newton (Nuton), Thomas, xiil, 41.
Newtown, L. I., xiii, 39.
New Utrecht, xiii, 343, 386,431.
New Work (Newark, N. J.), xi 1 1, 473 et seq., 477, 539.
Nicambanak creek, xii, 500.
NicoUs, Math., xii, 464, 467, 471, 486, 494,497, 505,
533, 536, 555, 569, 573, 573, 595, 600, 603, 605,
617, 641, 642, 653, 657; xiii, 4^03 et seq., 416 et
seq.. 428, 456, 468, 483, 518, 536, 543, 564, 570.
letters from, XI I, 571, 595,631,636, 631, 633; xiii,
403^, 417, 428, 484, 501, 516, 535, 540.
letters to, xii, 600, 603, 641-3; xiii, 519, 531.
Nicolls, R., XII, 458, 459 et seq., 474, 494, 514, 536,
570,618; xill, 393, 395 etseq., 399,403, 404,400,
414, 410 et seq., 435, 440, 453, 471, 486, 493, 504,
530, 541, 543, 568.
606
Index.
Nicolls, R., letters from, xii, 4G0 (and Col. Lovelace),
403; XIII, 403, 404.
Nicolls, William, xii, 450.
Nielsen, Michael, xii, 544, 551.
Nielson, Olle, xii, 544, 547.
Nielson, Otto, xii, 552, G20.
Nielson, Peter, xii, 544, 551, 030.
Nison, Henry A., xii, G30.
Niskayuna, XIII, 573.
Nissen, Christian, Sergt, xiii, 60, 153, 188, 190, 301,
312-3, 333, 340, 251, 257, 309, 378, 393, 313, 320,
333 et )eq.. 348, 350 et seq., 354, 300, 368.
letter from, xiii, 190, 351, 354-5, 366, 368.
letters to, xiii, 320, 359, 305.
Nochpeem, xi 1 1, 17.
Noizet, Frangois, xii, 54.
Nolongewocb, xiii, 308.
Noniers, John, xil, 544, 552.
Noormau, Andries, xiii, 303.
Noortwyck, xiii, 300.
Nooten Island (Governor's Island), xiii, 37.
Norman, Claes, xiii, 18.
Northampton, Mass., xiii, 511, 514.
North river, Swedish designs on the, xii, 373.
Norwich, Conn., xiii, 517.
Norwood, Andrew, surveyor, xiii, 400, 518.
Noten-Island, xiii, 56.
Nova Scotia, xii, 455; xiii, 224, 340, 296.
Nut's Island, xii, 98.
0.
Oakly, Widow, xiii, 574.
Obbe's, Emme, xil, 237.
Oelsen, Otto, xii, 470.
Ogden, John, xiii, 473.
sheriff for the N. J. towns, 475.
letter to, 477.
Ogden, John, sr., xiii, 405.
Ogle, John, xii, 531-2, 534-5, 537-9, 543, 013.
Old Swedes Church, Philadelphia, xii, 105, 526.
Oleson, l-as, xli, 470.
Olferts, Hey, xiii, 345.
Olive (Olave), Thomas, xii, 579, 615, 635.
Oliver, Saml., xiii, 408 et Keq., 415, 418, 448.
Olleson, Hans, xii, 544, 547.
Olleson, Olle, xii, 474.
Ollesen, Pieter, xii, 491.
Omella (O'Malle), Bryan, xli, 630, 630.
Onckeway, Conn., xiii, 58, 59.
Ondcrhil. See Underhill.
O'Noale, Hugh, xiii, 498.
Onkelbach, Adam, from Rouen, xii, 153.
Onokonquehaga, xiii, 298, 309.
Ooms, Jan, xii i, 519.
Oostdorp, XI 1 1, 474. ( Westchester.)
Opdyek, Gysbert, xiii, 18.
Oratainin, sachem of Ilackensack Indi.ans, xiii, 14, 18
25, 40, 148, 107, 171, 180, 203. 318, 201, 270 380 389'
294-.5, 314, 320-1, 333, 301, 371, 377, 380.
Ordinance respecting Bergen, N. J., xiii, 316, 303.
respecting Schenectady, xiii, 353.
Staten-Island, xili, 336.
Wildwyck, xlll, 311, 213, 231-2, 330 239
331-3, 340, 340, 353.
against runners in the Mohawk and Seneca coun-
try, XIII, 34.
against selling licpior to Indians, xi 1 1, 36.
Ordinance regulating Indian trade, xiii. 237.
respecting navigation on the North river, xiii, 389.
Orechtou Island, xii, 033.
Orema, L., xii, 665.
Oryon, Wm., xii, 535, 580.
Osbourne, Will., xii, 479, 519, 524.
Osburne, Rich'd, xiii, 488, 574.
Osenbrugge, xiii, 75.
Ostcnengh, xiii, 75.
Osterhout, John, xiii, 451.
Otskondaraegoo kil, xiii, 572.
Otten, John, xii, 580, 005.
Otto, Ernestus, xii, 618.
Otto, Gerritt, xii. 558, 559, 500, 504, 589, 599, 608, 034
648.
Otto, Herman, xii, 648.
Outhout, Foppe Janseu, xii, 93, 318, 331, 335, 343, 863,
375 ei seq., 381 et seq., 387, 391, 399, 401, 502, 539,
558-60, 504, 589, 592, 599, 008, 610, 634, 649.
Oyster Bay, xiii, 315.
Ozbun, David, xiii, 489.
Paauw, Michiel, xiil, 1, 3, 4.
Pachonabellick, Indian name for Maliicanders or Long
Island, XIII, 193.
Pack, E, XII, 650, 005.
Pacamtekock, Indian castle, xiii, 380.
Page, Abraham, xiii, 7.
Paghahacking, xii, 37.
Paham's Land, xii, 98.
Pakaseek, a tract in Ulster county, xiii, 533.
Paling, Simon, xii, 589.
Palmer, John, xiii, 488, 574.
Palmer, Josepli, xiii, 488, 574.
Palmer, Samuel, xiii, 488, 574.
Palmer, Thomas, xii, 015.
Palmer, Mr., xiil, 538. *
Panton, Richard, Captain, xiii, 67. See Pontun.
Papegaay, Armgard, daughter of Gov. Prints, xii, 130,
490, 560, 618, 648. See Prints, Arm.
Papegaay, John, xii, 37, 131, 120, 193.
Papirinimon (Spuyten Duyvel), xiii, 441.
Parde Hook (Delaware river), sii, 488, 049.
Pardon, Mr., xii, 486.
Parraget, Louis, xiii, 89.
Parrote, Mr., xil, 503.
Parton, John, x 1 1 1 , 544.
Pasaquesing, xii, 500,
Paskaecg kil, xiii, 483.
Passayonk, xii, 36, 191, 300, 302, 310, 313, 334, 336,
356, 418, 450, 506, 520, 048.
Pastoor, Franz Jacobs, xiii, 193.
Patents for land on the Delaware river, xll, 16-7, 124,
177-83, 401, 403, 494, 511, 527, 537, 543, 567, 572-4,
580, 005, 616-7, 620, 631, 635-6, 051, 663.
Patents for land on Hudson's river, xiii, 31, 23, 240,
360, 390.
Patents for land in New Jersey, xiii, 30-38.
Patterson, Hans, x 1 1 , 409.
Pattoxcnt, Md., xii, 301, 310.
Paugasset river. Conn., xlll, 21.
Paulsen, Jan, xll, 471.
Paulsen, Olle, xii, 630, 636.
Paulson (Pauleuson), Paulus, xiii, 154, 203, 413, 448,
544.
Paulus Hook (Pouwels Hook), N. J., xiii, 3, 2'), 44.
Ivdex.
607
Paulus, Peter, xii, 223.
Pauweison, Mons, xii, 539.
Pavonia, N. J., xii, 98; xiii, 3, 10-1, 37.
Pawachta, Indian name for a tract in Ulster county,
XIII, 533.
Pawling, Henry, xiii, 401, 410 et seq., 415, 418, 420,
423, 426, 428, 432 et seq., 442 et seq., 447 et seq., 452,
459, 544, 571.
Paycock, Robert, xiii, 544. See Peacock.
Peachell, William, xii, 615.
Peacock, Robert, xill, 418, 448 et seq.
Peats, Francis, xiii, 488.
Peaty, Richard, xiii, 620, 638.
Peck, James, xii, 58(5.
Pedy, James, xii, 605.
Peeck, Jacobus, xiii, 515, 573.
Peersen, Jan, sin, 324, 348, 351.
Peersen, Pouwels, xii, 426.
Peirse (Pierce), Josluia, xill, 406.
Pell, Thomas, xiii, 391, 403, 495.
attempts a settlement in Westchester county and is
warned off, xiii, 38.
reported drowned, xiii, 60.
residence of, Onckeway, Conn., xiii, 64.
Pels, Evert, xiii, 74, 90, 115-6, 143, 156, 192, 196, 212,
230, 235, 238-9, 408, 446.
Pemaquid, xil, 633; xill, 536.
Pemecacka creek, xii, 500.
Penford, John, xil, 579, 585, 635.
Penn, William, xii, 579, 608, 663, 667, 669.
Pennoyer, Robert, xiii, 12.
Pennsylvania, xii, 662, 666, 668.
Penobscott fort, xiii, 225.
attack on, by the Mohawks, xiii, 226.
Penton, William, xii, 608, 610, 635.
Peree, Jan, xiii, 113.
Pergens, Jacob, Director of W. I. Co., xll, 234; xiii,
159.
Pernatry, Robert, xii, 665.
Pernon, Peter, xii, 492.
Perrot, Richard, letter from, xii, 498.
Perry, Peter, xii, 544.
Peter, the Fleming, xiii, 345, 389.
Peter, the Miller, xiii, 212.
Peters, Jan, xii, 346.
Petersen, Andries, xill, 544.
Petersen, Charles, xii, 543.
Petersen, Claes, xil, 94.
Petersen, Frederick, xiii, 414, 544.
Petersen, Hans, xil, 543, 648.
Petersen, John, xii, 470.
Petersen, Lucas, xll, 106.
Peterson, Mathias, xii, 649.
Peterson, Peter, xii, 544, 549, 551, 620; xiii, 544.
Peterson, Samuel, xii, 107, 470, 048.
Pew, Francis, xiii, 548.
Philipse, Fred, xii, 540, 542; xiii, 86, 313, 352, 360,
491, 493, 495, 501, 536, 546, 551.
Philippg, Gisebert, xiii, 115, 117.
( Van Velthuysen. )
Philipps, Mr., xil, 592.
Phillips, Thoms, xii, 544, 589, 620, 631, 638 et seq.,
056.
Pia, Pierre, Cadet, xiii, 14.
Pickaer, a Frenchman, xii, 433.
Picket, Jan, xii, 316.
Picolet, Jan, xii, 144 et seq., 148, 155, 177, 181.
Pierce, Daniel, xiii, 405.
Pierssen, Jan, xiii, 153, 201, 213.
Pieters, Abr., xii, 592.
Pieters, Anthony, xii, 533.
Pieters, Dirck, xll, 491.
Pieters, Hans, xii, 491.
Pieters, Lawrence, xii, 143, 154-5, 158, 161.
Pieters, Lucas, xii, 158.
Pieters, Maritjc, xiii, 88.
Pieters, Reyuer, xii, 446.
Pieters, Reintjc, xiii, 317.
Pieters, Wynant, xili, 306.
Pietersen, Abraham, xiii, 16.
Pietersen, Andries, xiii, 407, 414.
Pietersen, Anna, xii, 649.
Pietersen, Anthony, xil, 45-9.
Pietersen, Christian, xiii, 334.
Pietersen, Claes, xii, 178-9; xiil, 213.
Pietersen, Cors, xiii, 33.
Pietersen, Evert, xii, 303.
Pietersen, Francis, xili, 193.
Pietersen, Fred, xiii, 448.
Pietersen, Gerrit, x l li , 37.
Pietersen, Hans, xii, 470, 471.
Pietersen, Harmen, xil, 180-1.
Pietersen, Jan, xiii, 49, 154.
Pietersen, Lucas, xli, 143, 369.
Pietersen, Nathaniel, xiil, 74.
Pietersen, Paulus, xiii, 333-4, 360.
Pietersen, Philipp, xill, 110, 379. See Schuvler.
Pietersen, Reintje, xiii, 340, 345, 350, 353. '
Pietersen, Samuel, xli, 539.
Pietersen. See Knyter.
Pike, Capt., xiii, 543.
Pimmepakka, xii, 544, 551.
Pinchon (Pynchon), John, xiii, 101, 307, 309, 513, 532,
536, 528-30.
letters from, xlii, 511, 524.
Pinhorne, Mr., xlii, 538.
Pinkney, John, xiii, 489.
Pinkney, Philipp, xiil, 489.
Piscataway (Piscataqua), N. .1., xiii, 473 et seq., 539.
Plainer, William, xii, 571.
Plank, Abraham Isaacsen, xii, 37.
Planck, Jacob Albertsen, sheriff of Rensselaerswyck.
See VerplancTc.
Plantations, xii, 151, 217, 236, 345, 474, 477, 485, 494,
499, 574, 586, 600-1, 613-5, 618, 621, 628, 639, 641,
644, 6.54, 661; xiii, 206, 208, 220, 334-5, 253, 374,
404, 419-30, 435, 435.
Plat, Widow, XI 1 1, 488.
Plockhooy, Peter Com., xii, 439.
Ploetgoet, carpenter, xii, 248.
Plomer, Henry, xii, 665.
Plowden (Ployden), Sir Edward, xli, 57 (note); xiil,
486.
Plumgut (Pluymgate), xii, 333,
Plymouth Colony, xil, 53-3, 543; xiii, 493.
Pneys, Cornelis. xii, 492.
Pocanteco Creek, xiii, 546.
Pocock, William, xii, 626, 636.
letter from, xil, 645.
Poe, John, xiii, 519.
Poetquessing, XI I, 500.
Point Pleasant, xii, 547.
Polhemus, Rev. .John, xlll, 384.
PoUexfen, Hen., xiii, 487.
Pontopecke, N. .L, xiii, 395.
Pontun, Richard, xiii, 488, 574. See Pantm,
Pooghkepesingh Fall, xlli, 571.
Poplar Neck, xii, 617.
608
Index.
Population, xii, 64, 66-7, 131, 158, 189, 249, 354, 288,
299, 310, 384, 450, 523, 580, 646, 065.
of Esopus in 1658, xiii, 79. See Census, Immigra-
tion.
Porter, George, xin, 407 et seq., 414, 418, 448 et seq.,
544.
Porter, Robert, xii, 665.
Post, Adrian, Capt., xlii, 44, 46, 48, 60, 74, 206, 333-5,
268, 294.
letter to, xiii, 45.
Potpocka, N. J., XIII, 316.
Poulson, Andres, xii, 613.
Poulson, Mens., xll, 648.
Poulson, Paulus, xii, 491, 648.
Poulston, Wolley, xii, 490, 491.
Pound, John, xiii, 418, 448, 450.
Pouwels, Abraham, xll, 363.
Pouwels, .Jolin, xii, 469.
Powel, Thos., XIII, 388.
Powel, Walter, xii, 665.
Powell, Corporal, xiii, 395.
Powell, Robert, xli, 615.
Powson (Paulson), Mons., xii, 469, 470.
Prang, xi ii, 154.
Prentice, Wm., xii, 586, 589, 605, 613.
Pretty, Richard, xiii, 516, 519.
Price, Evert (Avery), xiii, 411, 418, 448 et seq., 544.
Prime Hook (Delaware river), xii, 573, 654.
Prince, Ed., xii, 665.
Priuce Hendrick river. See South river.
Prince, John, xii, 527.
Princen, Mathies, xill, 313.
Prints, Armegard (Mrs. Papegay), xii, 300, 310, 419,
447, 618.
Prints, John, Gov. of New-Sweden, xii, 38-30, 33-5,
37, 40, 43, 45, 51 »., 56, 59-64, 70, 73-4, 82, 143,
193, 370-1, 413, 618.
letter from, 31, 33.
Printsdorp, xii, 109, 130,413, 648.
Pritchet, Thomas, xiii, 574.
Provoost, Johannes, secretary at Fort Orange, xiii, 74,
110, 175, 193, 358, 383, 292, 298, 355, 398-9, 481 et seq.,
532.
Pugsby, Mathew, xili, 574.
Pume, John, xiii, 419.
Punquapock, xiii, 514.
Putnam county, xill, 572.
Pyke, John, x'lii, 406.
Pyl, Jan, xil, 311.
Q-
Quackansick, xiii, 380.
Quakers, xii, 336, 592, 608, 636; xiii, 477.
Quebec, xiii, 531.
Queens Co., xiii, 147, 574.
Quenby, John, sr., xill, 574.
Quenby, .John, jr., 574.
Qucnnill (Quynnell), Thomas, xiii, 418, 448, 574.
Quessanawomineck creek, .xii, 544, 550, 551, 553.
Qui.ackitkunk kil, xii, 500.
Quick, Tho., xiii, 544.
Quyn, Abr., xii, 158, 101, 162.
R.
Radcmacher, Mr., xii, 205, 218.
Radcmaker, Claes, xiii, 11.
Radetnan, Anthony, xil, 237.
Raleigh, Sir W., xiii, 480.
Rambo, Gower, xii, 544, 551, 586, 620.
Rambo (Rombouts), Peter, xii, 211, 307, 338, 462, 475,
477, 491, 506, 523, 527, 557, 559-60, 634, 648.
Ramkokus kil, xii, 48, 49, 523.
Rautzau, Jonas, xiii, 153, 201, 212, 228, 361, 348, 351.
Raphoos Island, xlii, 506.
Raritan country, mine in the, xiii, 19.
Raritan (Raretangh) kil, xii, 77, 81, 518; xiii, 7, 31-3,
339, 313, 314, 395-6, 405.
Rattlesnake brook, xiii, 404.
Rauen, Uald, xii, 648.
Rausa, Olle, xii, 648.
Ravens, Clerk, xli, 453.
Rawake river, xiii, 405.
Rawlings, John, xii, 630.
Rawls, John, xlil, 403.
Rawson, Edward, secretary of Boston, xiii, 523.
Rawson, Olle, xii, 544, 547.
Ray, Alexander, xii, 647, 665.
Read, Thomas, xiii, 41.
Read, William, xiii, 41.
Rechgawawanck, xiii, 14, 18.
Rechkawyck, L. I., xiii, 147.
Redhook, Dutchess Co., xlll, 31.
Red Island, xii, 333.
Redoubt, the, at the Esopus, xiii, 357, 373, 393, 312,
322-3, 331, 338, 340, 346, 351, 359, 392, 413, 414,
417, 439 etseq., 470.
warehouse at, xiii, 470.
Redoubt at the Newesinghs, xiii, 356.
Redoubt creek, xiii, 447, 515, 553.
Reep, Wm., xiii, 396.
Reguersen, Rich'd, xii, 646.
Rehobath bay (Delaware river), xii, 574, 616.
Rehobath creek, xii, 544.
Rekter, Commissary, xil, 307.
Remahenonc, xiii, 25.
Renierse, Renier, xll, 490.
Renselaer's Hook, xiii, 315, 333.
Revel, Randall, xii, 318, 537, 544, 571, Sli et seq.
Revell, Thomas, xii, 624.
Rewechnongh (Haverstraw), xill, 375.
Reyndersen, Harmau, xii, 430.
Reyners, Herman, xii, 490.
Reyniertsen, Adrian, xii, 67.
Reynolds, John, xiii, 448.
Reynst, Jacobus, xii, 443.
Reyss, Noel, xiii, 153.
Rho, Jan, xi ii, 1.54.
Rhoades, Dr. John, xii, 511, 516, 518, 533, 545, 597,
604, 613, 637, 634-5, 638, 654.
Rhode Island, xii i, 493 et seq.
Riall, Edmund, xii, 629.
Richard, John, siii, 488.
Richards, John, xii, 544, 630, 631.
Richards, Mr., xiii, 530, 530.
Richardson, John, xii, 636 et seq., 639, 647, 653, 660;
XIII, 460, 489.
Richardson, John, sr., xii, 638.
Richardson, John, jr., xii, 638, 665.
Richardson, William, xiii, 574.
Richbell, John, xiii, 431.
Richbell, Mr., xii, 525.
Richcson, John R., xii, 665.
Rider, John, Stewart of the court at Pordham, xn i, 471 .
Rider, Robert, xiii, 466. 518, 547-8.
Ridgcway, Rich'd, xii, 659.
Rinckhout, Jan, xiii, 374.
Ringo, Phil. Janseu, xii, 177.
Index.
609
Roberts, Robert, xii, 570.
Rodeney, Will., xiii, 506.
Rodolff, .Jurian, sergeant, xiii, 10, 14.
Roe, Elias, xii, 137,
Roelollsen, Matthys, xiii, 104, 119, 154, 157, 195, 212,
230, 240, 371.
Roeloff Jansen's kil, xiii, 540, 572.
Roes, John, xill, 66.
Roes, Robert, xiii, 60.
Roeter, Ernst, Dr., xii, 440.
Rogers, John, xii, 615.
Romey, Frederic, xil, 586.
Romsingh, N. J., xlll, 316.
Ronduyt kil, xlll, 505, 506. See Redoubt kil.
Rongell, Michael, xii, 648.
Roodenburgh, Vice-Director at Curasao, xli, 62, 64.
Roods, Willem, xii, 543.
Roophakesky, xii, 49.
Roo.se, Albert Heymensen, xi 1 1, 194, 19G, 231, 243, 284,
329, 407 et seq., 544.
Roose, Arian Albertson, xiii, 410, 544.
Roose, John Albertson, xiii, 544.
Root, SimoD, XII, 27, 38, 40, 44, 46, 48-50, 53, 57, 66,
371.
Roothaer, Jan, xiii, 515.
Rose, Alard, xiii, 448.
Rose, Arian, x i ii , 448.
Rose, .John, xiii, 449.
Rosecrans, Sarah, xiii, 402.
Roseman, Harraan J. M., xii, 141.
Roseman (Rosamond), Marten, xii, 161, 179, 50G, 524,
589, 649.
Roseuburgh, William, surgeon, xii, 362, 437.
Rosevelt, Niclas, xiii, 544.
Rotman, Jan, xlll, 315.
Ronts, Elias, xil, 381, 383, 389, 405, 413, 431.
Rowles, Bryant, xll, 624.
Roy, .Jacob Jacobsen, xlil, 19.
Rudd, John, sr., xiii, 402.
Rudolphsen, Peter, xiii, 238.
Rumaclienanck. See Baversiraw.
Rumbouts, Francis, xiii, 569.
Rustdorp, XI 1 1, 194, 370.
Rutgers, Jacob, xni, 553.
Rutter, Gerrit, xii, 343.
Ruyter, Claes Jansen, xii, 361; xiii, 165. See De
Ruyter.
Ryan, Edmond, xli, 640.
Rycke, Abr., xii, 148.
Ryckevryer, Willem Cornelissen, xii, 364, 375 et seq.,
"381 et'seq., 399 et seq.
Ryly, James, xlii, 488.
Ryndertsen, Barent, xiii, 572.
Rynevelt, Abraham van, xii, 237.
Rynevelt, Commissary, xli, 204, 213, 229.
Rysingh, .John. Governor of New Sweden, xii, 76 e*
seq., 82, 101, 104-8, 110-1, 139, 191-3, 306, 340,
845, 413.
answer of, to Dir. Stuyvesant's protest, xii, 108.
Rysingh, Joh., jr., xii, 169.
Rywerts, Dinna, xii, 149.
s.
Sackvillc, Edw., xiii, 400.
Sadler, Richard, xi 1 1, 478.
Safford, Joseph, xiii, 41.
Sagerskil, xiii, 335, 343.
Sagertjen, xiii, 287.
77
Sagertyes kil, xiii, 573.
St. Augustine creek, xii, 548, 549.
St. George's creek, xii, 548.
St. Jones, xri, 601, 635, 647, 654, 661, 666, 668-9.
St. Jones creek, xii, 537, 653, 657, 664.
St. Mary's, Md., xii, 478, 503, 505, 538, 557, 613.
Salem, N. J., xii, 593, 599, 608, 610. See iVeM 8aUm.
Salisbury, Mrs., xiii, 536.
Salisbury, Silvester, Captain, xii, 536; xill, 400, 458,
466, 504, 506, 510, 521, 545.
letters from, xiii, 519, 530, 534, 536, 527, 529, 581.
letters to, xiii, 511, 516, 523, 535, 537.
Sail, Michael Jansen, xlil, 318.
Salloou, Bent, xii, 648.
Salloon, Andrews, xli, 648.
Salomons, Jacob, xiii, 206.
Salsbury, John, xii, 630.
Salter, John, xii, 650.
Samensen, liinier, xll, 50.
Sandelyn, Jacob Evertsen, xii, 26.
Sander, Antony, xii, 533.
Sanders, , xii, 503.
Sanders, Egbert, xiil, 334.
SHnders, Robert, xiii, 564.
Sanderson, Gerrit, xll, 490, 649.
Sandford, Wm.. Capt. of N. J., xiii, 508, 541-3.
summoned before the N. Y. Council, xill, 544.
letter to, xi ii, 540.
Sandhoek, on Delaware river, xil, 118, 387-8.
Sandjioint (Sandy Hook), xii, 104, 195, 300; xiii, 33,
60, 315, 396, 455.
beacon at, xiii, 539.
Sandylands (Sanderline), James, xi 1,490-1, 519, 533^,
537, 586, 648.
Sanghikans, xii, 33, 57.
Sanghikans Island, xii, 570.
Saratoga (Sarachtogoe, Ochseratonque, Ochsechrage,
Amissohaendiek), xiii, 572.
Sargant, John Taylor, xni, 547.
Sassafras river, xii, 308, 336, 355. 439.
Sawkin, N. J., xii, 523.
Sawyers kil, xiii, 505.
Scalie, Christopher, xiil, 525.
Scarborough, Edward, xil, 93.
Schael, Pieter, xil, 169.
Schaep, Wouter, x 1 1 , 375.
Schaep, Wouter Clasen, xli, 348.
Schaggen, Jan, xii, 137-43, 155, 158, 160, 163, 167, 173,
183.
Schenectady, xiii, 303, 215, 219, 331, 381, 244, 367, 874,
382 et seq., 464-5, 477, 514, 519, 581-2, 573.
trade at, xiii, 436, 466, 469.
tire at, xiii, 469.
government of, xlil, 485, 490.
purchase of Indian land near, xlli, 489.
magistrates of, letter to, xiii, 588.
Scliepmoos, Dirck, xiii, 506-7.
Scliermcrhorn, Jacob, xiii, 378.
Schodack bought from the Indfans, xlll, 36.
Schoenmaecker, Jan Cornelissen, xili, 37.
Schoffel, Jau, xii, 106.
Scholey, Robert, xii, 646, 659.
Sclioley, Thomas, xii, 646.
Scholtcn, Jan, xii, 386, 394, 340; xiii, 238-5.
Sclioon, Jan, xill, 330.
Schot, Rosier, Si I, 180.
Schreck, Mons., xii, 318.
Schreck, Paulus, xii, 360.
Schut, Jan, xii, 179.
610
Index.
Schuvler, Col., xiii, 503.
Scliuvler, Peter, xiii, 431, 439, 44G.
SclmVler, Peter Philippsen, xiii, 343, 364, 3G6, 572.
Schuyler, Philipp Pietersen, xiil, 98, 110, 31G, 319, 331,
387, 395, 400, 417, 508, 573.
Schuyler. See Pietersen, Philipp.
Schuylkil, XII, 39-31, 36-8, 43, 44, 61, 67, 199, 370,
372.
Scott, Benjamin, xil, 579, 585, 635.
Scott, John, XII, 544.
Scott, Robert, xii, 491.
Seabroke, Cleme, xiii, 538.
Seal>ruck, Tom, xiii, 488.
Seatalcott, L. I., xiit, 519.
Seba, Willein Jansen, xiir, 345.
Sebra, Clement, xii, 570.
Secaucus Island, xiti, 479.
Seecongh, xii, 333.
Seely, Lieut., xri, 69.
Seen, Maet, xiii, 340.
Seete, William, xii, 83 (note).
Segersen, Gerrit, xiii, 74.
Selyns, Rev. Henricus, xiir, 155, 186, 189.
letters from, xiii, 384, 391. *
Semple, William, xii, 606, 634.
Senbille, Christopher, xil, 493.
Sergiant, Jacob, xiii, 333.
Sericks, Widow, xii, 649.
Serjackes, Hendrick, xii, 138.
Seth, .Jacob, xii, 605.
Seth, James, xii, 586.
Severyn, , xm, 74.
Swantregger, Hendrick, xiii, 313, 330.
Seweyruckil (Byrams River), xill, 24.
Shackleton, Edward, xm, 415.
Shackerley fShakleday), John, xii, 630, 638, 646.
Shackerly, Mr., xii, 577.
Shakhamexunk creek, xii, 550, 551.
Sliakhamuxunk, xii, 620.
Sharpe, John, xii, 535.
Sharpe, William, xii, 544.
Sharpe, Sergeant, xm, 496, 504.
Sherreck.s, John, xii, 493.
Sherwood, Thomas, xm, 489.
Sherwood, William, xii, 647.
Ships —
De Arent, yacht, xni, 177.
AventujT, yacht, xii, 257.
De Barbary, barkship, xii, 63.
De Beer, ship, xii, 110, 163.
de Bover, ship, xii, 95, 133, 163, 173, 175, 185,
354, 304, 349, 361; xm, 15.5, 174.
Bontekoe (Brindled Cow), ship, xil, 90, 95, 110.
de Bruynvisch, sliip, xii, 327.
Diemen, sliip, formerly de " Hay," xl I, 83 (note) ;
xm, 150.
Dolphin, bark, xii, 73.
de Draatvat, ship, xii, 190.
Eendracht, Swedish ship, xll, 118.
Eendracht, yacht, xii, 164; xm, 60.
de Endt (the Duck), yacht, xii, 185.
de Eyckenboom, ship, xii, 330; xm, 189.
Falconier, ship, xll, 65, 67.
de Fenix, barkship, xii, 148.
Foit Albany, sliip, xii, 473.
de Gekruysle Hart, x m , 390.
Gelderse Bloom (Flower of Gelderland), ship, xii,
133, 103.
Goude Menkn, xii, 185, 190, 316.
Ships —
de Gouden Sonne, ship, xii, 308.
de Groene Arent, ship, xii, 333, 335, 431.
Grote Christoflel, ship, xii, 87.
the Guinea, frigate, xii, 458.
de Haen, yacht, xm, 153.
de Hay, ship, xii, 71 et seq., 185.
de Hollandsche Tuyn, ship, xii, 49.
Kent, ship, xii, 579.
Kouinck (King) SalouKm, ship, xii, 75, 76, 85.
"L'Esperance," French privateer, xli, 96.
De Liefde (the Love), ship, xll, 103, 304, 333,
335; XI 1 1, 121.
Martha, of Hull, il3'-boat, xii, 584, 585.
Marygold, sliip, xll, 650.
Mary of Liverpool, sliip, xii, 593, 594.
Mercurius, Swedish ship, xll, 120, 131, 12S ei seq.
to 129.
de Meulen, ship, xii, 223, 336, 344.
de Moesman, ship, xii, 215, 333, 371, 304; xm,
170.
Nicuwe Amstel, galiot, xii, 194,303, 318, 286,
320.
New- Amsterdam, ship, xii, 95.
Kieuw-Nederlandsche Fortuyn, xm, 121.
de Otter, ship, xii, 183; xm, 103.
de Prinses, yacht, xii, 433.
de Prints, a ship, x 1 1 , 64.
Prints Maurits, ship, xii, 133, 184, 187, 308, 307.
Prints Mauritius, ship, wrecked on L. L, xii, 163.
Prints Maurits, yacht, xii, 345.
Prince Willem, ship, xii, 58, 64.
Purmeriand Kerck, ship, xii, 360, 363, 368, 373,
379, 403, 407, 443, 447, 451.
Pyn-Apple, ship, xii, 60.
de Koseboom. ship, xii, 303.
St. Jacob, ship, XII, 438, 437-8, 4C0.
St. John, XIII, 150.
St. Michiel, ship, xii, 66.
Scotch Dutchman, ship, xii, 36.
de Sonne, ship, xii, 241, 384.
Sphera Mundi, ship, xii, 304; xm, 149.
Stede Amsterdam, xm, 81.
Swan, yacht, xii, 54, 68.
Swarte Arent, ship, xii, 86.
Swol, ship, XII, 55, 57, 62.
De Trouw, ship, xii, 275, 317, 327; xrn. 111, 131,
174, 390.
de Valck, Swedish frigate, xii, 445.
Vergulde Meulen, ship, xii, 293.
Vergnlde Sonne, ship, xii, 317.
Vogelsang, ship, xii, 185, 190.
de Waasbleek, xii, 313, 317.
De Waegh, (the Balance), man-of-war, xii, 89, 91,
95, 103, 104, 107, 124, 145, 183, 190, 193-6,
198-9, 301-3, 218, 240, 373; xm, 43, 63.
Welcome, yacht, xii, 73.
William and Nicholas, frigate, xii, 458.
de Zee-Bears, yacht, xii, 363, 296, 323.
Shippard, William, xm, 488.
Shoem.aker, 011a, xli, 648.
Shoets (Schoete, Shuts), Swen, Swedish Lieut., xii,
45, 101-3, 105, 131, 134, 139, 141 et seq., 213, 335.
Shoot, Richard, xm, 489.
Shooters (Scliutter's) Lsland, xm, 314, 543, 547
Shottwcll, Daniel, xm, 547.
Shottwell, John, xm, 547.
Shrewsbury, N. J., xm, 474 et .vq., 539, 545.
magistrates of, arc Quakers, xm, 477.
Index.
611
Sibly, Robert, xii, 624.
Sibly, Thomas, xii 624.
Sichtewagh, L. I., xii, 163.
Siebrauts, Aeltje, xiii, 371.
Siebrants, Sibrants. See Sybrants.
Siebrantz, Bart, xnl, 212.'
Siebrantz, Dominic, xii, 153.
Sikoaesse. See Horehil.
Silliakes, Jacob, xiii, 43.
Silvester, Nat., xlii, 396.
Simpson, WilHam, xii, 544.
Simpson's choice, xn, 544.
Sincleer, Wittin, xii, 492.
Sintsinck (Sing Sing), xiii, 14, 18, 302. See Indiati^.
Sissowokissink creek, xii, 549, 552.
Skillman, Thomas, xiil, 418.
Skilepott kil, xii, 648.
Skrick, John, xli, 648.
Shiughter's creek, xii, 573-4.
Slecht, Cornells Barentsen, xiii, 79, 81, 89, 93, 100,
104, 119, 155, 157, 166, 194, 196, 212-3, 236-8, 341,
311, 313, 401, 407 et seg.
Slecht, Jacomintje, xiii, 507.
Sleeper's Haven, xiii, 276.
Sleepy Hollow (Dutchess Co.) See Kichtawanc.
Slichtenhorst, Gerrit, xill, 298, 378, 389.
Slom, Mens., xii, 33.
Sloubee, 011a, xii, 647.
Smeedes, Jan, xiii, 571.
Smeeman, Harmen, xiii, 214, 233-5, 252, 268.
Smit, Jan Aertzen, xiii, 212, 238, 245.
Smith, Andrew, xri, 615.
Smith, Capt. Lieut., xil, 101.
Smith, Claes Pietersen, xn, 179.
Smith, Charles, xlli, 535.
Smith, Dirck, Ensign, xii, 118, 124, 133, 135, 164,
174-5, 188, 323; xiii, 95, 97, 101, 110, 114, 128, 153,
165, 170, 178, 206.
Smith (Smidt), Dirk, Skipper, xn, 434, 436, 505; xni,
123, 127-8, 132, 343, 345.
Smith, Doctor, xn, 583.
Smith, Fraus, xn, 169, 179.
Smith, Garrett, xn, 649.
Smith, Henry, xn, 582, 589, 597, 603, 613, 654, 659.
Smith, Jan Cornelissen, xin, 407.
Smith, John, xn, 008.
Smith, John, xni, 406.
Smith, Jos., xn, 524.
Smith, Mathew, xn, 535.
Smith, Mathys, xn, 531.
Smith, Peter, xn, 532, 546.
Smith, Richard, xn, 72; xni, 18.
Smith (Smythe), Thomas, xin, 7.
Smithson, William, xn, 630, 640.
Smoking Point, Staten Island, xni, 546.
Smuggling on the S. R., xn, 314.
Sneer, Barth, xn, 648.
Snel, Lieut., xin, 476.
Snelling, Thomas, xn, 644, 649.
Snewit, Juriaen, xn, 435. See Keen.
Snyder, Jan Barentz, xin, 313.
Sogemacklie, Peter, xni, 353.
Soupnapka, xn, 533.
Southampton, L. I., xni, 537.
Southrin, Edward, xn, 572, 574, 587, 589, 597, 603,
613, 638.
Spartes, William, xn, 665.
Specht, Gerret, xn, 186.
Spelcn, Fabryk, xn, 207, 218.
Spicer, Samuel, xni, 315^ 396.
Spitsbergen, T., xin, 156.
Spoor, Aert Otten, xin, 313.
Springfield, Mass., xin, 21, 307, 511.
Spry, Thomas, xn, 543.
Spuyten Diiyvel (Spiting Devil), xin, 431.471, 494.
bridge at, xni, 441, 538.
settlement at, xni, 434.
Indian name Papirinimou, xin, 441
Spyer, Hendrick Janseu, xin, 333.
Squakheag, xin, 511.
Squire, William, xin, 489.
Staats (Staas), Abraham, xn, 96; xin, 81, 105, 133,
186, 216, 304, 350, 515.
Stacy. Robert, xn, 579, 611, 614, 635.
Staelcop, Jan, xn, 131, 141, 159, 169, 183-3, 324, 369,
399, 417, 466, 469-70, 607, 647.
Stamford, Conn., xin, 17, 58.
Stangh, .lacob, xin, 13.
Stapelfort, Bayd., xn, 630.
Starker, Bartel, xn, 470.
Starvelt, Adrian Hubertsen, xn, 342.
Staten Island, xn, 59, 80, 252, 255, 434; xin, 6, 7, 9,
22, 30, 32, 49, 57, 60, 74, 131, 124, 147, 171, 300,
205-6, 223, 239, 305, 314, 321, 356, 391-2, 424,
466, 481, 485, 518, 535, 542, 546, 563, 567, 747.
government of, xin, 415.
conditions for settlers on, xin, 425.
Indian lands on, xin, 441.
Indians claim not to have been paid for their lands
on, xin, 453.
Indian name for, xin, 455.
Indian deed for, xin, 455.
two new townships on, to be surveyed, xin, 458.
survey of, ordered, xni, 466.
settlement of, xin, 485.
claimed by New Jersey, xni, 551.
town meeting on, xin, 556,567.
Staut, Dirck, xin, 315.
Stebbings, Benoni, xni. 511.
Steeubakers Hook (Brickmakers Point), xn, 140.
Steenhuysen, Engelbert, xin, 331, 333-5, 318.
Steenman, Jan Jurian, xin, 154.
Steenwyck, Corn., xn, 180-1, 475-7, 479,484, 486,497,
506, 507, 513; xni, 299, 363, 377, 456, 464, 468,479,
536.
Steenwyck, Cornelis Jacobsen, xn, 111; xiii, 51.
Steinmits, Caspar, xin, 314, 231, 233-5, 294, 319.
Steinmits (Stennits), xni, 570.
Sterdeur, Bernard, xn, 269, 278.
Steurs, Oloff, xn, 137.
Stevens, Francis, xn, 561.
Stevens, Henry, xn, 647, 665.
Stevens, John, xn, 544, 573, 578, 586, 619, 637 et seq.
631, 636, 644, 647, 652, 657, 660.
letter from, xi i, 582.
Stevens, William, xn, 544. 636 et seq.
Stephens, Witt, xn, 630.
Stevenson, Henry, xn, 544, 620.
Stevensen, Oloff, xn, 150, 308; xin, 18, 41, -151, 166.
See Van Cortlandt.
Stickland, John, letters from, xin, 193, 195.
Stidden, Timen, Dr., xn, 106, 158, 301, 362, 412, 423,
426, 607, 642.
Stiles. See Styles.
Stille, Jan, xn. 586.
Stille, Oloff, xn, 33, 307, 336, 366, 435, 439, 550.
Stillwell, Daniel, xni, 548.
Stillvvell, Nicolas, xni, 269-70, 324 et seq., 415.
612
Indev.
StiUweU, Richard, xiii, 441,556, 567.
letter from, xiii, 567.
Stire, Olofif, -xii, 311.
Stirssen, Ele, xii, 138.
Stock, Arthur, ensign, xii, 462.
Stoffelsen, Jacob, xiii, 18.
Stoker, Jaii, xii, 351.
StoU, .Jacob Jansen, xiii, 76, 79, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89, 93,
94, 96, 99, 100, 103-3, 111, 114, 116, 157, 193, 313.
StoU, Willcm Jansen, xiii, 313.
Stone, Capt., xiii, 434.
Stouebrook, xii, 568.
Stoock, Huybert Jansen, xiii, 40.
Stout, Richard, xiii, 396.
Stoutenburgh, Jacob, xiii, 119.
Stouteuburgh, Jacob J., xiii, 104, 115, 117 157, 313,
333.
Straatemaker, Uirck, xiii, 14.
Straatemakers kil, N. J., xiii, 31, 33.
Stratford river, xiii, 496.
Streeter, Henry, xii, 588.
Stretcher, Henry, xii, 586, 605.
Strieker, Henry, xii, 544.
Stringham, Peter, xii, 615.
Strycker, Jacob, x 1 1 1 , 43.
Stuyte, Andries, xii, 137.
Stuyvesant, Balthazar Laser, xiii, 230.
Stuyvesant, Nicolaus Will., xiii, 230.
Stuyvesant, Petrus, Director-General of New Nether-
land, XII, 35, 38, 40-1, 43, 45-6,53, 73, 77, 83, 89-93,
95-8, 105-7, 111, 113, 117, 120-1, 123 et seq., 137-8,
130, 133, 140, 145, 163, 165, 166, 168, 170, 171, 173, 173,
174, 178, 183, 184, 185, 191, 193, 194, 195, 196,
198, 199, 301 et seq., 310, 212 et seq., 215, 219 et
seq., 333 et seq., 253 et seq., 360, 361, 373, 395,
304, 313, 330, 336, 339, 367, 449, 453, 455; xiii,
51, 58-9, 81, 83, 95, 104, 110, 113, 134, 166, 171,
178, 186, 189, 190, 192, 206, 211, 214, 331, 231,
239^1, 243, 247, 249, 353, 358, 266, 268, 301,
303, 312, 315, 322, 357 et seq., 366, 377, 388 et seq.,
391, 416, 429, 446, 477.
journals of, xiii, 87, 182.
letters from, xii, 39, 50, 53-67, 69, 101, 103, 346,
349, 354, 259, 288. 304, 317, 336, 333, 347, 373-3,
389, 408, 431, 453, 455; xiii, 33, 43, 45, 100,
101, 103, 107, 133, 138, 130, 134, 143, 151, 160,
161, 162, 165, 109, 174, 175, 176, 179, 189, 190,
194, 204, 333, 344, 349, 354, 375, 279, 284, 387,
289, 390, 393, 396, 397, 303, 306, 307, 319, 330,
333, 356, 358, 359, 365, 373, 383, 390.
letters to, xii, 41, 43, 46, 47, 53, 68, 73, 73, 74, 85,
86, 88, 90, 91, 101, 113, 119, 138, 131, 163, 173,
183, 185, 187, 193, 194, 197, 198, 300-1, 304-5,
213-316, 332-4, 236, 328-9, 331, 335-6, 242-3,
245, 247-8, 250, 252-3, 255, 357-8, 364-5, 282-3,
286-7, 289, 392-3, 298, 300, 306, 309, 312, 315,
318, 331-2, 324, 336, 338, 331-4, 336, 343-6,
349-51, 354-6, 358-61, 363-4, 308, 374, 379, 384,
387, 391, 395-0, 403, 406-7, 410-5, 417-9, 423,
434, 437, 430-1, 433-8, 440, 443, 445-9, 451;
XIII, 23, 26-7, 33-5, 39, 47, 63, 70, 73, 75-8, 80,
88-9, 91, 96, 98-100, 105, 111, 114-6, 118-9,
131-2, 126, 129, 132-4, 149, 154-6, 158, 164, 166,
170, 174-5, 187, 190-1, 301-2, 208, 313, 215,
237-8, 235, 237, 244-5, 358, 260, 263, 265, 266-8,
271-3, 383, 286, 298, 303, 308, 311, 317-8, 351,
354-5, 366, 308, 373.
Styles (Stiles), Samuel, xii, 580, 588, 605, 644, 652.
Sudbury, xii i, 520.
Sullivan Co., N. T., xiii, 340 n.
Suppeckongh, Indian name for Fort Casimir, xii, 166.
Surveys, xii, 547. See, also I'atents.
Swamptown, xii, 592, 608, 610. See JN'ew Salem, N. J.
Swaen, Jan, xiii, 233^, 368, 360.
Swaenenburgh, Kingston so called, xiii, 475.
Swaenewyck, xii, 533, 535, 575, 645.
Swaine, Woolle, xii, 557,559,
Swannekes, Indian name for the Dutch, xiii, 47, 85.
Swansen, Andrew, xii, 647.
Swanson, Otto, xii, 634, 636, 647.
Swanson, Swan, xii, 047.
Swart, G., sheriff, xiii, 156, 192, 378.
Swart, Jacob, xiii, 48.
Swart, Jan, xii, 141.
Swart, , XII, 136.
Swart, Teunis Cornelissen, xill, 500.
Swartwout, Roeloff, sheriff at the Esopus, xi 1 1, 158, 176,
188, 194, 201, 30.5, 312, 337, 332, 238-9. 345, 349,
351, 357, 318-9, 336, 341, 353, 357-8, 408, 445 et
seq., 544.
appointed sheriff, xiii, 199.
suspended
reappointed
letters from, xiii, 237, 338.
Swartwout, Thomas, xiii, 313.
Swedes, xii, 38, 30, 37, 38, 40, 43-7, 51 n., 56, 57, 61,
63-5, 67, 73, 73, 83, 85, 80, 88, 90, 99. 100, 102,
105, 100, 110, 113, 115, 119-23, 126, 133, 139. 169,
173, 174, 188, 190, 311-2, 331, 332, 336, 247, 350,
254, 356, 371, 283, 287, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301,
303, 304, 305, 306, 308, 315, 316, 319, 322, 330,
340. 345, 350, 353, 357, 368, 370, 372, 376 et seq.,
406, 410, 419, 433, 445, 446, 450, 451, 455, 457,
403, 508, 536, 539; xiii, 384.
uprising of the, feared, xii, 131.
on the S. R. to form a village, xii, 190.
and Fins, number of, xii, 399.
the sheriff of the, discharged, xii, 338.
Swedish designs on the S. R., xii, 445.
Swedish South Company, xii, 83, 104, 106-7, 109, 111,
191.
Swens, Jacob, xii, 303, 312, 316, 344, 406, 414, 419.
Swensen, Oele, xil, 586.
.Swenske, Jacob, xii, 172, 213.
Swenson, Jacob, xii, 430, 434, 436.
Swerinek, Hendrick, xi ii, 74.
Swits, Cornells, xill, 571.
Sybrants, Dominicus, XII, 377 ct seq., 883 et se^., 393,
405.
Sybrants, Hendrick, xii, 561.
Sybrautsen, Hendrick, xii, 530.
Sybrantsen, Jan, xii, 490, 491.
Symensen, Arien, xii, 96.
Symons, Willem, xii, 433.
T.
Tach, Aert Pietcrsen, xiii, 330, 347.
Tachpausaan (Tackpusha, Tapousagh), chief of Marse-
pingh, XI 1 1, 58, 147, 180, 385, 375,
Tack, Arent Pieterson, xili, 313, 347, 370.
Tackquirasv, xil, 544.
Tade, Miohiel, xii, 194.
Taillcr, Willem, xii, 182; xiii, 331.
Tailor, Joseph, xiii, 488, 574.
Talcot, John, letter from, to S. Salisbury, xi 1 1, 516, 520.
Tallent, Robert, XII, 644.
Talleur, Will'm, xu, 657.
Index.
613
Talman, Peters, xil, 73.
Taorackan, xii, 651.
TapiMen, xm, 14, 18, 29, 55, 300, 354, 375, 551.
Tappaen Hook, xiii, 353.
Tanta, Hendrick, xii, 648.
Taylor, John, xm, 547.
Taylor, William, XII, 537, 623.
't Dyrsen, Jan, xii, 56, 57.
Teeman, Mr., xii, 647.
Teenemau, Dr., xii, 623.
Teller, Andrees, xii, 649.
Teller, William, xm, 253, 367.
Temple, Sir Thomas, xm, 296, 298, 307.
Tea Broek, Dirck Wessels, xm, 571, 57.3.
Ten Broek, Wessel, xm, 506-7.
Ten Eyck, Conrad, xii, 436.
Ten Farms, the, xm, 404.
Tennis-court at Esopus, xm, 115.
Terheun, John Albertson, xii, 666.
Teschemaeker, Rev. Peter, xi i, 633, 636, 641, 643; xm,
544.
Teschett, Pieter Jansen, xii, 381.
Teunissen, Claesje, xm, 23.3, 311.
Teunissen, Cornells, xii, 124, 158, 180; xm, 76.
Teunissen, Dirck, xm, 233, 234.
Teunissen, GeiTit, xm, 481, 494.
Teunissen, Hendrick, cadet, from Suytloh, xii, 134.
Teunissen, Hendrick, xm, 233, 234.
Teunissen, Jacob, from Naerden, xm, 143, 154.
Teunissen, Jan, xii, 118, 276, 330.
Teunissen, Joost van Noorden, xil, 54, 71.
Teunissen, Jurian, xm, 223, 389, 897, 481.
Teunissen, Leendert, xii, 492.
Teunissen, Michael, xm, 333.
Teunissen, Romein, xm, 338.
Teunissen, Sweer, Magistrate of Schenectady, xm,
465, 500.
Teunissen, Tobias, xm, 9.
Teunison, Claus, xm, 544.
Thomas, the Cooper, xm, 383.
Thomas, the Irishman, xm, 296, 331, 388, 341.
Thomas, Daniel, xm, 547.
Thomas, Jan, xm, 219, 220, 243, 259, 263, 260, 439,
519.
Thomas, Jannetje, xii, 137.
Thomas, Mr., Mayor of N. T., xm, 586.
Thomasen, Jan, xm, 192, 304, 809.
Thomasou, Christian, xii, 552.
Thomason, Peter, xii, 544, 552.
Thomason, , xil, 630.
Thomassen, Klas, xii, 106.
Thomassen, Paulus, xm, 302.
Thomassen, Thomas, xm, 303.
Thomson, Christiana, xii, 544.
Thomson, William, xm, 487.
Throckmorton, John, xm, 10, 15.
Throckmorton's Neck (Westchester Co.), xm, 15.
Thusk, XI I, 544.
Tibout, Jan, xli, 156, 158.
Tiddens, Tymen, xii, 138-9, 148 e< sey., 162.
Tillmouth Haven, xii, 620.
Tilton, John, Clerk of Gravesend, xm, 39, 396.
Timmer (Timber) Island, xii, 104.
Timmerman, Jan Barentz, xm, 212, 230.
Tinnekonck (Tinicum, Pa.), xii, 29, 32, 48, 49, 130,
151, 160, 204. 207, 303, 310, 357, 365, 368, 420,
425, 446, 506, 648.
Court of, XI I, 159.
Tinnekonck Island, xii, 526, 618.
Tionnontoguin, xm, 524, 564.
Tippett, George, xm, 441.
Tison, John, xii, 648.
Toennissen, Jacob, xm, 171
Tom, William, XII, 463, 464, 471, 474, 476, 480 484
490, 492, 495, 496, 501, 506, 515, 517, 524,' 525,
534, 558, 559, 560, 561, 56i, 575, 577, 581, 589,
dies, XII, 592, 595, 597, 600, 606, 649.
letters from, xii, 493, 585.
Tom, the Irishman, xii, 485.
Tomassen, Jan, xm, 40, 48, 88, 93, 110.
Tomassen, Paulus, xm, 154.
Tomassen, Tomas, xm, 154.
Tomissen, Jan, xii, 386, 306, 311.
Tomkins, John, xm, 489.
Tomkins, Nathaniel, xm, 489.
Tomson, Mr., xm, 519.
Tonneman, Pieter, xii, 166, 173, 174, 192, 210, 212;
xm, 80.
Toocke, Gerritt, xm, 220.
Tornaborg, xii, 109.
Torsen, Olle, xii, 143, 158, 161, 470, 490, 506, 539,
648-9.
Toursen, Sander, xm, 67.
Touw, Samuel, xm, 41.
Towocanowinck, xil, 544, 550, 553.
Trade to and in the Delaware District xii, 59, 60, 68,
70-1, 87, 117, 138, 130, 195, 313, 316, 338, 418.
Trade on Hudson's River, xm, 458, 478.
Trade with the Indians, xm, 34-5, 89, 67, 157. See
Ordinancei.
Traily, xii, 605.
Trayly, Robert, xll, 586, 588.
Treat, Robert, Dep. Governor of Connecticut, xm, 308,
210, 218, 331, 266, 281, 501, 530.
Trenton falls, N. J., xii, 255. See Meggeckesaou.
Trinity Hook, xii, 191, 474. See Verdrietige Hook.
Trois-Rivieres, xm, 113.
Trois-Rivieres, Governor of, xm, 88.
True, William, xii, 586, 605.
Trumpeters, Andrews, xii, 648.
Tudden, Andries, xli, 138.
Tunys, Aaron, xm, 448.
Turner, Anonias, xm, 547.
Turner, John, xm, 488, 574.
Turner, Nathaniel, Capt., xii, 70.
Turnier, D.auiel, xm, 421.
Turtle falls, xii, 210.
Turtle falls Kill, xii, 368, 869.
Twyler's Flat, L. I., xm, 27.
Tym, Isaac, called Pieriere, xii, 137, 503.
Tyre, Anthonv, xl 1 1, 547.
Tyson, John, xm, 482.
Tyssen, Claes, xm, 250, 277, 383, 368.
Tyssen, Jacques, xm, 346.
Tyssen, Lisbet, xm, 13.
u.
Ulster County, xm, 583, 574.
Underbill, John, Captain, xm, 17, 18.
Upland, Pa., xii, 36, 109, 191, 807, 856, 867, 435, 439,
506, 508, 524, 526, 561-2, 585, 606, 609, 634, 648,
650.
Court of, XII, 525, 586.
Upland's Kil, xii, 321, 412, 425.
Urian, Hansa, xii, 648.
Urianson, Andrew, xii, 648.
Urianson, Erick, xii, 469.
614
Index.
Uselton, Francis, xiii, 548.
Xjstjis Jcus XII 469.
Utie, Nathaniel,' XII, 247, 250, 252, 255, 259, 261, 263,
364, 307, 321, 337, 355, 417.
V.
Vaegt, Teunis, xlii, 154.
Vaill, Tliomas, xiii, 488.
Vaile, Thomas, sen., xlli, 574.
VaUe, Samuel, xiii, 574.
Vallett, Capt.; xii, 406.
Van Acker, Joris Esias, xi 1 1, 153.
Van Aken, Jan Coster, xlii, 378.
Van Ale, Lawrence, xill, 573.
Van Alen, Peter, xiii, 230.
Van Baal, Jan Heud rick sen, xiii, 350, 378.
Van Baruefelt, Herman Hendricks, xiii, 154.
Van Beek, Mr., xii, 190.
Van Bergh, Lucas Dirks, xii, 473.
Van Bookhoven, Ryk Clasen, xiii, 572.
Van Borsini, Saartie, Indian intei-jjreter, xili, 479.
Van Bremen, Dirk Jansen, xiii, 193.
Van Bremen, Jan, xiii, 74.
Van Breuckeler, C. T., xiii, 156.
Van Brugge, Carel, Commissary, xii, 172-3.
Van Brugh, Johannes, xiii, 456.
Van Bursuni, Cornells, xlil, 554.
Van Campen, Gerrit, xlll, 90, 154, 203, 213, 330.
Van Campen, Gerrit Jansen, xiii, 195.
Van Campen, Jacob, xiii, 153.
Van Campen, Jan, xill, 153.
Van Corler, Jacobus, xiii, 40, 43, 48.
Van Coi-tlandt, Oloff Stevenson, xiii, 69, ITS, 317,
322, 416, 456.
Van Cortlandt, Stephanus, xii, 633; xiii, 497, 507,
515, 536, 551, 554.
Van Cortlandt. See Stevenson, Oloff.
Van Couwonhoven, Jacob, xiii, 314.
Van Couwenhoven, Jacob Wolfertson, xii, 66.
Van Couwenhoven, P. W., xiii, 286 et seq., 393, 296,
300, 303, 304 et seq., 308, 314, 338 etseq., 363-4, 377.
Van Couwenhoven, W. G., xiii, 27.
Van Couwenhoven. See Oerritsen and Wolfert.ien..
Van Curler, Arent, xiii, 25, 109, 110, 133, 156, 161,
181, 215, 219, 253, 268, 469. See Curler.
Van Curler, Mrs. Antonia, xiii, 469.
Vandemark, Thomas, xiii, 544.
Vanden As, , xii. 312.
Van den Berch, Claes, xiii, 388.
Van den Bosch, Harmcn Martensen, xlii, 301.
Van den Burgh, Hcndrick, xil, 641.
Van den Buss, Jan, xiii, 154.
Van der Bilt. See Walingen, Simeon.
Van der Bosch, Jan, watchmaker, xii, 214, 229, 231.
Van der Burgh, xii, 636.
Van der Capelle toe Ryssell, Baron, xiii, 61, 131, 200,
313.
Van der Capelle toe Ryssell, Baron Alexander, xi 1 1, 33.
Van der Capelle, Frederick, xm, 205.
Van der Capelle, Baron Hcndrick, xm, 38, 31-2, 74-5.
letter from, xii I, 32.
Van der Donck, Adrian, xm, 31, 59.
Van der Donck, Younker, xm, 431.
Van der Goes, Peter Lucas, xii, 458.
Van der Grist, Paulus Leendersen, xii, 45, 50, 98,
295-6,311, 342, 374; xm, 50, 55-6, 317, 332, 360,
363, 377, 414, 416. See Leendeiisen, Paulus.
Van der Hoykens, Cornelis, Fiscal of N. N., xm, 5,
12, 14, 18, 26.
Van der Hyden, Jan Cornelissen, xm, 370, 374.
Van der Hyden, Paulus Cornelissen, xm, 370.
Van der Linde, Joost, xm, 271.
Van der Liphorst, Lucas, xm, 40.
Van der Nas, , xii, 234, 241.
Van der Sluys, Andries, xm, 78-9, 82, 91, 93, 99, 230.
Van der Slyck, Corn. Aut., fails to assert his claim on
the Catskil lands, xm, 26.
Van der Slyk. See Anionissen, Cornelia,
Van der Veelde, Jacob, xii, 490.
Van der Veeu, Pieter, xm, 93.
Van der Veen, Walewyn, xm, 183.
Van der Veer, Jacob, xii, 183, 345, 584, 623, 641, 643,
647.
Van der Veere. See Adriansen, Maryn.
Van der Venne, Jan, notary, xm, 28.
Van Dienien, William, xli, 339.
Van Dincklage, Lubbert, Vice-Director, xii, 37, 41,
43, 51, 58, 59; xm, 23, 30, 33, 75.
Van Dor, Cornelis, xii, 98.
Van Duinkercken, Adrian, xm, 153.
Van Dyk, Cornelius, xm, 519, 571.
letter from, xi 1 1, 558.
Van Dyk, Gregory, xii, 30, 37, 151, 173, 190, 311, 3-56,
258, 264, 294, 298, 301, 308, 312, 336, 338.
Van Dyk, Hcndrick, Fiscal of N. N., xii,50, 98; xm.
50, 56, 70, 91, 149.
Van Eimendorp, Jacob, xm, 410.
Van Elslandt, Claes, xm, 38, 160.
Van Elswyck, Hcndrick, xii, 76 et seq.
Van Eps, Jan, Magistrate of Schenectady, xm, 465
500.
Van Eten, Jacob Johnson, xm, 544.
Van Eyst, Reynier, xii, 473.
Van Flet, Garrett, xm, 544.
Van Gansevoort, Harman, xm, 481, 566.
Van Gezel, Cornelis, xii, 279, 390, 393, 294, 296, 298
309, 316, 330-1, 328, 348-50, 353, 354 et seq., 431.
Van Haelen, Peter, xm, 195, 302, 212, 245-6.
Van Hardenburgh, Arnoldus, xii, 53, 60.
Van Harris, Mary, xii, 512.
Van Hartogveldt, Johan, xii, 440.
Van Hengel, Arent, xm, 74.
Van Heerde, Jan Aertsen, xm, 74.
V.an Heerde, Albert Gysbertsen, xm, 74.
Van Heyst, Reynier, xii, 286, 291.
Van Ilpendam, Adrian, xm, 566, 571.
Van Ilpendam, Jan Jans^cn, xu, 26.
Van Imborgh, Gysbert, surgeon, xm, 188, 338, 304
245, 251, 257, 271^3, 336, 330, 369.
Van Imborgli, Rachel, xm, 271.
Van Immen, Jan Gerritsen, xii, 303; xm, 37. 68.
Van Keeren. Sec McyniJertsen, Meyndert.
Van Kuyck, Peter Jansen, xm, 305.
Van Leinborgh, Matthys, xii,388.
Van Linden, Joost, xm, 233.
Van Loon, ,Ian, xm, 566.
Van Marckcn, Jan Gerrettsen. xii, 303, 311, 314, 326,
347; xm, 464-5.
V.an Marken, Tliomas, xm. 414.
Van Nas, Abraham, xi i, 248, 253, 255, 357-8, 338, 335,
352. 360, 364, 368, 375, 379, 383, 386, 399, 415.
Van Nes, Cornelius, xm, 156.
Van Oldcnzeel, Elskc, xm, 75.
Van Olden/.oel, Jan, xm, 75.
Van Olinda, Pieter Daniels, xm, 253.
Van Oystcrhoud, Jan Jansen, xm, 411.
Index.
615
Van Petten, Claes Frederick, xiii,231.
Van Reede, Gerard, Barou of Nederhorst, xiii. 9.
Van Reusselaer, Jeremiah, xlii, 108, 110, 133, 156, 161,
258, 264, 283, 392, 299, 307, 355, 400.
Van Rensselaer, family of, xiii, 533.
Van Ruyven, Cornells, secretary of N. N., xii, 17, 91,
94,97 107-8, 171, 183, 213, "220, 244, 259-61, 263-6,
269, 272, 286, 388, 304, 330, 374, 433, 436, 512, 618;
XIII, 142, 151-2, 169, 175, 178, 211, 241, 248, 284,
286-7, 299, 306, 317, 330, 357, 377, 406, 414, 453, 456,
479.
Van Rynevelt, Abr., xii, 329.
Van Schaick. See Gerretsen, Goose.
Van Schaick, Goose Gerritse, xiii, 219, 231.
Van Schalkewyck, Hendrick Jansen, xiii, 38.
Van Schelluyne, Dirck, xii, 83, 108, 308; xiii, 186,
192, 220, 258, 383, 392, 398, 308-9, 355, 379.
Van Schoenderwort. See Riitger, Jacohsen.
Van Schoffen, Col. Sigismund, xii, 55.
Van Seventer, L., xii, 89, 315; xiil, 31, 159.
Van Slechtenhorst, Brant, xii, 48, 373; xiii, 36, 38.
Van Slichtenhorst, Gerritt, xiii, 483, 510, 515, 562.
Van Slyck, Aeckes Cornelisseu, xiii, 374.
Vau Steenderen, , xiii, 75.
Van Steenwyck, Albert Jansen, xiii, 414.
Van Steenwyck, Gerrit Jansen, corporal, xiii, 75.
Van Sweeringen, Gerrit, xii, 166, 185, 229, 255, 265, 282,
293, 295, 303, 309, 311, 314, 319, 325, 328, 332, 333.
335, 349, 360, 363, 364, 381 et seq., 388, 390, 893, 397.
398, 400, 403, 405, 406, 408, 416, 423, 434, 427, 431,
436-9, 450, 453, 643.
Van Swol, Barent Jansen, xii, 179.
V;m Tappen, Jurian Teunissen, xiii, 566.
Van Tienhoven, Adrian, xii, 38, 44-5; xiii, 70.
Van Tienhoven, Cornells, xii, 26, 28, 40, 42, 44, 46-7,
63, 65-6, 76-7, 83, 91, 93, 95-7, 118, 130-1, 133 et seq..
137_8, 144, 371; xill, 3-5, 7-9, 12, 17-8, 30, 23, 36,
38, 56, 61-2, 70.
Van Tricht, Gerret, xiii, 456.
Van Twiller, Johannes, xiii, 35.
Vau Twiller (Twyler), Wouter, xii, 48; xiii, 26-7, 33.
Van Tysen, Jan, xiii, 545.
Van Veer, Jacob, xii, 308, 819, 321, 334.
Van Vleek, Tielman, xi i, 342, 345 ; xi 1 1, 207, 214, 233-5,
271, 294, 319.
Van Vorjs, Peter, xiii, 525. See De Vors.
Van Vorst, Gerrit, xill, 11.
Van Vorst, Hendrick Cornelissen, xiii, 4.
Van Vorst, Ide Cornelissen, xiii, 366.
Van Vredenborgh, William, xiii, 154, 212.
Van Weesp. See M'illemsen, B.
Van Werckhovcn, Cornells, xii, 133; xill, 29, 31^, 60.
Van Westphalen, Jurian, xiil, 72. See Westxilialen.
Van Zyll, Ab. Ferd., Capt., xiii, 473.
Varleth, Nicolas, xiii, 67, 144-5, 163, 178, 333^, 341,
443, 447.
Varlet, William, xii, 71.
Varnier, Adrian, xiii, 154, 202.
Vasterick, , xil, 55, 373.
Vasterick, Gerrit, xii, 56-7, 62.
Vedders, Harmen, xiii, 99, 367, 572.
Velcker, Peter, xii, 529.
Velsen, Gerrit, xiii, 105.
Velthuysen, Nicolas, sergeant, xiii, 74.
Verbeeck, Jan, xiii, 109, 123, 161, 193, 378.
Verbraak, C. H., xn, 383 et seq., 401-3, 433.
Verbraack, Mr., xlli, 301.
Verbraek, Claes, xii, 384.
Verbruggen, Michael, xiii, 154, 203, 313.
Verckens kil, xii, 610.
Verdrietige Hook (Trinity Hook), xii, 191, 384, 506,
530, 539, 648.
Verdun, Thomas, xiii, 524, 527.
Verhoofe, Cornells, xii, 572, 575, 582, 586-9, 597, 600-1,
605, 612, 620, 623. 636 et seq., 031, 635, 637 et seq.,
653, 655, 657, 667.
letter from, xii, 653.
Verlyden, Jan Swart, xn, 137.
Vernoy, Cornelius, xiii, 451.
Verplanck, Abr. Isaacsen, xiii, 3, 7.
Verplanck, Guilian, xn, 570, 633; xiii, 569.
Verrie, Michael, xni, 153, 164, 212, 230, 246-7, 251.
Verveelen, Johannes, xiii, 421, 441.
Vetsen, Dirck, skipper, xin, 139.
Vidette, .Jean, xn, 341.
Viele, Arnout Cornelissen, xni, 374, 465, 496, 499, 504,
516, 519-20, 536, 528, 557-8, 572-3.
land given to, as a present, by Indians, 545.
Vincent, John, xi n, 547.
Vine, .John, xn, 632, 626.
Virginia, xn, 64, 93, 190, 195-7. 200, 202, 305, 215, 218,
236-7, 244-5, 247, 249, 250, 268, 271, 278, 287, 289,
297, 305, 316, 317, 318, 320, 328,- 331, 332, 346,
413, 414, 434, 453, 493, 494, 498, 501, 503, 510,
513, 571, 583, 587, 623, 643, 650; xin, 144-5,
163, 497, 516, 557.
agents of, sent to meet the N. Y. Indians at Al-
bany, XIII, 536.
Swedish, xn, 47.
Vinge, J., XI n, 43.
Vis (Visch), Jacob, xn, 146, 197.
Visbeeck, Gerrit, xin, 297, 398.
Vlissingen (Flushing, L. I.), xin, 270, 815,
Vlodder, skipper, xni, 157, 189, 213.
Voeler, Capt. (Wheeler?), xn, 336.
Vogelesant Island, xn, 27.
Vokmer, John, xn, 529.
Volckertsen, Simon, xin, 353.
Voocht, Teunis, xin, 312.
Vorbert, Arrian, xni, 202.
Vorck, Mr., xn, 333.
Vornier, Adrian, xin, 154, 202.
Vorst (Forst), Thos., xn, 383, 391, 393.
Vreedland (Westchester), first settled, xni, 15.
Englishmen at, xin, 30, 38, 63, 66.
Vryman, Heyndrick, xn, 158.
VuUer, Capt., xn, 355.
w.
Wade, Edward, xn, 608.
Wade, Robert, xn, 645.
Waite, Benjamin, agent of Massachusetts, xin, 511,
521, 523, 525, 538, 530.
Wakaseek, a tract in Ulster Co., xni, 533.
Wakaukonach, a tract of land in Ulster Co., xin, 533.
Waldenses, xn, 133.
Waldron, Resolved, xn, 261, 263, 288; xni, 160, 431.
Wale. Ann, xn, 543, 548.
Walebut, Dr., xn, 537.
Walingen, Simon, xin, 49.
Walker, , xn, 519.
Walker, Francis, xii, 550, 648.
Walker, John, xn, 665.
Walker, Nathaniel, Capt, xn, 616, 631; xiii, 224,
226.
Walle, Adam, xn, 621.
616
Index.
Wrtller, Francis, xiii, 548.
Walloons, on Staten Island, xiii, 567.
Wallop, Richard, xiii, 487.
Wallram, .James, xii, 589.
Walter, Hans, xli, 648.
Walters, Kier. xli, 427.
Walton, Tom, xiii, 426, 481.
Wamesitt, xi 1 1, 514.
Wandall, .J., xiil, 542.
Wandall, Thos., xil, 524; xill, 421.
Wappinger kil, xii, 255; xiii. 101, 107, 111, 129, 162,
289, 334.
Ward, Edward, xii, 608, 610, 635.
Ward, Henry, xii, 543, 558, 559, 563, 575, 589.
Ward, John, xiii, 507, 534, 544, 571.
Ward, William, xiii, 66.
Warners, Martin, xlli, 153, 202.
Warren, William, xil, 586, 605.
Warrensen, Jau, xiii, 16.
Washmaker's Land, xiii, 416, 427, 429 et seq., 447.
Waters, Edward, xiii, 66, 488, 574.
Watson, Luke, xii, 604, 627 et seq., 634-5, 638, 640,
652; XIII, 405.
letter from, xii, 624.
and others, xi i, 654.
Watson, Thomas, xii, 650.
Watson, William, xii, 629, 630, 639 et seq.
Weale, George, sr., xii, 493.
Web, .John, xii, 544.
Webe, Isaac, xii, 665.
Webber, Jan, xii, 392, 404, 423.
Webber, Wolfert, jr., xii, 381.
Webster, John, xii, 665.
Weedon, James, xii, 522.
Welins, Rev. Domine, xii, 208, 312, 228, 386-7, 305;
XIII, 384.
Wellburne, Thomas, xii, 587, 588.
WcUburne's Wilderness, xil, 588.
Welles, Philipp, xiii, 547.
Wellingbrook, xi i, 628, 636 et seq., 638.
Wells, Mr., xii, 662; xiii, 524, .527.
Wells, James, xii, 586, 604-5, 637, 634-5, 638, 652.
Wemp, Jau Bareutsen, xiii, 331, 353, 363, 370, 374.
Wendel, Evert Jansen, xiii, 193, 316.
Wendel, Johannes, xiii, 572.
Werden, Sir John, Secretary to the Duke of York,
XI 1 1, ,548-50.
letters to, 548, 551.
Wesselink, Jan, xiii, 75.
Wessels, David, xii, 170.
Wessels, Dirck, xiii, 519, 531. See Ten BroecTc.
Wessels, Peter, xiii, 154.
Wessels, Warner, xiii. 456.
West, John, Deputy-Secretary of N. Y., xii, 663, 667;
XIII, 504, 506, 538, 542, 547.
letter to, xiii, 567.
West, John, Major, of Accomack, Va., xii, 583.
West, Robert, xiii, 487.
Westchester, xiii, 60, 322, 363, 391, 402 et seq., 422,
460, 501, 574.
Court at, XIII, 474.
Assessment-roll of, xi ii, 488.
Westchester. See Vredeland, Wiegnaeshech
Westchester County, xiii, 5, 20,24, 147, 574.
Westchester Path, xiii, 402.
Wcsterkaraps, Grille, xiii, 213, 346.
Westtield, xiii, 513.
Westhuysen, Jan, xil I, 303.
Westmoreland, xii, 544.
Westphal. Westfal, Jurian, xiii, 93, 99, 100, 103, 105,
119, 157, 166, 170, 194, 212-3, 230, 311, 345, 410
et seq., 414.
Whale, Mr., xii, 477.
Whale, George, xii, 490, 493.
Wharton, Walter, Captain, xii,477, 495, 496, 498, 503,
507, 578, 589, 596, 601, 606, 613, 617, 643, 645, 651,
657.
Wheeler, Gilbert, xii, 646, 650, 659-60.
Wheeler, Roger, xiii, 67.
Wheeler, Thomas, xiii, 40-1, 64-6.
White, J., XIII, 542.
Whitehead, Captain, xiii, 542.
White Clay's creek, xii, 547.
White Clayes fall, xii, 544.
Whitfield, Ralph, xii, 464, 469; xiii, 438.
Whitley, Daniel, xii, 567, 605.
Whitley, David, xii, 586.
Whitniore, Nathan, xiii, 441.
Whittaker (Whiticarj, Edward, xiii, 409 et seq., 418,
446, 448, 451, 506, 544.
Wliitwell, Francis, xii, 601, 603, 604, 637 ei seq., 634r-5,
638, 647, 653, 656, 658, 665, 668.
letters from, xii, 661-3.
Whorehook, N. J., xiii, 3.
Whorekil. See Horekil.
Wicaquake, xii, 506.
Wichquanis, name of a parcel of land, xiii, 241.
Wickakoe (Wicaco, Witkacoo), xii, 526-7, 647.
Wicaco church (Gloria Dei, Pliiladelphia), xii, 105.
Wiechquaeskeck (Wieqkaskeck,Wickers creek, Wyckers
creek, Westchester), xiii, 17-8, 34, 53, 147, 276,
386, 460, 515, 546.
Raritan Indians formerly lived in, xiii, 25.
See Westchestei:
Wilkins (Willekens), William, xiii, 43.
WiUeborgh, Tobias, xii, 149, 153.
Willem, Jonas, xii, 315.
Willcm, Peter, xii, 529.
Willem of Tappaen, xiii, 25.
Willems, Jan, xii, 390, 393, 357, 381, 391-3, 396, 401
etseq., 418, 431.
letters from, 409, 416.
Willemsen, Dirck, xiii, 154.
Willemsen, Henr, xii, 193.
Willemsen, Jan, xii, 303; xiii, 195, 401.
Willemsen, Rutgert, xii, 340.
Willemsen, Willem, xiii, 40.
Willeinstadt, Albany so called, xiii, 478.
Wilier, Jan, xii, 169.
Willes, Daniel, xii, 579, 615, 635.
Willet, Daniel, xii, 646.
Willett, Thomas, xii, 94, 97, 99, 646; xiii, 14, 389,
296, 307, 390, 543.
William, Thomas, xii, 639, 665.
Williams, the city's surgeon, xii, 303.
Williams, Dunk, xii, 550.
Williams, Hendrick, xii, 606.
Williams, Thomas, xii, 629, 647; xiii, 546, 574.
AVilliains, William, xil, 570; xiii,4S7.
Williamson, Francis, xiii, 557.
Williamson, John, xiii, 413 «i stfj.
Willis, Mr., xiii, 529.
Willoughby, William, xn, 544, 573.
Willson, Richard D., xiii, 544.
Willson, Thomas, xii, 647.
Wihnerdonk, Abraham, xill, 377.
Wilm.sen, Dirck. xiii, 212.
Wilmington, Del., xii, 28 «., 183, 314.
Index.
617
Wilson, Samuel, xiii, 542.
Wiltbank, Harmanus, xii, 511, 559, 572, 574, 582,
588-9, 597, G13, 622, 635, 638, 654, 659.
letters from, 571, 587, 602.
Wiltbauk, Hemi. Frederick, xii, 523, 533.
Wiltwyck, XIII, 195-6, 201, 238-31, 335, 240, 242, 245,
250, 256, 260, 263, 265, 269, 371, 274 et seg., 287, 292,
313, 819, 333 et .leq., 357, 366-8, 382, 385, 406. See
Empus ; Kingston ; Ordinances.
Wily, John, xiii, 488.
Winblad, Johan, xii, 88.
Windall, Mr., xiii, 531.
Winder, Robert, xii, 544.
Winder, Samuel, xii, 592.
Windsor, Conn., xill, 518.
Winehard, Cornelius, xil, 649.
Winkelman, Johannes, xiii, 9, 16.
Wiusmore, William, xii, 647.
Winter, John, sin, 488, 574.
Winter, Timothy, xill, 488.
Winterberg, the, xiii, 380.
Winthiop, John, Gov of Mass., xii, 89, 69; xiii,266,
437, 439, 458.
letter from, xii, 41.
letter to, xi ii, 33.
Wilcock, •, SI I, 36.
Witlock, , XIII, 270.
Witlock, Thomas, siii, 315.
Wittens, Mr., xiii, 381.
Woggeloni, Peter Petersen, xiii, 566.
Wolason, Charles, xii, 470.
Wolfson, Christ. Jacobsen, xiii, 270.
Wolgast, Otto, SIX, 532, 545, 588-9, 638, 654.
Wolphertsen, Gerritt, one of the Eight Men, sin, 16.
Wolphertsen, Jacob, xiii, 358.
Wolphertsen, Peter, xiii, 58, 98, 150, 369-70,273, 331,
334, 348, 371.
Wolphertsen. See Van Oovwenhoven.
Wolson, Lawsa, sii, 470.
Wolston, John, xii, 615.
Wood. Consider, xiii, 488.
Woodbridge, N . J.,xii,518; xiii,406, e< seq., 539, 541.
Woodhouse, William, xii, 615.
WoodhuU, Richard, letter from, xiii, 519.
Wooluston (Wolleston), Thomas, xil, 490, 491, 648.
Woolbanck, Herm., xi i, 544.
Wooldridgc, John, xi i, 650.
WooUey, Mr., xiii, 538.
Woutersen, Cornelis, xiii, 98.
Woutersen, Egbert, xiii, 14.
Wright, John, letter from, xii, 655.
Wright, T., XII, 615.
Wright (Wryght), xii, 307.
Write, Robert, x 1 1 1 , 548.
Wybes, Jan, xiii, 154.
Wyler, Jan, xii, 168.
Wyles, Mr , schoolmaster at Onckeway, xiii, 59.
Wynachkee kil, xiii, 573.
Wynhart, Corn., xii, 492.
Wyukoop, Corn., xiii, 259, 264, 266, 401, 445 et seq.
Yennett, John, xiii, 66.
Tockams, Hendrick, xi 1 1, 408 et seq.
Yonkers, xiii, 5, 421,492,498.
Young, Capt., xi 1 1, 542.
Young, George, sii, 638.
Young, Jacob, xii, 524, 543, 559, 560, 589.
Young, Sarah, xii, 534-5.
Young, Thomas, xii, 493, 617.
Young, William, xii, 617.
Zeehelm, Hendr., Gerr. Admiral, xii, 445, 455.
Zenen, WiUem Mauritsen, xii, 158. See ManriUen
Willem.
Zetscoorn, Abelius, Rev., xii, 433, 433, 446.
Ziecken, Dirck, sin, 36.